Is the 1987 Toyota 4Runner reliable?

Yes, it’s widely considered reliable thanks to its simple truck-based design and the durable 22R-E engine, but condition and rust matter more than the odometer on a vehicle this old.

What are the most common 1987 Toyota 4Runner problems?

The most common issues include timing chain guide wear on the 22R-E, frame/body rust, cooling-system-related overheating that can lead to head gasket trouble, and worn front-end/4WD components from age and off-road use.

Are maintenance costs expensive for a 1987 4Runner?

Routine maintenance is usually reasonable, but costs can rise if you need rust repair, a full timing chain job, suspension/steering rebuilds, or deferred cooling and drivetrain work.

What are the best years to buy for a first-generation Toyota 4Runner?

Many shoppers prefer later first-gen years like 1986–1989 for the 22R-E fuel injection and incremental refinements, but the best year is ultimately the cleanest, most rust-free, best-documented truck you can find.

What should I check before buying a 1987 Toyota 4Runner?

Inspect for frame rust, verify cooling system health, listen for timing chain noise, check 4WD engagement and transfer case operation, and review records for major services like timing components, axle seals, and suspension/steering parts. For the full ownership experience, get a complete owner’s guide with detailed specs, service intervals, and maintenance schedules to keep your 1987 Toyota 4Runner running strong.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

1987 Toyota 4Runner Reliability ReportA- grade · low risk · system-by-system breakdown

88/ 100

KeepScore

LOW RISK

Grade: A-

A rugged, dependable classic that will outlast most modern SUVs, provided you find one not consumed by rust and maintain its simple but aging mechanics.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 1987 Toyota 4Runner

The system most likely to surface first: body & frame rust (major severity).
No active NHTSA safety recalls on record — a clean recall slate for the 1987 model year.
Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1985 Toyota 4Runner earns a 92.

Is the 1987 Toyota 4Runner Worth Buying?

The 1987 Toyota 4Runner is an absolute legend, a testament to Toyota's commitment to durability and off-road prowess. While its age demands diligence in maintenance and rust inspection, a well-preserved example offers unparalleled ruggedness and a driving experience that modern vehicles simply can't replicate. Expect to buy with confidence, understanding that 'vintage' means proactive care, not constant breakdowns.

Biggest Strengths

Unrivaled mechanical simplicity and durability
Exceptional off-road capability
Strong aftermarket support and parts availability

What Tends to Fail First on the 1987 Toyota 4Runner

The systems that break first on the 1987 Toyota 4Runner. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Body & Frame Rustmajor

22R-E Engine Top Endmoderate

Electrical (Power Windows)moderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

1987 Toyota 4Runner Recall History

No active NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 1987 Toyota 4Runner. Always verify with your VIN atnhtsa.gov.

What breaks on the 1987 Toyota 4Runner?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Other Toyota 4Runner Years to Consider

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Toyota 4Runner. Click any year for its full report.

All Toyota 4Runner years ranked →Toyota 4Runner years to avoid →Toyota 4Runner common problems →

1987 Toyota 4Runner Alternatives

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

1985 ChevroletSuburban

1986 NissanPathfinder

68/100

1985 JeepCherokee

55/100

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