The Toyota 4Runner is a top SUV with a popular following among midsize SUV enthusiasts. Just like with any vehicle, there are some model years that are better built than others, making them a better option if you are searching for a used SUV. What are the best and worst years for the Toyota 4Runner, so you can avoid problems?
The 2017 Toyota 4Runner is typically considered to be the best model, with the 2009 and 2000 Toyota 4Runners closely behind. On the other hand, it’s best to avoid the 2015 Toyota 4Runner, as well as the 2003-2005 and 2001-2002 Toyota 4Runner.
We take a closer look at each of these models to demonstrate why it is best to choose one over the others. We also examine the top 4Runner complaints throughout the years.
In This Article...
What Toyota 4Runner is top of the line?
2022 4Runner TRD Pro If you want the greatest experience from all the Toyota 4Runner variants, then the 4Runner TRD Pro is the car for you. Experience top-of-the-line luxury and capability with this off-road and commute-ready 4Runner trim option: $52,420 MSRP*
Shared Features
The 2020 Toyota 4Runner comes in seven trims: SR5, SR5 Premium, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, TRD Pro, Limited, and Nightshade Edition. Each 4Runner is powered by a 4.0-liter V6 and a five-speed automatic. Each one also boasts the Toyota Safety Sense-P suite, which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian recognition, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic high-beams. The SR5 Premium and TRD Off-Road both have Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon, Alexa, satellite radio, HD radio, Bluetooth compatibility, voice recognition, and an 8-inch touchscreen.
SR5 Premium Features
The SR5 Premium starts at $39,215. Standard features include SofTex synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, power adjustable front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a universal garage door opener, and integrated navigation. Although it can be upgraded to 4WD, the SR5 Premium comes with 2WD.
TRD Off-Road Features
The TRD Off-Road starts at $39,740. It doesn’t receive the features of the SR5 Premium, but rather that of the base model SR5. Its off-road abilities, however, far outpace those of the SR5 Premium. The TRD Off-Road has standard 4WD, a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select drive mode selector, and crawl control.
Come test drive the 2020 Toyota 4Runner at Arlington Toyota and see which model is right for you.
th Gen: 2015
As we’ve mentioned previously, there are lots of great older 4Runner options, but the 2015 should be avoided, or at the very least, seriously inspected before considering it to buy. While the 2015 had the most complaints than other five-genners, they are still relatively low and nowhere near the amount associated with the 2003 through 2005 models, which we’ll discuss later. We mention the 2015 model year because out of all the models ever made, it is the only year where owners reported issues with the airbags. The airbags did not deploy consistently, making this complaint the 4Runner’s overall second worst issue and a major safety concern. The average cost to fix is $9,000 at an average mileage of 15,000 miles. So we’d recommend avoiding this year or at the very least putting it through a very rigorous inspection if you’re considering purchasing the 2015.
th Gen20032005
Regardless, since they do have the most complaints, it’s worth investigating. Rusting concerns with the body and paint, specifically, are the worst issues connected to these years. Lots of owners reported severe rust and corrosion causing the body frame to fall apart in some of the worst cases. One owner claimed that the extent of his rust and corrosion problems caused one of his transmission mounts to fall straight through a hole. Another reported that the entire frame was affected and received a quote to replace at $12,000 to $15,000.
Out of all the complaints linked with all the 4Runner model years, two of the top three are in relation to rust: excessive corrosion (#1) or undercarriage rusting (#3). The average cost to repair is anywhere from $1,400 to $2,000. Although Toyota is aware of the rust problem, the 4Runner has not yet been formally recalled. However, it did conduct a rust recall for the Tacoma and Tundra pickup vehicles.
Before you purchase a 4Runner of any year, we recommend being diligent about checking the frame for any rust or corrosion, especially model years that are part of the fourth gen (20032009). (20032009).
Why not purchase a Toyota 4Runner?
1. Poor Fuel Economy
It’s rare for any SUV to offer good fuel efficiency, but the Toyota 4Runner does especially poor in this category. Its combined fuel efficiency is only 17 miles per gallon. On the highway, you might get up to 19 miles per gallon at best. This is below average, even for this class of vehicles.
2. Sub-Par Ride Quality
The 2021 Toyota 4Runner is based off of a truck platform and it feels like it too. Ride quality can seem stiff, choppy and even rough. A lot of automakers have gotten much better with this issue in their SUVs. Sadly, this isn’t the case for Toyota and their 4Runner.
3. Awkward Entry and Exit
The 2021 Toyota 4Runner sits up high. With larger SUVs designed with off-road capabilities in mind, this is to be anticipated. The high ground clearance contributes to the 4Runner’s off-road capabilities. Unfortunately, this can make entering and exiting the vehicle a bit uncomfortable.
Do 4Runners encounter many issues?
