1986 Toyota 4Runner SR5 22RE from North America

Summary:

A reliable friend who never lets you down and loves to keep on going

Faults:

Amazingly the only thing I've ever replaced was the clutch at 125,000 miles. At 160,000 I thought I'd have my mechanic change the timing chain just because I was worried (probably unjustly) that it might weaken. Having come from Honda, I only knew the stories behind their 60,000 mile timing belts giving out at 60k on the money! Some corrosion on the exhaust manifold had to be welded for $25 about 80,000 miles later :) Oh, and I disconnected the AC because it never seemed to work all that great.

Been paid off and looking great for years otherwise! Great Truck!

General Comments:

Well, Its been another 100,000 miles since then, and with the exception of normal spark plugs and brake pads there has been absolutely nothing wrong! Amazing Engineering! I'd buy a new one today just like mine! There is still NO oil leak on this engine! The fuel injection keeps humming right along.

The moon roof makes the truck well lit and comfortable. The armrest fits perfect for those long drives. The power windows work flawlessly. It feels great at 75mph, but you feel like you're tooling along in an older VW bus.. just with that great driving while not stressing feel. Except you are passing everyone.. Been doing that for over 100k since I owned it. Best car I've ever known for dependability and fun combined.

Try getting a soft-top for it. Its a blast in the Summer. The best beach cruiser around :)

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th July, 2001

1986 Toyota 4Runner SR5 2.4L 22R-E from North America

Summary:

Reliable daily driver and a seriously fun toy!

Faults:

I haven't had a single problem with my 4Runner since I've bought it and it has survived all kinds of punishment without even a complaint. The little 4 cylinder engine has many miles on it, but continues to perform without a single leak.

The seats and carpet are in great shape except for some stains on the floor.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th June, 2001

1986 Toyota 4Runner SR5 2.4 litre from North America

Summary:

I love what Toyota did for me

Faults:

Other than normal or exceeding part life, nothing.

General Comments:

The four banger is underpowered but gets acceptable 20-22 combination driving.

Original paint looks great, interior holds up extremely well and it's one tough, solid truck. Owned a cherry '88 4Runner and two weeks later was involved in head-on battle with a Ford F150, completely totaled the Ford, mine won and I lived!

The '86 is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned and I will have it buried with me.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th February, 2001

13th Jun 2002, 23:49

I couldn't agree with you more. My 86 4runner now has 275,350 miles on it. Original engine and tranny, second clutch, original brakes and everything else.

Wow!

Amazing engineering, Thank You Toyota Engineers!

6th Feb 2005, 19:36

Original submittal and still own the '86 4Runner. After 307K, the tranny gave out, partially my lack of proper maintenance. Engine purrs and still gets about 22 mpg on the 2.4 litre. Just won't give up so I can easily buy me the new '05 Tacoma...

11th Jan 2007, 21:43

I own an 89 4 runner and I love it, great vehicle! I'm glad you "won", you must be very proud! By the way the NHTSA gives the first gen 4runners a 1 star safety rating. A very objective review, thanks.

24th Feb 2008, 12:57

Well here I am again my fellow toyotians - still own the '86 runner. She now has 340K and starts up the first turn of the key even after days of sitting idle. The wife bought me a '05 Frontier couple of years ago, but I prefer the old reliable toy. They just don't make them like they used to so I'm never getting rid of this one. Easy to work on, great on gas with ever-rising gas prices and yes, indestructible. No rust, original paint as new as the day she rolled off the dealer lot. Original engine, great vehicle - I'll be buried in this one. Take care and enjoy your toys!