2012 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 In Japan, it was marketed as the Toyota Hilux Surf (Japanese: トヨタ・ハイラックスサーフ, Hepburn: Toyota Hairakkususāfu) and was withdrawn from the market in 2009.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 2012 Toyota 4runner problems
The 2012 Toyota 4Runner, while known for its reliability, has some common problems that owners have reported. These issues include braking system problems, rust and body paint problems, transmission issues, and damaged or cracked dashboards.
Braking system problems have been reported in the 2012 Toyota 4Runner, with many owners claiming that their brakes would fail or lock up temporarily.
Rust and body paint problems are also common in the 2012 Toyota 4Runner, particularly in the 4th-generation models.
Transmission issues have been reported in the 2012 Toyota 4Runner, with rough shifting and loss of power being common complaints.
Damaged or cracked dashboards are another issue that some owners of the 2012 Toyota 4Runner have reported.
In summary, while the 2012 Toyota 4Runner is known for its reliability, it is not without its common problems. These issues include braking system problems, rust and body paint problems, transmission issues, and damaged or cracked dashboards. Owners of the 2012 Toyota 4Runner should be aware of these issues and take steps to address them if they arise.
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 2012 Toyota 4Runner last?
A Toyota 4Runner can reach 300,000 miles with meticulous maintenance but expect closer to 200,000 miles. The 4Runner is susceptible to Toyota's rust issues. Owners say rust and corrosion are common, and noticeable after only a few years on the road.
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.
How many miles will a 2012 Toyota 4Runner last?
A Toyota 4Runner can reach 300,000 miles with meticulous maintenance but expect closer to 200,000 miles. The 4Runner is susceptible to Toyota's rust issues. Owners say rust and corrosion are common, and noticeable after only a few years on the road.
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 is the best model year for 4Runner?
The best used Toyota 4Runner years according to generation are as follows. The fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner received the least complaints from 2017 to 2021. In 2017, the complaints from customers dropped out of the double-digit range, and in 2021, only one complaint was lodged against it.
2012 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:
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Toyota 4runner vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2012 Toyota 4runner
The NHTSA has received 95 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Toyota 4runner. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Toyota 4runner vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-12
- VIN: JTEBU5JR0C5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Vehicle radiator light came on, shortly thereafter (5-10 min) vehicle overheated. Waited for vehicle to cool down, then drove home. The following day drove the vehicle to dealership. After an inspection the dealer stated the heads are cracked and needed to be replaced. When I asked how this could happen to a car that is regularly serviced with only 90k miles his response was "the original heads were made of weaker metal, the replacement ones are upgraded. We haven't had any come-backs on the ones we've replaced". I then asked, well how many vehicles has this impacted? Sounds like this should be covered under a recall? His response "We've had quite a few in the past month or so, seems to be happening when vehicles get to the 70-80k range." Sounds to me like Mazda knew the heads were made from inferior products which is why they upgraded the part on newer models.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-18
- VIN: JTEBU5JR4C5
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The Police Department called and arranged for the vehicle to be towed to an authorized dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the fuel pump had disintegrated and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall for the failure. No further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 87,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-13
- VIN: JTEBU5JR2C5
