One problem related to front suspension upper ball joint has been reported for the 1997 Toyota 4Runner. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While pulling away from a stop position at 10 mph right, the side front of the vehicler dropped to the ground. The vehicle was towed to a repair shop, and the mechanic determined that the upper and the lower ball joints needed to be replaced. The ball joint snapped, causing the front end of the vehicle to collapse. The consumer requested reimbursement for the faulty part and repairs.