2003 Toyota 4runner 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 In Japan, it was marketed as the Toyota Hilux Surf (Japanese: トヨタ・ハイラックスサーフ, Hepburn: Toyota Hairakkususāfu) and was withdrawn from the market in 2009.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 2003 Toyota 4runner problems
The 2003 Toyota 4Runner has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the issues:
- Corroded Starter: The starter in the 2003 4Runner is known to corrode at the connection point between the cable and the solenoid, leading to potential starting issues. Addressing this problem is essential to prevent future starting failures .
- Frame Rust: Toyota 4Runners, including the 2003 model, are susceptible to frame rust issues. Despite the lack of a recall from Toyota, frame rust can be a severe problem that affects the vehicle's structural integrity and safety .
- Air Injection Pump Failure: The air injection pump in the 2003 4Runner is a part of the emission system and can malfunction, causing check engine lights, error codes, and potentially putting the vehicle in limp mode. Repairing or bypassing this system can be costly .
These common problems highlight the importance of thorough inspections and maintenance when considering a 2003 Toyota 4Runner to avoid potential costly repairs and safety concerns.
How many miles can a 2003 Toyota 4Runner last?
With proper care, you should expect at least 200,000 miles with your 4Runner, though some will make it up to 300,000 miles with meticulous care. It will last a decade or more if you're a patient and attentive driver and care for issues before they develop into pricey faults.
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 year 4Runner has the best reliability?
Here are the most reliable years for the Toyota 4Runner: 2017-Present Fifth Generation 4Runner. 2008-2009 Fourth Generation 4Runner. 1999-2000 Third Generation 4Runner.
Is there a recall on 2003 Toyota 4Runner?
Toyota 4Runner Recall: Toyota Recalls 2003 4Runners Due to Fuel Leak at Fuel Pulsation Damper.
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 can a 2003 Toyota 4Runner last?
With proper care, you should expect at least 200,000 miles with your 4Runner, though some will make it up to 300,000 miles with meticulous care. It will last a decade or more if you're a patient and attentive driver and care for issues before they develop into pricey faults.
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.
Is the 4Runner engine good?
The Toyota's 4.0-liter engine might be reliable, but it also reliably consumes fuel at an alarming rate. The truck's interior has plenty of passenger and cargo space, but its cabin materials are drab. On regular roads, this truck-based SUV drives like, well, a truck: its handling feels loose, and its ride is uncouth.
2003 Toyota 4runner car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota 4runner problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Toyota 4runner vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Toyota 4runner
The NHTSA has received 702 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Toyota 4runner. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Toyota 4runner vehicles.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- 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.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-01
- VIN: JTEBU14R730
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: There is major corrosion on the chassis, brake-power steering-transmission lines, and all metal brackets on the frame and engine. The corrosion is so bad there is holes on the chassis. Known issue, many complaints, Toyota Corp. says to keep calling back maybe something will be done in the future. Unable to upload photos!
