I purchased this 4Runner new, have only driven it moderatelybut far back into rarely ever traveled areas — definitelyfar away from any crowds. I do all maintenance myself, and there is extremely little of that. I have only replaced the original battery once. It handles very well in all situations. I did and strongly do recommend getting the factory high quality stabilizer system. Mine is a 4x4 Trail Edition and I ever so greatful for that. That provides truly complete 4 wheel drive but only when needed. Being a car mechanic when young, a Marine Colonel and a retired Professor of Plasma physics and Quantum Electrodynamics, I carefully studied all vehicles and options far in advance. The Toyota V-6 engine is famous for its extreme durability as is every part of the vehicle. I did, as a possibly excessive caution, replaced the perfectly good radiator with a larger, no–plastic radiator possessing far better transmission cooler. Also being a private airplane pilot for over 65 years, I have long ago learned to be pro-active rather than reactive. Silicone hoses and best quality German full synthetic oil in engine, transmission and both differentials. The European oil standards are far beyond American and aggressive testing has proven that beyond any doubt. I have also replaced the cheapy passenger car tires and wheels with full beadlock, wider, negative offset wheels (all 5) with Toyo 8-ply rated 275/75–17" tires (34"), improved the factory shocks with King 2-¾" shocks & springs, et al. Yes, I also designed & built high quality fore & aft stainless steel bumpers to carry an 10mt hydraulic winch and double swing out locking rear bumper to carry 3 20 liter NATO gas cans, high lift jack, 4 traction panels and the oversized spare tire. The driving and riding quality is genuinely wonderful. This vehicle will out live both my equally fantastic wife and myself, as well as the next series of owners. Just nothing ever goes wrong with it (full skid plates help). To date, I have never known of a more practical, pleasant, reliable vehicle, and we have gone to some very 'dicey' places without any fear of getting stuck or damaged. I honestly have never even heard of any vehicle remotely as reliable and comfortable even for long trips as the 4Runner. I had a 1987 4Runner but the 4 cylinder engine, while excellent, was just not powerful enough, although I did much prefer the standard 5 speed manual transmission over the current automatic transmission. In approximately 400,000 miles over 27 years, I only replaced the battery twice.

This continues to be a great car for my needs and very dependable. It feels solid and safe, especially on wet roads. No problems. Would wish for better gas mileage.

That was the kind of car l was exactly looking for, I love everything 😍 about it is very clean in and out and the car run very smooth 👍