2002 Toyota 4 runner problems
The Toyota 4Runner is an SUV manufactured by the Japanese automaker Toyota and marketed globally since 1984, across five generations. In Japan, it was marketed as the Toyota Hilux Surf (Japanese: トヨタ・ハイラックスサーフ, Hepburn: Toyota Hairakkususāfu) and was withdrawn from the market in 2009. The original 4Runner was a compact SUV and little more than a Toyota Hilux pickup truck with a fiberglass shell over the bed, but the model has since undergone significant independent development into a cross between a compact and a mid-size SUV. All 4Runners have been built in Japan at Toyota's plant in Tahara, Aichi, or at the Hino Motors (a Toyota subsidiary) plant in Hamura.
The name "4Runner" was created by copywriter Robert Nathan with the Saatchi & Saatchi advertising company as a play on the term "forerunner". The agency held contests to invent new names for Toyota's forthcoming vehicles. According to Toyota, the "4" described the vehicle's 4-wheel drive system while "Runner" was a reference to its all-terrain capabilities and how it could "run" off-road.
For some markets, the Hilux Surf was replaced in 2005 by the similar Fortuner, which is based on the Hilux platform.
As of 2021, the 4Runner is marketed in the Bahamas, Bolivia, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Panama, Peru, the United States and Venezuela. Many markets that did not receive the 4Runner, such as Europe and the Middle East, instead received the similarly designed Land Cruiser Prado, another SUV that shared many of the same components.
The 4Runner came in at number five in a 2019 study by iSeeCars.com ranking the longest-lasting vehicles in the US. The 4Runner had 3.9 percent of vehicles over 200,000 miles (320,000 km), according to the study.
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Common 2002 Toyota 4 runner problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2002 Toyota 4Runner, several common problems have been reported:
- Rust Issues: The 2002 Toyota 4Runner, like many other models, is prone to rust problems. Rust can be observed on the body and chassis, with severity varying. Minor rust on the body is manageable, but significant rust on the frame or chassis can be a major concern. It is recommended to avoid vehicles with extensive rust issues, as they can be costly and challenging to repair. To prevent rust problems, it is advisable to look for 4Runners from regions that do not salt roads during winter, like the southwest and pacific northwest.
- Ball Joint Problems: Third-generation 4Runners, including the 2002 model, have had issues with ball joints in the past. These problems affected the front suspension system and could lead to severe issues, such as the front wheel potentially falling off. While recalls were made to address this problem by 2005, it is essential to check the maintenance records of a specific 4Runner to ensure this issue has been resolved. During a test drive, listen for unusual sounds from the front suspension, especially over bumps, to detect any lingering ball joint issues.
- Transmission Troubles: Automatic transmission problems are common in third-generation Toyota 4Runners, including the 2002 model. Owners have reported issues with the transmission system, such as rough shifting and loss of power. These problems can be attributed to faulty components like the shift solenoid or throttle position sensor. Addressing transmission issues may require component replacements to restore proper functionality.
By addressing these common problems reported by owners of the 2002 Toyota 4Runner, potential buyers can make informed decisions and be aware of the specific issues they may encounter with this vehicle.
How many miles will a 2002 Toyota 4Runner last?
This assessment comes both from reliable automotive sources and real-owner reviews. Overall, Toyota's long-time reputation for making reliable vehicles overrides any foreseeable rust issues and confirms that the 4Runner can last 200,000 miles.
What is the most common problem with a Toyota 4Runner?
6 Common Toyota 4Runner Problems
- Bluetooth Echos During Calls. What's the point of hands-free calling if you can't have a conversation without an annoying echo getting in the way? ...
- Toyota Truck Frame Rust. ...
- Musty and Moldy A/C. ...
- Rodents Chew Soy-Coated Wires. ...
- Toyota Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags. ...
- Melting Dashboards.
What to look for when buying a 2002 4Runner?
Take a good look at all of the engine fluids such as engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and clutch fluid if you're buying a manual. *TIP* – Check the fluids first when they're cold, then again after test driving the vehicle when they're warm.
Are old 4Runners reliable?
A: Historically, the Toyota 4Runner models from the years 1999-2000, 2008-2009, and 2017 to the current fifth generation have been praised for their reliability.
What is the most common problem with a Toyota 4Runner?
6 Common Toyota 4Runner Problems
- Bluetooth Echos During Calls. What's the point of hands-free calling if you can't have a conversation without an annoying echo getting in the way? ...
- Toyota Truck Frame Rust. ...
- Musty and Moldy A/C. ...
- Rodents Chew Soy-Coated Wires. ...
- Toyota Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags. ...
- Melting Dashboards.
How many miles will a 2002 Toyota 4Runner last?
This assessment comes both from reliable automotive sources and real-owner reviews. Overall, Toyota's long-time reputation for making reliable vehicles overrides any foreseeable rust issues and confirms that the 4Runner can last 200,000 miles.
What to look for when buying a 2002 4Runner?
Take a good look at all of the engine fluids such as engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and clutch fluid if you're buying a manual. *TIP* – Check the fluids first when they're cold, then again after test driving the vehicle when they're warm.
Are old 4Runners reliable?
A: Historically, the Toyota 4Runner models from the years 1999-2000, 2008-2009, and 2017 to the current fifth generation have been praised for their reliability.
2002 Toyota 4 runner complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Toyota 4 runner.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Toyota 4 runner problems:
3rd Gen with 200,000+ Miles. Any issues or major problems ...
Feb 16, 2016 ... At that price, that car should be completely up to date with everything. You shouldn't have to do any of the stuff I did. 2002 Toyota 4Runner ...
2002 Toyota 4Runner Problems and Complaints - 16 Issues
Top 2002 Toyota 4Runner Problems · Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages · EVAP System Fault Due to Failed Charcoal Canister · Car Won ...
Issues with 3rd gen 4runners? : r/4Runner
May 7, 2021 ... Frame rust is a big issue, particularly on top in the front near the motor and the sides and bottom everywhere else. Body mounts too. On mine, ...
Everything You Should Know Before Buying A 2002 Toyota 4Runner
Dec 14, 2021 ... The most common problem in all Toyota 4Runners is rust. Fortunately, it's also the easiest problem to spot. If it's on the body, you'll ...
2002 Toyota 4Runner Reliability - Consumer Reports
WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING. Read Recall Details.
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