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-20
- VIN: JTEBT14R438
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Severe frame rust, there was a recall for tacomas but 4Runners have the issue just as bad
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-08
- VIN: JTEBT14R730
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle to several independent mechanics for servicing, he was informed that the subframe was significantly corroded and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact the vehicle was not covered under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-08
- VIN: JTEBU14R530
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Frame is rotted from front to back
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-12
- VIN: JTEBT17R730
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at the tire retailer for tire replacement, the technician informed him that the subframe was corroded. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed that the passenger's side front and rear subframes were severely corroded, as well as the cross member. The mechanic advised the contact to stop driving the vehicle. The dealer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 165,000.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-17
- VIN: JTEBT14R730
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The VSC system in the vehicle becomes disabled due to a firmware 'glitch' identified by Toyota when an emission system issue is detected by the onboard diagnostic system. The VSC system is listed as an 'essential safety feature,' so I'm curious why a recall was never ordered to patch defective firmware that can cause VSC to become disabled due to a completely unrelated emissions issue.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-20
- VIN: JTEBT17R830
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Extensive rust through out frame, resulting in holes in structural members. Leaving frame in a weak and vulnerable state.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-01
- VIN: JTEBT17R430
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I purchased this 2003 Toyota 4Runner in 2018 under what I assumed was prime condition, for a vehicle that spent the majority of its life in Nebraska/Kansas before I moved to Texas in 2021. At 87,400 miles at the time of purchase, the vehicle had no visible damage to the exterior besides a few paint chips, some minor hail damage and scratches, and some easily fixed surface rust in the paint on the tailgate. The previous owner had driven it leisurely and had kept the miles low after 15 years. The car has had some mechanical issues, but nothing out of the ordinary outside of some regular maintenance over the first few years. Being close to 100,000 miles, the timing belt and pump was replaced around 98,000 miles. Other issues have been fixed periodically, please reference the attached files. After joining a Toyota 4Runner 4th Generation Facebook group and seeing a post about another's issues with rust damage in October 2020, I decided to take a look at my own frame. I then inspected my own vehicle, and found significant frame rot damage. It is extensive, with significant rust to the frame, with large holes and soft patches that question the integrity of the frame and the safety of the vehicle on the road. Every time I hit a small bump or pothole, I fear the frame will crack and I will lose control as others have. I have not sought out professional repairs due to the extensive cost, and am awaiting the outcome of a current class action lawsuit by the Bell Legal Group. The 4th Generation Toyota 4Runner (2003-2009) is built on the exact same frame as the Toyota Tacoma of that era, yet while the Tacoma was recalled for frame rot, the 4Runner was not included, which I believe to be a gross oversight in previous legal proceedings. The 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner is a reliable vehicle, but poses significant frame rot issues much earlier than should be expected.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-28
- VIN: JTEBT17R030
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Vehicle frame has rusted through and has holes affecting structural condition.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-13
- VIN: JTEBT17R430
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Complete corrosion of entire frame causing unavoidable damage to framework.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-09
- VIN: jtebt14r130
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: There is severe rust on the frame, the rear is listing by 3/4 of an inch due to suspension rust, parts of the frame are perforated and lots of rust can fall out of drain holes when tapped. I am unable to steer the truck due to the intermediate steering column rust. The Tacoma was recalled for the same reason, I am assuming the 4runner has not been recalled because it was manufactured in greater numbers, and therefore more costly to repair, the danger of the severe rust is the same in both vehicles.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-10
- VIN: JTEBT14R630
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Excessive frame rust causing difficulty to keep vehicle on the road. No warning lamps, I noticed the rust starting years ago, now the rust is so bad that the frame is rusted through causing difficulty steering and loud crunch noises. I contacted Toyota Consumer Affairs explaining the rust concern and asked if I needed to take the vehicle to a dealership for inspection, they said it wasn’t necessary (sounds like they don’t want to admit the existence of a possible manufacturing defect). The vehicle is available for inspection. I feel like I would be doing a disservice to society if I continue to drive this vehicle on public roads due to the danger of injuring a pedestrian or another motorist.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-31
- VIN: Jtebu14r430
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Rusted frame
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-22
- VIN: JTEBT17R330
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: Stabilizer bar connected to the frame rusted off,back passenger side! Causing the vehicle to sway uncontrollably, due to the low rate of speed, I was able to regain control of my vehicle and not drive off the bridge I was driving over at the time or crash into another vehicle. The engine runs great, everything works, the vehicle still looks good but the frame is rusting out from underneath it! Toyota Needs To Make It Right!
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-22
- VIN: JTEBT17R330
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: Stabilizer bar connecting the axle to the frame rusted off. I was driving only 25-30mph at the time, luckily. The vehicle swayed violently almost causing an accident and nearly forcing me off the bridge I happened to driving over. Very fortunate no one was hurt and nothing was damaged from the incident. You can imagine the tragedy if that had happened on the highway driving 75mph! Major accident, innocent lives damaged or lost. This is a very dangerous vehicle not only to the driver and passengers but also to anybody that happened to be innocently in the path of an out of control Toyota 4runner. Toyota Please fix this, for your safety and everyone else on the highway. People should be warned!!
