We bought our V6 powered, auto-transmission,'98 4Runner SR5 new from the dealership in December 1997. Since then we have clocked 230,000 miles on the odometer. From day one, we diligently performed all scheduled maintenance and only Toyota certified mechanics work on our vehicle. Oil changes were performed every 3,000 miles without fail. Other major drive train components were serviced every 15,000 miles. Tune-ups were performed on schedule, etc.

The result? No major mechanical breakdowns for the first 193,000 of ownership. This car never left us stranded anywhere. We finally wore out the water pump at that point and had it replaced. Nothing else failed until last month when the original starter and the original alternator finally wore out, but we can't complain about it because every other American car we've owned went through several starters and alternators before hitting 100,000 miles.

This has been, without question, the most reliable vehicle we've ever owned. We have nicknamed the car "Old Faithful."

Our only complaints were as follows:

* Noisy. Wind noise and other outside noises are a bit louder than we'd like.
* Seats not very comfortable for long trips.
* Cup holders are flimsy and poorly located. Have had to replace this minor part twice and if you use it, the cups block the A/C vents.
* Vehicle is a bit narrow. Needed to be about 6 inches wider. Toyota fixed this on the 4th generation 4Runner starting in 2003.
*Glove box and center console unit are small and do not hold much stuff. Again, Toyota fixed this on 4th generation 4Runners which have enormous glove boxes and center consoles.
*Ride quality. Too bouncy and stiff - but this is a true off-road capable vehicle, so it sort of comes with the territory. Again, Toyota has improved this on the 4th generation 4Runner which rides much better but still can handle any off-road challenge.
*Power - V6 Engine is adequate and provides reasonable passing power. Don't even bother with a 4-cyl. Even the V6 is a tad anemic for towing and mountain driving, but it'll do the job reasonably well. Newer 4Runners have stronger V6's that solve this complaint.

All things considered - a great car. Not perfect, but it stands head and shoulders above any American car because the thing just RUNS and KEEPS RUNNING and it will NOT bleed your bank account and try your patience by going into the shop for repairs all the time like American cars do.

I recommend this vehicle to anyone who is looking for a rugged, safe, reliable, off-road capable, SUV.
Amount Paid (US$): 27,900.00
Condition: New
Model Year: 1998
Model and Options: SR5 V6