Two problems related to axle assembly have been reported for the 1999 Toyota 4Runner. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Rear brake failure due to leaking rear axle grease seals which throw grease onto rear brake shoes. Causing inconsistent and unsafe braking. According to Toyota of auburn California, repairs similar to this are being performed on similar vintage Toyota four runner models on a weekly basis. The average repair cost is $850. This appears to be a vehicle manufacturers defect not a standard maintenance issue and could result in injuries or death.
Brakes vibrate badly but only once in a while. After coming to a complete stop the rear axle or rear end clunks badly when releasing the brakes, tire have cupped prematurely even though balanced and aligned, gas gauge works most of the time but sometimes is incorrect by as much as 50%. Abs kicks in even when on dry pavement. ( dot number: w@hh tire size: p225/75r15 ).