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-23
- VIN: JTEBU14R430
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: So much rust has developed the frame is literally giving out. Toyota admitted to a rust issue- it’s now a safety issue with this generation of 4Runner. They did a recall on the same frame for Tacoma but not 4Runner.
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-10
- VIN: JTEBU14R830
- Components: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
- Summary: The frame of the car has been rusting at a significant rate in the last 4 years. Mechanic identified major rust issues that would make the vehicle not safe in case of an accident.
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-01
- VIN: JTEBU14R130
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: The rust and corrosion underneath the vehicle continually gets worse year after year. The main components of vehicle relating to the engine, powertrain and suspension underneath vehicle are corroded; holes exist in the frame of the truck through out. The frame of truck is rotted due to not being sealed properly during the manufacturing process. Due to the rust and corrosion on the frame of truck, it is impossible to get work done on exhaust and muffler areas. I will send pictures for your reference. This makes driving a safety concern for myself and my son. At this time, I am unable to purchase a new car and do not have money to replace/fix the frame of truck. Inevitably, this problem will get worse and may cause a safety concern for myself and others on the road. I called Toyota on 4/12/22 and was told that there is not a recall for this issue and that any repairs would have to be paid by me. I then proceeded to call the number given to me by the representative to call 800-331-4331 for the Toyota Corporate office. I spoke to Blake who gave me the same answer, there was not a recall on this vehicle for rust/corrosion on the frame of vehicle. At this time, Toyota charges $150 just to check car and unfortunately, I don't have those funds to pay such a fee. I asked Blake if there was a way, Toyota can check without charging a fee and his answer was no. Currently, there is not any warning lights on, but with increased time and pressure of exhaust pipe and muffler will create more problems. I cannot have the exhaust system fixed until the frame of truck is replaced. My car was checked by an independent shop.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-07
- VIN: JTEBT17RX30
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I have two 2003 Toyotas, a tundra and 4runner. The 4Runners frame is rusting out everywhere including the welds. My mechanic said it was getting to the point that it’s dangerous to drive and if it was in a wreck the frame would likely fail under the stress. My tundra frame from the same year is immaculate. I believe the are similar frames. This is obviously a defect in the production based on my readings and is very common. The investigation was opened in 2018 and its now 2022, when will this get addressed!
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-01
- VIN: JTEBT17R338
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Frame has major rust holes towards the front inside next to the catalytic converters. Hoping to get them repaired before frame failure. The frame design is similar to the 2005 to 2015 Tacomas, which experienced similar issues with rust damage causing frame integrity issues. Toyota had a program to replaced those frames, but not for the 4Runners. The issue seems to be caused by certain factory openings in the frame that allow road salt to enter into the frame cavity, and cause the inside to rust. Being next to the catalytic converter, the heat accelerates the rust. On my 4Runner, the issue has gotten worse in the last 2 years. I cannot understand why Toyota covered all other trucks/suvs that use this similar frame but ignored the 4Runner.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-24
- VIN: JTEBT17R530
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The frame on my 4Runner is rusting through in multiple locations. The rear of the frame has already failed and a trailer I was pulling dragged on the road heavily as it failed. Definitely at risk of caving in long before the engine or transmitoo fails.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-29
- VIN: jtebt17r430
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The frame has rusted out. It has many large holes throughout and will not pass State Inspection and is deemed unsafe.
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-04
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEBU14R730
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The frame on my vehicle is rusting prematurely. It's doing this on many other 4Runners and other Toyota trucks.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-01
- VIN: JTEZU14R130
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated while his wife driving 60 MPH with the cruise control activated, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the vehicle rapidly started to accelerate. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The driver depressed the brake pedal to stop the vehicle and parked on the side of the road. The driver was able to restart the vehicle and drive to her destination. The contact stated that in October 2021 his wife experienced a similar failure. The contact also stated that on 11/8/2021 while his wife driving 55 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle accelerated quickly. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The driver depressed on the brake pedal with both feet and shifted gear to neutral to slow the vehicle. The driver stated she saw smoke coming from both front brakes. The drive was able to park on the side of the road. The driver stated that the brake pedal was seized on the floorboard. The driver stated she applied the parking brake to release the brake pedal. The driver was able to drive to her residence. The contact stated that his wife had experienced the failure on 3 different occasions. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The VIN was associated to NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V113000 (Vehicle Speed Control) and NHTSA Campaign Number: 03V146000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 240,000.
