2004 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 In Japan, it was marketed as the Toyota Hilux Surf (Japanese: トヨタ・ハイラックスサーフ, Hepburn: Toyota Hairakkususāfu) and was withdrawn from the market in 2009.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 2004 Toyota 4runner problems
The Toyota 4Runner, a popular SUV known for its reliability, has had some issues specific to the 2004 model year. One of the most common problems reported by owners is dashboard cracking. This issue occurs when the dashboard material cracks or melts, often due to exposure to direct sunlight. While this problem may not affect the vehicle's performance, it can negatively impact the vehicle's appearance and value.
Another significant issue with the 2004 Toyota 4Runner is related to the braking system. Owners have reported experiencing sudden brake failure or lock-up, which can be caused by various factors, including a failed master brake cylinder, faulty ABS actuator pump, or a bad ground cable on the battery sending low-voltage signals to the car's computer. This problem can lead to severe accidents and repair costs ranging from $2,000 to $4,000.
Engine problems have also been reported by 2004 Toyota 4Runner owners. In cylinder compression tests, mechanics have found one cylinder misfiring, often caused by coolant leaking into the chamber due to a bad head gasket. Replacing the head gasket can cost around $3,200, and in some cases, a new engine may be required, costing approximately $6,000.
The 2004 Toyota 4Runner has also been known to have issues with the underframe, which can lead to significant problems if not addressed promptly. Owners may not realize there is a problem until another issue arises.
In addition to these specific issues, the 2004 Toyota 4Runner has a higher number of complaints compared to other model years, with 400 complaints per model year according to NHTSA data. This is significantly higher than the average of 54 complaints per model year for other 4Runner models.
While Toyota is known for its reliable vehicles, the 2004 Toyota 4Runner has had more than its fair share of problems. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider having a thorough inspection of the vehicle before purchasing.
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 2004 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 there any recalls on a 2004 Toyota 4Runner?
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2003-2006 Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX470, 2005-2006 Toyota Tundra and Sequoia, 2004-2006 Toyota 4Runner and Lexus GX470 vehicles equipped with side curtain-shield-air bags.
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.
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 long can a 2004 Toyota 4 Runner last?
Expect a 4Runner to Last Close to 200,000 Miles, with 4.1% of the SUVs Reported to Reach the Mileage Milestone. Toyotas are known for their reliability, and the 4Runner is no exception. The Toyota 4Runner is one of the brand's most reliable vehicles, with many 4Runners living to see as many as 300,000 miles.
Is Toyota 4Runner high maintenance?
So, is a Toyota 4Runner expensive to maintain? According to CarEdge, a Toyota 4Runner will cost about $5,825 for maintenance and repairs during its first ten years of service, beating the industry average for popular SUVs by a whopping $3,308.
What generation is a 2004 4Runner?
4th Generation
4th Generation
The fourth generation of 4Runner vehicles was from 2003-2009 and many are still on the road today. It continued to shift towards comfort and car-like appearance with rounded edges and higher trims with premium luxury features.
2004 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
- Service brakes problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Toyota 4runner vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Toyota 4runner
The NHTSA has received 666 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Toyota 4runner. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Toyota 4runner vehicles.
SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-15
- 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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-27
- 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,
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-06
- 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.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- 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
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-17
- VIN: JTEBT17R948
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: Cars frame is rotting out to the point it is not safe to drive. I was told being in a collision could cause catastrophic failure and the car is just turning 20 years old with 125,000 miles. Can’t get my money back and the car is otherwise is excellent condition.
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-12
- VIN: JTEBU14R840
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Frame is severely rusted and has holes started at 40k miles
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-21
- VIN: JTEBU14RX40
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: Took 2004 Toyota 4Runner SR5 to Toyota dealership to be serviced. Dealership called me to explain unable to do alignment, due to rear back frame excessive rusted through. Dealership advised waste of money to align new tires just purchased, unable to even do alignment and it was dangerous. Now what is to be done? This is my daily driver for work. How did this happen that its unsafe and dangerous to drive.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-18
- VIN: JTEZU14R540
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The rear tailgate window shattered while vehicle was in driveway as soon as it was turned off. Before it shattered there was an odor of something like plastic burning. Fortunately no one was hurt by the exploding bits of glass. The sound the breaking glass make was loud and startled the passengers. Good thing the vehicle was not in motion on the street or highway. On the internet I saw where other people shared the same problem on their Toyota 4Runner. Then I saw that Toyota had put out, TSB-0189-17, which stated exactly what happened to my 4Runner. Due to this possibly dangerous incident this should be upgraded to a vehicle safety recall.
