2005 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 In Japan, it was marketed as the Toyota Hilux Surf (Japanese: トヨタ・ハイラックスサーフ, Hepburn: Toyota Hairakkususāfu) and was withdrawn from the market in 2009.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 2005 Toyota 4runner problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2005 Toyota 4Runner, several common problems have been reported:
- Starter or Solenoid Contacts Corroded:
- Symptoms: Intermittent starting, "click-click-click" sound when trying to start the vehicle.
- Diagnosis: OBD II code P0617 or U0120 may indicate a starter issue.
- Resolution: Check battery terminals, ignition switch, and battery before replacing the starter. Repair costs range from $400-$600 at a shop.
- Check Engine Light Due To Failed Charcoal Canister:
- Symptoms: Rough idle, VSC and check engine light illumination, strong gas odor.
- Diagnosis: OBD code 044_ indicates a problem in the EVAP system.
- Resolution: Replacement of the vapor canister may cost about $700-$800 in parts and labor, or less than $400 if done DIY.
- Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly At High Mileage:
- Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, sluggish response, transmission issues after 125,000-150,000 miles.
- Diagnosis: Throttle position sensor misalignment or faulty shift solenoid.
- Resolution: Rarely requires transmission replacement; DIY replacement is cheaper if needed.
- Check Engine Light Due To Failed Coolant Temperature Sensor:
- Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, engine cooling issues, black smoke from exhaust.
- Diagnosis: OBD codes P0115, P0116, or P0125 may indicate a failing coolant temperature sensor.
- Resolution: Replacement of the sensor is necessary, ensuring proper installation with thread sealant and clean electrical connections.
These issues highlight common concerns reported by owners of the 2005 Toyota 4Runner, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any symptoms to ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle.
How many miles will a 2005 Toyota 4Runner 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.
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.
Do 4Runners have transmission problems?
The automatic transmission may not shift properly after 25,000-150,000 miles due to a shift solenoid that needs replacement or a faulty throttle position sensor. Most of the time, a complete overhaul is not necessary to resolve the issue.
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.
Which year 4Runner is best?
A: Historically, the Toyota 4Runner models from the years 1999-2000, 2008-2009, and 2017 to the current fifth generation have been praised for their reliability. These models have fewer reported issues and have consistently received high ratings from owners and automotive reviewers.
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.
2005 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
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2005 Toyota 4runner vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2005 Toyota 4runner
The NHTSA has received 415 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Toyota 4runner. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2005 Toyota 4runner vehicles.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-05
- VIN: JTEBT14R250
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Rear hatch glass broke during defroster operation. Started to smell a burning smell and then moments later the entire rear hatch glass shattered. Known issue by Toyota. They issued a brief Warranty Enhancement Program (ZG7) in March 2017 thru April 2018 but are refusing to honor current issues.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-07
- VIN: JTEBU14R358
- 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,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-15
- VIN: JTEBU14R850
- Components: STRUCTURE,TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated that the subframe was rusted. The TPMS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who repaired the TPMS, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the frame was rusted and recommended that the vehicle no longer be driven. The mechanic referred the contact to the manufacturer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 200,948.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-03
- VIN: JTEBT14R450
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Frame of the vehicle is showing rust corrosion. The frame are the same as the tacomas that were released the same year. The tacomas were granted frame replacement by Toyota but 4Runners weren’t. Noticed a lot of other 4th generation 4Runners are having the same issues.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
- VIN: JTEBU14R650
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The rear window shattered while using the rear window defrost.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-20
- VIN: JTEBT14RX50
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Frame has rusted through and the boot of the frame that holds the front driver side suspension is 3/4 of the way cracked. Independent Body shop rendered car unsafe to drive.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-19
- VIN: JTEBT14R258
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated while the vehicle was at the independent mechanic for servicing, and he was informed that the sub frame was severely corroded. The dealer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the manufacturer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 166,000.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-22
- VIN: JTEBU14R350
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The rear windshield shattered suddenly without any apparent reason. At first I thought something had smashed onto our car because there was a loud smashing sound as it a sheet of ice fell on the roof of the car, but it was not a snowy or icy day and there was no rock or branch by the car. It was rainy and cold and I had the wipers and defroster on so the only thing I could think of as the problem was the temperature of the glass and defroster caused the glass to shatter. I had all three of my children in the car (all under 6 years of age) in the backseat and I was lucky none of the shattered glass projected into the air on to them. The entire windshield was shattered.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-24