2003 Toyota 4runner recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2003 Toyota 4runner.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2011 LEXUS LX570, 2003 THROUGH 2009 TOYOTA 4RUNNER, AND 2006 THROUGH 2010 RAV4 VEHICLES. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL CAN GET STUCK IN THE WIDE OPEN POSITION DUE TO ITS BEING TRAPPED BY AN UNSECURED OR INCOMPATIBLE DRIVER'S FLOOR MAT.
- Consequence: A STUCK OPEN ACCELERATOR PEDAL MAY RESULT IN VERY HIGH VEHICLE SPEEDS AND MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO STOP THE VEHICLE, WHICH COULD CAUSE A CRASH, SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
- Remedy: THE REMEDY IS NOW AVAILABLE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN EARLY APRIL 2011. THE REMEDY WILL INVOLVE MODIFICATION OR REPLACEMENT OF THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND REPLACEMENT OF ANY TOYOTA ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331 OR LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH V6 ENGINES, THE FUEL PULSATION DAMPER, LOCATED ON THE FUEL RAIL, MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY ASSEMBLED, CAUSING A DIAPHRAGM IN THE PULSATION DAMPER TO BE DAMAGED. IF THE DIAPHRAGM FAILS, FUEL MAY LEAK.
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE IF A HEAT SOURCE OR AN IGNITION SOURCE IS PRESENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PULSATION DAMPER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MAY 5, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Manufacturer: SOUTHEAST TOYOTA DISTRIBUTORS
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FIVE FACTORY ALLOY WHEELS (MODEL 6934 AND 6936), WITH FACTORY LLAT, AND WITH PORT INSTALLED WR4, FOUR ALLOY WHEEL UPGRADE PROCESSED AT THE JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA PORT AND DISTRIBUTED BY SOUTHEAST TOYOTA DISTRIBUTORS IN THE STATES OF ALABAMA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, NORTH AND SOUTH CAROLINA, WHEN THE VEHICLES WERE PROCESSED AT THE PORT, AN ALLOY TIRE/WHEEL UPGRADE WAS INSTALLED. THE UPGRADE INCLUDED 4 ALLOY WHEELS. THE ORIGINAL SPARE TIRE/ALLOY WHEEL WAS NOT CHANGED. THE SPARE TIRE REQUIRES THE USE OF A DIFFERENT STYLE OF WHEEL NUT TO ATTACH IT TO THE VEHICLE.
- Consequence: IF THE SPARE TIRE/WHEEL IS INSTALLED ON THE VEHICLE USING THE WHEEL NUTS PROVIDED FOR THE UPGRADE ALLOY WHEEL, DAMAGE TO THE WHEEL COULD RESULT AND COULD EVENTUALLY LEAD TO A LOOSE WHEEL.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH DIFFERENT STYLE LUG NUTS, A WARNING LABEL FOR THE SPARE RE/ALLOY WHEEL, AND AN OWNER'S MANUAL ADDENDUM.
Negative 2003 Toyota 4runner car reviews
Positive 2003 Toyota 4runner car reviews
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I've had the car for 30 days and driven 2K miles, and I'm very happy with it so far. The V-6 engine provides good power, and the car is nicely appointed both inside and out. It feels very solid. It was also great to have a range of inventory to choose from, unlike with the Pilots. The gas mileage has been pleasantly tolerable, averaging between 18.5 and 20 mpg. My only complaint is that I noticed five 4Runners sitting side-by-side on the dealer lot, and each had a different make of tire. I ended up with Dunlops, but I wanted the Michelins that were on the almost identical vehicle right next to it. Unfortunately, the dealer wouldn't budge on this issue for legal reasons. Overall, I'm extremely pleased with my purchase and would highly recommend it. Unless you're definitely towing something, save yourself some money and don't pay extra for the V-8. The V-6 is plenty.
