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 19882002 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 used Toyota 4Runner will cost less money than a new one. However, how could consumers pick the ideal model year? The majority of Toyota 4Runner model years are suggested. They all have high reliability scores overall. However, according to Consumer Reports, the greatest model years are 2001, 2006, 2007, and 2013.
Overall, these years are an excellent place to start if you’re shopping for a secondhand vehicle. However, it’s crucial to look into a used car’s past. Even a very dependable model that is neglected can result in significant issues for subsequent owners.
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 20032004 models, while 270 horsepower and 330 lbft 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.
Do Toyota 4Runners frequently experience issues?
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 20032005 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.
What does a 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.
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.
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. After reading the comparison between the Toyota 4Runner and RAV4 for 2021, get in touch with Jim Hudson Toyota to schedule a test drive of each vehicle.
Key Points
- The 4Runner is prone to the corrosion problems that Toyota has. Owners claim that rust and corrosion are frequent problems that become apparent after only a few years of use.
- After four to five years, a 4Runner has a lower than average yearly repair cost of just over $500. Toyota does, however, advise many additional services for 4Runners driven in icy states.
- The Toyota 4Runner is listed as being among the top five vehicles in iSeeCars’ research on “Longest-lasting Cars to Reach 200,000 Miles and Beyond” out of a total of 16 automobiles.
- With careful upkeep, a Toyota 4Runner may travel up to 300,000 miles, although most owners only get around 200,000.
- The majority of 4Runners from 2003 to 2009 suffer from severe rust problems. All 4Runners, however, are rust-prone.
Are 4Runners a wise purchase?
The 4Runner is a fantastic investment due to its expected above-average reliability. The 2019 Toyota 4Runner should provide a dependable performance whether you utilize it for weekend excursions or daily commutes. The SUV can resist a wide range of difficult situations because to its durable build.
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.
A Toyota 4Runner will depreciate 19% after 5 years and have a 5 year resale value of $44,562.
The Toyota 4Runner performs admirably at maintaining its value over time, placing in our Top 10 for both the 5-year and 7-year rankings. Since it first entered production in 1984, the 4Runner has acquired a devoted following. It might be your next SUV for the next ten years if you can find one that is in good condition and doesn’t have many kilometers on it. However, owners often use this vehicle for off-roading, so make sure it hasn’t spent a lot of time on the beach or in the woods.
The anticipated depreciation over the following ten years is shown in the figure below. These outcomes apply to cars that travel 12,000 miles annually on average and are in good condition. It also counts on a $55,260 initial selling price. Enter the purchase price, anticipated length of ownership, and yearly mileage estimate. We can estimate the Toyota 4Runner’s projected resale value using our depreciation calculator.
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Does the 4Runner need premium fuel?
Regular vs premium petrol has been a contentious issue in the Toyota 4runner community, particularly among owners of the 4.7 V8. Your decision could have a significant financial impact given the rising cost of gas. So, should your 4runner be operating on premium fuel?
Whatever your 4runner’s owner’s manual suggests is the best gas to use. The best fuel for your particular model will be premium if it is required. The majority of 4Runners can run on 87 octane safely, but they won’t produce as much power or be as fuel-efficient.
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.
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 many miles should a used 4Runner have?
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.
How can I extend the life of my 4Runner?
How to Get 200,000 Miles Out of Your 4Runner
- Don’t cut corners when serving. The procedure is well known: Replace the spark plugs, plug wires, air filter, oil, and filter, as well.
- Ignore warnings/trouble codes at your peril.
- Take Care of Your Cooling System.
- Know the maintenance schedules for all parts.
- Equip Your 4Runner With the Right Gear.