Used 1998 Toyota 4Runner Consumer Reviews
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Most favorite vehicle I have had-14 years and counting.
I bought this 4runner new and just hated the 33K plus change sticker but have never regretted the purchase. It has around 114K miles and is just as tight as it was the day I bought it. It is easy to drive and I think the perfect size and does everything well. I can tow, take a trip, or buzz around town comfortably. It just feels like it will run for ever. I considered a new 4runner 2010 or newer but after reading the reviews on Edmunds have decided to keep what I've got. Newer models do not have the quality of other generations. If you can find one of these in good condition-buy it.
Good, Dependable SUV
I bought this vehicle in August 1998 and have put over 113,000 miles on it since then. Overall, it has been a reliable SUV. The fit and finish are still excellent after 8 years of ownership. Mechanically, the car has been virtually maintenance free. My only significant complaints are the stereo and the power antenna. I had the stereo replaced 3 separate times. The power antenna was replaced twice. Gas mileage averages about 15 in the city and 20 on the highway. Power is only adequate. I still get compliments on this vehicle 8+ years later. The paint and overall look still is appealing. I would highly recommend this SUV to anyone looking for a highly reliable SUV.
- SR5 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,98888 mi away
- SR5 4dr SUVMSRP: $22,998440 mi away
- SR5 4dr SUVMSRP: $9,995442 mi away
Just Keeps on Runnin'
I purchased my 4-Runner new and still have it today. I have not had any major problem with it. I had a water pump replaced at 238,000. I take it to the Toyota dealer for regular service only when needed. As of this writing, the vehicle has 259,312 miles. I will be leaving in it next month for Arizona from the Midwest. My only suggestion is, that if you take care of it, it will take care of you.
Over 400,000
I finally gave up my 1998 4Runner this week. I had 433,000 miles on the car and drove it for 10 years. This was one reliable vehicle. I traded it in for a 2006 4Runner limited with a V8. I don't expect it to last as long but I hope to get 10 good years out of the car.
I miss it
I had my 4runner for a little over a year, and i just recently lost it to a telephone pole... this car was great to me. it was powerful, fun and east to drive. i didnt have one complaint. it even saved my life in the wreck. i put a new meaning to wrapping a car around a telephone pole. the highway patrol declared me dead as soon as they arrived cause they didnt believe anyone could have survived anything like that. but the 4runner saved me. i was trapped and had to wait to be cut out of the car, but i will always be grateful i wrecked in that car. cause nothing else could have protected me like it did
Best Used SUV Ever
I bought my 98 Limited at a dealer, but it was a one owner rig and the previous owner clearly took care of it. As with any used vehicle, you've got to put 'some' money into it for repairs. Mine had 244k miles when I bought it, and I immediately replaced engine oil, had a transmission flush, front brakes resurfaced, and had new steering rack bushings put on it. Not cheap for sure, but considering the deal I got on the purchase price, even AFTER the repairs I still considered myself ahead of the game. I've since put 15k+ miles on it, and it runs like a champ. I'd not been the kind of guy to fall in love with a car...but I freakin' love this thing and plan on keeping it in tip top shape forever. Put in the time to find the right one, and have it inspected, and these rigs will go forever.
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231K miles and counting
I bought this new in 98 and it has served me very well. I drove it 231K miles and now I have handed it down to my son and I got a new (well, an 07) one. One brake job at 185K, no repairs to speak of other than a starter motor. GREAT vehicle. Totally dependable and a monster in the snow. This has been a great vehicle and will continue to serve my family well.
1998 4runner has rusty frame
I just discovered the frame on my 4-runner is rusty just like the Tacoma's. It is rusted on the drivers side rear wheel where the leaf spring "A" bracket is welded to the frame. The bracket is structurally sound but the frame, not so much. Serious safety issue! Emailed Toyota a week ago and my email has been pushed to management review. The frame is the same frame as the Tacoma and it has the same results but no one else seems to be bringing this issue up. Please examine your vehicles as this is a potentially deadly situation.
