Toyota 4runner problems

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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 In Japan, it was marketed as the Toyota Hilux Surf (Japanese: トヨタ・ハイラックスサーフ, Hepburn: Toyota Hairakkususāfu) and was withdrawn from the market in 2009.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.

photo of Toyota 4runner car production

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Toyota 4runner model years

toyota 4runner 2023 photo
4runner 2023
Toyota

17

1

20

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2022 photo
4runner 2022
Toyota

28

3

18

4.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2021 photo
4runner 2021
Toyota

25

1

33

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2020 photo
4runner 2020
Toyota

29

1

24

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2019 photo
4runner 2019
Toyota

53

4

34

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2018 photo
4runner 2018
Toyota

52

5

28

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2017 photo
4runner 2017
Toyota

30

5

22

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2016 photo
4runner 2016
Toyota

64

8

23

4.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2015 photo
4runner 2015
Toyota

82

9

22

4.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2014 photo
4runner 2014
Toyota

70

7

28

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2013 photo
4runner 2013
Toyota

33

6

23

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2012 photo
4runner 2012
Toyota

95

8

29

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2011 photo
4runner 2011
Toyota

159

10

23

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2010 photo
4runner 2010
Toyota

143

12

29

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2009 photo
4runner 2009
Toyota

22

6

32

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2008 photo
4runner 2008
Toyota

94

5

31

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2007 photo
4runner 2007
Toyota

151

5

29

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2006 photo
4runner 2006
Toyota

371

5

27

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2005 photo
4runner 2005
Toyota

415

5

29

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2004 photo
4runner 2004
Toyota

666

2

28

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2003 photo
4runner 2003
Toyota

702

3

28

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2002 photo
4runner 2002
Toyota

250

3

30

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2001 photo
4runner 2001
Toyota

188

3

31

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 2000 photo
4runner 2000
Toyota

494

2

30

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1999 photo
4runner 1999
Toyota

335

2

28

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1998 photo
4runner 1998
Toyota

267

4

28

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1997 photo
4runner 1997
Toyota

270

4

25

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1996 photo
4runner 1996
Toyota

182

5

29

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1995 photo
4runner 1995
Toyota

184

4

28

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1994 photo
4runner 1994
Toyota

80

4

27

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1993 photo
4runner 1993
Toyota

55

3

27

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1992 photo
4runner 1992
Toyota

68

3

21

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1991 photo
4runner 1991
Toyota

50

2

24

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1990 photo
4runner 1990
Toyota

85

2

12

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1989 photo
4runner 1989
Toyota

7

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1988 photo
4runner 1988
Toyota

10

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1987 photo
4runner 1987
Toyota

5

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1986 photo
4runner 1986
Toyota

12

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1985 photo
4runner 1985
Toyota

2

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota 4runner 1984 photo
4runner 1984
Toyota

2

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Toyota 4runner problems

The Toyota 4Runner, a popular SUV known for its reliability, has faced several common problems across different model years. These issues include braking system problems, rust/body/paint problems, damaged/cracked dashboards, and transmission issues.

Braking system problems have been particularly prevalent in the 4Runner, with models from 2014 to 2017 struggling with brake system issues. Owners have reported temporary brake failure, locking up, warping issues, and premature wear on the front brake rotor and brake master cylinder.

Rust/body/paint problems are another concern, especially for the 4th-generation 4Runners. These models, produced between 2003 and 2005, are particularly susceptible to rust and corrosion damage, which can appear around 150,000 miles. Owners have reported that their 4Runners ran fine until a shop visit revealed that the frame and suspension were badly rusted/corroded.

Damaged or cracked dashboards have been a common complaint with 2004 4Runners. Dashboards exposed under direct sunlight have melted or been damaged somehow, and this issue doesn't just look unsightly; it may also prevent airbag deployment.

Transmission issues have affected 4Runner model years from 1990 to 2016. These problems result in rough shifting and loss of power, often due to a faulty shift solenoid or throttle position sensor, both requiring replacement to fix.

In addition to these issues, 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.

When considering a Toyota 4Runner, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and consider the potential costs and inconveniences associated with them.

Toyota 4runner

Is the Toyota 4Runner a reliable car?

