Toyota 4runner Buyer's Guide - Common Issues To Look Out For

► Buy me a coffee if I helped you with this video! www.buymeacoffee.com/phorunner
► Support this channel by buying some 4Runner Merch! teespring.com/stores/phorunner
If you want to know all the common problems that these 4runners have, watch this video as I go into the major ones and the minor ones and the cost to repair them.
If you're in the market to buy a 3rd gen, you can use some of these issues to get a better price.
Enjoy the video!
Some of the parts I mentioned in the video:
Denso 221-0508 OEM Radiator: amzn.to/2wxjPJs
Aisin TKT-025 OEM Timing Belt Kit: amzn.to/2RlFX0z
OEM Lower Ball Joint:
Passenger Side Balljoint #43330-39585: amzn.to/2VnJdtE
Left (Driver Side) Balljoint #43340-39465: amzn.to/2ViH9mA
1996-2000 Flanged Bolts (need 8) #90080-10066 (dealer item)
2001-2002 Bolt with a Washer (need 8) #90119-10933 (dealer item)
Aftermarket 13WL Tundra Brake Upgrade: amzn.to/3b2DiAE
Energy Suspension 8.10103R Steering Rack Bushings: amzn.to/2xlKSYz
OEM Antenna Mast: amzn.to/2xhYQKY
#3rdgen4runner #toyota4runner #4runnerbuyersguide
► Buy me a coffee if I helped you with this video! www.buymeacoffee.com/phorunner
► Support this channel by buying some 4Runner Merch! teespring.com/stores/phorunner
Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond my control, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. I assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. I recommend safe practices when working on vehicles and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond my control, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not me. Enjoy my videos.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. This cost you nothing and helps support my channel! Thanks!

[@bensutton2168]

Timestamps Major issues Frame rust 00:54 Transmission fluid (Pink milkshake) 2:20 Radiator 3:36 Transmission dipstick 4:40 Valve cover oil leak 5:20 Timing belt 7:14 Lower ball joints 10:04 Rear-axle oil leak (differential breather) 11:36 Minor issues 14:20 Rotor warp 14:37 Tire balancing 16:29 Steering rack 18:05 Steering rack bushings 19:00 Antenna 19:42 Door checks 21:02 Rear suspension springs 22:03 Water leaks (Moon roof) 22:41 Water leak (Driver's door jam) 23:17 Driver's seat bolt rusted through 24:01 Gear shifter wobble 24:35 Clock not working 24:49 Dashboard lights not working 25:23 Faulty gas gauge 26:06 Rear differential locker button 27:58 Instrument panel lights 29:50 OBD2 port check for codes 30:18

[@PhoRunner]

Thanks, WILL PIN YOU!

[@Mike_44]

Great idea. Thanks!

[@El16100]

Mines leaking from the valve cover.

[@PhoRunner]

@@El16100 same lol. well it's a seap but no oil loss yet.

[@larryhorton9534]

Thanks, Ben-very thoughtful and helpful! This video is worth keeping around.

[@jonc7371]

i was just nodding my head checking off all the issues that mine has that you talked about lmao

[@PhoRunner]

Lol fortunately, I haven’t had too many of these

[@allyt2933]

Same. I’m like. is this a sign to fix them. maybe.

[@CNote519]

This is the most comprehensive 3rd gen buyers guide out there. Nice work!

[@PhoRunner]

Thanks!!

[@fhgwdads05]

Agreed. Looking at 3rd gen 4runners right now, very happy to have come across this. I need 4x4 with a bit more than what a 3rd gen rav4 was gonna offer me, and the 3rd gen 4runner looks like it might be my ticket.

[@PhoRunner]

It’s a nice vehicle!!

[@fhgwdads05]

@@PhoRunner it really looks that way, thanks for this awesome source of experience and knowledge. I'm gonna be rewatching a bit and taking notes!

[@PhoRunner]

Thanks for watching

[@libertyman3717]

Great info! Just hit 345K on my 99 4runner. Still original drivetrain and runs like a top. Stay on top of regular maint. and be proactive with lower ball joints, radiator replacement and fluids. Use factory Toyota parts when time to replace stuff. These are great vehicles!

[@PhoRunner]

Yup!!

