Are 4Runners high maintenance?

Not inherently. Toyota 4Runners are widely regarded for reliability and long-term durability, especially when they receive regular maintenance. The main factors that influence maintenance costs are the vehicle’s age, mileage, and how hard it’s been used (for example, off-road driving).

Maintenance profile of the 4Runner

Regular servicing for a 4Runner centers on keeping the drivetrain, fluids, and wear components in good shape. The following list highlights the typical maintenance tasks and their general intervals. These are guidelines, and you should always follow your specific model year’s owner manual.

Key service areas and intervals

• Oil and filter changes: about every 5,000 miles with conventional oil; 7,500–10,000 miles with full synthetic, depending on year, engine type, and driving conditions.


• Transmission fluid change: typically around 60,000 miles, or per the owner's manual, using Toyota-spec fluid.


• Differential fluids (front and rear): usually every 30,000–60,000 miles, or when drain/fill intervals indicate service is due.


• Transfer case fluid (4WD models): commonly every 30,000–60,000 miles, check manual for exact interval.


• Spark plugs: generally last 100,000 miles or more on many 4.0L V6 variants; replace if symptoms of misfire or during major service.


• Coolant: typically around 100,000 miles or 5–7 years, with checks for leaks and proper mix.


• Brake fluid: replacement every 2–3 years to maintain braking performance.


• Timing chain-related components: not part of a routine replacement interval, but tensioners/guards should be inspected if noise or performance issues arise.


• Suspension and steering components: shocks/struts, bushings, ball joints, and tie rods wear over time and should be inspected during annual service or before long trips.

Sticking to these service items and addressing wear promptly helps keep the 4Runner dependable and reduces the likelihood of costly, unexpected repairs.

Costs and ownership considerations

Maintenance costs for a 4Runner depend on age, usage, climate, and whether you use a dealer or an independent shop. The following points summarize the typical financial considerations for owners.

• Routine maintenance costs: a well-maintained 4Runner can require several hundred dollars per year for basic services, with higher costs if you choose dealer service or premium fluids and parts. In practice, many owners budget roughly $500–$1,000 annually for regular servicing, excluding major repairs.


• Tire, brake, and wear items: regular tire replacements and brake service can add up, especially if you run larger or off-road tires. Budget for these components as part of ongoing maintenance, depending on driving style and terrain.


• Major repairs: although not common at low mileage, aging vehicles may require significant work on the engine or transmission. Addressing issues early can prevent bigger, customer-impacting failures later.


• Labor costs: 4WD systems and Toyota-specific parts can carry higher labor charges at shops or dealerships, affecting total ownership costs.


• Value and warranty: 4Runners typically maintain strong resale value due to their reliability, and certified pre-owned programs can provide warranty coverage that reduces risk for buyers.

Overall, routine maintenance for a well-kept 4Runner is generally in line with other midsize SUVs. The largest cost driver is the vehicle’s age and how aggressively it’s used, not the model alone.

What to check when buying a used 4Runner

Used 4Runners can be solid picks, but a thorough pre-purchase inspection helps avoid surprise costs later. Focus on these areas to gauge maintenance status and potential trouble spots.

• Frame condition and underbody rust, especially on older models or those from areas with heavy road salt exposure.


• Complete service history and records for fluids, timing chain/tensioners, belts, and major components.


• 4WD system operation and transfer case function; look for leaks or abnormal noises when engaging four-wheel drive.


• Engine health indicators: check for coolant leaks, oil leaks, and consistent compression where applicable; review dipstick and oil color/consistency.


• Transmission behavior: smooth shifts and lack of slipping or hard kick-downs; inspect for transmission fluid condition and level.


• Suspension wear and steering alignment: worn bushings, ball joints, tie rods, and shocks/struts can signal upcoming repairs.

Having a trusted mechanic perform a comprehensive inspection, including a test drive and underbody check, is a prudent step before purchase.

Summary

In general, 4Runners are not considered high-maintenance compared with many peers. They reward consistent, timely service and careful use. The key to keeping ownership affordable is adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule, staying on top of fluids and wear components, and addressing issues early. With that approach, a well-maintained 4Runner can deliver many miles of reliable service and strong resale value.

Do Toyota 4Runners last long?

Yes, Toyota 4Runners are known for lasting a long time, often exceeding 200,000 miles and frequently reaching 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. Their longevity is due to their robust engineering, high-quality materials, and durable, body-on-frame construction. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and timely fluid replacements, is critical to achieving this high mileage.
 
Factors contributing to 4Runner longevity

• Engineering and materials: The 4Runner is built with durability in mind, using high-quality components designed for extensive use. 
• Body-on-frame construction: This type of construction is ideal for off-road use and contributes to the vehicle's ruggedness and long lifespan. 
• Regular maintenance: Following a consistent maintenance schedule, including oil changes, fluid replacements, and tire rotations, is the most crucial factor in ensuring the vehicle reaches high mileage. 
• Simplicity of older models: The 5th generation 4Runner, with its less complex technology compared to newer models, may be more likely to last longer, especially with very long-term ownership. 

What to consider for long-term ownership

• Stay on top of maintenance: Even with its reputation, a 4Runner needs routine care to last. This includes sticking to the recommended service intervals for everything from oil changes to transmission and differential fluids. 
• Newer generation engines: While the new turbocharged engine in the 6th generation is robust, diligent maintenance is even more critical to ensure its long-term reliability compared to the older V6. 
• Rust prevention: For drivers in areas with rust-inducing climates, taking steps to prevent rust is an important part of ensuring long-term durability. 

Is the Toyota 4Runner high maintenance?

Maintenance Insights: Are 4Runners High Maintenance? The Toyota 4Runner is known for being relatively low maintenance compared to other SUVs in its class. Over the first 10 years, a 4Runner will typically cost about $6,492 for maintenance and repairs, which is $1,716 less than the industry average for similar SUVs.

Are Toyota 4Runners actually reliable?

With proper care, most 4Runners exceed 200,000 miles, and many surpass 300,000—thanks to its body-on-frame build, proven powertrain, and Toyota's reputation for long-term reliability. These numbers aren't marketing fluff—they're backed by data, mechanics, and hundreds of real owner testimonials.

What year of 4Runner to avoid?

Years of the 4Runner to avoid include 2001-2005 due to severe rust, head gasket failures, and other issues; 2006 for suspension and crash rating problems; and 2015 for potential airbag inconsistencies and infotainment glitches. Other years with known problems are the early 1990s for head gasket issues and some later models like the 2010-2011 due to airbag defects. 
Model years to avoid

• 2001–2002: Poor crash test scores and significant rust problems. 
• 2003–2005: Widespread reports of frame rust, cracking dashboards, and head gasket failures. 
• 2006: Poor rear crash ratings, suspension problems, and potential speed control issues. 
• 2010–2011: Safety concerns related to airbag defects. 
• 2015: Reports of inconsistent airbag deployment and infotainment system issues. 

Common issues by year range

• 1988–1995: Prone to head gasket failures. 
• 2001–2005: Rust issues and head gasket problems are common. 
• 2006: Suspension problems, poor crash test results for rear impact, and speed control issues were reported. 
• 2010–2011: Airbag defects were a concern. 
• 2014–2017: Prone to brake system problems, such as warping rotors and brake failure/lock-up. 

Important considerations

• Rust: The 4th generation (2003–2009) is particularly susceptible to frame and body rust, with reports of severe corrosion beginning around 150,000 miles. 
• Safety: Look for years with more modern safety features, and thoroughly inspect older models for known defects like airbag issues in 2010-2011 and 2015 models. 
• Cost: Issues like head gasket failure can be expensive to repair.