A: Yes, with faithful care and maintenance, high-mileage 4Runners can still be very reliable. It's not uncommon to see these vehicles on the road with over 300,000 miles. However, know that high mileage vehicles are always a gamble – they may either be on their last mile or run for 100k miles more.

What is the best year for a Toyota 4Runner?

The best used Toyota 4Runner years according to generation are as follows. The fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner received the least complaints from 2017 to 2021. In 2017, the complaints from customers dropped out of the double-digit range, and in 2021, only one complaint was lodged against it.

How long should a Toyota 4Runner last?

A Toyota 4Runner can reach 300,000 miles with meticulous maintenance but expect closer to 200,000 miles. The 4Runner is susceptible to Toyota's rust issues. Owners say rust and corrosion are common, and noticeable after only a few years on the road.

Are 4Runners high maintenance?

The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Toyota 4Runner is $514, compared to an average of $573 for midsize SUVs and $652 for all vehicle models.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota 4runner years

We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota 4runner cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Toyota 4runner model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota 4runner model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota 4runner years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Toyota 4runner car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Toyota 4runner , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Structure problems
  • Suspension problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Toyota 4runner vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 4runner model years

A total of 392 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 4runner model years

There were a total of 57 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by 4runner model years

There were a total of 347 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by 4runner model years

