2020 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 In Japan, it was marketed as the Toyota Hilux Surf (Japanese: トヨタ・ハイラックスサーフ, Hepburn: Toyota Hairakkususāfu) and was withdrawn from the market in 2009.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 2020 Toyota 4runner problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2020 Toyota 4Runner, here are the common problems reported:
- Rodents Chewing on Soy-Based Wiring: Another common problem is rodents chewing on the soy-based wiring of the 2020 4Runner, typically reported around 5,000 miles. The soy-based wire coatings attract rodents more than traditional plastic coatings, leading to potential wiring damage. Repair costs can range from $50 to $1,000, depending on the severity of the damage.
- Chipping Paint on Front Bumper: Some owners have noticed chipping paint on the front bumper of their 2020 Toyota 4Runner, particularly within the first 10,000 miles. The design of the bumper makes it susceptible to stone chips at highway speeds. Repairing paint chips may involve repainting the affected areas, costing around $1,000. Some owners opt to install paint protection film early on to prevent such damage, which typically costs about $500.
- Transmission Problems: The fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner, including the 2020 model, has been reported to have transmission issues. Owners have complained about transmission slipping or not shifting properly, leading to poor performance. This problem can significantly impact the driving experience and may require costly repairs.
- Faulty Brakes: Some owners have noted that the fifth-generation 4Runner, including the 2020 model, has brake issues. Slow brake response can be unsafe while driving and may result from various factors like low brake fluid or damaged brake pads. Addressing brake problems promptly is crucial for safety and vehicle performance.
- Infotainment System Problems: Issues with the infotainment system, such as freezing, crashing, or slow response, have been reported by some owners of the fifth-generation 4Runner. Specifically, echoing Bluetooth during hands-free calls has been a common complaint. While some of these issues were addressed in the 2020 models with the introduction of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, earlier models may still face these challenges.
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.
Is it worth buying a 2020 4Runner?
Is the 4Runner a good value? The 4Runner costs more than some of the crossovers it competes with, but in return you get more in terms of off-highway and towing performance. It also has an incredibly strong resale value, so much of the extra you'll pay up front will come back when you move on to something else later on.
Are there any recalls on a 2020 Toyota 4Runner?
Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2020-2022 4Runner vehicles equipped with 20-inch Black Gunner Wheels. The load carrying capacity modification labels are incorrect.
How many miles will a 2020 4Runner last?
Overall, Toyota's long-time reputation for making reliable vehicles overrides any foreseeable rust issues and confirms that the 4Runner can last 200,000 miles. If you put effort into maintaining your 4Runner, it may even go beyond 300,000 miles.
Do Toyota 4Runners have issues?
Many owners have complained about issues in the front brake calipers and front brakes, warping problems, and premature wear in the front brake rotor and brake master cylinder. Fourth generation 4Runners are notorious for brake problems, especially the 2003-2005 model years. Image Source: Toyota.
Is it worth buying a 2020 4Runner?
Is the 4Runner a good value? The 4Runner costs more than some of the crossovers it competes with, but in return you get more in terms of off-highway and towing performance. It also has an incredibly strong resale value, so much of the extra you'll pay up front will come back when you move on to something else later on.
Are there any recalls on a 2020 Toyota 4Runner?
Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2020-2022 4Runner vehicles equipped with 20-inch Black Gunner Wheels. The load carrying capacity modification labels are incorrect.
Do 4Runners have transmission problems?
If you don't routinely change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2016 Toyota 4Runner transmission will slip.
2020 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:
- Unknown or other problems
- Service brakes problems
- Air bags problems
- Steering problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2020 Toyota 4runner vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2020 Toyota 4runner
The NHTSA has received 29 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Toyota 4runner. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2020 Toyota 4runner vehicles.
BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-22
- VIN: JTEBU5JR6L5
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated that while reversing, he became aware that the rear-view camera failed to display an image. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 50,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-10
- VIN: JTEBU5JR6L5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, she became aware that the electronic power steering was not functioning properly, requiring increased effort to maneuver the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the front timing cover and found that the part was leaking fluid. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 88,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-20
- VIN: JTEBU5JR8L5
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I am writing to express my deep concern and frustration regarding the X-REAS suspension system in the Limited Edition 4Runner manufactured by Toyota. Specifically, I am addressing the alarming issue of suspension failure experienced in vehicles at just 45,000 miles, posing significant safety risks to drivers and passengers alike. The X-REAS suspension failure in the Limited Edition 4Runner is not merely an inconvenience; it is a serious safety hazard that puts lives at risk. The abrupt failure of the suspension system at relatively low mileage creates an unpredictable driving experience, jeopardizing the stability and control of the vehicle. This instability can lead to loss of control, especially at high speeds or during emergency maneuvers, resulting in potentially catastrophic accidents. Furthermore, it is deeply troubling to discover that Toyota may have been aware of this issue and yet failed to take proactive measures to address it. The apparent negligence on the part of Toyota in acknowledging and rectifying the problem reflects a blatant disregard for consumer safety. By continuing to produce and sell vehicles equipped with a defective suspension system, Toyota is knowingly putting drivers, passengers, and other road users in harm's way. As a concerned consumer and advocate for road safety, I urge the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to launch a thorough investigation into the X-REAS suspension failure in the Limited Edition 4Runner. It is imperative that Toyota be held accountable for its failure to address this issue promptly and effectively. Furthermore, I implore the NHTSA to take decisive action to ensure the safety and well-being of all motorists by compelling Toyota to initiate a comprehensive recall and repair program for affected vehicles. Every individual has the right to feel safe and secure while operating a motor vehicle.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-02
- VIN: JTEBU5JR4L5
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Similar to NUMEROUS newer ('12+) vehicles, the instrument cluster gauge needles light up even when the headlights are not on. Therefore when driving the vehicle, the driver isn't aware that the headlights are NOT ON at night (and there are no DRL/daytime running lights to warn oncoming drivers), which means that the vehicle is driving at night WITHOUT any lights on. People are going to be killed this way; both the driver and innocent motorists driving near this vehicle. I nearly got in a head-on collision last night because the vehicle headlights weren't on after sundown (but I listed crash, fire, fatalities to get your attention, as I submitted this same issue about 8years ago for a similar incident with a Nissan Leaf that narrowly missed running me over as it was driving without any headlights on/LED gauge cluster was bright enough to see the drivers face, and NOTHING has changed in the auto industry for safety on this widespread issue). How can the automotive industry and NHTSA have let this happen? Instrument cluster gauges should not have ANY backlighting unless the headlight switch is physically activated by the driver. This issue is even worse with the new LED/virtual gauge cluster screens.
WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
- VIN: JTEBU5JR3L5
- Components: WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Took the vehicle in 3/19/2021 @ 6076 Mileage for a steering wheel shake, the dealer has tried numerous times to fix it by trying to balance the tire and rotate the tires, it only masks the problem and the steering wheel shake comes back. The shake can happen at any MPH. I finally took it to another shop called discount tire and dynamic 4x4 alignment. Discount tire said there was coupling in the stock tires Nitto Grappler, so I replaced the tires with Michelin Defenders this only masked the problem. On 9/25/2023 a local Toyota Technician and I took a ride together to see if he could duplicate the problem. At 67 and 68 we were able to duplicate the problem when the steering wheel shook the passenger side of the car shook. The technician and I swapped and I was able to duplicate the problem as well. I was stopped at a red light and took off after the tires were warmed up. When I reached 67 or 68 mph the steering wheel began to shake and he confirm that the vehicle shook too on the passenger side. I have experienced shaking in the steering wheel previously but now its being felt in the vehicle too. Toyota sent out a technician on the last issue and I was told they found something and then I was told there was nothing. Please see notes below as I have documented every occurrence and can provide maintenance documentation too.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-29
- VIN: JTEBU5JR3L5
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated upon taking the vehicle to the dealer for a routine inspection, he was informed that the front coil spring was fractured and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that 50% of the cost for the repair would be covered. The failure mileage was approximately 53,000.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-18
- VIN: JTEBU5JR5L5
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: System malfunction—the ‘brake’ alert flashed and chirped when there was NO obstacle on the road. Safety issue—I was about to hit the brakes but I realized in time there was no need. Confirmed? No not at this time. Possibly have it reviewed at next maintenance. No inspection yet. This has occurred infrequently in the past