[@michaelfinney3038]

Thanks for the info, i just purchased a 2000 4runner with 300,000 on it and it runs great. glad to see I am on to something....

[@anthonygiordano3991]

I’m looking at a ‘99 4Runner with 218K miles listed for $15,500. They replaced the timing belt, water pump and put a lift and new wheels/tires on it. You think that’s too high for that year/mileage? Not sure if it’s worth it or not.

[@PhoRunner]

Nope. Wait for market to turn around. 15k is cray cray

[@anthonygiordano3991]

@@PhoRunner - Cray Cray.. lol. I know, but this truck is super clean and checked out all clear by a local Toyota mechanic. They put a lot into it to make it look like new. So, I’m tempted but I’m holding off to see if I can get him to lower the price but we’ll see. Of course, now that I start shopping for a 4Runner.. they are priced crazy! 🙄

[@derektrounce937]

As a professional auto technician I approve of this video!

[@PhoRunner]

Thanks sir

[@glennpagel1721]

Most People posting these 'common problems' videos are just regurgitating things they have heard elsewhere. Cudos to you for posting this fantastic first hand information, about real experiences. This is the Best 'common problems' on You tube..

[@PhoRunner]

I’m doing the same haha. But I did encounter many of the issues. I surely hope no one has all these problems!!

[@justus4men]

Your video is great with the insert pics of what a bad part would look like. Most KZbin videos are not as useful, detailed and clear as yours. Thank you.

[@PhoRunner]

Glad you like it!!

[@hunterjohnson4954]

Lol I started laughing as you were re-inserting the trans dipstick and cut the scene. Not an easy task on a 3rd gen 😂

[@PhoRunner]

2 hand ordeal lol. For some reason mine is pretty easy to put in lol. But yeah I know the struggle

[@PhoRunner]

@CharlesTron108 lol. Use 2 hands and shove it in there

[@dankoldenhoven4997]

I don't have a transmission dipstick..... #5speedproblems

[@jaxknet]

I went and looked at a used 3rd gen today, and I had no idea. Felt like an idiot in front of the owner! Finally got it back in after a few minutes

[@LiloUkulele]

So true!!!!

[@Arthur-Silva]

Great video! You seem to have a lot of knowledge, thanks for sharing it with us!

[@samhunter8874]

This video rocks! Thanks for such a comprehensive breakdown. I’ve definitely got some parts to watch now.

[@PhoRunner]

Cool yeah been gathering notes for a while for this video haha. Also reading constant problems on 3rd gen 4runner mafia group

[@thepianofamily8304]

PhoRunner and Timmy the Toolman are responsible for me owning three 3rd gen 4runner now: two 2x4 and one 4x4. My wife cannot understand why I like these old cars.

[@PhoRunner]

Tell your wife I’m sorry

[@jamesdean3606]

Taking this video today with me to my potential seller.

[@PhoRunner]

Lol he might not like that

[@Genolexis]

Man I love this video. I sat and watched it in my 3rd Gen the whole time lol. Learned a lot and inspired me to fix a lot of things I slept on. Now I have a check list to work with for repairs and upgrades. Thank you!

[@ScarletSpeeedster]

It was a pleasure to watch. A lot of helpful advices. Thanks man!

[@PhoRunner]

Glad it helped!!

[@monzarace]

Brilliant instructions! Thank you for sharing. Kind regards.

[@dradis1]

Awesome video! Thank you for the tips, I feel a lot more confident with my search 😁

[@PhoRunner]

Awesome man!

[@eljefeslash]

To echo many others on here, thanks a million for posting this video. I began my 3rd Gen 4Runner search a few months ago and came across your video, and it helped a ton. I walked away from two of 4Runners because they had many of the issues you've mentioned on here. Finally found a '98 for which the owner had recently addressed these (and had done some nice upgrades as well). Very cool that you reply to everyone's comments on here as well. Thanks for sharing your knowledge! Look forward to seeing some of your other postings.

[@PhoRunner]

Nice! Glad I was able to help you in your search!!

[@hotchihuahua1546]

Very informative, I learn a few things I didn’t know , this being my first 4 runner limited I will check some of the items you mentioned , I’m subscribed and look forward to all of your post !