98 4Runner
Brought mine new Oct 98. Today it has 299,032 miles and running strong. Very reliable, low maintenance vehicle. I have replaced the starter once, alternator, bulbs, brakes, suspension and transmission (only due to rust). Apparently the trans are bulletproof but my trans cooler line rusted resulting in coolant in trans at 289,312 miles. Currently, rust is my only issue ie rear bumper (seems common), metal coolant lines. in 20yrs, I probably have not spent $4,000 in repairs (DIYer). The trans was $1000 of that. This truck is awesome in snow just don't let it make you over confident. I highly recommend the 4Runner for anyone that wants a low maintenance worry free suv.
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Just bought it and love it already!
I used to own a 2000 BMW for 3 yrs. I never thought I would love another car but I must say for a old big suv, I love already. I sold the BMW cost me way too much to fix and broke down on me all the time. I've had my 4runner for about a month and it's sooo fun to drive and runs great! Even tho it has 165,xxx mi the ac is icy cold and with my kids they have ample room to grow in :) I love that rear window that rolls down and its classic look. I put a new timing belt in so I hope shell last me a life time.
Twelve Years Out
Loved this car from the day my parents got it new; I took over in 2001. For its time (gas near $1/gal, economic boom, popularity & size of SUVs exploding, but before "green" went mainstream), it got good MPGs (few less than 1998 Camry). I get close to 15 MPG with a lead foot in city driving. I've found acceleration from a stop or from merging excellent (V6). I even contemplated putting weight in the rear to improve takeoff handling. Interior fit still tight & looks better than Tahoes up to 6 yrs newer. Only standard, elective maintenance. Bottom line: I could be driving a higher-end new or nearly new car, but this is still my first choice; & dad wants first dibs on buying it back.
4runner utopia
Update: I sold my 88 4runner to a close friend. She loves the truck and has not had any problems. This is my third 4runner out of four total. I still own three 4runners, the 1998 with 240,000 miles, a 1988 with 315,000 miles, and a 2000 with only 215,000 miles. The 1998 is being sold tomorrow to a friend who totaled her car. She has been admiring my 4runners for years and has been on many trips in them. During my ownership of this 4runner, I drove 110,000 of the 240,000 miles . I drive a lot of dirt roads - I live on one - and I do Iots of 4wheeling. In the 110,000 miles I put on this vehicle I put on one timing belt, one set of spark plugs, did regular oil changes and air filters, tires, replaced an inner tie rod end, and I had the brake rotors turned, I also had to replace a headlight lens that was broken by a rock on the way to Alaska. I live in a small town with few stop lights, so around town I get about 22 mile/gal. On the freeway going 75 mph I get 19 to 20 depending on how steep the mountains are. All of my Toyotas have manual transmissions. I do all my own maintenance and buy all my parts from Toyota, no aftermarket parts. I own a total of six Toyotas and only one has less then 200,000 miles on it. Needless to say I get a good discount on parts from my Toyota dealer. I am very happy with this truck and I am sad to see it go. But the up side is I will still get to cruise in it, but as a passenger from now on.
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No vehicle has come close
This is my second 4Runner. After driving an SR5 for 3 years I decided to lease the Limited. After 3 years of reliability I decide to purchase it. 185,000+ miles later I am still enjoying the reliability of the best vehicle I've ever owned. It has never had any major mechanical problems. I've had to replace the battery twice, brake pads once (always parked outdoors), and only now do I have to replace the muffler. The only electrical problem is the CD player skipping. It has been so reliable I am going to drive it until the wheels fall off.
Just can't get rid of it
Bought it new and have loved owning it. I keep looking to replace it but I just can't. New versions are all plastic. I like steel bumpers. It meets all of my driving needs perfectly. Has manual tranny, sunroof, towing pkg. Repairs through the years include: Antenna mechanism twice. Drivers door mechanism. Clutch. Trailer light converter box. Breaks as needed. Price of gas hurts but it's worth it. I'd buy the exact thing again new if they were available.
Can't kill it!
I have a 98 I bought in 2006 for $4,000 it had 159,000 miles on it.Its January 31,2021 still driving it,over 330,000 miles on it. I love this vehicle! Interior looks a little rough has been through 3 kids and 2 dogs runs just as good as ever.