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-22
- VIN: JTEBU5JR2L5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have attempted to use the SOS button 4 times in different days and in different locations, only connecting once and the rep. claimed she couldn't hear me that only time I "connected." The system causes premature battery drain (even while the car is off, it draws power) and doesn't work in its intended way as a safety/rescue tool. This is an expensive feature that fails to work while locked in with an inferior cellular service provider through an exclusive contract between Toyota and AT&T.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-01
- VIN: JTEBU5JR2L5
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS
- Summary: The car shakes when going at speeds as low as 48 mph and as high as 68 mph that I know of. Typically, it shakes heaviest from the mid-50 mph range to the mid-60 mph range. I rarely Drive the full speed limit for energy conservation reasons, so I cannot tell you how much higher it goes on the range. The car has had the wheels rebalanced three times (installation, upon purchase from the dealer and on a take back to the dealership), the alignment has been checked twice and I have spoken to the tire manufacturer about the tires being the cause of this. I took the tires into an authorized retailer to no avail. With everything checked, including a road force balancing of the tires, my 4Runner still shakes disturbingly. I called a service advisor at another Toyota dealership today (they were not the seller). In describing the problem to him, he cut me off and said it is a known problem. He went on to share that the dealership had been in contact with Toyota Corporate. It is disturbing for me as a driver, my passengers and from an engineering standpoint; shaking can never be good. It could easily cause premature and unnecessary wear to drive, suspension and steering parts. It could lead to a serious and fatal accident over time. The shaking, I imagine, could also lead to a problem in less than ideal driving conditions such as rain, snow or ice as well.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-20
- VIN: JTEZU5JR1L5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: While driving down a road a mango fruit fell from a tree and hit the front glass causing it to break. The glass also broke toward the inside there were pieces of glass on the dash inside the vehicle. This could of cause me injuries.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-23
- VIN: JTEBU5JR1L5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The sunroof suddenly shattered while driving. The interior glass cracked and rained down on me. The exterior glass cracked. It sounded like a gunshot. It caused cuts, fear from the loud bang and the inability to drive the vehicle out of fear of the remaining glass falling and for protection from rain or other elements
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-12
- VIN: JTEBU5JR5L5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Break problem after letting car sit overnight and coming up to a stop sign or anything slowly pedal goes to the floor If you pump tge pedal the brakes will come back and seem to work fine except when sitting In a drive-through line with your foot on the brake pedal it'll slowly lose brake pressure and you'll start creeping forward until the pedal starts going lower and lower And requires excessive pressure to hold vehicle stopped. It doesn't happen all the time but it is fairly consistent. Especially through the drive thru line is when you notice it Took to dealership dealership said there was nothing wrong with it
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-23
- VIN: JTEBU5JR8L5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I was driving down the road and heard a Loud bang. When I got home I was looking for the source and there was a big hole in the sunroof from the sunroof shattering. There was no contact from anything the sunroof just shattered on its own.
AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-02
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: jtezu53r2l5
- Components: AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: The contact owned a 2020 Toyota 4runner. The contact stated that while the driver who was her father crashed into another vehicle, the air bags failed to deploy. In addition, the contact stated that the braking alert for getting too close to a vehicle failed to illuminate. A police report was filed. The contact stated that the driver sustained two injuries and the contact sustained two injuries. Medical attention was sought. The contact was unaware of the other passengers from the other vehicle sustained any injuries. The vehicle was damaged and towed to a tow lot. The dealer was contacted and informed of the failure. The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 13,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-27
- VIN: JTEBU5JR8L5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Thirteen months ago I purchased a 2020 4 Runner from Parker Toyota. Last week my sunroof exploded for no reason, there were no rocks or debri that caused this. This is clearly a manufacturers defect of the glass used. I am thankful I wasn’t covered in shattered glass or worse, cause an accident. The picture shows my shattered sunroof, it has tape holding it together so it didn’t cave in on me.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-01
- VIN: JTEBU5JR6L5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: UNKNOWN but not really a "Safety Issue" in the true sense of the meaning. Front Brakes. Loud squeal from brakes under cold climate conditions. Dealership has inspected but nothing found. Mentioned NHTSA # 10190453 & TSB #T-TT-0636-20 REV to the service manager but they stated that there is/was no official "TSB" for brake squeal issue on my vehicle. I believe they were referring to a Toyota "T-SB-#######", rather than the "T-TT-0636-20 REV". I did not get any info from dealership since no official "TSB" is published?
