1998 Toyota 4Runner Grade: Luxury
VIN: JT3HN87R9W0192801 | 1998 | Toyota Motor Corporation | TAHARA, AICHI, JAPAN
1998 Toyota 4Runner Grade: Luxury — 3.4L 6 Cyl, 4x4, See owners manual. Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV].
C
55/100
Safety & Recall Score: Fair
This score reflects NHTSA safety data only — recalls, complaints, and crash ratings. It does not include title status, accident history, or odometer records. Verify hidden history with VIN Pro Plus →
Composite rating based on recalls, complaints, crash ratings, and vehicle age.
⚠ 4 recall campaigns
⚠ 267 owner complaints (high)
⚠ No NHTSA crash-test rating available
⚠ 15+ year old vehicle
✓ VIN fully verified
VIN Decoded
VIN Verified- Official VIN decode record located
- Type: MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
- Body: Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
- Plant: TAHARA, AICHI, JAPAN
NHTSA Recalls
4 Recall Campaigns- SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP...
- CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND...
- CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS...
Owner Complaints
267 filed with NHTSA- The rear end suspension is sagging on my vehicle....
- The frame is rusting out and broke while driving....
Fuel Economy
16 MPG Combined- City: 15 MPG
- Hwy: 18 MPG
- Combined: 16 MPG
- Fuel: Gasoline
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Overview
VIN
JT3HN87R9W0192801
Model Year
1998
Make
Toyota
Model
4Runner
Trim
Grade: Luxury
Series
RZN180L/VZN180L/RZN185L/VZN185L
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Doors
4
Seats
Not reported by manufacturer
Seat Rows
Not reported by manufacturer
Drive Type
4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Transmission
See owners manual
Engine
3.4L 6 Cyl
Manufacturer
Toyota Motor Corporation
Plant Location
TAHARA, AICHI, JAPAN
Country of Origin
JAPAN
VIN Breakdown
Position 1 — WMI Region
J → Japan
Position 2 — Manufacturer
T → Toyota Motor Corporation
Position 3 — Vehicle Type
3 → MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Positions 4–8 — Descriptor
HN87R → 4Runner Grade: Luxury
Position 9 — Check Digit
9 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year
W → 1998
Position 11 — Plant Code
0 → TAHARA, AICHI, JAPAN
Positions 12–17 — Serial
192801 → Production sequence
Engine & Powertrain
Engine Model
5VZ-FE
Engine Manufacturer
Toyota
Cylinders
6 Cyl
Displacement
3.4 L
Displacement CC
3378
Displacement CI
207.48072992208
Engine Config
V-Shaped
Horsepower
183 hp
Cooling System
Water
Drive Type
4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Fuel Type Primary
Gasoline
Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Combined MPG
16 MPG
City MPG
15 MPG
Hwy MPG
18 MPG
Annual Fuel Cost
$4,000
5-Yr Fuel Cost
$20,000
CO₂ Emissions
555.4 g/mi
Barrels/Year
18.59
Safety & Driver Assistance
Detailed safety-equipment information wasn't available from the sources used for this vehicle.
Vehicle Dimensions & Weight
GVWR
Class 1D: 5,001 - 6,000 lb (2,268 - 2,722 kg)
Doors
4
Towing & Utility
GVWR
Class 1D: 5,001 - 6,000 lb (2,268 - 2,722 kg)
Drive Type
4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Wheels & Tires
Manufacturing & Identity
Manufacturer
Toyota Motor Corporation
Manufacturer ID
1057
Make ID
448
Model ID
2216
Plant Company
Toyota Motor Corporation
Plant City
TAHARA
Plant State
AICHI
Plant Country
JAPAN
Vehicle Descriptor
JT3HN87R*W0
GVWR
Class 1D: 5,001 - 6,000 lb (2,268 - 2,722 kg)
Recall & Safety Summary
Total Recalls
4
Recall Status
Recall campaigns found
Recall Campaigns
4 recall campaigns identified
VIN repair status unknown — verify open recalls with NHTSA or a Toyota dealer.
✅ Pre-Purchase Checklist
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Negotiate Using This ReportUse the 4 recall campaigns as leverage for a lower price.