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: I was driving on the expressway, at about 70 to 75 miles. Suddenly the vehicle just slowed down to 40 miles per hour. I almost got hit from the back by a truck. But, then it suddenly picked back up. this has happened several times but the shop nor the dealer could tell me what was wrong. I finally took it to another shop and they said it was the fuel pump. So I start researching to see if there were recalls on the fuel pump and yes their are. But not for my vehicle year. They are for 2013 to 2020. What can I do about that? This started about 3 to 4 months ago.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-04
- VIN: JTEBU5JRXC5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2012 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO TAKATA FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG INFLATOR SAFETY RECALL. *LD THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO HAVE A RECALL NOTICE MAILED TO A CURRENT ADDRESS. *JS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-14
- VIN: JTEBU5JR5C5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE BACKUP CAMERA DOES NOT WORK CONSISTENTLY. WHILE NOT MOVING AND THEN SHIFITING INTO REVERSE, THE SCREEN DOES NOT CHANGE OR CHANGES TO SOMETHING OTHER THAN THE CAMERA. IT USUALLY STOPS WORKING AFTER SEVERAL STOPS AND SHIFTS INTO REVERSE. SOMETIMES IT GOES 2 OR 3 DAYS WITHOUT DISPLAYING AND THEN STARTS WORKING AGAIN ANOTHER DAY.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-01
- VIN: JTEBU5JR5C5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY VEHICLE FRAME AND GAS TANK PROTECTOR SHIELD IS RUSTING ABNORMALLY WAY FASTER THAN IT SHOULD BE. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-24
- VIN: JTEZU5JR5C5
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: LEAVING THE SONIC DRIVE IN PARKING LOT MY VECHILE DIED AS I WAS TURNING ON THE STREET. IT SHOWED THAT THE GAS TANK HAD A 1/4 TANK OF GAS BUT THE TANK WAS EMPTY
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-09
- VIN: JTEZU5JR3C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I AM THE OWNER OF A 2012 TOYOTA 4RUNNER WHICH HAS A CURRENT AIR BAG RECALL. THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE BEFORE OUR MILITARY PCS TRANSFER OVERSEAS. THEY BECAME AVAILABLE AFTER MY MOVE OVERSEAS, BUT TOYOTA HAS NOT BEEN ABLE TO ASSIST IN REPLACING MY AIRBAGS. I AM NOT GETTING READY TO TRANSFER BACK TO THE U.S. AND THIS MIGHT AFFECT MY SHIPMENT OF POV. ANY ASSISTANCE IS GREATLY APPRECIATED. -LCDR [XXX], USCG (LIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-30
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEBU5JR7C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 51 MPH, THE CONTACT STATED IN AN ATTEMPT TO AVOID A HEAD ON COLLISON, HE SWERVED, LOSING CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE SLIDING INTO A TREE IN THE SNOW. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY AT 18 MPH PER THE ELECTRONIC DATA RECORDER (EDR). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER DISLOCATED HIS LEFT SHOULDER AS WELL AS LEG INJURIES DUE TO HITTING THE DASHBOARD. THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SUSTAINED WHIPLASH. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE AND THE PASSENGER SOUGHT MEDICAL ATTENTION SEVERAL DAYS LATER. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTO BODY REPAIR SHOP. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED UNDER AN AIR BAGS RECALL AT TOYOTA OF PORTLAND (55 NE BROADWAY ST, PORTLAND, OR 97232) IN 2019. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AS THE EDR INFORMATION WAS RETRIEVED BY THEM AND A CASE WAS OPENED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 118,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-30
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEBU5JR7C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 50 MPH, WHILE IT WAS RAINING, WITH A VEHICLE DRIVING IN THE ONCOMING LANE, THE CONTACT SWERVED TO THE RIGHT OF THE ROADWAY NOT TO PREVENT A CRASH WITH THE ONCOMING VEHICLE. THE TIRE HIT A PATCH OF SNOW, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A TREE AT APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED LEFT HAND, SHOULDER, AND WHIPLASH INJURIES WHILE FRONT SEAT PASSENGER SUSTAINED A DISLOCATED SHOULDER. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE FLOOR SPACE UNDERNEATH THE DASHBOARD SHIFTED FORWARD SIX TO EIGHT INCHES INJURING THE PASSENGER'S RIGHT LEG. BOTH THE DRIVER AND THE PASSENGER REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT COLLISION CENTER AND LATER TOWED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY TO A TOW LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED A CASE NUMBER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 118,000.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-18