I named her Baby
I purchased this vehicle because I always wanted an SUV, but I wanted something reliable! I looked at the Honda CR-V, but being a tall woman 6'0", I wanted something a little roomier! I Loved the 4Runner as soon as I drove it! I know it was overkill to get one so big but oh well! I'm a nurse,so I travel sometimes and need safe/reliable transportation! And this is so it! What can I say, I love it!
Solid Vehicle
Good solid vehicle 4wd is outstanding. I put a perfomance air intake in it and the fuel economy is awesome now and the vehicle have more pick up and go.
My 1998 Toyota 4Runner SR5
I've had this SUV since new. The only thing needing replacement was the Antenna Mast. (TWICE} I just can't imagine with all the quality of this vehicle, the the Antenna Mast is a piece of junk. I know I'm not alone, because I belong to a few Toyota 4Runner SR5 sites and almost every person has had at least one or more Antenna Mast replacements. For a 6 cyl. engine it has great power. And comfortable ride. But for a 6 cyl. the MPG. is terrible. 15MPG City 23MPG Hwy. I've never towed anything with this SUV. I'm sure it would hold up to the task. Every 3 years I have the Transmission Fluid Drained and Filled thru the Coolant lines in and out of the radiator. I live in very hot climate.
loved it now time to trade
fire engine red, sr5, w/manual trans. love this vehicle. time to trade up to a 2003 ltd 4wd. Can't say enough about toyota vehicles this is our 7th in 22yrs
Move Over Energizer Bunny
I bought this car in 2002 with 55K miles on it and paid 21K. The best investment I ever made! I bought this vehicle because I had a 1998 Tacoma and loved it. I dreaded that I gave it up at the end of the lease! The 4Runner is the best quality vehicle I have ever owned. Who owns a car for 7 years and hasn't grown tired of it?? This is one amazing vehicle and you can not beat the value. Sure it does not get great gas mileage, but it still gets better than most NEW SUVs. I average over 20 MPG and I live in Phoenix which has stops lights every mile not to mention terrible rush hour traffic! If you are considering one of these old guys, go for it! You won't regret it!
Great, Dependable SUV
I have owned my 4Runner for almost 12 years. It has been an extremely reliable vehicle. The only problems I have had are the "junky" stereo and the retractable antennae. These are obviously very minor problems. The car just won't die. The V6 is a little on the weak side, but its not too bad. The interior is a little cramped. But, this SUV is a monster in bad weather. In 4WD this vehicle can't be stopped. I can't say enough about how great this vehicles is in the snow. Overall, this is a great vehicle to pick up even after 12 years. If you can find one with modest mileage and a clean title, you will not regret your choice.
Old but good
Like most Toyotas the forerunner has operated without a hitch. It is very dependable and handles very nicely and it has no problems. It starts easily and runs well. I bought it 13 years ago and have always been happy with its performance. The car is good on mileage and it is fun to drive. The paint on the car is good and the color is a deep dark brown. The interior isn’t shabby and it is acceptable to me.
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4x4 KING
Don't be fooled, this truck is a TRUCK. The thing has a horrible highway ride, no real nice features (considering sticker was $38k). The stereo is awful, and the car lacks the power to safely pass cars on two lane highways. However, this thing is incredible off road. It's locking rear differential and 50/50 tq converter allow it to do ANYTHING. My friend's Ford Explorer cannot do anything near what this car can do. Build quality is excellent, but only buy this if you really want a truck. PS - best looking sport ute ever
98 4 Runner Review
Just change the oil and keep going. This vehicle is the standard of reliability.
Engine failed at 85,000 miles
3 cylinders diagnosed with very low compression at 85,000 miles - Toyota says this is normal wear and tear! Warranty book says listen for loud tappet noise, but dealer says that valves elongate so they get quieter. Unless owners get a $600 valve adjust every 40K miles, valves WILL FAIL. No service buletins were issued on this.
Overall good utilitarian vehicle
we consider this suv a better overall vehicle than the ford explorer. We have owned two explorers, a 1992 and a 1996. The toyota 4runner has handled the mountainous terrain that we live on better than the fords. It has plenty of pep and an excellent 4wd and low range system. The interior is cramped, especially where the control panel is in conjunction with the cup holder-bad design, and along the sides of the seats for cleaning. Overall however, we have a sense of reliability with this vehicle and it will most likely be with us for many years.
