Toyota Repair: toyota 4runner engine, toyota 4runner, engine misfire

Question
I have a 95 toyota 4runner 5 speed and the motor runs but when you drive it it loses power and spits and sputters the check engine light is on and it sounds like it has an exhaust leak the motor has 250k miles on the motor the oil looks good not milky. it ildes at about 400-500 rpm do i need to have the codes read and go from there or try a basic tune up  

Answer
Yes,the first step would be to get the trouble codes read, then you can contact me again and I will be able to help diagnose the problem. At this time it sounds like there may be an engine misfire which may be caused by bad spark plugs, wires, low compression and even a leaking headgasket, there are lots of possible causes.