If you find an aftermarket hitch, I’d suggest you find one that fits only your 4Runner.
Some hitches fit multiple vehicles via a virtual jigsaw puzzle of extra parts, only a few are used for any application. They usually cost less because they fit more vehicles, not all from the same brand. And sometimes they don’t fit what they say they do.
I had this experience on my 2002 Tacoma TRD 4x4. It was not equipped with the factory tow package. I later bought an aftermarket hitch. The hitch manufacturer’s website, a chain auto parts store’s computer system and their counter person said it fit my truck, several Jeeps, and GM trucks. When it came, I found nothing on the box nor the instructions that it fit a Tacoma. And box was filled with lots of parts.
I returned the hitch and ordered one that fit only my Tacoma. It cost more money. When it came, I found only one part - a welded hitch assembly. It fit perfectly and went on easily. And I assume a lot more sturdy since it was one piece, not a bolted together jigsaw puzzle.
I don’t know if that generation of Tacoma and 4Runner use the same factory hitch assembly, but if they do and you go aftermarket, I’d suggest you go with one that only fits your 4Runner, and not a dozen other makes and models.