There were a total of 22 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 5847 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota 4runner . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota 4runner vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Toyota 4runner 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2016-11-15
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
  • VIN: JTEBU14R340
  • Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: Rusty frame undercarriage. It’s not going to get any better due to the fact I have to drive on hwy 80 with all the construction, that’s a hazard itself, potholes everywhere that puts stress on your frame and the salt every winter.
Toyota 4runner 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-04-27
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
  • VIN: JTEBT14RX40
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Underbody of vehicle is rusting away from vehicle body, I was made aware of situation at a service appointment in April of 2022, no vehicle collision or wreck has happened because of it yet,
Toyota 4runner 2003
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
  • VIN: JTEBT14R938
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: Toyota has had issues with their frames rusting out and the 4th generation 4Runner is not exempt from this issue. My 2003 is requiring extensive work to keep it on the road safely due to frame rust. A recall to replace frames should be in place.
Toyota 4runner 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-21
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
  • VIN: JTEBU5JR0K5
  • Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Toyota 4Runner. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was discovered that the undercarriage was rusted. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed and making a left turn, the vehicle jerked and almost crashed into another vehicle. The contact was able to regain control of the vehicle and pulled over the shoulder of the roadway to inspect the vehicle. The contact noticed that the shock absorber brackets were rusted. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed that the shock absorber, carrier differential, gasket, gasket plug, and bearing needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 31,500.
Toyota 4runner 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-06
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-22
  • VIN: JTEBU14R140
  • Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: UNKNOWN: Excessive frame rust. frame is excessively rusting to the point where the brakes and suspensions is connected to the frame has been compromised. brake lines rusted to the point of failure, thus almost causing a wreck. Vehicle is now parked due to safety concerns involving the excessive rusting that is happening to the frame and any components that is attached to the frame.
Toyota 4runner 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-19
  • VIN: JTEBT17R240
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: Undercarriage frame rusted to the point where structural rust was formed in various places This rust has made a whole and cracks to the frame causing my vehicle to become a safety hazard on the road
Toyota 4runner 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-10
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-31
  • VIN: JTEBU5JR8J5
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: The front shock springs cracked and snapped due to cold weather. I have been waiting for 2 months for the replacement parts and cannot drive my vehicle. The parts are 4 months out on a waiting list. The vehicle is not safe to drive. The dealer has inpected the vehicle and said it is not safe to drive for safety reasons. There were no warning and I only found out when I went to replace the original tires. The car has 25K miles.
Toyota 4runner 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-05
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-27
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JTEBU5JR5K5
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: I was in an accident where the vehicle ran into the guard rail while on the interstate. The vehicle had significant damage and has now been declared a Total Loss by the insurance company. With the amount of damage to the front side of the vehicle, the airbag did not deploy and leaves us wondering with such damage, why it didn't deploy!
Toyota 4runner 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-11
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-27
  • Number Of Injuries: 3
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JTEBU14RX88
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: On August 11th 2024 at approximately 8:30PM I was hit on the passenger side of my vehicle. As a result both passenger doors were smashed in. And had also been shoved into the car and causing the passenger seat to be stuck between the doors and center console. There was ZERO airbag deployment. There are 3 known airbags on that side of the vehicle and not one went off. The accident could have been A LOT worse then it was but knowing now what I do about the air bags I regret buying this vehicle. And I am very emotional unwell knowing that the vehicle failed to get me and my passenger safer in the accident.
Toyota 4runner 2022
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-23
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-22
  • VIN: JTERU5JR5N6
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: Brake failure. Unable to stop vehicle. Dealer found internal brake failure
Toyota 4runner 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-22
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-22
  • VIN: JTEBT14R540
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: I recently bought a 2004 Toyota 4 Runner and the frame of the vehicle has significant corrosion to the extent of holes, weld failures and more. I've never seen frame rust so bad on a vehicle like this. I'm a little uneasy about the safety of this situation. I think Toyota should replace the frame or give a good discount on the part and labor. I hope someone can help me out with this concern.
Toyota 4runner 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
  • VIN: JTEBT14R050
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: Frame has very severe rust and has started to come part in places. Soon vehicle will no longer be road worthy.
Toyota 4runner 2023
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-14
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-15
  • VIN: JTEPU5JR9P6
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Toyota 4Runner equipped with Falken Tires, Tire Line: WildPeak, Tire Size: 275/70/R17, DOT: (N/A). The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel and driver's seat began to vibrate violently, prompting the contact to dramatically reduce the speed of the vehicle, but the failure persisted. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the four tires. The independent mechanic found an abnormally heavy spot on all four tires, preventing the tires from being properly balanced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened; however, the manufacturer provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 23,000.
Toyota 4runner 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-01-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-08
  • VIN: JTEBU5JR7G5
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The entire exterior body clear coat is peeling off. This started about 1.5 years ago on the tailgate. It has now spread to the hood and the top of the vehicle. I called Toyota customer care, and they indicated this a known widespread problem with this vehicle make and model. So far, only the pearl white color has been recalled as the result of numerous consumer complaints. My vehicle color is nautical blue- Toyota indicated there has not been enough consumer complaints yet for this color for it to be recalled. Toyota suggested I log a complaint here in hopes it will result in a recall.
Toyota 4runner 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-06-12
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-01
  • VIN: JTEBU5JR7D5
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Make: Toyota Model: 4Runner Year: 2013 Mileage: 76,200 Description of Incident While driving on [XXX] at night, the vehicle experienced a sudden and catastrophic engine failure, leaving it immobilized in the middle of the highway. This presented an immediate and severe safety risk to both the vehicle occupants and other motorists. The failure was later determined to be caused by a malfunction in the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) oil control system, specifically an Exhaust Cam Gear failure. This led to a broken timing chain and subsequent engine failure. Inspection and Diagnosis The vehicle was inspected by an authorized Toyota Dealer in Florence, SC. They confirmed the failure of the oil control system and recommended a complete engine replacement, estimating costs over $5,000. Broader Implications and Potential Safety Hazard Further investigation, including consultations with multiple Toyota technicians, review of technical discussions on various platforms, and examination of online 4Runner forums, suggests that this issue is not isolated. Failures of the exhaust cam gear and problems with the VVT Oil Control System appear to be common in the Toyota 1GR-FE Engine and other engines equipped with this system. It's noteworthy that Toyota issued a voluntary recall in 2014 (Safety Recall 13V-395, TM-TC-14021) for Lexus vehicles with similar issues. However, this recall does not appear to cover the 2013 1GR-FE 4Runner engine, despite the apparent similarity in potential failure modes. Safety Concerns This issue presents a significant safety hazard: Sudden engine failure at highway speeds can lead to loss of vehicle control. Unexpected vehicle immobilization, especially at night or in high-traffic areas, poses a severe collision risk. The apparent widespread nature of this issue suggests that many vehicles may be at risk of similar failures. Urgency for Action Given the severity of the potential outcomes and the ap INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Latest 5 recalls Toyota 4runner