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-07
- VIN: JTEBU5JR7L5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Steering wheel shakes at highway speeds (58-64mph). Steering wheel has shaken as much as 1.5 inches back and forth, causing vehicle to shake while driving at high speeds. The problem has been confirmed by the dealer and has been in 6 times to try to fix it with no change. The problem started the second week we owned it. It gets progressively worse. Tires can be balanced and it comes right back a few days later. Toyota corporate states that it is a known issue and “is a characteristic of the vehicle” cause by “harmonics.” Tires have been road force balanced, tire/wheels swapped, driven with no drive shaft, driven with computer to turn off torque converter, drive shaft swapped- all with no change. Toyota would not agree to provide loaner car after requesting buyback arbitration. I was told it would take 30-45 days to get arbitration started, and was told to drive the vehicle during that time period. I was told to return loaner and drive 4Runner that was still shaking. I asked dealer to give me something in writing saying that the vehicle was safe and mechanically sound before I left, and they refused.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-01
- VIN: JTEBU5JRXL5
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I BOUGHT MY 4RUNNER BRAND NEW LAST YEAR. TO CHANGE THE DIFFERENTIAL FROM H4F TO H4L, I STOP THE CAR AND CHANGE THE SHIFTER INTO NEUTRAL POSITION. ONCE IN NEUTRAL POSITION, I CHANGE THE DIFFERENTIAL KNOB H4F TO H4L. THEN I START DRIVING AGAIN. MY EXPECTATION IS THE WHEN SHIFTING THE DIFFERENTIAL FROM H4F TO H4L, THE DASHBOARD LIGHT WILL CHANGE FROM YELLOW TO GREEN JUST LIKE MY PREVIOUS 4RUNNER. BUT THIS MODEL DOES NOT CHANGE FROM YELLOW TO GREEN TO IDENTIFY SUCCESSFUL TRANSFER OF GEAR FROM HIGH TO LOWER GEAR. THE DASHBOARD COLOR STAYS YELLOW. I BELIEVE THIS IS A DEFECT. I BELIEVE THERE IS A DEFECT IN DIFFERENTIAL LOCKING MECHANISM OR AT THE VERY LEAST THE LELECTRONICS THAT UPDATES THE DASHBOARD. THE NEW MODELS ALSO HAVE SAME ISSUE. I BELIEVE ANYTIME YOU SEE A YELLOW LIGHT IN THE DASHBOARD, IT IS A WARNING MESSAGE THAT SOMETHING IS WRONG OR WILL BE WRONG IN THE FUTURE. TOYOTA DEALERS SAID THIS IS A STANDARD COLOR BUT I DONT BELIEVE BECAUSE THEIR MANUAL SAYS YELLOW COLOR MEANS WARNING.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-14
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEBU5JR6L5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH, WHEN SHE SLID OFF THE ROAD AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THE FRONT DRIVER AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DRIVE TO HER RESIDENCE. NO POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT DID NOT SUSTAINED ANY INJURIES OR SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 19,000.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-08
- VIN: JTEBU5JRXJ5
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: ON DECEMBER 8 , 2020, THE ABOVE REFERENCED VEHICLES ENGINE STALLED THREE TIMES WHILE IN DRIVING MODE. ON ALL THREE OCCASIONS, THE VEHICLE WAS MOVING AT A SPEED LESS THAN 40 MPH. THE VEHICLE RESTARTED AFTER EACH STALL, WHEN THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS PLACED IN PARK. THE VEHICLE SEEMED TO BE RUNNING OUT OF FUEL AND/OR HAVING FUEL PUMP PROBLEMS. THE FUEL LEVEL OF THE VEHICLE WAS HALF FULL. I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE OCTOBER 21, 2020. TODATE, I HAVE EXPERIENCED 5 ENGINE STALLS.THE VEHICLE HAD APPROXIMATELY 28.700 MILES. THE MALFUNCTIONING OF THE VEHICLE IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM THAT HAS BEEN REPORTED THE DEALER AS WELL AS BUTLER TOYOTA IN MACON GEORGIA WHO INFORMED ME THAT THEY WERE NOT SURE IF THEY COULD DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM WITHOUT KEEPING IT FOR WEEKS, POSSIBLY AT MY PERSONAL EXPENSE. I CHOSE NOT TO LEAVE THE VEHICLE UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES. I WILL RETURN THE CAR TO THE SELLER UNDER THE 90 DAY CERTIFIED WARRANTY AGREEMENT. ALSO, I WILL CONTINUE TO PURSUE WHATEVER REMEDY TOYOTA MAY PROVIDE UNDER THE VEHICLES REMAINING WARRANTY. I TRADED A 2013 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER ON THE VEHICLE IN QUESTION. I AM A VERY DISAPPOINTED TOYOTA CUSTOMER WHO IS VERY CONCERNED ABOUT THE SAFETY OF THE VEHICLE IN QUESTION.
