While on vacation my 1997 4Runner blew a hole in the right lower engine block. We were traveling about 60 mph and heard a loud popping sound and saw black smoke from the engine as we brought the vehicle under control and pulled to a stop on the shoulder of the highway. Initially we thought we had blown a tire ... now we wish we had! Waited an hour for a tow to the nearest Toyota dealer, an hour away and $200 for the tow.

Dealer looked at it right away and explained the blown engine block. Recommended solution is either a used shortblock or a new shortblock, both running into thousands of dollars. This vehicle was purchased new and has been serviced primarily at a local Toyata dealer. Oil, Filter, Lube was performed prior to going on the trip with no issues brought to our attention. The car has approximately 79,000 miles on it and has been a good vehicle prior to this issue.

Has anyone else heard of this happening? Can people share how much I should expect a new or used shortblock should cost? Should I consider other options? Thanks in advance for your comments and thoughts.