Table 1 shows ten common power train related problems of the 1997 Toyota 4Runner. The number one most common problem is related to the axle shaft seal (ten problems). The second most common problem is related to the power train driveline (three problems).
My rear axle seal is leaking on the brake shoes. I have already replaced it twice. Once in the winter of 2002 and again in the spring of 2003. The first time it happened I had an accident where my brakes failed and I rear ended somebody. The rear brake shoes were saturated with axle grease. Read details...
Rust through on rear axle differential cover to the point of leaking approx 6 oz per week of gear oil. This cover is welded on to the rear axle and there is no possibility of replacing seperately. Read details...
My friend was driving down the road in the same model car as mine 1997 4runner and his frame snapped from rust. He said he could barely keep it on the road but managed to slowly creep forward until he got home. Read details...