The greatest years for Toyota 4runners are those produced between 1988 and 2002, generally referred as as the 3rd generation. Because of their excellence and effectiveness, the 1988–2002 models have gained popularity. Be sure to avoid the worst years, which are those produced between 2013 and 2014.
We’ll discuss the best and worst Toyota 4Runner years, why you should buy one, and why Toyota 4Runners are a terrific car to own in this buyer’s guide. We believe the study and information below will be extremely useful to anyone with an interest in Toyota 4Runners.
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Which Toyota 4Runner model years are the best?
A top SUV with a devoted following among midsize SUV fans is the Toyota 4Runner. If you’re looking for a used SUV, there are some model years that are better made than others, just as with any car. These are better choices. In order to prevent issues, what are the Toyota 4Runner’s best and worst year choices?
The 2017 Toyota 4Runner is typically considered to be the greatest model, with the 2009 and 2000 Toyota 4Runners closely behind. The 2015 Toyota 4Runner, however, as well as the 2003–2005 and 2001–2002 Toyota 4Runner, are better avoided.
We take a closer look at each of these models to demonstrate why it is best to choose one over the others. We also look at the most common 4Runner complaints over the years.
Which 4Runner generation is the best?
This version of the 4Runner, which has model years from 2003 through 2009, is the greatest of the group for a variety of reasons, as Canadian Gearhead outlined. These models begin with the same dependability for which Toyota is renowned.
4th generation 4Runners can travel at least 500,000 miles with regular maintenance, which is really amazing.
Under the hood, this generation differs significantly from previous generations. The 4.7-liter V8 engine, which is also available in other Toyota models like the Sequoia and Tundra pickup, is unique to this generation of the 4Runner.
The V8’s specs changed according on the model year. 235 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque are available in the 2003–2004 models, while 270 horsepower and 330 lb–ft of torque are available in cars manufactured after 2005.
The fourth-generation 4Runner’s standard 4.0-liter V6 engine is also quite capable. It is found in the Toyota Land Cruiser, Tundra, FJ Cruiser, and Tacoma, and delivers 245 horsepower and 283 pound-feet of torque.
The V6 is ultimately more dependable and offers higher fuel efficiency, but being less powerful and refined than the V8.
What issues are there with Toyota 4Runners?
The front brake calipers, front brakes, warping concerns, and early wear of the front brake rotor and brake master cylinder have all been reported by numerous owners. Brake issues are common in 4Runners of the fourth generation, particularly in the 2003–2005 model years.
Why not purchase a Toyota 4Runner?
1. Low Fuel Efficiency
Any SUV rarely offers outstanding fuel economy, but the Toyota 4Runner does particularly poorly in this area. Its combined fuel efficiency is only 17 miles per gallon. On the interstate, you might get up to 19 miles per gallon at best. Even for cars of this class, this is below average.
2. Unacceptable Ride Quality
Based on a truck basis, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner drives and feels like a truck. The ride might be rough, uncomfortable, or downright unpleasant. In their SUVs, a lot of automakers have made significant improvements. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case with Toyota’s 4Runner.
3. Uncomfortable Entry and Exit
The Toyota 4Runner from 2021 is elevated. With larger SUVs designed with off-road capabilities in mind, this is to be anticipated. The 4Runner’s off-road skills are aided by its considerable ground clearance. Unfortunately, this can make getting in and out of the car a little difficult.
V6 or V8 4Runner: Which is better?
Politics, religion, and the question of whether the fourth-generation 4runner’s V6 or V8 engine is superior are the three topics that are frequently too divisive to discuss with others. If you have ever spent any time on the 4runner forums online, that is at least how it appears.
The truth is that both the 4.0 V6 and 4.7 V8 engines deliver excellent performance and dependability. While the V8 is smoother and gives more performance, the V6 is more fuel-efficient and needs a little less upkeep. Both are excellent choices; it just depends on how you intend to use your 4Runner.
There are many supporters of both the 1GR V6 and the 2UZ V8, and the majority of them aren’t persuaded that one is equally as good. The truth is that both engines are capable of handling every activity that an SUV might be used for, whether it be commuting, hauling, or off-roading. Both of them are poorer and better at different areas.
I’ll do my best to be as impartial and as informative as I can given that I myself possess a V8. It’s important to note that I’ve personally driven both the V6 and V8 4Runners.
Look at the chart below to see each motor’s advantages before we compare these two fantastic motors in more detail:
Let’s now examine each engine in more detail to see how it stacks up in various scenarios.
How far are 4Runners good for?
What if you don’t find a Toyota 4Runner with 200,000 miles on it to be all that impressive? You must have some fairly high standards then. Yet in this instance? Actually, it’s alright. Because the 4Runner is designed to last for more than 200,000 miles, as it turns out. In fact, iSee Cars estimates that only 0.2% of 4Runner vehicles will travel more than 300,000 miles.
What is the Toyota 4Runner’s reliability?
The Toyota 4Runner has a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating, which places it 9th out of 26 midsize SUVs. It has lower ownership costs than the national average due to the $514 average annual repair cost. When compared to all other vehicles, the frequency and severity of repairs are both about average.