- VIN: JTEBU14R650
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated that while her brother-in-law was inspecting the vehicle battery, he activated the rear windshield defroster and the rear windshield exploded. There were no injuries sustained. The vehicle was taken to an auto glass repair mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the defroster motor and the rear windshield wiring had melted. The auto glass repair mechanic replaced the rear windshield and referred the contact to the dealer for the defroster motor replacement. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-19
- VIN: JTEBU14R050
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Frame on 2005 Toyota 4Runner has excessive rust due to Toyota’s negligence on frame production. I can make it available if needed. My safety is 100% compromised, had my mechanic not have told me of the issue, I would have kept driving the vehicle and the suspension could have detached from the frame at any point. The problem has been confirmed by my independent service center South Lake Automotive. It has not been inspected by police, manufacturer or other. There was no warning prior to the failure. Had I not had it pointed out as an issue, I would never have known it was an issue.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-23
- VIN: Jtebu14r958
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The frame and complete undercarriage is completely prematurely rusted.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-25
- VIN: JTEBU14R658
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The frame on both sides of the vehicle in the front, where it connects under the radiator crossbar has rusted through.Not feeling to safe about this. also the transmission cooling lines are also looking thin. The dealership I have maint. done at informed me of this condition. Can send pictures if needed.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-01
- VIN: JTEBU14RX58
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: My frame has rotted through, causing the rear bump stops to fall off, putting excessive wear on both frame and suspension components. In parts of the frame, it has rotted all the way around and caused a loss in structural integrity. Worst of all, there is a hole near the rear most strap holding the gas tank to the chassis, which is a risk to not only me and my pregnant wife but others driving on the road around me if it where to fall off. Looking at the body, there is no rust or corrosion. The same goes for the engine bay, the rust is entirely located on the frame. Mechanically, the vehicle is in excellent shape. It has now got to the point it will no longer pass a NYS inspection.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-06
- VIN: jtezu14r350
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I was driving my 4Runner and the rear glass exploded and shattered. This is a known issue with Toyota and documented in T-SB-0189-17 and warranty enhancement ZG7. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the glass shattering. Toyota refuses to cover the repair costs and the estimate provided by the dealer is $1,200. Photos were taken in my garage when I got home immediately after the explosion occurred.
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEBT17RX58
- Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Upon moving with the flow of traffic at about 30 to 35 mph a car shot from a driveway straight in front of me causing me to hit that driver in the rear quarter panel of the passenger side putting him into a 360 spin not causing my airbags to deploy at that rate of speed in my opinion that is a huge fault of my system from my vehicle at that rate of speed my airbags should have went off to protect me as if I didn't have my seat belt on but thank God I always wear my seatbelt
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-03
- VIN: JTEBU14R050
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Frame of the vehicle is rusting from the inside out. Upon inspection, holes in the frame are found, with many more hidden from sight. This is a disaster waiting to happen. This puts the driver and anyone else on the road at extreme risk if the frame breaks while driving. This problem is well documented with Toyota, and they have previously replaced Tacoma, Sequoia, and Tundra frames, but not 4runners. Everyone is at risk with these frames, even if it does not appear so. My frame looked solid until I began hitting it with a hammer and screwdriver and breaking away very weak spots of metal.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-25
- VIN: JTEBU14R058
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I took my vehicle into the Toyota Dealer after mechanic told my frame was rusting. The dealership confirm the frame is rusted. The frame of the vehicle should not be rusting out.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-15
- VIN: JTEBT17R758
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The entire frame is rusted to the point the vehicle is unsafe to operate on the road. Parts of the vehicle could potentially break off because they have rusted through causing the vehicle to be involved in an accident. The vehicle has been inspected by an independent service center and a authorized dealer who confirmed the vehicle is unsafe to drive on the road because of the rust on the frame, differential, and crossmember. There was not any warning lights a mechanic mentioned it to me a in February/March when they were changing the oil that the frame would not last much longer.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-04
- Crash: 1
- VIN: Jtebu14r558