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-18
- VIN: JTEBU14R040
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: 2004 4Runner rear hatch glass imploded with rear defroster on while driving and glass shattered all inside the vehicle in the back behind rear passenger seat. The loud sound when it imploded sounded like we had got shot at and scared all four of us in the vehicle thinking we were shot at. We pulled the vehicle over at the nearest pull over while driving on a coastal two lane road. We searched for any possible bullets. Did not find any and had to clean up as much possible of shattered glass that had covered all of our clothing and belongings. Had no materials to cover the rear broken window and had to continue our drive to meet family members to attend an early event at 9:00 am.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-28
- VIN: JTEBU14R540
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Excessive frame rusting. There are holes in the frame from rusting. At this point in time there isn’t anything I can do about the issues. Frame is unrepairable.
STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-11
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEBU14RX40
- Components: STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Unknown: we were on [XXX] when the car went out of control. It first spun one way and then the other way and then we hit the concrete abutment where the guardrail connects to it. We hit it head on. It was as if we were on ice or oil, unable to gain control or brake. We checked the road and it was dry. Other cars were going by with no problem. The airbags didn’t deploy. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-09
- VIN: JTEBT17R940
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I have taken my car to Mountain states Toyota as well as corwin toyota for a tripped light it has to do with vehicle stability system it trips leaving the vehicle stability option not usable. I have told both dealers not to just reset the code however this is what’s happening and they don’t seem to know why it’s doing this. we have repaired the knock sensors and speed sensors. It feels unsafe driving when this trips when road conditions call for all wheel drive. the technician can’t figure it out why. their only solution is to keep resetting. This is not the option I want I need it repaired and they don’t seem to want to do it or figure out and give us options on repair.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-13
- VIN: JTEBU14R440
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I own a 2004 Toyota 4runner Sport Edition that suffers from frame rust issues. Mine isn't as bad as I've seen in person while working at a Toyota dealership as a tech or on the forums but from my experience in assisting in replacing frames at the dealership I know that my frame won't last very long. When I bought it from the original owner it had around 86,XXX miles on it and the typical spot in the from was rusted out. I choose to purchase it because it was the best example I could find, others having worse rust. I quickly discovered a weak spot which became a hole when trying to jack it up to do work along with chunks of rust that came off the rear end of the frame and all over. The weak spot that ended up being a hole seems to be caused by the AC drain location and how it drips right onto the frame which has an opening right by where it drips. I believe the drips went into the frame through the factory hole and lead to the weak spot and hole in my frame. I am not the only one who has experienced this issue. In fact on a Toyota 4runner forum there is threads on people extending the drain to prevent the same thing from happening to theirs or from getting worse. As a former Toyota tech who has seen how bad the frames that came in under recall and 4runner frames were first hand I cant believe that a the 4runner frames weren't included in the recalls. I've seen countless threads/reviews/complaints of severe rust causing accidents from suspension components. Toyota should be held accountable for the rust issues ont he 4runners just like the other vehicles. My 4runner now has 113,xxx on it and it will rust out long before the drivetrain gives out no matter what I try to do. My only option is to fix it using safe t caps when the time comes who makes frame fixes for Tacomas, Tundras, FJ crusier and of course the 4runner. They produce them for these vehicles because the frames rust out pre maturely. The rusty 4runner frames are a safety issue and should be addressed.
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-02
- VIN: JTEBT17R148
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Entire frame of the vehicle is rotten with rust and holes. This vehicle has been inspected by McDaniel Toyota, Marion, OH 43302 and the damage was confirmed. I have been and must continue to drive this vehicle even though the dealership did not recommend it. No evidence of the extent of the rust and damage was not noticed until October 2023 when a strap on the gas tank came loose. Upon further inspection, he noticed the holes and rust all over the frame. Reported to Toyota because other 2004 Models were recalled for this issue. They were of no assistance.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-04
- VIN: JTEBT17R040
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Rusted frame
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-02
- VIN: JTEBT17R148
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Frame of this vehicle completely rusted through. Holes on passenger side right where the front door ends. Hole is approx 12" long. Frame also has a hole in the left front core support. Advised that the vehicle is no longer safe to drive by my Toyota Dealer and personal mechanic. . There were no indications of this until a few weeks ago when the gas tank strap had come off and the gas tank was leaning. When inspected, it was found the frame was in disrepair.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SERVICE BRAKES, AIR PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-23
- VIN: JTEZT14R840
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the ABS and the brake warning lights illuminated. Additionally, there was an abnormal humming sound coming from the dash. The contact stated while approaching another vehicle, he depressed the brake pedal, but the vehicle failed to respond, nearly causing a crash into another vehicle. The contact immediately shifted into neutral(N) and veered to the side of the road while continuously depressing the brake pedal, and the vehicle stopped. The contact was able to continue driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the ABS pump had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 350,325.
