My HG went last fall on my '96. Dealer did repair for about $1400. I would echo some of the earlier comments in that if you don't need the extreme capabilities of the Cruiser, you're better off with something else. Bob
Only warning sign was a very slight miss at idle. Driving the vehicle to the dealer, the Check Engine light came on. The gasket blew (as in steam and poof!)in the dealership lot. Vehicle was never overheated while I owned it, and doubt the prior owner overheated it. Only Toyota antifreeze...
My wife's '96 FZJ80 mallcruiser blew a headgasket at 89,000 miles. No overheating, just blew. Dealer fixed it for $1100 and stated it's not unusual for these to go but I shouldn't worry about a re-occurance as the new gasket has been improved. Searching this site, defective head gaskets seem...