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I own a 2005 Toyota four runner. The frame under the truck is completely rusted out everywhere. The car started swaying and I felt as though my vehicle was going to go out from under me. It felt like it was collapsing or melting underneath. This is my family vehicle. It was a dangerous situation and my entire family was in the vehicle. My spouse a children. I took it to a independent shop. The mechanic said that the frame had rusted out under the Toyota. He told me to park it and not drive it because it was about to split apart. He said that we were very lucky and just moments from a catastrophe. He also told me that their had already been a recall and replacement of the malfunctioning frames on Toyota Sequoia, Tacoma and tundra. In his professional option he thought Toyota should do the same type recall for the rusted out frame problem on the four runner. You are the first and only person I have reported this to. I will wait for your response and next steps: [XXX] Cell number [XXX] Home number [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
STEERING,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-12
- VIN: JTEBU14RX58
- Components: STEERING,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The rear control arm broke while I was driving causing me to swerve uncontrollably and almost causing a collision
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-31
- VIN: JTEBU14RX58
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The back brake lines rusted out completely crumbling causing me to almost collide head on with oncoming traffic while my kids where in the car. This was a terrifying experience. Upon further inspection the back brakes were so rusted out that they crumbled to dirt.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-07
- VIN: JTEBT14R850
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I have a 2005 4Runner with significantly rusted out frame that makes me worried about safety of driving it. I feel the amount of corrosion present is way beyond what I would expect for that year of vehicle
AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1975-10-30
- Crash: 1
- VIN: Jtebt17rx58
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: When accelerating it feels like the frame shifts on the body lots of rust,, as well as the power steering was a little low I added power steering fluid next thing you know it stopped working and driver seats is falling apart and collapse in Woodson within itself as well as the airbags didn't go off upon rear-ending a vehicle they came to a sudden stop in front of me at least 25 miles per hour
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-25
- VIN: JTEBU14RX50
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Rear window shattered moments after using the defroster at a stop light
2005 Toyota 4runner recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2005 Toyota 4runner.
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
- Consequence: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: GULF STATES TOYOTA, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.
- Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. DEALERS WILL ALSO CORRECT THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GULF STATES TOYOTA AT 713-580-3300.
- Manufacturer: SOUTHEAST TOYOTA DISTRIBUTORS, LLC
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2011 PASSENGER VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.
- Consequence: A DRIVER MAY OVERLOAD A VEHICLE WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AT 1-800-301-6859.
Negative 2005 Toyota 4runner car reviews
Positive 2005 Toyota 4runner car reviews
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I recently traded in my 01 4Runner for the 05 4Runner and had some serious reservations about letting go of my old vehicle. Although I loved it, I needed a 4WD and decided to test drive the Pathfinder and Honda Pilot. However, neither of them were as enjoyable to drive as my old 4Runner. Since my wife already has a Landcruiser, I didn't necessarily need the V8 4Runner, but the price was actually less than the V6 (thanks to rebates and dealer incentives), so I ended up purchasing the 05 4WD V8 instead. I must say, this SUV is better in every way compared to my old 4Runner. It has effortless power and a super smooth ride. The steering and braking are also much better than the competition. In fact, the drive train feels even better than the Landcruiser. Essentially, the 4WD V8 4Runner is the Landcruiser Prado.
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I've had the pleasure of owning a Toyota 4-runner for the past 16 years, and I must say it has been an incredible experience. My original '88 4-runner has clocked 191,000 miles and is still running beautifully. I can confidently say that I have never owned a more reliable vehicle. Recently, I purchased a new 4-runner to replace the old one, which had started rusting out. The new 4-runner is not only safe but also mechanically superior to most other vehicles out there. I have owned several other brands, including BMWs, Fords, Chevys, Dodges, and GMCs, but none of them compare to the Toyota 4-runner. It is, without a doubt, the best all-around vehicle on the market. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and long-lasting vehicle that won't disappoint. Thank you for considering Toyota!
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Hey there! This is actually my second review on this rig. My first one was at about 27,000 miles. I just wanted to share that this is my 5th Toyota (4th new Toyota and second 4Runner) and I have had no problems at all (knocking on wood). These are such reliable vehicles if you service them regularly. The maintenance cost is very reasonable too. I have found that the longer I own a Toyota, the more I like it. This one is still very solid. I did want to mention that I wasn't a fan of the OEM tires (Grand Trek) so I replaced them at 27k with the top of the line Toyos (HWY tread)... what a difference! It was like putting a new suspension on. I have been very pleased with the MPG (21.8). Actually, I get better city than hwy because I keep it under 20000 rpm in the city but have a lead foot on the hwy.