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Estimated Market Value
Based on vehicle age, class, trim & U.S. market conditions
Market estimate
$3,400–$5,400
Based on vehicle class, age, trim, and U.S. market trends. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
💡 This is a general estimate, not real data for this specific vehicle. Get the real, transaction-based Verified Market Value with VIN Pro Plus — $4.99 →
📚 Helpful Vehicle Resources
Safety Ratings
NHTSA has not published a crash-test rating for this 1998 TOYOTA 4Runner. This is common for older, lower-volume, or recently-released vehicles that weren't included in NHTSA's crash-testing program.
Safety Recalls
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108,...
Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY...
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL...
Risk: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK...
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY...
Risk: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT...
SUSPENSION
ON CERTAIN 2-WHEEL-DRIVE (2WD) AND 4-WHEEL-DRIVE (4WD) 4RUNNER SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, A COMBINATION OF HEAVY LOADING (SIMULTANEOUS LOADING TO REAR GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATING AND GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING) AND SEVERE STEERING MANEUVERS COULD CAUSE THE 2WD 4RUNNER TO LOSE...
Risk: THIS MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF CONTROL AND COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE REAR SUSPENSION PARTS. ALTHOUGH THE 4WD 4RUNNERS DO NOT EXHIBIT THE HANDLING CONDITION, TOYOTA WILL RECALL THESE VEHICLES TO AVOID ANY...
Service bulletins and open investigations aren't part of this report. You can search them for free on NHTSA's site.
Finance & Cost Estimates
🔧 Service & Parts for this 1998 Toyota 4Runner
$1,410/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr)
$7,050
Maintenance (5yr)
$7,500
5-Yr Fuel Cost (EPA)
$20,000
Depreciation (5yr est.)
$2,430
⛽ Fuel Cost Calculator
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Run Free NICB Check for JT3HN87R9W0192801 →State Emissions & Lemon Law
Emissions Testing & Lemon Law by State
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OBD-II Check Engine Code Lookup
🔧 Check Engine Light Code Lookup
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Common:
Owner Complaints
The rear end suspension is sagging on my vehicle....
The rear end suspension is sagging on my vehicle. When I look up the VIN number on the nhtsa website it says that there is not a recall,...
The frame is rusting out and broke while driving....
The frame is rusting out and broke while driving. The frame is almost totally destroyed from rust . The rear started swinging violently but luckily got it stop...
The drivers side front lower ball joint completely sheared...
The drivers side front lower ball joint completely sheared off at around 15 miles an hour. The wheel and tire separated from the vehicle.
CRITICAL FRAME RUST CAUSING TRAILING ARMS TO DETACH UNDER...
CRITICAL FRAME RUST CAUSING TRAILING ARMS TO DETACH UNDER NORMAL USE.
THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR CONTROL ARM MOUNTING BRACKET THAT...
THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR CONTROL ARM MOUNTING BRACKET THAT IS WELDED TO THE FRAME HAS RUSTED AND COMPLETELY FRACTURED OFF OF THE FRAME. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WHILE I...
RUSTED FRAME. HOLE RIGHT THROUGH IT. CAN'T SELL, REGISTER...
RUSTED FRAME. HOLE RIGHT THROUGH IT. CAN'T SELL, REGISTER OR DO ANYTHING WITH IT. CAR HAS 188K MILES, DRIVES LIKE A TANK, AND HAS YEARS LEFT IN IT,...
THE FRAME HAS RUSTED OUT AND THE SWAYBAR HAS...
THE FRAME HAS RUSTED OUT AND THE SWAYBAR HAS BROKE LOOSE FROM THE FRAME. *TR
1998 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER STARTING TO SWAY SIDE TO...
1998 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER STARTING TO SWAY SIDE TO SIDE. THE REAR AXLE SUPPORT FRAME IS RUSTED THRU THE BOX TUBE. CALLED TOYOTA TO REPORT THE ISSUE AND...
Showing 8 of 267 complaints. View all on NHTSA →
Maintenance Schedule
Current
Oil & Filter Change
Every 5,000 mi
Toyota recommended interval
Due Now
Air Filter (Engine)
Every 15,000–30,000 mi
Dirty filter reduces fuel economy by up to 10%
Due Now
Cabin Air Filter
Every 15,000–25,000 mi
Affects AC, heat, and air quality
Due Soon
Tire Rotation
Every 5,000–7,500 mi
Extends tire life by 25–40%
Due Soon
Brake Inspection
Every 12 months or 15,000 mi
Brake pads typically last 30,000–70,000 mi depending on driving
Due Now
Spark Plugs
Every 30,000–100,000 mi
Copper plugs every 30k; iridium/platinum every 60–100k
Due Now
Coolant Flush
Every 30,000 mi or 5 years
Old coolant becomes acidic and damages the cooling system
Due Now
Transmission Fluid
Every 30,000–60,000 mi
Neglected fluid leads to expensive transmission repairs
Due Now
Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years
Brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point
Due Now
Battery Test
Every 3–5 years
12V batteries typically last 3–5 years
Due Now
Drive Belt Inspection
Every 60,000–100,000 mi
Serpentine belt failure leaves you stranded
Due Now
Timing Belt/Chain Service
Every 60,000–105,000 mi (belt) or per manufacturer schedule (chain)
CRITICAL if belt-equipped — timing belt failure destroys engine. Confirm whether this engine uses a belt or chain (chains typically don't require scheduled replacement) before assuming this interval applies.
This schedule is a general reference based on make, model year, and powertrain. Always follow your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Additional Tools & Information
Estimated depreciation for this 1998 TOYOTA 4Runner based on vehicle class and age. These are projections from today’s general estimate, not past sale prices. Verify with KBB or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
Now
$4,400
+1 yr
$3,900
-12%
+2 yr
$3,400
-22%
+3 yr
$3,000
-32%
Estimates based on vehicle class averages. Actual values vary by mileage, condition, and location.
Estimated annual cost to own this vehicle at average U.S. driving conditions.
Insurance
$1,410/yr
18%
Maintenance
$1,500/yr
20%
Fuel/Energy
$4,000/yr
52%
Depreciation
$486/yr
6%
Registration
$250/yr
3%
Estimated Total Annual Cost
$7,646/yr
National averages. Registration varies by state. Does not include parking, tolls, or loan interest.
9.2
/ 10
Rank #1 overall
17 issues / 100 vehicles
Toyota Reliability
Toyota consistently ranks #1 in long-term reliability. Vehicles routinely exceed 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
General editorial reference for this manufacturer, not a live or VIN-specific measurement — see the sources below for detailed, current data.
Use this checklist to track which recalls have been resolved. All recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships.
Jul 4, 2009
May 24, 2006
Mar 23, 2006
Jan 18, 2002
Vehicles in a similar class to the 1998 TOYOTA 4Runner:
This vehicle is older, so current-market prices for these alternatives wouldn't be a fair comparison — research period-correct pricing for each instead.
Private Party
$3,000–$5,000
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$3,600–$5,900
Some warranty · Financing available
Negotiation tip:
This vehicle model has 4 recall campaigns on file. Use this as leverage — ask the seller to confirm this specific VIN's recalls are resolved, or reduce the price accordingly. Unresolved recalls cost dealers time and money to fix.
Automated checks against common VIN fraud indicators. Always verify with a paid history report and independent inspection.
✓
Check digit (position 9) validates
✓
VIN is exactly 17 characters
✓
No invalid characters (I, O, Q not present)
✓
Year position (pos 10) matches decoded model year
✓
Manufacturer decodes to a known brand
✓
Not a repeated-character test/placeholder VIN
Manual checks to do in person: Compare the VIN on the dashboard (visible through windshield), driver door jamb sticker, engine block, and title — all must match exactly. A cloned or re-VINed vehicle will show inconsistencies.
⚠ Always check the tire placard on the driver door jamb for the exact manufacturer-specified PSI for your vehicle.
Front Tires
33 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Rear Tires
33 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Spare Tire
60 PSI (typical)
Check monthly
Rotation Pattern Guide
FWD: Front to rear straight, rear cross to front
RWD: Rear to front straight, front cross to rear
AWD/4WD: Full X-pattern every 5,000–7,500 mi
Staggered: Side-to-side only if non-directional tires
Recommended rotation interval: every 5,000–7,500 miles. Rotate with every other oil change for best results.