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEBU5JR1C5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: APPROXIMATELY 7:45 AM ON 9/18/19, MY SON WHILE COMING HOME FROM WORK, HAD AN ACCIDENT. I WAS NOT WITH HIM AT THE TIME. WHEN HE SHOWED UP AT HOME AFTER THE INCIDENT, HE EXPLAINED HOW HE WAS UNABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE BEFORE IT COLLIDED WITH THE VEHICLE IN FRONT. HE ARTICULATED THAT WHEN HE APPLIED THE BRAKES, IT WAS AS IF HE VEHICLE SPED UP. REMEMBERING YEARS BACK DURING A PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN, THIS WAS AN ISSUE WITH SOME OTHER TOYOTA'S. THE VERDICT WAS THE PLACE MATS INTERFERED WITH THE PEDALS. WHEN I RELEASED THE VEHICLE FROM THE TOW LOT, I CHECKED AND THIS WAS NOT THE CASE AS THE FLOOR MAT WAS SECURE. I HAVE DRIVEN TOYOTA VEHICLES SINCE THE EARLY NINETY'S AND HAVE OWNED FIVE. CHECKING FOR RECALLS AS A RESULT OF THIS I FOUND MULTIPLE INCIDENTS ON RECORD. THE PANIC BRAKING SYSTEM SURPRISED ME THE FIRST TIME I EXPERIENCED IT. LOW SPEEDS (25MPH OR LESS) I THOUGHT A TRUE ASSET BUT BECAUSE OF THE QUICK STOPPING, HIGHER SPEEDS WORRIED ME. NEVER NEEDED THE PANIC BRAKE BUT ONCE. SOME HOW, I BELIEVE THE COMMUNICATION (AI) WITH THE PANIC, ANTI-LOCK, BRAKING SYSTEM, AND THE WAY IT COMMUNICATES SPEED AND CONDITIONS IS THE CULPRIT. THE INSURANCE COMPANY IS IN POSSESSION OF THE 4RUNNER AND I STILL HAVE THE TITLE. PLEASE CONTACT ME TO ADVISE HOW TO PROCEED. THEY SEEM ANXIOUS TO GET THE TITLE BUT I AM ANIMATE TO KNOW IF CONDITIONS OR VEHICLE DEFECTS PLAYED A PART IN THE ACCIDENT. WHEN I MENTIONED THIS TO THE INSURANCE COMPANY, THEY AVOIDED THE ISSUE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-20
- VIN: JTEBU5JR3C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V005000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. LARRY H. MILLER COLORADO SPRINGS (15 E MOTOR WAY, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80905, (719) 623-4850) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-09
- VIN: JTEZU5JR4C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V006000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. SUN TOYOTA (3001 US-19, HOLIDAY, FL 34691, (727) 310-3070) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-30
- VIN: JTEZU5JR6C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: "TAKATA RECALL" I CONTACTED THE AUTO DEALER WHO SOLD THE VEHICLE, IN ORDER TO ADDRESS THE AIR BAG ISSUE. THAT WAS A COUPLE OF MONTHS AGO. AS OF TODAT (DEC 15, 2017) THE DEALER TAKES NO ACTION TO FIX IT.
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-08
- VIN: JTEBU5JR8C5
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE WIRING IN MY STEERING COLUMN CONNECTED TO THE HORN IN THE CLOCK SPRING HAS CAUSED MY HORN TO NOT WORK . I GOT MY CAR DIAGNOSED AND THEY SAID THAT THE CLOCK SPRING NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. IT COST $1020.31 TO GET FIXED. THEY TOLD ME IT WAS NOTHING I CAUSED OR COULD HAVE PREVENTED .I FEEL THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD TO ME AND EVERYONE ELSE OUT ON THE ROAD. IT'S ILLEGAL TO NOT HAVE A HORN AND TOYOTA REFUSES TO FIX IT . APPARENTLY THERE WAS A RECALL ON SOME OLDER MODEL 4RUNNERS FOR THE SAME PROBLEM. I FEEL UNSAFE KNOWING I CANNOT USE MY HORN AND THAT IT MAY CAUSE MY AIR BAG TO NOT DEPLOY . CAN SOMEONE PLEASE HELP ME BEFORE SOMEONE GETS SERIOUSLY INJURED.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-12
- VIN: JTEBU5JR2C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL WITH NO INCIDENTS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-17
- VIN: JTEBU5JR0C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-09
- VIN: JTEZU5JRXC5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V006000 (AIR BAGS) EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR REPAIR. THE CONTACT RECEIVED THE RECALL NOTIFICATION IN FEBRUARY OF 2017. THE DEALER (ERNIE PALMER TOYOTA, 1290 CASSAT AVE, JACKSONVILLE, FL, 32205) STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE UNAVAILABLE FOR THE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-09
- VIN: JTEBU5JR6C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-02
- VIN: JTEZU5JR5C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL - IS TAKING MUCH TOO LONG. MY CONCERN AND TOYOTA WARNING EXPRESSED ABOUT THE RECALL IS IT CREATES A DANGER TO FRONT SEAT PASSENGERS AND DOES NOT ALLOW ME TO USE THE VEHICLE FRONT SEAT. THIS IS VERY INCONVENIENT AS WELL AS UNSAFE. II HAVE CONTACTED MY DEALERSHIP AND KEEP GETTING NOTICES BUT NOTHING HAPPENS. WHEN WILL REMEDY BE AVAILABLE?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-01