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-01
- VIN: JTEBU17R140
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Purchased 4 runner from a Toyota dealer in 2018 with 130k miles. During routine maintenance in 2021 with 160k. The frame was found to have several holes and wide spread corrosion. It is absurd that Toyotas was let off the hook for frame replacements. I bought this truck from the dealer and it had structural frame issues that were not disclosed at the time of sale. Frames don’t just fall apart apart in 4 years from normal driving. Clearly Toyota is ignoring the manufacturing deficits in there frames and still re-selling these as road worthy cars. It’s absurd that Toyota was not required to replace these and not recall has been issued. People should not be able to buy/sell one off these vehicles they are not safe due to the frames rusting from the inside-out. They need to be recalled and removed from service.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-12
- VIN: JTEBT14R040
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The frame of the vehicle rust just as same as the 03-09 Tacoma and there is nothing I can do the fix it and if I get new parts it ruins my Parts after a short period of time
STRUCTURE,TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-01
- VIN: JTEBT14R140
- Components: STRUCTURE,TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH over a bump in the road, she heard an abnormally loud sound and the windshield shattered without impact and the sunroof panel loosened. The contact also stated that the vehicle was shaking uncontrollably. The contact stated that the traction control warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the subframe was rusted and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-17
- VIN: JTEBU14R740
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I have. Toyota 4Runner the frame is very rusty I ask the. Dealer few times for recall and he said no. Recall. It is very dangerous to drive. The buddy is very nice just the frame is very rusty. Want ca I do need help
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-15
- VIN: JTEBT17R040
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The frame of my Toyota 4-Runner has developed holes making it dangerous to drive.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-20
- VIN: JTEBT17R040
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact's mother owns a 2004 Toyota 4-Runner. The contact stated that after the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for a routine oil change, his mother was made aware that the subframe had excessive corrosion, and that the subframe needed to be replaced. The mechanic informed the contact's mother that the vehicle was not safe to drive. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 180,330.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-10
- VIN: JTEBT14R140
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Frame rusted through on left rear of vehicle were suspension parts are attached.
2004 Toyota 4runner recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2004 Toyota 4runner.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2003-2006 Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX470, 2005-2006 Toyota Tundra and Sequoia, 2004-2006 Toyota 4Runner and Lexus GX470 vehicles equipped with side curtain-shield-air bags. The affected vehicles have an air bag control module that may be improperly programmed, causing the side curtain-shield-air bags to deploy inadvertently.
- Consequence: If the side curtain-shield-air bags deploy unexpectedly, it can increase the risk of occupant injury.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag control module with one that has improved programming, free of charge. The recall began on December 1, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-271-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is G0C and GLB.
- 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.
Negative 2004 Toyota 4runner car reviews
Positive 2004 Toyota 4runner car reviews
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with Toyota cars. I've had a few in my lifetime, and I have to say, I've always regretted selling them. One car that I particularly miss is my 1989 Toyota 4Runner. It was a real workhorse with great fuel efficiency, and the 4-cylinder engine was perfect for pulling my boat and getting me out of soft sand countless times. Unfortunately, I thought that having a family meant I wouldn't need that type of vehicle anymore - boy, was I wrong! But then I purchased a 2004 Toyota 4Runner V6 Sports Edition, and I have to say, I'm amazed with its smooth ride. It's definitely much better than my previous love - the '89 Toyota 4Runner. In just two short years, I've put over 66,000 miles on it, and I have yet to hear the brakes squeak. Plus, the gas mileage is a solid 20 mpg! Thanks for listening to my story.
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Although there were some quality issues, overall I have had a good experience with my car. During the first month, it would miss and accelerate on hills in the cold, but Toyota was able to fix that for me. The rear seats only fold down with the headpieces off and front seats forward, which can be a bit inconvenient. I needed new tires at 22K and new rotors and pads at 50K, but the dealer tried to charge over $1,000 for that. Fortunately, I was able to get it done for $550. One issue I have noticed is that dirt piles up inside the rear door/wheelwell. Additionally, the interior fan motor freezes when the temperature is below 25*F, which Toyota won't fix and I need to pay $400 for their mess. Unfortunately, my windows can't defrost in the morning now and the tire pressure light is on all the time because I refuse to pay $190 for a new valve that Toyota needs to program to my truck.
