Two problems related to front suspension lower ball joint have been reported for the 1996 Toyota 4Runner. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I see that you guys have ordered a recall on 2001-2002 Toyota 4runner for the lower ball joint failing. The part number for the lower ball joint is the same for years 1996-2002 and there are numerous posts of people having their ball joint fail on years prior to 2001. Can you please explain why only years 2001-2002 are covered? this is a liability and Toyota should know that the same part number is covered for all 3rd generation Toyota 4runners and it is failing on all 3rd generation 4runners. Please do a quick google search and you will see numerous people getting into accidents, flips, etc. On 4runners that are pre 2001 (1996-2000) because of lower ball joint failure. This has the potential of people bringing suit against Toyota as well as the safety commission for their negligence in fixing this matter.
: the contact stated while driving 20mph, the front passenger wheel fractured and detached from the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer who determined the lower ball joint was worn. The vehicle resides at the dealer waiting additional inspection.