- VIN: JTEZU5JR3C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL - I GOT A NOTICE IN THE MAIL ABOUT THIS DEFECT IN MY VEHICLE ALMOST A YEAR AGO. IT CLAIMS THAT WHOMEVER RIDES IN THE PASSENGER SIDE IS AT RISK OF POTENTIAL DEATH DUE TO FAULTY AIRBAG COMPONENTS. IT GOES ON TO WARN THAT NO ONE SHOULD RIDE IN THE PASSENGER SEAT UNTIL A REMEDY HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED TO FIX THE PROBLEM. THIS IS OUR MAIN VEHICLE AND MODE OF TRANSPORTATION. MY WIFE HAS TO REGULARLY RIDE IN THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE, PUTTING HER LIFE IN CONSTANT DANGER, BECAUSE WE HAVE NO OTHER OPTION AVAILABLE. I KEEP CHECKING WEEK AFTER WEEK TO SEE IF A PLAN HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED TO RECTIFY THIS SITUATION, BUT WEEK AFTER WEEK NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE. MY PATIENCE IS GROWING THIN, AND I FEEL HELPLESS TO KEEP MY FAMILY SAFE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-09
- VIN: JTEBU5JR2C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL - TOYOTA WILL NOT REPLACE MY TOYOTA 4R AIRBAGS. TOYOTA SAYS THEY HAVE NO PARTS & DON'T KNOW WHEN THEY WILL HAVE PARTS. I CAN'T KEEP DRIVING AROUND WITH DEFECTIVE AIR BAGS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-09
- VIN: JTEBU5JR2C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL. IT HAS BEEN 10 MONTHS SINCE THE RECALL WAS ANNOUNCED ON JANUARY 9, 2017, YET THERE IS STILL NO SOLUTION/REMEDY FOR IT BY TOYOTA. THE RECALL STATUS IS STILL LISTED AS "RECALL INCOMPLETE. REMEDY NOT YET AVAILABLE". IN THE MEANTIME, THOUSANDS OF US 4RUNNER DRIVERS ARE AT RISK TO INJURY OR DEATH DUE TO THIS DEFECT. THAT IS UNACCEPTABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-20
- VIN: JTEZU5JR3C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V006000 (AIR BAGS) AND STATED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME FRAME TO SCHEDULE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER (HENDRICK TOYOTA NORTH CHARLESTON, 7151 RIVERS AVE, NORTH CHARLESTON, SC 29406, (843) 804-6648) DID NOT GIVE A SPECIFIC DATE FOR WHEN THE PART WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER COULD NOT PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED DATE FOR WHEN THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WOULD RECEIVE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT WAS NOT EXPERIENCING A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. *BF UPDATED 8/21/18*JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-09
- VIN: JTEZU5JR8C5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL
2012 Toyota 4runner recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the 2012 Toyota 4runner.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2016 4Runner, 2003-2006 Tundra, 2003-2013 Corolla, 2009-2010 Corolla Matrix, 2004-2005 RAV4, 2002-2007 Sequoia, 2011-2013 Sienna, 2008-2012 Scion xB, 2008-2009 Lexus IS-F, 2007-2012 Yaris and Lexus ES350, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2002-2010 Lexus SC430, 2006-2012 Lexus IS250 and IS350 and 2010-2015 Lexus IS250C and IS350C vehicles. These vehicles had their driver or passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front driver inflator, front passenger airbag inflator, the airbag assembly, or the front passenger airbag sub-assembly and inflator. The recall began November 20, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are J0A, J0B, and J0C. Lexus' numbers for this recall are JLI, JLJ, and JLK.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Toyota 4Runner, 2014-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus IS-F, and 2014-2017 Lexus GX460 vehicles sold, or ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Toyota is also recalling certain 2011-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus IS250, IS350, 2011-2016 4Runner, 2011-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2011-2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus IS-F, 2011-2017 Lexus GX460, and 2011-2012 Lexus ES350 vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Toyota is also recalling certain 2010-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus IS350, 2010-2016 4Runner, 2010-2013 Lexus IS250, 2010-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2010-2014 Lexus IS-F, and 2010-2012 Lexus ES350 vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, or replace the air bag assembly. The recall began February 15, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are "Zone A" Toyota: G0P, Lexus: GLG; "Zone B" Toyota: G0R, Lexus GLH; "Zone C" Toyota: H0A, and Lexus: HLA.
