Here Are The Toyota 4Runner Years To Avoid
We explore Toyota 4Runner generations and narrow down which years to avoid based on common problems. See which ones (and why) so you know where to steer clear when car shopping.
The Toyota 4Runner is a strong running vehicle like all Toyota vehicles are. They can usually be relied on year after year and for many miles. But like with all vehicles in production for many generations, there will always be a few model years that have their share of problems. Here are the Toyota 4Runner years to avoid.
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Avoid These Models if You Aren’t A Mechanic or Don’t Feel Like Being One:
- 2003-2005 fourth-generation 4Runner
- 2001-2002 third-generation 4Runner
- 1990-1995 second-generation 4Runner with a 3.0-liter V6
- 1988-1989 first-generation 4Runner with a 3.0-liter V6
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These Models Have Their Share of Lesser Problems
- 2010-2016 fifth-generation 4Runner
- 2006-2007 fourth-generation 4Runner
- 1996-1998 third-generation 4Runner
- 1990-1993 second-generation 4Runner with a 2.4-liter I4
- 1986-1987 first-generation 4Runner with a 2.4-liter I4
In-Depth Look: Here Are the Toyota 4Runner Years to Avoid
The biggest overall problem that Toyota 4Runners have experienced through the years is bodywork problems. The culprit is rust, which messes with the paint first then starts with the body. But this is mainly for the older generations, it’s not to say the fifth-generation 4Runners won’t begin to experience rust problems after some time if they haven’t already, but the newer the models you shop for, the less you will have to deal with the situation.
Fifth-Generation Toyota 4Runner
Luckily if you’re searching for a fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner, you don’t have too much to look for in the problems department past the same old maintenance that is usually needed for every vehicle.
For 2010-2013, the most common problem received by the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) was failed deployment on some airbag systems. This shouldn’t be too much of a concern because they have been recalled, and if adequately fixed, they should work fine.
For the 2014-2016 model years, there have been some complaints about door lock actuators going bad. Although this is a quick fix at the dealership, they have been reported to go sooner than they should. Model years 2017-present have no common problems reported.
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Fourth-Generation: 4Runner Years to Avoid (2003-2005)
These Toyota 4Runner years have the most problems with rust buildup on the body and undercarriage. The 2004 models also have a terrible problem with dashboard cracking. Since most dashboard crack problems don’t affect how a vehicle drives and they’re expensive to fix, these problems usually go unattended.
But above all else, the most severe problems that plague the 2003-2005 4Runner models are head gasket problems. This affects how a vehicle runs, and it is expensive to have them changed. In total, the 2003-2007 model years received over 400 complaints per model year, according to NHTSA.
If you’re looking for an alternative for this generation, the 2008-2009 models only received 54 complaints per model year and are prone to much less rust.
Third-Generation: 4Runner Years to Avoid (2001-2002)
Unfortunately, the Toyota 4Runner would suffer the most rust problems for these years, and we advise you to stay away unless you’re a person who knows bodywork. Out of all the years and generations, the third-generation 4Runners just received the short end of the stick when it came to avoiding rust and paint problems.
For the 1999-2000 model years, Toyota offered a full-time all-wheel drive which made the 4Runner the off-road vehicle the consumer came to love and know. In 2001-2002, Toyota did away with the manual transmission and locking rear differential, significantly decreasing the 4Runner’s off-road capabilities.
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Second-Generation: 4Runner Years to Avoid (1990-1995 with a 3.0-Liter V6)
Outside of the rust problems, which aren’t nearly as bad as the third-generation 4Runners, the biggest problem the second-generation 4Runner has is the 3.0-liter V6 engine. The head gaskets on these engines are notorious for going bad. They don’t go bad once either; even after they are fixed, and a lot of money has been dumped into the vehicle to get it fixed, the head gasket will go again and again; it’s in the design of the engine itself.
After many miles, most of these Toyota 4Runners also suffer from sagging suspension and power steering leaks which are among the most significant problems complained about.
First-Generation: 4Runner Years to Avoid (1988-1989 with a 3.0-liter)
Like the other 3.0-liter engines in this article, this 4Runner generation has the same engine flaw design, leading to constant head gasket problems. The 2.4-liter engine is a much better choice for reliability.
The other problems for all first-generation Toyota 4Runners are the same problems you’d see in all vehicles this old: leaks, rust, suspension sagging, and all other things old vehicle problems.
What to Look For When Shopping for a Used Toyota 4Runner
If you’re looking for a 4Runner you can beat up on the back trails; then a first or second-generation 4Runner would be an excellent SUV for those purposes. Take into consideration that rust does not affect the way a vehicle runs mechanically, and chances are you won’t find one without rust from these generations.
If you’re looking for a 4Runner to get you around town in a somewhat stylish way while offering you comfort for passengers and space for groceries and storage, then a newer generation 4Runner is a great choice. A fifth-generation 4Runner still even offers modest off-road capabilities.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE TOYOTA 4RUNNER
Let’s look at the most reliable years for the Toyota 4Runner, the reliability of the brand overall, and anything else you should know.
Common Toyota 4Runner Problems
In general, the Toyota 4Runner has excellent predicted reliability ratings. Despite its reputation for reliability, the Toyota SUV has a few problems that are worth looking into:
- Braking system problems - From 2014 to 2017 models, the 4Runner struggled with brake system problems. Many owners claimed that their brakes would fail or lock up temporarily. Other reports stated warping issues and premature wear on the front brake rotor and brake master cylinder.
- Rust/body/paint problems - The 4th-gen 4Runners were particularly susceptible to rust and corrosion damage, and they appear at around 150k miles. Owners reported that their 4Runners ran fine until a shop visit revealed that the frame and suspension were badly rusted/corroded.
- Damaged/cracked dashboard - Sticky, melted, and cracked dashboards were a common complaint with 2004 4Runners. Apparently, dashboards exposed under direct sunlight have melted or been damaged somehow. The issue doesn’t look unsightly; it may also prevent airbag deployment.
- Transmission issues - 4Runner model years from 1990 to 2016 have problematic transmission systems, which resulted in rough shifting and loss of power. The culprit is either the faulty shift solenoid or throttle position sensor, both requiring a replacement to fix.
The Best Toyota 4Runner Years
- 2017-Present Fifth-Generation 4Runner
- 2008-2009 Fourth-Generation 4Runner
- 1999-2000 Third-Generation 4Runner
- 1994-1995 Second-Generation 4Runner with a 2.4-liter I4
- 1984-1985 First-Generation 4Runner with a 2.4-liter I4
Is Purchasing a Used Toyota 4Runner Worth It?
If you’re looking for liability, all Toyotas are worth it; they are known to stay on the road and keep on trucking. Here are the Toyota 4Runner years to Avoid: The 1990-1995 second-generation 4Runner with a 3.0-liter V6 and 1988-1989 first-generation 4Runner with a 3.0-liter V6. The engine will leave you with non-stop problems, and you won’t get your money’s worth.
A 4Runner is known for taking a beating, rust or no rust, but it can only take that beating if the SUV has been appropriately maintained mechanically. When shopping for a used 4Runner, you want to look for how well it has been maintained mechanically. The fewer miles, the better, always, and the more proof that the 4Runner has regular maintenance, the better.
Frequently Asked Questions: Toyota 4Runner Years to Avoid
Q: What are the Toyota 4Runner years to avoid if you’re not mechanically inclined?
A: If you’re not a mechanic or don’t want to deal with extensive repairs, it’s best to avoid the 2003-2005 fourth-generation 4Runner, 2001-2002 third-generation 4Runner, 1990-1995 second-generation 4Runner with a 3.0-liter V6, and 1988-1989 first-generation 4Runner with a 3.0-liter V6.
Q: Which Toyota 4Runner model years have fewer problems?
A: The 2010-2016 fifth-generation 4Runner, 2006-2007 fourth-generation 4Runner, 1996-1998 third-generation 4Runner, 1990-1993 second-generation 4Runner with a 2.4-liter I4, and 1986-1987 first-generation 4Runner with a 2.4-liter I4 have fewer reported issues, but may still experience some problems.
Q: Why should you avoid the 2003-2005 fourth-generation Toyota 4Runner?
A: The 2003-2005 Toyota 4Runner models have the most problems with rust buildup on the body and undercarriage. Additionally, the 2004 models have a significant issue with dashboard cracking. However, the most severe problem plaguing these model years is head gasket failure, which is expensive to repair.
Q: Why are the 1990-1995 second-generation Toyota 4Runners with a 3.0-liter V6 engine problematic?
A: The 3.0-liter V6 engine in the 1990-1995 second-generation Toyota 4Runner is notorious for recurring head gasket failures, even after repairs. After many miles, these models also suffer from sagging suspension and power steering leaks.
Are Toyota 4Runners typically reliable?
The Toyota 4Runner enjoys an overall good reputation for dependability. But that’s not to say that every model year is perfect. While some of the problems may be traced to age (the 4Runner has been around for 40 years, other issues are more associated with common problems associated with a particular year.
How much does a used Toyota 4Runner typically cost?
Toyota 4Runner are highly sought-after SUVs, which only ratchets up the price. Add in a tight market and cost increase, even for old examples. According to CoPilot Price Pulse, a typical 2008 4Runner goes for $14,064, which reflects a 39% market premium over normal conditions. Meanwhile, a 2020 edition has an average asking price of $42,028 (including an 8% market premium).
Is the Toyota 4Runner a good car to purchase?
Yes, the Toyota 4Runner can be excellent if you know what to look for. Do your homework and learn which years Of used Toyota 4Runners are most reliable. Picking the wrong 4Runner can lead to headaches and high repair bills.
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