Many owners have complained about issues in the front brake calipers and front brakes, warping problems, and premature wear in the front brake rotor and brake master cylinder. Fourth generation 4Runners are notorious for brake problems, especially the 2003-2005 model years.
Is SR5 or Limited better?
The Tundra SR5 seats six passengers, while the Limited seats five. The Limited has a maximum towing capacity of 10,100 lbs., and the SR5 can tow up to 6,800 lbs. The Limited has heated leather-trimmed upholstery, while the Tundra SR5 has fabric-trimmed seating.
Which 4Runner model—SR5 or Limited—is superior?
You might not immediately notice the differences between these two trim levels because they were constructed with identical exterior and interior specifications. But when you pick apart all that they have to offer, it’s easy to see that there are plenty of ways these two versions of the 4Runner differ.
Interior Standard Features
The difference between the SR5 and Limited trim levels’ standard equipment is the most notable one. Even though the SR5 has plenty of bells and whistles to keep drivers safe, comfortable, and happy, the Limited trim goes above and beyond to justify the heavier price tag.
SR5 Standard Features
- WiFi hotspot
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Satellite radio
- Auxiliary audio input
- Adaptive cruise control
- Smart device integration
- Black/graphite or beige cloth upholstery.
- swivel seats
- Keyless start
- Steering wheel audio controls
- Keyless entry
- MP3 player
- Powered driver’s seat
Limited Standard Features
In addition to the standard equipment included for the SR5, the Limited has the following:
- High-definition radio
- Multi-zone air conditioning
- Navigation system
- wood-grained trim
- Premium sound system
- Cooled front seats
- Power-assisted front-seat
- Heated front seats
- Seat recall
- Sun/moon roof
- Universal garage door opener
- Remote engine start
- Climate control
- seats with leather trim
Safety Features
While these trim levels rate well with the NHSTA, the Limited has more basic safety equipment that makes the drive less prone to crashes.
A backup camera, anti-lock braking system, brake assist, and lane departure warning are present in both trim levels, but the Limited has even more to add.
This premium trim level has a cross-traffic alert system and a rear parking aid. In addition, the Limited has integrated a blind spot monitor to help minimize accidents when changing lanes on the highway.
Suggested Retail Price
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the prices of these two trim levels differ significantly. The nearly fully equipped Limited trim level has far more to offer as far as standard equipment go when it’s side by side with the SR5.
The nearly 10,000 that separates their respective MSRPs reflects these differences.
The base price of the SR5 is $36,605, while the base price of the top-tier Limited trim level is $47,190. Of course, should you add packages or other stand-alone additions to either trim level, you’ll notice the prices substantially increase.
RAV4 or 4Runner, which one is superior?
Overall, the Toyota 4Runner provides more space and power, while the Toyota RAV4 gets better gas mileage while maintaining high performance levels. Read the 2021 Toyota 4Runner vs RAV4 comparison below, then contact the experts at Jim Hudson Toyota to take both cars out for a test drive.
What is better TRD or SR5?
Like many other pickup trucks on the market, the Toyota Tacoma features a number of model options to ensure a truck for everyone’s needs. The TRD Off-road and the SR5 are two well-liked variants. The main distinctions between the SR5 and the TRD Off-road may be of interest to you if you intend to buy or trade in your Toyota Tacoma. We looked at both models to find the solution for you.
It is simple to compare the Toyota SR5 and the Toyota TRD Off-road for potential purchases because of their many similarities. There are, however, a few distinctions as well. The following are the main distinctions between the SR5 and the TRD Off-road:
- Dimensions: The SR5 has a longer bed, while the TRD is wider and has more interior space.
- Weight and carrying capacity: The TRD can carry more weight, but the SR5 can tow more weight.
- Features: The TRD provides features that are not available for the SR5.
- There is one package option available for the SR5. The TRD has four different packages.
- The TRD is more expensive than the SR5.
Before you decide which model is right for you, let us take a closer look at each of these differences and how they affect the driving experience. Let’s get started without further ado!
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How long will a 4Runner last?
The 4Runner continues the tradition of dependability that Toyota vehicles have established. The Toyota 4Runner is one of the brand’s most reliable vehicles, with many 4Runners living to see as many as 300,000 miles.
The Toyota 4Runner came in at number five out of 16 vehicles in an iSeeCars research headlined “Longest-lasting Cars to Reach 200,000 Miles and Beyond,” with 4.1% of the SUVs achieving over 200,000 miles.
The SUV is also expected to travel around 200,000 miles, as reported by many trustworthy automotive sources and confirmed by owners in well-known enthusiast forums like Toyota 4Runner. With proper maintenance, they’ll run even longer, with 300,000 not out of the question.
So, will all 4Runners achieve 200,000 miles? No. Routine maintenance is crucial to a 4Runner’s long-term life. Fortunately, the 4Runner’s yearly maintenance expenditures are cheaper than average at $514 a year, according to Repair Pal.