[@PhoRunner]

Good I could help!!

[@Jake_IBS]

Great video, glad I found your content man

[@PhoRunner]

Cool glad I can help.

[@garethmartin6875]

Thanks for the video man! So much helpful info.

[@PhoRunner]

No problem man!

[@kalel501]

You were really thorough. Thanks for the great video!

[@PhoRunner]

Thanks for watching. Glad I could help

[@ZachHodgson]

This video is 🔥🔥🔥! Thanks for putting this together! About to go look at my (hopefully) new rig tomorrow morning and this gave me a lot to work with. Hopefully I won't find any problems.

[@PhoRunner]

Good luck my man.

[@gdman4527]

Awesome video! Looking into buying one and these tips helped out a lot.

[@PhoRunner]

Awesome

[@TDubsKid]

a guy at my work had a lower ball joint failure on his Tacoma, it's a real problem

[@PhoRunner]

Yes it is!!

[@OutofWORKoutdoors]

great video very informative bro!

[@PhoRunner]

Awesome!

[@Mike_44]

Incredibly thorough and detailed buying guide. Thank you for taking the time to do this.

[@PhoRunner]

No problem! Glad it is helping so many

[@agimfain]

Fantastic video! Very thorough.

[@PhoRunner]

Glad it was helpful!

[@glideform9841]

So much detail. Awesome video my friend!

[@PhoRunner]

Thanks for watching!

[@MrPureblindman]

ive been searching for over 2 years for a decent runner in New England area and ive dug deep into what to look for but you taught me some new stuff to look for. great video man!

[@PhoRunner]

Glad you like it!

[@ManypossibilitiesGaoLY]

Thanks brother for the awesome informative video! I'm also looking for one and this video made me come up with an checklist 😂👍also after watching this video man.. so.. much work.

[@PhoRunner]

it's not that bad! haha.

[@mederickamedo1289]

Manny thanks for this clip. I learnt a lot from it. I will share with my Dad who is using it at the moment to know what to look up for around the vehicle.

[@PhoRunner]

Nice!

[@desertrat03]

just wanna say i bought a gen 3 4runner 2002 a couple days ago and i cant thank you enough for the maintence videos you make, also love the name of your channel

[@armandorubalcava5738]

Hey man thanks so much for the info! I'm currently debating on buying one here soon and this was very helpful so I know what to keep an eye out for

[@PhoRunner]

No problem man. Glad I could help y’all out

[@harleygirlhrw151]

I loved how well you explained everything in your video. It has helped me to decide if I wanted to keep mine or not. Thank you 😊

[@PhoRunner]

You are so welcome!! It can become a money pit quick. It's only cheap to own if things are in great shape and if you can do some of the work yourself.

[@marcnebel5680]

My man! Thanks so much, just learned a bunch of key info about my truck- gratitude!

[@PhoRunner]

Np!

[@dylanworkley2068]

Nice, definitely a great video to watch before purchasing a 3rd gen. Clean ride man!

[@PhoRunner]

Thanks

[@ericbuchta9765]

Awesome video, I’m so glad I got to see this before buying. Lots of good info.

[@PhoRunner]

Glad it was helpful!!

[@tuoitreomaha9096]

I’m vietnamese. I love Pho. Been thinking get a license plate “PHO RUNR”

[@PhoRunner]

Lol I was thinking that same thing

[@PhoRunner]

It’s a Vietnamese noodle dish and I’m Vietnamese. Pho also sounds a 4 so phorunner. Lol

[@spfconcept324]

Oh.. that's pho king gud!

[@PhoRunner]

Lol

[@Orod5694]

Do it

[@psfphotography]

Thanks for posting this video - very inlightening. I was hoping to get a 4R but probably will not now.

[@PhoRunner]

Don’t let it scare you!!

[@brettradcliffe830]

Awesome video! Looking at 3rd gen 4runners and this is exactly what I need.

[@PhoRunner]

Nice!!

[@condor7001]

Just bought a 2000 Sr5 tonight and this video took a lot of stress out of it, thank you for providing so much information and showing what to look for!

[@PhoRunner]

No problem !!

[@jaymoar3561]

Great video man, keep it up This video should be saved in the 4Runner forum.