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 154 recalls for different components of the Toyota 4runner.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Toyota 4runner 2023
  • Report Received Date: 2023-10-12
  • Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
  • Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota 4Runner vehicles. The load carrying capacity modification label states the incorrect load carrying capacity, which can result in an overloaded vehicle. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
  • Consequence: An overloaded vehicle increases the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC will mail a new modified label, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 1, 2023. Owners may contact SET's customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET's number for this recall is SET23A.
  • Model: Toyota 4runner 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2022-07-06
  • Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
  • Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2020-2022 4Runner vehicles equipped with 20-inch Black Gunner Wheels. The load carrying capacity modification labels are incorrect. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
  • Consequence: An incorrect label may lead to unintentionally overloading the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: SET will mail replacement labels to owners, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 4, 2022. Owners may contact SET's customer service at 954-429-2000. SET's number for this recall is SET22A.
  • Model: Toyota 4runner 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2022-07-06
  • Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
  • Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2020-2022 4Runner vehicles equipped with 20-inch Black Gunner Wheels. The load carrying capacity modification labels are incorrect. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
  • Consequence: An incorrect label may lead to unintentionally overloading the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: SET will mail replacement labels to owners, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 4, 2022. Owners may contact SET's customer service at 954-429-2000. SET's number for this recall is SET22A.
  • Model: Toyota 4runner 2022
  • Report Received Date: 2022-07-06
  • Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
  • Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2020-2022 4Runner vehicles equipped with 20-inch Black Gunner Wheels. The load carrying capacity modification labels are incorrect. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
  • Consequence: An incorrect label may lead to unintentionally overloading the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: SET will mail replacement labels to owners, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 4, 2022. Owners may contact SET's customer service at 954-429-2000. SET's number for this recall is SET22A.
  • Model: Toyota 4runner 2022
  • Report Received Date: 2022-05-06
  • Manufacturer: Gulf States Toyota, Inc.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
  • Summary: Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain 2022 4Runner, Tacoma, Highlander, and Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The load carrying capacity modification labels may not be permanent and can fade, becoming illegible. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
  • Consequence: An illegible label may allow the vehicle to be overloaded, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: GST will notify owners by mail, including a replacement load carrying capacity modification label for their vehicle and detailed replacement instructions, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 30, 2022. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 22R1.

Latest negative Toyota 4runner car reviews

  1. Elvis Runolfsson 2025-02-17

    Vehicle year: 2011

    I have a 2004 4Runner with 130,000 miles on it, and it has been almost flawless. It has never broken down on me, not even once. I am now looking to hand it down to my daughter and get a new SUV. After reading reviews of the 2010 and 2011 4Runner, I was hesitant due to the negative reviews, and started looking at the Jeep GC and BMW X5. However, after test driving all three, I decided to buy the 4Runner two months ago and I haven't looked back since. There are some differences between my '04 and the '11 model, such as the elimination of the lighted running boards and locking gas cap, which was disappointing. I also loved the acceleration of my '04's 6 engine, which is not as good in the '11 model. However, the '11 has a wider interior and much more comfortable leather seats compared to my '04. Overall, I am very happy with my purchase.

  2. Isaac Blick 2025-02-17

    Vehicle year: 2002

    I recently purchased a 2002 2wd SR5 from the original owner with 150k miles. The SUV has been excellent for my needs, such as trips, camping, sleeping, biking, kayaking, dirt roads, and more. Although the previous owner had to replace the transmission after 5 years, most of the repairs were routine. I did have to do some suspension work, which is understandable for a car of this age. It can tow a few thousand pounds, but I wouldn't recommend going above that due to the power lacking. The sunroof is awesome, and the gas mileage is decent on the highway (~22). However, my main issue with this vehicle was that it wasn't very comfortable, especially for long trips. The seats are low to the ground, which may be fine for shorter people, but it really wore me down. I purchased it used for $5k and spent $6k on repairs, which I felt was a bit much for a middle-of-the-road vehicle. Overall, I wouldn't buy this vehicle again based on the comfort-factor alone. If you're someone who drives cars to 400,000 miles, then a Toyota may be for you, but if you're like me and don't do high mileage but might take long trips occasionally, you'll definitely want a vehicle that is comfortable to be in for those long hours.

