What Year Is 3rd Gen 4runner?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Third generation (N180) Production

August 1995 – August 2002
Model years 1996–2002 Assembly Japan: Tahara, Aichi; Hamura, Tokyo Body and chassis

What years are 3rd gen Toyota 4Runner?


1996 – 2002

Toyota 4Runner [Third (3rd) Generation]

Why 3rd gen 4Runner is best?

Compared to the outgoing 2nd gen 4Runner, the 3rd gen was longer, roomier, and safer, with dual front airbags plus ABS brakes available on all trim levels. It was also

more powerful, efficient

, and refined, thanks in large part to all-new engines, which were shared with the Tacoma and T100 trucks.

Which generation 4Runner is best?


The third-generation 4Runner

has it all

The third generation of Toyota 4Runner ran from 1996-2002. This generation gives you many model years to pick from if you're interested in checking one out. It's also considered the best generation for a used 4Runner to go off-roading in.

What year 4Runner should I avoid?

Bar far, these model years –

2003, 2004 and 2005

– had the most complaints and should be avoided if you have the choice. Carcomplaints.com labeled the 2003 year as the “worst model year ever,” but to clarify, none of the 4Runners are really that bad.

What is the best year of Toyota 4Runner?

The most reliable Toyota 4Runner model year from the fourth generation is

2008

. The 2008 Toyota 4Runner is recommended by Vehicle History. In addition, the 2008 4Runner earned the Dependability Award from J.D. Power. It boasts a “Great” reliability score of 87/100, and was the No.

Why are 4Runners so expensive?

Why are used Toyota 4Runners so expensive?

The 4Runner has an excellent reputation for durability, reliability and longevity

. It's a solid machine with impressive off-road chops. As such, even high-mileage models are in high demand, which pushes the price up.

How many miles can a 4Runner last?

Because, as it turns out, the 4Runner is made to last for

more than 200,000-miles

. In fact, according to iSee Cars, approximately 0.2% of 4Runner models will last for more than 300,000-miles.

Why Toyota 4Runner is the best?

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner ranks near the back of the midsize SUV class. The 4Runner's most notable positive is its

strong off-road performance

, but that's overshadowed by its unrefined on-road handling, hum-drum interior quality, and meager fuel economy.

How long do 3rd gen 4Runner transmissions last?

Toyota 4Runner owners say the transmission on the model can last

between 100,000 to 120,000 miles

.

What problems do Toyota 4Runners have?

Many owners have complained about issues in the front brake calipers and front brakes,

warping problems

, and premature wear in the front brake rotor and brake master cylinder. Fourth generation 4Runners are notorious for brake problems, especially the 2003-2005 model years.

Do 4Runners hold their value?

A Toyota 4Runner will depreciate 35% after 5 years and have a 5 year resale value of $29,266. The Toyota 4Runner ranks in our Top 10 for both the 5-year and 7-year rankings, and does

very well for retaining its value over time

.

What are the 4Runner generations?

  • First Generation. 1984 to 1989.
  • Second Generation. 1990 to 1995.
  • Third Generation. 1996 to 2002.
  • Fourth Generation. 2003 to 2009.
  • Fifth Generation. 2010 to Present.

Why is 4Runner mpg so bad?

Poor MPG

Another issue created by the 4Runner's weight and outdated five-speed transmission is EPA-estimated fuel economy figures that seem equally dated:

16/19/17 mpg city/highway/combined

for the rear-wheel-drive version.

Do 4Runners have rust issues?

“the

excessive rust corrosion

on the Toyota 4Runner compromises the ' safety, stability, and crash-worthiness because important suspension components, engine mounts, transmission mounts, and body mounts anchor to the vehicles' frames.”

Do Toyota 4Runners have rust issues?

There

is no recall

on the defective Toyota 4Runners manufactured between 2003 and 2009. When it was found that the frames of Toyota 4Runners manufactured between 2003 and 2009 are prone to premature rust corrosion, this issue also reached the ears of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

David Evans
Author
David Evans
David is a seasoned automotive enthusiast. He is a graduate of Mechanical Engineering and has a passion for all things related to cars and vehicles. With his extensive knowledge of cars and other vehicles, David is an authority in the industry.