[@PhoRunner]

Thanks. They have a nice write up on some of these! But a video is always better than reading!

[@andrewp.1556]

Thanks for taking the time to post this informative video. I'm working on my sons gen 3 and no nothing about them I'm grateful for KZbin and not having too learn by hard knocks.

[@PhoRunner]

No prob

[@brucewayne2773]

Excellent video. I like the fact that you include pictures of what to look for normal vs abnormal. Especially the strawberry shake. Glad I watched this video before buying a 3rd Gen vs having just purchased one with my fingers crossed and go through your check list.

[@PhoRunner]

No problem man!! Glad it was helpful for you!

[@reanthegreat]

Thank you for such a detailed video. Just picked one up this weekend and this was really helpful for me to determine if it was in good shape. Thanks!

[@PhoRunner]

Nice!!!

[@mattmeade2257]

Very thorough. Going to look at one tomorrow.

[@PhoRunner]

Good luck!

[@rolo_pabbs]

Thank you for sharing ! I wouldn’t have known to check those area. Keep up the good work. Mahalo! 🤙🏾

[@PhoRunner]

Anytime!

[@MikeZ32TT]

Great video and great channel name. I love pho. Thanks.

[@PhoRunner]

Thanks and welcome

[@JohnGrit]

Hell yes dude!! I'm looking for a project 4runner. I needed this

[@PhoRunner]

Make sure that frame is good!!

[@JohnGrit]

@@PhoRunner thanks! Sell me yours??!?!😁

[@tracereed7457]

Honestly one of the best buyers guides I’ve ever seen by far! Good work man

[@PhoRunner]

Thanks

[@bensutton2168]

I just looked a 01 today and I’m so glad I found this video before I decided to buy! Thank you!

[@PhoRunner]

Glad I could help and thanks for making those timestamps lol

[@fernandomeza8589]

thank you , soo much !!! very helpful information . I'm actually looking into a 2000 model ; to buy ! thank you .

[@PhoRunner]

Nice that’s a good year

[@reneasease8473]

Your video was very informative and helpful. I'm looking to purchase a 2000 4 Runner this coming Sunday. Thanks for all the information

[@PhoRunner]

You are welcome. Good luck

[@markopolo123688]

I've recently started looking at 3rd gens. This video is super informative and is definitely going to shape how I make my purchase! Thanks!

[@PhoRunner]

Great! Good luck finding a great truck!

[@maisyray]

Thank you, Really enjoy your video's Thought i saw your truck out in Ocotillo this weekend

[@PhoRunner]

awesome! definitely not me! lol

[@ivanbrgic]

Thank you for all your videos. Just bought 4runner and doing maintenance now. Your videos have been tremendously helpful! I appreciate your effort.

[@PhoRunner]

No problem bud

[@LambrettaJet200]

Thanks for deep inspection run through, you did everyone a great service .

[@PhoRunner]

I problem!

[@davebarnett7026]

Thanks Just got my 1st 4 runner This helped alot!

[@PhoRunner]

Excellent! Welcome to the 4runner crew!

[@spfconcept324]

Dude, can you do more reviews like this on other vehicles? You are so detail oriented and very informative. I pho king love it!!

[@PhoRunner]

I wish I knew more info about other vehicles lol

[@bdonohoe1983]

Great, informative video. Thanks.

[@PhoRunner]

No problem!

[@pena_colada]

Incredible man. Super great coverage and information. I walked away REAL fast from a 4runner I had my eye on, thanks for saving me several thousand dollars!

[@PhoRunner]

No problem!! Glad I could help!

[@robertog813]

Very informative and a lot of details THANK YOU ! Just “inherited” a 2000 4Runner and I can’t wait to get it going !

[@PhoRunner]

Nice!

[@thomassanio8745]

GREAT video. Looking at a 2000 Limited 4X4 tonight, thank you SO much. You really know your stuff and it shows👍

[@PhoRunner]

Lol thanks. I had to fix all these issues haha

[@elwerocdn]

Bro thanks a lot, you're doing gods work!

[@PhoRunner]

No problem!

[@kidcompany]

Excellent overview. Thanks.

[@PhoRunner]

Thanks for watching

[@luisarteaga9219]

Thank you. Informative as hell!