  3. Favian Cummings 2025-02-14

    Vehicle year: 1992

    Toyota replaced the head gasket as part of their recall, but unfortunately, the engine blew just 2 weeks later. I was disappointed to find out that they didn't guarantee their work. Additionally, I found the SUV to be surprisingly uncomfortable, as my knees would cramp up on long drives. Although I am 6' tall with long legs, I couldn't find a comfortable position. However, I do appreciate the tire on the back, which is a nice feature. It's worth noting that after 1991, they decided to put the spare tire under the back end, which can make it more difficult to change the tire.

  4. Haskell Boyer 2025-02-07

    Vehicle year: 1995

    My 4runner has been a mixed experience. I love the look and off-road capability, but unfortunately, it blew a head gasket. Toyota refused to replace it, claiming that it was not the right VIN number. Although most 4runners from that year were recalled, they determined that mine was not one of them. While they may have a problem, I believe that they will eventually own up to it. If you are looking for excellent customer service, I suggest that you consider other options when purchasing your vehicle.

  5. Marques Moore 2025-02-04

    Vehicle year: 2018

    We own a 4th generation V8 Limited, and although it has many great features, the interior and cargo room are lacking. However, it was designed to be an off-road beast with excellent towing capabilities. Recently, we were offered a 2017 Toyota 4Runner as a rental and were initially impressed with its spacious and luxurious interior. However, after driving it for 14 hours, we couldn't wait to return it to Enterprise. The vehicle's performance was disappointing, and it didn't drive as well as our previous Tacoma. The brakes and suspension caused a lot of bobbing, and the cornering made the vehicle dive. The lack of power was also a letdown. It's a shame because we were considering upgrading our older 4Runner, which we still own, as we believe there is currently nothing better. Towing with this vehicle would be a challenge, so it's not recommended.

Latest positive Toyota 4runner car reviews

  1. Norwood Denesik 2025-02-21

    Vehicle year: 1997

    This is definitely the best SUV I have ever owned. I've had 3 Explorers, a Blazer, and a Trooper, but every aspect of this vehicle has quality written all over it. I have never had a problem with it, and it rides extremely well on and off the road. Don't let the size of the engine fool you; it has more power and pep than any 4-litre Explorer, and it tows like a dream!

  2. Horace Kessler 2025-02-21

    Vehicle year: 1992

    Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my runner. I bought it with 246k on the clock and it has the 22re with a 5 speed and 4 wheel drive. I'm really happy with the 22 mpg average, which is great for a 4wd SUV. It fits my family very comfortably and allows us to go wherever we want very safely. It's not the fastest car out there, but it definitely gets the job done. Now, it has 270,000 miles and still runs like a champ. Honestly, I wouldn't trade it for a lot of other SUVs out there. Thanks for listening!

  3. Elbert Sauer 2025-02-20

    Vehicle year: 2001

    I drove this thing from Waterloo, IA all the way to PHX, AZ without stopping (besides to get gas). Never overheated, and I was hauling an 8-foot aluminum trailer. The engine is not powerful by any means, but it is reliable. The seats are comfy and the interior design is simple with room for mods. I honestly believe this SUV is the best ever made.

  4. Geoffrey Bradtke 2025-02-20

    Vehicle year: 2016

    This 2016 Limited has only 4500 miles and belongs to my wife. We love everything about it, except for a transmission noise. We found out that this noise is common to other 4runners, as the dealer took us for a ride in a new limited with 0 miles and it also had the noise. It is a sort of tinny rattling sound coming from the transmission, which is unexpected for a tight truck like this. We were surprised that Toyota allows this. If it gets worse, we will address it. If not, we will live with the annoyance of the sound.

  5. Gerardo Barton 2025-02-20

    Vehicle year: 2017

    The Limited model of this SUV surpasses all others in its class and should be frankly outlawed. The Blizzard Pearl color is true eye candy, and coupled with the Redwood leather interior, this beauty gets compliments everywhere we go. I purchased it used just one month ago with low mileage (17.5K). So far, the vehicle handles well and hugs the road in dry and wet terrain. It does handle differently from my previous Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer Edition, but I'm adjusting. While I am slightly disappointed in the lack of some technology, such as lane departure warning or 15-minute continued audio after the engine is stopped (both features found in my 2006 Infiniti), Toyota should have also included more wood grain and less hard metals/plastics. But at the end of the day, I love my sexy 'new' Outlaw. AKC/DC Metro.

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