3rd gen Toyota 4Runner 1996–2002

What buyers say

Reputation: what owners and the press report

Sought after: 4WD All years One source so far

The 4x4 models are the ones in demand.¹
Sought after: 5-speed manual 1996–2000

The last 4Runner offered with a manual, and rare today.^1,2
Sought after: Low miles, factory-original All years One source so far

One article describes low-mile, factory-original trucks as the top of the market, not a typical truck.³
Avoid: Frame rust All years Walk away

Both generations rust at the frame, worst where roads are salted, and rust can leave a frame unsafe. Toyota's frame rust program for its trucks did not include the 4Runner.^4,5,6,7,8
Avoid: 2WD All years Less sought after One source so far

Demand sits with the 4x4 models.¹
Avoid: 2001 and 2002 model years 2001–2002 Less sought after

No manual and no rear locker. They gained stability control and standard multi-mode 4WD.^2,9
Avoid: Lifts and modifications All years Less sought after

Factory originality is called rare on these trucks.^5,3

Every warning and recall for this generation, with a box to tick.