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-07
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEBU5JR7L5
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I WAS IN A TRAFFIC ACCIDENT AND MY AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-31
- VIN: JTEBU5JR2L5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG ON THIS CAR IS DEACTIVATED AUTOMATICALLY WHENEVER THE FRONT PASENGER WEIGHS LESS THAN 100 LBS. WE DID NOT KNOW ABOUT THIS FEATURE WHEN WE BOUGHT THE CAR. MY WIFE, WHO IS 65 YEARS OLD, WEIGHS ABOUT 95 LBS AND WHENEVER SHE SITS IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT, A WARNING LIGHT APPEARS INDICATING THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG HAS BEEN DEACTIVATED. WE CONTACTED THE DEALER AND TOYOTA AND WERE TOLD THAT THIS SYSTEM WAS DESIGNED TO AUTOMATICALLY PROTECT SMALLER CHILDREN WHO MAY RIDE IN THE FRONT SEAT. UNFORTUNATELY, THIS SYSTEM PREVENTS MY WIFE FROM USING WHAT I CONSIDER TO BE AN ESSENTIAL SAFETY FEATURE (THE FRONT AIR BAG). THE NHTSA SHOULD MANDATE THAT MANUFACTURERS PROVIDE US WITH A SWITCH OR A SYSTEM SETTING THAT ALLOWS THE DRIVER TO ACTIVATE THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG AND OVERRIDE THIS "CHILD SAFETY FEATURE". IT CERTAINLY IMPACTS MY WIFE'S SAFETY EVRYTIME SHE SITS IN THE "DEATH SEAT".
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-13
- VIN: JTEBU5JR6L5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHILE SLOWLY SLOWING THE VEHICLE DOWN, THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT COMPLETELY TO THE FLOOR AND LOST ALL BRAKING. AS SOON AS PEDAL IS BROUGHT BACK UP AND PUMPED ONCE OR TWICE, BRAKES REGAINED FUNCTION. NO WARNING OR SAFETY LIGHTS WENT OFF. THIS HAS OCCURRED 3 DIFFERENT TIMES WITH 2 DIFFERENT DRIVERS.
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-21
- VIN: JTEBU5JR5L5
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: BRAKES ARE NOT FUNCTIONING PROPERLY, THE PEDAL GOES WAY DOWN TO THE FLOOR BEFORE ENGAGING ANY BRAKES. AT IDLE THE BRAKES SEEM TO FUNCTION FINE, AFTER DRIVING AT ABOUT 10MPH THE BRAKES GO BACK TO NOT WORKING AGAIN. DEALERSHIP SAYS THE BRAKES ARE "NORMAL" AND I WAS TOLD TO DRIVE IT HOME EVEN THOUGH IT WAS STILL HAVING THE ISSUE. TRANSMISSION IS NOT SHIFTING PROPERLY EITHER, IT GETS STUCK AT 4000-5000 RPM SOMETIMES AND THEN SHIFTS INTO THE NEXT GEAR. THE BRAKING ISSUE OCCURRED EVEN WORSE GOING DOWN A HILL AT 55MPH RIGHT BEFORE IT WENT IN FOR SERVICE.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-02
- VIN: JTEBU5JRXL5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING WHEEL SHAKES DRIVING 58-62MPH ON HIGHWAY
2020 Toyota 4runner recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2020 Toyota 4runner.
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2020-2022 4Runner vehicles equipped with 20-inch Black Gunner Wheels. The load carrying capacity modification labels are incorrect. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
- Consequence: An incorrect label may lead to unintentionally overloading the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: SET will mail replacement labels to owners, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 4, 2022. Owners may contact SET's customer service at 954-429-2000. SET's number for this recall is SET22A.
Negative 2020 Toyota 4runner car reviews
Positive 2020 Toyota 4runner car reviews
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Great car!!
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That's the best suspension I've ever seen on a vehicle!
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If you're in search of a reliable, strong, and bulletproof truck or SUV that can handle any terrain while also being a great daily driver, then look no further than this vehicle. It's the perfect size for both family needs and hauling equipment, and it's nimble enough to navigate through any trail or crowded city street. I personally have mine lifted 3 inches with 33 inch Falken Wildpeak AT3W tires, and I couldn't be happier with it. The interior is simple yet functional, with large knobs and buttons that are easy to use even with gloves on. The seats are comfortable, and the ride height provides a commanding view of the road. It's no wonder that 4Runner sales have continued to soar year after year, despite the fact that the design has remained largely unchanged since 2010.