Runner keep running
I bought the Limited 4wd truck 7 years ago for 5 k with 130,000 miles. Now, 8 years later, with 220, 00 miles runs just the same. It's worth more money now then I paid for it. At least by 2 or 3 k.
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Even Toyota Builds Lemons
The 4Runner is a very practical vehicle, handling well in all weather and road conditions and hauling dormroom-bound cargo with ease. Unfortunately, this vehicle came with a defective master cylinder, dropped a transmission at 80000 miles, and has had numerous switch, latch, lamp, park brake, etc. failures throughout its life. I will be hesitant to buy another Toyota because of the poor company and dealer response to the numerous issues.
So Far, So Great
we just purchased a '98 4Runner Limited with approximately 97K miles on it. The thing that amazes me is that there's not a squeak or rattle to be heard when driving it, and the engine and transmission feel like the vehicle is new. The fit and finish is classic Toyota - which means it's basically flawless. My only regret is that I bought the truck for my wife and I hardly get to enjoy the huge moonroof, slide down rear glass, and comfy leather seats. Absolutely great truck and I know we'll have it for years to come.
Love my 4Runner
Great vehicle have over 198000 on it and it still runs like a champ (I do keep up on maintenance). Not the perfect vehicle but very close. Would but another 4Runner in a second even though I don't care much for the new body style.
THE BEST
I bought my Toyota 4Runner and it has 45k offroad miles on it. Only time it drives on pavement is the freeway, to the offroading trails, and when I want to take it to the twisty winding roads. I really love the 5spd Manual tranny, over my 2002 4runner sport edition. The only thing I changed on it was the ripped off fender flare, side mirrors and bitten off mudflaps,(Stupid Dog). EXCELLENT! ;)
Very Nice SUV
This is a very nice SUV and Toyatos are always very good.
My Toyota 4Runner SR5 2WD
I was pleasanly surprised with this 4Runner. Rides smooth, no interior or exterior rattles. Steering is great in town and on the freeway. I feel the 3.4 engine has more than enough power for my needs. The A/C is great and all passengers get the cold air. The fuel mileage could be better. I get 16 mpg in the summer months with the A/C always on. In cooler weather without the A/C on I get 19 mpg. This is all city driving. On the freeway 24 mpg is the norm. I do use an K&N air filter, and synthetic oil, and Toyota oil filters. And 87 octane fuel. It's great SUV. I plan to keep it many years.
Tough Monkey
We bought our Toyota new in 1997. Except for a few relatively minor problems we have driven her through 10 Maine winters without a complaint. 152,000 miles and still going strong. She is starting to show her age a bit. Rear bumper is rusting, which I have noticed on a few others in this model year. I think the design of the rear bumper allows water to intrude and settle. We have had a problem with some locks and latches. And, the if I had to do it over I'd swap the electric retracting antenna for a fixed. We replaced the first one and the second is now starting to stick. But none of these problems would prevent me from owning another 4runner. They will take you anywhere!
Doesn't get any better
This is the best vehicle I've owned. The 4Runner is fun to drive, looks good, and is very comfortable. Beyond these distinguishing features, I have had me 4 Runner for 50000 miles now (total of 114000) and I haven't had one major thing go wrong. If this isn't enough, If I wanted to, I could sell my 4Runner for almost as much as I bought it for. This is the best vehicle I've ever owned.
Best SUV on the Road, Hands Down !!!
I bought the SUV after running from a hurricane in NC with my Oldsmoble D88 and the olds died in the middle of 4 lanes of trafic 20miles long. I called a close friend and he said I could use his old 4Runner to get out of town and we did, safely at that. After this life altering event passed and we got home safely I went to a local dealership to look at Toyotas. I bought this 4Runner with 30K, now it has 175K and runs as great as day 1. This SUV has been on beach where other can't go and now I live in upstate NY so its tackled its share of major snow storms with ease. I love it! Now my son drives an 89 toyota pickup, my daughter a 96 Corolla and my wife a 02 Avalon, Im sold on Toyota!
Best Vehicle I've Ever Owned
Drives like new car, currently have 206,500 on it, looking forward to another 200K+! Never let me down, probably never will. Regular maintenance, still has original engine and transmission, key to longevity, always use Toyota parts.