Which 4Runner generation year is the best?
Purchasing a Fourth-Generation 4Runner Today The fourth-generation 4Runner never achieved the same level of sales success as its predecessor. The 4Runner found 114,212 homes in the US in 2004, its best year. However, demand fell to just 48,000 homes in 2008 and fewer than 20,000 homes in 2009, the 4Runner’s poorest year since 1987.
When did the 4Runner get a solid axle?
The ’85 model year 4Runner is the pinnacle of 4Runners for off-road aficionados. This year marked the final year for the solid axle front suspension and the debut of the 22RE engine with fuel injection. This team offered a capable and entertaining trail truck. However, North American 4Runners began using an IFS with a Hi-Trac torsion bar starting in 1986.
Why is this important? Well, a solid axle offers many benefits over the IFS, such as:
- Additional front differential choices
- increased wheel articulation and travel, which keeps your tires on the ground.
- increased toughness, especially when using bigger wheels and tires
These are just a few of the factors that make 4Runner solid axle switch kits so well-liked among off-road enthusiasts.
Can 4Runners handle snow well?
The Toyota 4Runner SUV is generally well-equipped to handle the snow. The vehicle has long been associated with off-road driving. It performs best off-road at its top trims. Winter driving can benefit from features like high ground clearance, traction control, and all-terrain tires. The 4Runner’s inexpensive 4WD immediately makes it a solid choice for the majority of snowy conditions, even though the lowest trims aren’t flawless. The Toyota 4Runner performs well in the snow because of this.
Do 4Runners readily flip over?
The NHTSA has given the Toyota 4Runner a 3-star roll-over rating, which is an average grade for a vehicle like the 4Runner. Nevertheless, the 4Runner does flip rather frequently. The 4Runner’s ladder frame construction causes it to sit higher and have a higher center of gravity than many SUVs with unibody construction.
The 4Runner’s greater center of gravity is fantastic for off-road driving, but on city streets, it can make it a little less stable in turns than a vehicle. Since 4Runners are more susceptible to tip than some of the other lower vehicles out there, it is generally a good idea to avoid making abrupt curves with one at a high speed.
The 4Runner is a fantastic midsize SUV that is made to be rugged and capable of driving everywhere. Its truck-like construction does make it more top-heavy, which eventually results in its 3-star rollover rating.
How much does a 4Runner transmission replacement cost?
Depending on the car, a new Toyota 4Runner transmission could cost over $3,500. In contrast, transmission services like fluid changes and fluid flushes are significantly less expensive, sometimes costing less than $150.
What does a Toyota 4Runner have high mileage?
You might get 300,000 miles out of a Toyota 4Runner. Some drivers desire more, even though a Toyota 4Runner with 200,000 miles on it is amazing.
What is the Toyota 4.0 V6’s reliability?
Everyone is aware that Toyota manufactures indestructible engines, but like the majority of man-made objects, there are production problems and prospective weaknesses to watch out for. This article will go over the Toyota 4.0 V6’s dependability in detail and the highest mpg you can get out of the v6 monster.
The 2009 and later vehicles’ Dual VVT-i 4.0 V6 engine is quiet, dependable, and smooth, with an engine life that easily exceeds 200,000 miles (320,000 km).
It goes without saying that the secret to an engine’s dependability is routine maintenance and the use of premium oils and lubricants. Undoubtedly, certain engines are more likely than others to experience mechanical and dependability problems.
So how does the 4.0 v6 fare in terms of durability and dependability? What are some of the potential problems you can anticipate and how effective are these engines really?
How fuel-efficient are Toyota 4Runners?
The EPA estimates that the Toyota 4Runner can achieve 17 mpg total gas mileage across all variants, with 16 city and 19 highway miles per gallon.
What is the Toyota 4.7 V8’s reliability?
The 2UZ-FE 4.7 V8 engine debuted in 1998 and was produced until 2011. It’s a fantastic engine that provides an admirable blend of power, lifespan, and dependability. The Toyota V8 is obviously not strong in terms of fuel efficiency, though. Furthermore, no engine is flawless, and that also holds true for this one.
The Toyota 2UZ-FE has a lot of problems, mostly with cracked exhaust manifolds. On most models, keep an eye out for these issues to arise, but earlier models are more vulnerable to the manifolds shattering. Since it is an interference engine, replacing the timing belt is a crucial maintenance task. Water pumps may also experience leaks. It is an easy component to change in addition to the timing belt.
The Toyota 2UZ-FE 4.7L engine offers outstanding reliability all around. It has a sturdy, long-lasting design. If you keep up with maintenance, there’s a good chance the 2UZ-FE will reward you with a long, dependable, and satisfying life.
A trailer can a Toyota 4Runner tow, right?
The 4.0L V6 engine in the Toyota 4Runner, which produces 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, allows it to haul up to 5,000 pounds. For your upcoming outdoor vacation, it will essentially be able to tow a small powerboat or possibly a couple ATVs.