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This is my third 4R, and I must say, they have all been exceptionally reliable with great resale value. I absolutely love the power rear window, and the 2020 model now comes with push button start and smart key, along with a nice touchscreen and center driver's info. While it doesn't have lane assist, it does have laser cruise control with lane alert. If you're looking for more of a street SUV, you might want to consider a Highlander or a Honda Pilot or Passport, but overall, I'm very happy with my 4R.
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Your 2020 4runner reminds me of my buddy's 1978 Chevy Blazer that he had in high school in the late 80s. It was a large, slow vehicle with an inline 6 and 3-speed on the column, and it used a lot of gas. However, it was simple and reliable, and even though it didn't have air conditioning, it had the electric rear window (like the 4runner) that provided pretty good ventilation. I have lots of good memories of filling it up with camping equipment and towing the ATVs up north or a cooler full of beer to the beach. Now, 34 years later, I am doing the same thing with my 4runner. I guess I never quite grew up!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2020 Toyota 4runner problems:
2020 Toyota 4Runner Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Mar 7, 2023 ... Nice vehicle and dependable BUT.... 5 speed transmission is extremely outdated and you get VERY poor mileage. No power tail gate, no heated ...
2020 model issues/observations - Page 3 - Toyota 4Runner Forum ...
Jan 16, 2020 ... The dealer should have adjusted the headlights when they installed the shocks. I got it fixed but was never happy with the headlights after that ...
2020 Toyota 4Runner Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2020 Toyota 4Runner? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2020 Toyota 4Runner Reliability - Consumer Reports
The rotors on the factory brakes warp easily. Toyotas warranty fix is to turn the rotors! Consequently shaving more metal off the rotor therefore exacerbating ...
Suspension issues with the 2020 4Runner? | Toyota 4Runner ...
Dec 15, 2021 ... You might run into issues with your suspension system down the road. Your Limited has a special suspension system called XREAS that no other ...
Other years of Toyota 4runner
Are you having problems with your 2020 Toyota 4runner?
Carroll Ruecker 2024-04-14
Although I understand that you have had some issues with your truck, it is important to note that these problems are not representative of the quality that Toyota is known for. It is unfortunate that you have experienced these difficulties, but I assure you that Toyota is committed to resolving any issues that may arise. I recommend reaching out to Toyota's customer service team to discuss your concerns and explore potential solutions. Thank you for bringing this to our attention, and we hope to have the opportunity to restore your faith in Toyota.
Merritt Cormier 2024-03-16
Toyotas are great! However, I had a scary experience with my 4Runner when it almost flipped going 70 miles per hour. While they are cool looking SUVs, I found that driving over 63 miles an hour on the interstate can feel unstable when changing lanes. I have owned two 4Runners so far, a 2016 limited edition and a 2020 4Runner TRD, and experienced the same issue with both. As a result, I decided to sell my 2020 4Runner TRD back to the dealership.
Brent Kassulke 2024-02-24
I recently purchased a 2020 Toyota 4Runner, but unfortunately, I encountered a major issue just 13 days later. The PSC sensor light on my dashboard turned on, even though the control switch was in the 'on' position. After some research, I discovered that this is a common problem with Toyota vehicles, not just 4Runners. It seems that even a small amount of rain can cause the sensor to malfunction, which is a hazardous problem as it can cause the vehicle to break on its own, making it dangerous. Despite this experience, I remain open to considering other car brands in the future.
Frederik Cummerata 2024-02-23
The 2020 4Runner has room for improvement in terms of gas mileage and brake responsiveness. It would benefit from a more advanced transmission to handle hills and improve fuel efficiency. Additionally, the radar control cruise control feature could be refined to avoid detecting slow-moving vehicles in other lanes. Overall, while the vehicle has good resale value, there is room for improvement in its design and features.
Izaiah Douglas 2024-02-22
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to let you know that there have been some concerns about the security of the 2020 4Runner. It seems that some people have reported that it can be broken into using a screwdriver, which can cause damage to the handle and pop the actuator up, disarming the alarm. Unfortunately, Toyota has been unwilling to take responsibility for this issue, and it can cost up to $1,400 to fix. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns!