🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Toyota

Model:

4Runner

Generation:

3rd Generation

Model Years Covered:

1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002

Chassis Codes:

N140, N150, N160, N170, N180, N190

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Mid-size SUV, known for ruggedness and off-road capability.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, off-roaders, families requiring utility and durability.

Key Competitors:

Jeep Cherokee (XJ/WJ), Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Blazer, Mitsubishi Montero Sport.

Strengths:

Legendary Toyota reliability, robust body-on-frame construction, excellent off-road prowess (especially with 4WD and locking differential options), comfortable ride for an SUV of its era.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential information for maintaining and repairing a robust, long-lasting vehicle, empowering owners to tackle common issues and preserve its value.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Comprehensive Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

Page Count:

Approx. 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory-level manuals covering multiple years and variants)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing belt/chain, oil pump, lubrication system, cooling system, intake/exhaust manifolds, emissions control.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, Crankshaft Position, Camshaft Position), actuators, ECM/ECU diagnostics, troubleshooting.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift linkages, torque specifications, lubrication.

Transmission Automatic:

A340F, A343F; hydraulic system, valve body, torque converter, planetary gear sets, electronic controls, solenoids, diagnostic codes, fluid service.

Drivetrain:

Transfer case (2WD/4WD/AWD variations), propeller shafts, CV joints, universal joints, differential gears, axle shafts, wheel bearings, lubrication.

Suspension:

Front independent suspension (IFS), rear solid axle, shock absorbers, coil springs, control arms, bushings, ball joints, steering knuckles, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system (pump, hoses, rack and pinion or steering gearbox), steering column, tie rods, steering linkage, wheel alignment.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) components and diagnostics, brake fluid specifications, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, voltage regulator), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits.

Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lights, turn signals, bulb types and replacement procedures.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, refrigerant service, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, cabin air filter replacement.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass replacement, seals, exterior trim, rust repair, paint codes.

Body Interior:

Dashboard removal, seating, door panels, headliner, carpeting, interior trim, airbag system components and precautions.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid flushes (coolant, brake, transmission, differential), tire rotation and pressure checks.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common symptoms (engine no-start, poor performance, strange noises, electrical issues), OBD-II diagnostic codes and explanations, step-by-step troubleshooting guides.

Repair:

Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation across all major vehicle systems.

Installation:

Instructions for installing optional accessories, replacement parts, and upgrades (e.g., tow hitches, aftermarket suspension components where applicable).

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical component resistance and voltage values, engine and transmission fluid capacities and types, alignment angles.

Depth Level:

Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers complete vehicle teardown and reassembly.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams and illustrations for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Product)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Product)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

3RZ-FE

Engine Type 1:

2.7L Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve

Displacement 1:

2694 cc (164.4 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke 1:

95.0 mm x 95.0 mm (3.74 in x 3.74 in)

Compression Ratio 1:

9.3:1

Horsepower 1:

150 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.)

Torque 1:

177 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel System 1:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Ignition System 1:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Coil-and-Wire system.

Engine Code 2:

5VZ-FE

Engine Type 2:

3.4L V6, DOHC, 24-Valve

Displacement 2:

3378 cc (206.1 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke 2:

93.5 mm x 82.7 mm (3.68 in x 3.26 in)

Compression Ratio 2:

9.0:1

Horsepower 2:

183 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.)

Torque 2:

217 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (approx.)

Fuel System 2:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Ignition System 2:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) system.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (R150F for 4WD models)

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (A340E for 2WD, A340F for 4WD)

Transfer Case:

Part-time 4WD system with 2-speed transfer case (e.g., NP232, NP242, or Toyota's own) or full-time 4WD on some Limited models.

Locking Differential:

Optional rear differential lock available on select models (e.g., SR5, Sport, Limited).

Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:

Toyota Genuine ATF WS (or equivalent Dexron III for earlier models, check specific year/manual)

Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto:

Approx. 3.0-3.5 quarts (7.5-8.5 liters) for drain and fill, higher for complete overhaul.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.0 inches (2616 mm)

Length:

Approx. 178.0 - 184.0 inches (4521 - 4674 mm) depending on configuration

Width:

Approx. 69.0 - 70.0 inches (1753 - 1778 mm)

Height:

Approx. 68.0 - 70.0 inches (1727 - 1778 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3700 - 4200 lbs (1678 - 1905 kg) depending on configuration (engine, 2WD/4WD, trim)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

Approx. 5300 - 5700 lbs (2404 - 2585 kg)

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 45-50 cubic feet behind second row, expandable with seats folded.

Wheel Size Standard:

15-inch or 16-inch alloy or steel wheels

Tire Size Standard:

P225/75R15, P265/70R16 (various options based on trim/year)

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 139.7 mm (5 x 5.5 inches)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:

4-star (for 1996-2002 models, based on available data; specific ratings may vary by year and test parameters)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:

4-star (for 1996-2002 models)

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable or Good (depending on year and specific side curtain airbag availability/testing)

ABS:

Standard on most models, optional on some earlier base trims.

Traction Control:

Available on select higher trims (e.g., Limited) in later years.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard. Side curtain airbags not typically available on this generation.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants, 3-point belts for rear outboard occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM cassette or CD player, optional premium JBL audio system on higher trims.

Navigation:

Optional GPS navigation system available on Limited trims in later model years.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors standard on higher trims (SR5, Limited), optional or manual on base models.

Trailer Towing Prep:

Optional tow package available, including trailer hitch receiver and wiring harness.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended for extended intervals).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (for iridium-tipped plugs), 30,000 miles (for standard copper plugs).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 90,000 miles or 72 months (for 3RZ-FE 4-cylinder); V6 (5VZ-FE) uses a timing chain which is generally maintenance-free but should be inspected.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (Toyota Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent).

Engine Oil Type 1:

SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)

Engine Oil Capacity 1:

Approx. 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter for 2.7L 4-Cyl.

Engine Oil Type 2:

SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)

Engine Oil Capacity 2:

Approx. 6.4 quarts (6.1 liters) with filter for 3.4L V6

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check specific manual)

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II or Dexron III ATF (check specific manual)

Differential Fluid Front Rear:

API GL-5 SAE 80W-90 (or SAE 75W-90 for synthetic)

Head Gasket Leaks:

Some V6 (5VZ-FE) engines may develop head gasket issues, particularly if overheated or poorly maintained. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

Cast iron exhaust manifolds can develop cracks due to thermal stress. The manual covers diagnosis and replacement.

U Joint Wear:

Driveshaft universal joints can wear, causing clunking noises during acceleration or deceleration. The manual covers inspection and replacement.

Cv Axle Boots:

Torn CV axle boots can lead to premature CV joint wear. The manual details inspection and replacement of boots or entire axles.

O2 Sensor Failure:

Oxygen sensors can fail over time, affecting fuel economy and emissions. The manual provides diagnostic procedures and replacement steps.

📚 Vehicle History

Toyota SUV Legacy:

Part of Toyota's strong lineage of durable SUVs, building on the Land Cruiser's reputation for ruggedness.

Generation 3 Introduction:

Introduced for the 1996 model year, featuring a complete redesign from the 2nd generation.

Design Changes:

Smoother, more aerodynamic styling compared to the previous generation. Introduction of the 3.4L V6 engine as an option. Improved interior comfort and features.

Production Location:

Tahara Plant, Aichi Prefecture, Japan.

Production Years:

1996-2002 (for this generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Best Value Award:

Often cited by automotive publications during its production run for its durability and resale value.

Resale Value:

Consistently ranked highly for retained value due to its robust construction and reliability.

Durability Recognition:

CarFax and Kelley Blue Book have often recognized the 4Runner for its long-term durability and ownership satisfaction.