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2011-2016 Toyota Tacoma and 4Runner vehicles equipped with accessory hood scoops installed by SET or SET dealers. The adhesive attaching the hood scoop may weaken, allowing the hood scoop to detach from the vehicle.
- Consequence: If the hood scoop detaches, it may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will mechanically fasten the scoop to the hood, free of charge. The recall began on September 1, 2017. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-954-429-2000. SET's number for this recall is SET17B.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2012 Toyota 4Runner, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Sienna, Yaris, Scion xB, Lexus ES350, GX460, IS-F, IS250, IS350, IS250C, IS350C, and Lexus LFA vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Toyota is recalling certain 2009 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Yaris, Yaris HB, Scion xB, Pontiac Vibe, Lexus, ES350, IS250, IS350, and IS-F vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Toyota is recalling certain 2006-2008 Lexus IS250 and IS350, 2007-2008 Lexus ES350, Toyota Yaris, Yaris HB, and 2008 Lexus IS-F and Scion xB vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify the Toyota, Scion and Lexus owners. General Motors will contact the Pontiac owners. Depending on the model, dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator or the air bag assembly, free of charge. The recall began on February 1, 2017. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331, or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. Toyota's numbers for final remedy for this campaign are G0P (Toyota Zone A), G0R (Toyota Zone B), H0A (Toyota Zone C), GLG (Lexus Zone A), GLH (Lexus Zone B) and HLA (Lexus Zone C).
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2015 Toyota 4Runner vehicles manufactured September 3, 2009, to December 1, 2014. The affected vehicles may be equipped with accessory exhaust tips installed by SET or SET dealers that may contact people and possibly burn them while they are standing behind the vehicle.
- Consequence: Contact with an exhaust tip may result in personal injury.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will install a re-designed exhaust tip that is smaller in diameter and is more recessed behind the bumper, free of charge. The recall began September 15, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET's number for this recall is SET16D.
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2015 Toyota 4Runner vehicles manufactured March 29, 2010, to July 30, 2015. The affected vehicles may be equipped with accessory exhaust tips installed by SET or SET dealers that may contact people and possibly burn them while they are standing behind the vehicle.
- Consequence: Contact with an exhaust tip may result in personal injury.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will install a re-designed exhaust tip that is smaller in diameter and is more recessed behind the bumper, free of charge. The recall began on September 22, 2015. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET's number for the recall is SET15D.
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.
- Consequence: If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.
- Remedy: Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
- Manufacturer: GULF STATES TOYOTA, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
- Summary: GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 4RUNNER AND SIENNA VEHICLES, EQUIPPED WITH NON-ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT REMOTE ENGINE STARTERS. A MALFUNCTION IN THE AUDIOVOX ELECTRONICS BRAND REMOTE ENGINE STARTER MODULE CAN PREVENT NORMAL COMMUNICATION OF THE VEHICLES CONTROLLER AREA NETWORK (CAN).
- Consequence: IF THIS CONDITION OCCURS, ANTILOCK BRAKING AND STABILITY CONTROL MAY BE LOST, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH. DRIVERS SHOULD RECEIVE DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS WARNING THEM OF A MALFUNCTION.
- Remedy: GULF STATES TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REMOTE ENGINE STARTER WITH A NEW ONE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT JUNE 4, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-444-1074.
Negative 2012 Toyota 4runner car reviews
Positive 2012 Toyota 4runner car reviews
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I bought my 4-Runner brand new a year ago and I absolutely love it! The Blizzard Pearl color with tan leather interior is a great combination. Although it's a bit bigger than older 4-Runners, the ride seems smoother for an SUV this size. The only issue I have is with the windshield wipers, as they don't have a good medium speed and are either too fast or too slow. However, the radio area is user-friendly, so I don't really mind that it doesn't look fancier. I plan on keeping this vehicle for a long time and I will definitely continue to buy 4-Runners in the future.
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I didn't buy the previous generation 4Runner because it looked too small and wimpy. However, my 2011 trail edition has been great and has handled several rough jeep trails with ease. The size is perfect for me and my needs. The V6 engine has enough horsepower to handle long grades. I would definitely consider getting this again when my lease expires.