❄ Winter Prep
✓ Check antifreeze concentration (minimum -34°F protection)
✓ Test battery — cold temps reduce capacity 30–60%
✓ Verify tire tread depth (4/32" minimum for snow traction)
✓ Service AWD/4WD differential and transfer case fluids
✓ Replace wiper blades and refill washer fluid (-20°F rated)
✓ Test heater, front/rear defroster, and heated seats if equipped
✓ Inspect fuel lines and check for water in fuel system
☀ Summer Prep
✓ Check coolant level and test radiator cap pressure seal
✓ Inspect serpentine belt for cracking or glazing
✓ Test A/C system output and replace cabin air filter if needed
✓ Check tire pressure — heat increases PSI (recheck cold in a.m.)
✓ Inspect brake pads and rotors before summer road trips
✓ Check transmission fluid color and level
✓ Top off all fluids: brake, power steering, coolant, washer
Original Toyota Factory Warranty
Basic / Bumper-to-Bumper
3yr/36k
Has likely ended
Powertrain
5yr/60k
Has likely ended
Corrosion / Rust
5yr/unlimited
Has likely ended
Estimated from the model year only. Factory coverage runs from the vehicle's original sale date, which this report can't confirm, and mileage limits can end coverage sooner. Verify remaining coverage with a Toyota dealer using the VIN.
Third-Party Extended Warranty Options
CARCHEX
Get Quote →
A+ BBB-rated. 6 plan tiers, up to 500k miles.
Endurance
Get Quote →
Direct-pay at any ASE-certified mechanic.
AUTOPOM!
Get Quote →
Month-to-month plans, high-mileage coverage.
Estimate total fuel cost and stops for any road trip in this 1998 TOYOTA 4Runner.
Steps to get the best price when selling this 1998 TOYOTA 4Runner:
📄 Service records
Buyers pay more for documented maintenance history. Even basic oil change receipts add value.
🔍 Resolve all recalls
Unresolved recalls suppress resale value and are easy objections for buyers. Fix them free at any dealership.
🚗 Professional detail
A full detail ($150–$300) typically returns $500–$1,500 in perceived value, especially on dark-colored vehicles.
📷 Photograph in good light
Listings with 20+ high-quality daylight photos get 3x more inquiries than listings with poor photos.
🗂 Vehicle history report link
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🔍 Price using real comps
Search AutoTrader and CarGurus for same year/make/model/trim within 100 miles. Price within 5% of the median.
⚠ Check recall status first
This vehicle model has 4 recall campaigns on file. Confirming this specific VIN's recalls are resolved before listing typically increases sale price by more than the time spent.
No model-specific issue notes in our database for this year. The 267 NHTSA complaints filed provide the best available signal — review them in the Owner Complaints section above.
NHTSA offers free recall alerts by VIN. Sign up to be notified the moment a new recall is issued for this vehicle.
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VIN JT3HN87R9W0192801:
4 recall campaigns currently on file. Sign up to track when they are resolved.
Get competing insurance quotes for this exact vehicle. Rates vary by 30–60% between carriers for the same driver profile — comparing saves real money.
Estimated national average for this vehicle: $1,410/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VIN JT3HN87R9W0192801 decode to?
VIN JT3HN87R9W0192801 decodes to a 1998 TOYOTA 4Runner Grade: Luxury, assembled in TAHARA, AICHI, JAPAN.
How many recalls does this 1998 TOYOTA 4Runner have?
NHTSA shows 4 recall campaigns associated with the 1998 TOYOTA 4Runner. This reflects campaigns issued for this model/year — it does not confirm whether this specific VIN's repairs have already been completed. Contact a TOYOTA dealer with this VIN to check.
Is it safe to buy a 1998 TOYOTA 4Runner with recall campaigns on file?
A recall campaign doesn't necessarily mean the vehicle is unsafe to drive, but any unresolved recall should be addressed promptly. Contact a TOYOTA dealer with this VIN to confirm which specific recalls apply and whether they've already been completed — repairs are always free of charge.
What is the estimated value of this 1998 TOYOTA 4Runner?
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 1998 TOYOTA 4Runner Grade: Luxury is estimated at $3,400–$5,400. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for a precise appraisal based on mileage and condition.
Is this VIN check really free?
Yes — the core VIN check on VinForFree is free with no signup required. All data is sourced from public records including NHTSA, the EPA, and official government databases.
What fuel economy does a 1998 TOYOTA 4Runner get?
According to EPA data, the 1998 TOYOTA 4Runner gets approximately 16 MPG combined (15 city / 18 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $4,000.
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