Three problems related to power train have been reported for the 1997 Toyota 4Runner. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
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. This story scared me because I have the same exact car, so I go to check my frame and sure enough, it is also quite rusted. I'm afraid that if I keep driving on it that it will snap and could cause injury to myself and others.
Vehicle frame is completely rusting out around the rear suspension. Trailing arm mount from axle to frame is separated from frame and vehicle is not safe to drive.
I have a 1997 4runner that is catastrophically rusted through the frame and has been a danger since purchasing. The amount of rust has completely evaporated my investment.