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I've driven quite a few different SUVs, but the Toyota 4Runner is definitely the only one that offers affordability, comfort, safety, and absolute pleasure to drive. The interior is very well designed, with all regularly used controls right at your fingertips. The trunk space is more than enough, especially with the back seats folded. The exterior design is catchy and cozy, so no matter whether you're a man or a woman driving, you always look good in it and feel even better! As for driving performance during the winter season, this car is just excellent, assuming you're a responsible and experienced driver. It's a very good buy - the best buy!
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I've always wanted to own a 4Runner ever since they came out and now I have one. It's the best purchase I've ever made. It's incredibly comfortable and I can't rate it highly enough. It's so easy to drive, rides well and looks great. What more could you ask for? I'll never be without my 4Runner and when this one wears out, whenever that is, I'll buy another one. Another plus is that it's easier for me to get in and out of than a regular car, which is great because I have a muscle disease. Honestly, I can't think of a single improvement I would make.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2005 Toyota 4runner problems:
Top 5 Problems Toyota 4Runner SUV 4th Generation 2003-09 ...
Mar 19, 2021 ... For More Info visit us at: http://1aau.to/h/csQ/ These are the top 5 problems with the 4th generation Toyota 4Runner, the SUV available in ...
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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 ...
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Aug 14, 2021 ... A Toyota Master Diagnostic Technician shares common problems that you should look for when buying or owning a 4th generation Toyota 4Runner ...
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Oct 2, 2012 ... Since exercising them is easier in the V8, it could be argued that V8s, as a group, are less susceptible to leaks. 2005 Limited V8 Bilstein 5100 ...
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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 2005 Toyota 4runner?
Pierce Macejkovic 2024-11-10
I purchased a new 2005 4Runner on December 5th and noticed that the front-end alignment was off when I drove it home. Additionally, there was a rattling noise in the front-end suspension that has yet to be resolved, despite taking the car back to the dealer three times. The fan belts also made a squealing noise, which the dealer said was due to glazing and replaced them at 2k miles. At 4k miles, the serpentine belt made a loud clicking noise, and the dealer replaced it, stating that it had a cracked belt. At 7k miles, the transmission made a creaking noise when shifting between drive and reverse, but the dealer said that the noise was normal. However, when parked on a hill, the noise worsened and sounded like grinding a 5-speed (even though it is an automatic transmission). This is my second 4Runner, and I traded in my 2002 model, which was a great car with 85k miles. The only issue I had with it was that the power antenna motor went out.
Jaren Champlin 2024-05-21
We chose the 4Runner based on headroom, but unfortunately, it turned out to be a bit of a surprise. Although the driver's side is adjustable, during the test drive, it seemed to be only marginally so. Despite not being particularly large, at 6'1
Jayden Koch 2024-05-17
This vehicle has some great features, such as its ease of driving around town, decent off-road capability, and ability to tow. However, there are some areas for improvement, such as the windows rattling when partially down and the engine vibrating at 1800 rpm. Additionally, the engine idles too high when cold and there may be expensive maintenance required in the future if you keep it for 90-100K miles, including a timing belt replacement and valve adjustment. It's worth noting that this may be one of the last vehicles to require a valve adjustment. Overall, it's a good vehicle with some minor issues to consider.
Mack O'Conner 2024-04-24
I have been repairing cars and trucks for my whole life, and unfortunately, my experience with my V8 AWD has not been great. Since reaching 15K miles, the vehicle has developed a severe driveline vibration that has only gotten worse. Despite visiting two dealerships and speaking with Toyota tech, I have been informed that there is currently no repair for this issue. It's been a frustrating experience, to say the least. Additionally, I have encountered a few other problems, such as rust on the OEM brushguard, a scratched instrument cluster lens, brake noise from the rear, hard shifts in the transmission, dry rot on all four Dunlop tires between the treads, and issues with the drive-by-wire system. However, I remain hopeful that these issues can be resolved. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Albert Franecki 2024-04-08
Although this was my second 4Runner and a significant improvement over the previous model, I encountered some issues. Unfortunately, the heater malfunctioned during the coldest time of the year, and it took two weeks to repair. Additionally, the windshield reservoir had a broken seal that needed to be replaced three times, and there was a recall for another problem. The most significant ongoing issue with this car is that if you drive with the sunroof and rear window open (the only way to avoid severe wind buffeting), fumes from the exhaust enter the vehicle, which is unpleasant. Despite my complaints to Toyota, they were unable to provide a satisfactory solution. It's a design flaw that cannot be overcome.