[@PhoRunner]

No problem!!!

[@qcbtbx]

This is right on time for me!

[@PhoRunner]

Cool! Good luck with the hunt!

[@vangl34]

Great video. I was lucky enough to purchase my parent's 3rd gen for a really good price. 80k miles only and their first brand new car. Helped me with some of the things wrong, starting to go bad with the car, or preventive things. Video was level 10,000 for sure!

[@PhoRunner]

Right on. welcome to the 3rd gen crew!

[@akjwheaton4600]

Great channel! Just picked up a gen 3 and will be watching your vids!!! Thank you!

[@PhoRunner]

Welcome lol

[@donosprey8754]

Gonna check out a 2001 forerunner this weekend so this helps me know what to look at going in, Thanks!

[@PhoRunner]

Pho sure!

[@hunterreeves8866]

Your videos are awesome! I'm going to look at a 2000 limited 4x4 in the morning. I feel so well prepared now. Thanks!

[@PhoRunner]

Nice man! Good luck. Make sure to check for a locker since limited models have those!

[@henryesp9284]

How it go?

[@mach1941]

A year ago I watched this video and subbed to the channel. Fast forward to now, I just picked up a 2000 4runner 4x4 with a locking rear diff! Thank you so much for the information, it came in very handy when looking for a 4runner to buy. I had to have a '99/'00 body and it had to have the locking rear diff. It was well worth the wait, I bought it stock with receipts for timing belt, water pump, misc seals, and ball joints done 3k miles ago. I'm excited for my 1st 4x4 and all the time I'll spend with it. Thanks again!

[@PhoRunner]

It’s an amazing vehicle and happy exploring! I love mine for that reason alone lol

[@jessicamcvay2285]

THANK YOU! I'm about to go look at one today, and this is so helpful! Much appreciated 🙏

[@PhoRunner]

No problem! How did it go?

[@ScottMcEwen1]

Lots of good info here. Thank-you

[@PhoRunner]

Anytime!

[@billarent6826]

Great video. I have a 99 SR5. Very true on the rotors being undersized especially for mountain driving.

[@PhoRunner]

Yeah.. I didn’t feel safe before even with stock tires

[@darwinvergonio7309]

Bro I’ve been so bored during quarantine. I actually found time to work on my 2000 Toyota 4Runner Limitied and I’m falling in love with this bad boy. Thanks for the informative video!

[@PhoRunner]

Awesome!

[@galeaiken3841]

Working on your 4Runner ? Must be time for brake pads lol. 97 325 k and a 99 225k both run drive perfectly and only basic maintenance fluid changes rotors and pads. Was tech in shop we hated 3rd gen 4Runners they never need anything but basic maintenance. Love both of mine till death do us part.

[@samman4602]

This video is amazing. Great job dude bravo

[@PhoRunner]

Thanks!

[@CheeseLayong]

Bro. Nice video! Thx for the heads up.

[@PhoRunner]

No prob at all!!

[@jackkanemoto5797]

dude this is by far the best video I've come across. I just bought my first car (1994 4runner SR5) a few days ago and was looking for videos like this. Of course I only come across it AFTER I buy it XD.

[@PhoRunner]

Lol sorry! Maybe in the future!

[@del343434]

My 96 4Runner has 278k on it and I'm not gonna lie.....I haven't checked a single one of these lol. Runs great, but now you've inspired me to go through it once I get off work lol. Thank you sir!

[@PhoRunner]

Radiator and lbj are most critical!

[@s.d.95]

Great job! Great info

[@PhoRunner]

Anytime!

[@maurosgarage]

ONe of the best 4runner videos. could not have asked for anything better. I just got a 4runner, I have only ever worked on GMC / Ford trucks and this is very informative.

[@PhoRunner]

Welcome!!! Thanks for the compliment

[@baburejaz]

Excellent 👌 educational video. Exceptionally good. Thanks for sharing your experience with the rest of the world.

[@PhoRunner]

No problem. Just gathered that info and put it in one place :)

[@escapedan]

Massive thanks for the post.

[@PhoRunner]

You are welcome

[@cal48koho]

really well done eval of the negatives to look out for, Thank you

[@PhoRunner]

No problem!