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I've had this car for 17 years, and it's the best car I've ever had. I also have an identical 2004 model, and a 1995. I even own a Lexus because I can't think of a reason to own a car not made by Toyota.
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After nearly 6 years and 60,000 miles, my 4Runner is still going strong. It has been a reliable and trustworthy companion on all my adventures. I take great care of my vehicles and the 4Runner has certainly reciprocated that care. The interior has held up well and the drivetrain has been incredibly durable. It handles inclement weather with ease and is supremely capable on 4WD trails. I purchased this vehicle for its off-road prowess and it has never let me down. It also provides a comfortable highway ride with decent handling and fuel economy for a truck-based midsize SUV. The 4-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, could benefit from an extra gear. (However, this was addressed in the 2005 V6 models, which came standard with a 5-speed auto).
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Your 2003 Limited 4WD 4Runner is still going strong and is about to turn 20! It has been incredibly reliable throughout many years in the Third World, despite the rough and dirty roads and mechanics who may or may not have known what they were doing. Now that it's back in the US with a new 2
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You were lucky enough to find your 2003 SR5 4Runner (with RWD, 4.7L V8) at a dealer's auction through a friend who has a dealer's license. The vehicle had under 17K miles on it when you bought it for 17K 14 years ago, and was coming out of Florida. Despite being a warranty return and falling under that state's Lemon Law, you decided to take a gamble on it and kept it for 14 years - enjoying great reliability and comfort while driving it. After two timing belt replacements, brake jobs and basic maintenance, you planned on keeping it for another 100K, but then the dealer said it needed a new rear end to the tune of 4K. You really wrestled with whether or not to sell it or fix and keep, but ultimately traded it in on a Certified 2014 Toyota Rav4 AWD XLE to obtain the AWD capabilities and fewer miles. Although you will miss the 4Runner's size, looks, and its ability to easily pull hills even when fully loaded, the 2WD in the Pacific Northwest was an issue when it snowed, it had a terrible turning radius and visibility (large posts) was sometimes an issue. It's been a great ride though, and if you can do your own repairs when the big stuff happens and don't live in an area where 4WD or AWD is really needed- snap it up!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Toyota 4runner problems:
Top 5 Problems Toyota 4Runner SUV 4th Generation 2003-09 ...
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CV boots tearing/coming loose are common. The other big hitter on the V8 is cracked exhaust manifolds. You'll hear a ticking sound at start up if they are ...
Should you buy a 4th Gen Toyota 4Runner? 2003-2009 Common ...
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Jul 1, 2022 ... Should you buy a 4th Gen Toyota 4Runner? 2003-2009 Common Problems. The Car Care Nut · 290K views ; Things That Surprise First Time V8 4runner ...
Other years of Toyota 4runner
Are you having problems with your 2003 Toyota 4runner?
Santino Mante 2024-04-11
I have taken good care of my truck and it still looks like new even after close to 100K miles, which is a testament to the quality of paint and components used. However, I have experienced some reliability issues such as the AC compressor clutch relay, heated mirrors, lights in several areas of the dash, and front brake calipers. Additionally, there is a whine in the transmission or rear end that may result in a significant repair bill. While I may consider buying this truck again, I would first want to explore other options. It is worth noting that the harsh ride of the vehicle may cause discomfort for passengers in the rear seats.
Oliver Murphy 2024-03-16
I purchased this vehicle in 2007 with 57,000 miles and it has been a reliable car for me. Currently, it has 82,000 miles. However, I have experienced some issues with the blower motor and AC relay, which cost me over $500 to replace. Additionally, there is a sulfur smell that occurs when the rear window is down and also comes through the vents while driving. Despite trying to use a better grade of gas, the issue persists and unfortunately, I am now considering trading it in. I hope Toyota can address this issue soon.