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I really enjoy the 4Runner and it has met all my expectations.I wanted a truck with the SUV body and that is exactly what it is.I was also aware that the vehicle is a bit underpowered and am I fine with that.We also own a 2010 Highlander Limited.The Highlander is more like a car to me now than a crossover SUV.Anyone who complains about not having an assisted tail gate clearly should be buy another vehicle, or needs to go to the gym.
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I am an original owner. Vehicle now has over 310000 km and it is still the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. I have never had a single breakdown, and it has only been to the garage for tires, brakes, and oil changes. I fully expect to drive this another 2-300km as I am fully confident in my 4Runner. Like I said, it's the best ever!
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I chose to purchase the 4Runner as an alternative to the 2005 Nissan Pathfinder, which I had a negative experience with. While the 4Runner initially performed well, it experienced significant issues after just 17 days of use. The service engine and traction control lights illuminated, and the car experienced acceleration issues and excessive shaking. Despite a 12-day repair process, during which the entire transmission was replaced, the car continued to experience issues, including leaking red liquid and persistent shaking.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Toyota 4runner problems:
Common Issues - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum
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How reliable is the 2012 Toyota 4Runner? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Other years of Toyota 4runner
Are you having problems with your 2012 Toyota 4runner?
Harrison Baumbach 2024-09-04
I appreciate the effort put into this new car, but I must say that it doesn't quite match up to my 2008 SE model. In my opinion, this SUV is overpriced and under-equipped, lacking mud flaps, running boards, and gate assist. The plastic and cloth interior could be of better quality. While it may be suitable for first-time Toyota buyers, as someone who has owned three Toyotas, I have noticed a decline in quality and an increase in price. I was considering a 2012-2013 4Runner for my wife, but it doesn't seem like a family-friendly SUV. The Jeep and Honda Pilot both caught my eye, and I have a tough decision ahead of me, but I don't think I'll be going with Toyota this time around.
Deonte Halvorson 2024-04-15
I've been fortunate enough to have owned two other 4runners prior to this one. One was a 2000 model that I leased brand new, and the other was a 2003 model that I purchased with 18,000 miles on it. I drove it until it had 118,000 miles on it, at which point I decided to upgrade to a new 2011 model. While there have been some nice improvements (I especially love the added height!), I have noticed a decline in quality. For instance, I've been dealing with a rattling in the AC vent for the past 7 months, and despite the dealership's attempts to fix it (5 times and counting), the issue persists. Additionally, the paint chips quite easily, which is disappointing. Lastly, I'm not sure why they kept the long antenna. I've reached out to both the dealership and Toyota customer service, but unfortunately, they've only advised me to take it back to the dealership. It's a real shame...
Green Schinner 2024-04-04
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my '04 4Runner. It has been an amazing SUV for me, with 130,000 miles and still going strong. I've never had any issues with it, and it has been incredibly reliable. Recently, I decided to pass it down to my daughter and look for a new SUV. I did a lot of research and read reviews for the '10 and '11 4Runner, as well as the Jeep GC and BMW X5. After test driving all three, I ended up purchasing the '11 4Runner and I have to say, I'm really happy with my decision. While there were some differences between my '04 and the '11, such as the lack of lighted running boards and locking gas cap, I found that the '11 had a wider interior and much more comfortable leather seats. The engine is a bit different, but overall I'm really satisfied with my purchase. Thanks for listening!
Jared Reilly 2024-02-14
I recently purchased a New 2012 4runner Limited over the SR5 for its reputation of being a smoother ride. However, I have noticed that the vehicle pulses through the steering wheel at all speeds, which is quite concerning. Despite speaking to Toyota and having it back to the dealership twice, I have been told that this is just the way the truck rides and that I should accept it. As someone who has owned 12 new trucks before, I can confidently say that none of them rode this poorly, although none of them were Toyotas. I believe that the 20
Joel Medhurst 2024-01-15
On June 15th, 2012, Toyota released TSB-0089-12, which affects 2010-2012 4Runners and calls for the replacement of the full transmission. If you're affected by this, you can find more information at www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/89301-has-anyone-noticed-10.html. I understand that this can be frustrating, especially since you traded in your 4Runner for a 2014 Subaru Forester 2.0XT Touring after 3 years of ownership, but I hope this information helps.