Recall 02V021000: 1996–1998 Toyota 4RUNNER

Report received

Jan 18, 2002

Manufacturer

Toyota motor north america, inc.

Potentially affected

273,743vehicles

Model years

1996–1998

Check your own vehicle. A recall applies only to vehicles within the affected build range. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.

What NHTSA recorded

On certain 2-wheel-drive (2wd) and 4-wheel-drive (4wd) 4runner sport utility vehicles, a combination of heavy loading (simultaneous loading to rear gross axle weight rating and gross vehicle weight rating) and severe steering maneuvers could cause the 2wd 4runner to lose directional stability.

Possible consequence

This may result in a loss of control and could increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace rear suspension parts. Although the 4wd 4runners do not exhibit the handling condition, toyota will recall these vehicles to avoid any public confusion as to which vehicles should receive the replacement parts. Owner notification began february 28, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

Affected model years

Pages for each model year show complaints, parts, mileage and other recalls.

• 1996 Toyota 4RUNNER161 complaints
• 1997 Toyota 4RUNNER261 complaints
• 1998 Toyota 4RUNNER250 complaints