Reformed Toyota Buyer
Mine needed an engine rebuild with less than 60,000 miles on it. The car was gently driven and well-maintained, using only synthetic oil. I was on a road trip, seven months pregnant, and I got stuck 750 miles from home with few options. The dealership charged me $5500 to replace the short block - $4000 in parts alone. There is more to say about the conduct of the dealer, but I don't have the space. When I called Toyota to complain, the company told me I was welcome to take my business elsewhere. Toyota would not stand by its product and did not care about how the dealership treated me. I have owned Toyotas all of my life but will never buy another.
98 4Runner SR5 4WD
I bought the car thinking that I would get around better gas millage than my V8 Grand Cherokee and be able to pull a trailer similarly, but not even close. I'm very dissappointed in the power. A downshift is the responce to even the smallest hill empty. I pull 2 Sea Doos (2200 lbs) and it struggles. Have replace both O2 sensors (aren't cheap) and the battery. But it is a toyota and I now that it will last forever, I just wish it has a smoother ride and more power.
Great, great vehicle
I bought my 4Runner w/ 54k miles on it and have out almost 50k more on it in 3 years. Excepting regular fluid changes and the like, I've only had to have it repaired once: I had to replace the AC compressor 2 1/2 years after I bought it. Highly reliable, enjoyable to drive, and very useful when I remodelled my home. Gas mileage leaves something to be desired. Highly recommened unless you have a long commute.
My third 4Runner
The performance of the 3.4LV6 is better than other Toyota SUV/Trucks. For speed/acceleration junkies, TRD has a supercharger that bolts right onto this engine and still fits under the . Fuel economy is better than average 15-17 MPG. Install the TRD supercharger and aftermarket non-rubber sway bar bushings! Toyota has the best lines and highest ground clearence in its class. No one in the midsized SUV market even comes close to Toyota build quality and relaibility.
Luvin my 4runner
I have a 4cyl with a 5 speed manual transmission. This allows for a nice mix of acceptable power (no towing) and great fuel economy. 18-20 mpg around town 25 mpg highway. (10 mpg in 4wd) The next problem I have with this truck will be the first!
Richard's 4Runner
The 4Runner is a fun to drive SUV. I like the truck-like durability and ruggedness. I wish they had kept the redesigned (2003 model year) 4Runner a little more true to its roots...looks like a soccer mom car now.
This one's a keeper
After 5 years of ownership, I wouldn't trade this 98' 4Runner for anything. The 150hp 4-cylinder performs pretty well; my 4Runner is equipped with the automatic transmission. The power option package I got is nice. The dependability and consistency in reliability amazes me! I've purchased two other 2nd vehicles since then, but refused to trade my 4Runner in for those other vechicles. Overall, I love this truck.
Worth it
I've owned several SUVs and this 4Runner is defenitly the best I had. Strongly recomend it.
98 4Runner
Extremely reliable, relatively comfortable, superb handling, and good performance for a V6. Only flat spot has been brakes (warped rotors repaired 2x under warranty). Really shines off- road (and this one regularly goes way off-road), & we haven't found the stiff suspension & AT tires to be as jarring for in-town use as we thought we might. Great versatile vehicle if you need something for 'mom' type use, as well as driving over rocks & through canyons in semi-arid west Texas.
I love it!
I used to own a Jimmy and a Jeep, test drove an Explorer and Rodeo, by far the Toyoda is the best driving SUV. If I ever buy another SUV it will a newer 4 Runner.
Uber - Super
I love my 4runner, I will never get another type of car, I am a fan forever. It has way more room than a jeep grand cherokee for passengers, more cargo room than a isuzu rodeo. It is one of the so called suv's that you can put into 4 wheel drive regularly and it be able to handle it. I cannot say enough good stuff. Buy one today!!!!!!!
Dependibility
I have spent 32 years in the auto industry on the retail level, and Toyota is the best of the best.They hold their value, and they do not break. My 4-Runner has 90,000 miles on it,and I have replace one set of tires, abattery and the power antenna mast. It still has the original brakes with 80% front and 90% rear linings left. My next vehicle will be the Tundra 4dr Truck.
Best Damn Rig I Have Ever Owned
Great comfort, better sterio than in my home, on or off road, it has never let me down!