Did Toyota resolve the head gasket problem by 96 and on.... ?

[MudbogPete]

I read some issues about the V6 engine having head gasket having problems.

My 97 has 101K on it and am concerned that this could be an issue later on.... Was this just the 95 and earlier engines ?

 

[Thai]

Head gasket problem did affect the '96 models. Your 4runner should have been fixed. Check with your Toyota dealership...they can pull up your VIN number to check.

Good Luck.

 

[peter78]

I have heard that some 97's were affected, but I have also heard, if you have the problem, it should show up quickly. If you have 20,000 miles and no problem, then you don't have the problem. This gasket problem is different than the 2nd generation problem (90 to 95).

I agree with Thai, give your VIN number to a Toyota dealer, it may show you need somthing else done, like the re-call on the rear suspension.

 

[MudbogPete]

I have heard that some 97's were affected, but I have also heard, if you have the problem, it should show up quickly. If you have 20,000 miles and no problem, then you don't have the problem. This gasket problem is different than the 2nd generation problem (90 to 95).

I agree with Thai, give your VIN number to a Toyota dealer, it may show you need somthing else done, like the re-call on the rear suspension.

Well, my 97 has 101K miles on it now and seems to be running fine. I just don't want to have to deal with something like a head gasket problem in the dead of winter. I have only owned this since last month.

What was the rear suspension problem all about ? I heard something that the rear would ride lower than the front. Mine may be slightly lower buy maybe only an inch ? Was there a warranty fix for that ?

 

[Thai]

There was a TSB involving 2wd 4runners in 1999. You can also do it for 4wd models. It involved replacing springs and bumpstop i think.

Because it is a TSB, and not a recall, owners without warranty had to pay for it.

 

[peter78]

I am not sure about, you having to pay for it. I believe it was a safety recall because the vehicle could lose control, since there was confusion they will do both 4WD and 2WD. But I have heard the dealerships are giving people a hard time.

Advice: Go to your dealership and give your VIN number, check for gasket, rear suspension and any other problems.

http://www.yotatech.com/showthread.php?threadid=1097&highlight=rear+suspension+recall