1995 Toyota 4Runner: The Complete Owner's & Buyer's Guide
The 1995 Toyota 4Runner is the final — and most refined — year of the legendary 2nd generation, and that makes it one of the most sought-after vintage Toyotas on the market. Whether you own one or you're shopping for one, here's everything that matters about the '95: specs, what changed, what fails, and what to check before you buy.
1995 4Runner Specs at a Glance
Two engines were offered: the 2.4L 22RE four-cylinder (about 112 hp) and the 3.0L 3VZ-E V6 (about 150 hp and 180 lb-ft), paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, in 2WD or part-time 4WD with a low-range transfer case. Towing capacity is rated around 3,500 pounds on the V6. Stock tire size is 225/75R15, and being the last model year, the '95 carries every small refinement the generation received — which is exactly why enthusiasts hunt for it.
Why the Last Year Matters
By 1995 Toyota had five years of production refinement in the platform. You get the most sorted version of the 2nd gen before the all-new 3rd generation arrived for 1996 — and because it's the newest possible 2nd gen, a '95 is also simply the youngest truck you can buy with this generation's boxy body, simple electronics, and Hilux-derived toughness. Clean examples are appreciating, and the market has noticed.
What to Check Before Buying a 1995 4Runner
Rust first, everything else second: inspect the frame, body mounts, rear wheel arches, and tailgate bottom — frame rot is the one problem you cannot economically fix. On the 3.0L V6, ask directly about head gasket history; a documented, properly-done head gasket job is a selling point, not a red flag. Check the front end for wandering steering (worn idler arm and ball joints are near-universal at this age), verify 4WD engages and low range works, look for cooling system neglect, and confirm the rear tailgate window operates — a classic 2nd gen weak point. Our full 1990–1995 inspection guide walks the entire checklist.
Owning and Upgrading a '95
A well-kept 1995 4Runner will genuinely run past 300,000 miles — the recipe is religious cooling-system care, on-schedule timing belt service on the V6, and staying ahead of front-end wear. When you're ready to build, the '95 accepts every 2nd gen upgrade we make: the complete 3" lift kit, LED projector headlights to replace the dim 90s glass, and the V3 roof rack built specifically for this roofline. Buy the cleanest one you can find and it will outlive the payments on anything newer.