[@vcap1460]

Truly helpful. Thanks so much!

[@PhoRunner]

No problem!

[@rugerhussey887]

Can not thank you enough for this video 🙏🙌

[@PhoRunner]

No problem!! There’s a few more problems I forgot but nothing too crazy!

[@maestrooscuro5299]

glad you brought up the ball joint nearly got me killed!

[@PhoRunner]

Wow! That sucks to be a victim of that! Hopefully low speeds and no other damage !

[@dynadian118]

Such a good video. Thank you so much for doing this!

[@PhoRunner]

No problem!!!

[@dltafrc17]

Looking to buy a 4runner for my next daily! Good to know what to look for when I start looking!!

[@PhoRunner]

Welcome!! They are great. I love mines

[@fentonarmstrong3181]

Thank you so much very good information I just bought my 4 runner it has almost 300 ,000 miles but it runs not perfect but fairly good you gave me some very useful info to work with

[@PhoRunner]

Cool! Welcome!

[@Rylan_808]

The engine part was very useful for a fellow Tacoma owner 🤙🏾💯💯

[@PhoRunner]

Cool man! Thanks for tuning in

[@samjohnson9894]

Great vid and tips. Nice rig. Mines a 3xl '93 80. Many of the things you share crossover to the 80 in certain areas. So glad I don't see IRS when I get under mine. lol Happy Trails!

[@PhoRunner]

Nice thanks for watching

[@heatmyzer9]

God job man. Very thorough.

[@PhoRunner]

Thanks!

[@PLUM-rp9lt]

I’m finally going to buy a 3rd gen 4Runner…thank you so much for all this information!!!

[@PhoRunner]

Anytime!

[@smaughzeyez796]

Thank you. That was exactly what I was looking for because I didn't know any of this information and without knowing I'm sure to get burned. I had already noticed some of them were sagging in the back but they don't have air shocks so I didn't know what the deal was. Thank you again. I wish more people would explain things that they may think is simple but someone else doesn't know anything about. Like putting the 4Runner into 4wheel drive, and the button on the shifter and the one on the dash that locks the rear. I know that they're there but I don't know how they work or when to work them.

[@PhoRunner]

No problem at all! There’s a little placard in the visor that shows all the 4wd stuff. Have a read!

[@Jokerandharley07]

I'm actually glad I found this video because I'm currently interested in looking for a 2nd or 3rd gen 4runner

[@PhoRunner]

3rd gen for the win!!

[@Nate_tureboy]

Well thorough! I've seen all this stuff. Rockin' 355k on my natty white '98

[@PhoRunner]

Nice still strong!

[@mikeypotts4732]

Thanks a ton for taking the time to make this video! This is extremely helpful I’m glad I watched this before buying a 4runner. Super excited!

[@PhoRunner]

No worries at all! Didn’t think it’d be so popular so glad I could help! I made it because my brother was asking me to look for one for him hehe

[@mikeypotts4732]

@@PhoRunner Oh man you did a wonderful job. You're a great brother haha. While I'm replying I have a question if you don't mind answering. I'm debating whether to get 4wd or 2wd. Only reason I'd go with 2wd is less maintenance costs, but would it really be that much more to maintain a 4wd? All I can think of assuming nothing breaks is maintenance on transfer case. I know basically nothing though haha. Any input is appreciated. Thanks again!!

[@PhoRunner]

Not much more at this age. Just transfer case fluid and front diff fluid. Those are cheap maintenance. Perhaps cv axle leaking but only happens if lifted. I would ONLY consider a 4wd for these trucks. It’ll hold its value for what you will pay and give you a lot more joy!. 2wd for $2000 or less maybe only but nope..

[@mikeypotts4732]

@@PhoRunner Sweet thank you so much! I would have thought there'd be more to it. That doesn't sound bad at all. I'll def go with 4wd then. I really appreciate the responses! If and when I end up snagging a 4wd I'll come back to share the treasure and thank you again! haha. Take care thanks again!

[@michaelt9558]

Very informative just subscribed to channel. These 3rd gen 4runners are well built and bullet proof. I have an 02 4runner 2wd and looking for another 3rd gen but in 4wd as a project.🤙🏽