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This was my grandmother's own. She bought it new in 2004 with everything, including leather and moon roof, except for the navigation system. Even though it's 2012, it still runs like new with only 45236 miles on it (I put on 35000 miles myself since I got it!). I love my Jeep! I've taken it off-roading and it performed excellently. We live on a small island, so I get around 18.2 mpg at most. It's still shining like when we first bought it, except lately, it's been quite dirty. The only problem I can say I have is that the tire pressure light has been on since 2009, but it doesn't bother us. Recently, it started making a noise that sounds like the steering, but it's in the shop getting fixed. No biggie.
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The dashboard instrument cluster can be a bit challenging to read, as the dials are difficult to focus on. Additionally, the clock is integrated with the climate control system and can be hard to see in bright light. It would be helpful to have a remote latch for the back door accessible from the driver's area, instead of having to use the key lock. Lastly, it would be great to have a light on the mirror, as this is a feature that many people, especially women, find useful. Despite these minor issues, the truck is overall a great vehicle.
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This is my first non-GM SUV, and I am absolutely loving it! The 2004 Toyota 4Runner V8 Sport Edition 4WD is an amazing vehicle for looks, comfort, quietness, value, performance, build, and reliability. Most of my driving tends to be in the city, on-road, with some highway, variable weather, with a little off-road, but my overall mileage is at 19.2 mpg which is fantastic for a V8 4WD. I am also thrilled to have a 4Runner model that has all the improvements made since 2003. I have previously owned full-size K-Blazers, S-Blazers, and full-size Tahoes from Chevy, but now I can't ever imagine getting anything else to drive other than another 4Runner. This seems to be the overall best vehicle that I have ever owned. Period.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Toyota 4runner problems:
Common 4th gen problems? - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest ...
Feb 26, 2015 ... Frame rust, stuck calipers seem to be common complaints. Head gaskets on 2003 - 2005 V6 models have a higher than normal failure rate. Some sort ...
2004 Toyota 4Runner Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Top 2004 Toyota 4Runner Problems · Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages · EVAP System Fault Due to Failed Charcoal Canister · Car Won ...
Common problems - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum
Apr 16, 2004 ... My 4runner is great no problem after I lowered the seat with that front knob. 2004 4runner Sport V8 AWD Titanium 2003 350Z Touring Chrome.
2004 Toyota 4Runner Reliability - Consumer Reports
What Owners Say ... "The steel portion of the transmission cooler lines was rusting through and leaking transmission fluid. $750 to replace all of the cooler ...
Gen 4, V-8/4.7 liter issues? - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest ...
Oct 2, 2012 ... I personally own a 2004 Sport Edition V8 4WD with a lift, SW bumper, 33's, and so on; I drive my truck hard and take it on trails and its got ...
Other years of Toyota 4runner
Are you having problems with your 2004 Toyota 4runner?
Federico Armstrong 2024-11-26
I am disappointed with the 4Runner's design as it requires sliding the front seats forward when the rear seats are down to utilize the full cargo space. As a 6'1
Arnulfo Mertz 2024-09-14
I can tell you love your truck! Going from a Honda CRV to a 4 Runner must have been a big change, but it sounds like it was worth it. The 4 Runner is definitely bigger and more powerful. It's great to hear that you're happy with your choice and wouldn't want to go back to anything smaller.
Lon Torp 2024-08-06
The vehicle I owned had multiple issues that were never resolved by the dealer. The exhaust leaked inside the cabin, the electronic stability control system was unreliable, and the 4wd high didn't always engage. Additionally, the sunroof and fuel cap release latch had recurring problems, and the radio failed multiple times. Despite these issues, Toyota refused to take the vehicle back as a lemon due to Massachusetts' loose lemon laws.
Freeman Tremblay 2024-06-20
Looking for a reliable car, I purchased my first new car from this dealership. Unfortunately, I experienced some issues with the car. Although everything was covered under warranty, the car had to be taken back to the dealership for repairs for almost 6 weeks in the 11 months that I owned it. The issues ranged from major problems like the vehicle dynamic stability function kicking on and off, making safe driving impossible, to smaller issues like the sunroof staying open, which was a big problem in Boston. Despite these issues, the dealership was unable to fix the exhaust leak inside the cabin. Additionally, the gas cap release lever was severed, leaving me stranded on a trip with no way to fill up and not nearly enough gas to get home. Even the stereo broke.
Arvid Schultz 2024-06-07
The 4-wheel drive vehicle with 8000 miles has experienced a malfunction, and parts are being sourced from Japan to rectify the issue. The brakes are currently soft due to a faulty master cylinder. Additionally, there is a noticeable sulfur smell emanating from the engine, which unfortunately cannot be resolved. The vehicle's gas mileage is suboptimal, at 17 mpg. There is also some rust on the back, which has been identified as rail dust, a common issue. However, after careful consideration, I have decided to purchase a Sequoia.