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Does Toyota 4Runner take regular gas?

Yes, the Toyota 4Runner can take regular gasoline. The 4Runner's engine is designed to run on regular unleaded fuel, which is the most common and affordable type of gas available at most fuel stations.


Fuel Requirements for the Toyota 4Runner


The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size SUV that has been in production since 1984. Across its various model years and engine configurations, the 4Runner has consistently been able to run on regular 87 octane gasoline. This is the standard recommendation from Toyota for the 4Runner, as the engine is not designed to require premium or higher-octane fuel.


Using regular 87 octane gas is the most cost-effective option for 4Runner owners. Premium fuel, which is typically 91 octane or higher, is not necessary and would not provide any additional benefits in terms of performance or fuel efficiency.


Reasons to Use Regular Gas in the Toyota 4Runner



  • Cost Savings: Regular gas is generally 20-30 cents per gallon cheaper than premium fuel, which can add up to significant savings over time, especially for a vehicle that has a large fuel tank like the 4Runner.

  • No Performance Benefit: The 4Runner's engine is not designed to take advantage of the higher octane rating of premium fuel, so there is no noticeable increase in power or acceleration by using it.

  • Manufacturer Recommendation: Toyota specifically recommends the use of regular 87 octane gasoline in the 4Runner. Using a higher octane fuel would not provide any tangible benefits.li>

In summary, the Toyota 4Runner is engineered to run perfectly well on regular 87 octane gasoline, and there is no need to pay the premium price for higher octane fuel. Sticking to the manufacturer's recommendation of regular gas is the most cost-effective choice for 4Runner owners.

At what mileage do 4Runners start having problems?


Rust/Corrosion and Body/Paint Problems
Rust and corrosion have been a huge problem for most 4th generation Toyota 4Runners, and they usually develop at around 154,000 miles.



Can I use 87 gas in my Toyota?


Edit: Generally people seem to think the reason Toyota recommended premium in some versions was to improve the advertised power and fuel efficiency numbers. There may be slight differences in the way the motors are tuned, but it's confirmed to be completely fine running 87, even if the fuel cap and manual recommend 91.



What happens if I accidentally put 87 instead of 91?


If you put lower-octane fuel into your high-octane vehicle, whether by mistake or to save money on gas, you'll probably notice the effects right away: things like poor fuel economy, reduced acceleration, and spark knock, which sounds like a high-pitched pinging or rattling noise.



Does the 2025 4Runner require premium gas?


But, it requires premium fuel. Also, the Land Cruiser has a 1.1-gallon smaller fuel tank (2025 4Runner has a 19-gallon tank), dropping its range from about 437 miles to 411.7.



What gas does 4Runner take on Reddit?


The 5th gen 4Runner V6 works fine with regular (87) gas and will work fine with high altitude regular at high altitude. 91 will work too but you are wasting your money as it is not required. The thing to be careful of is Ethanol content as more than 10% can harm engines that are not designed to use it.



Is premium fuel really required?


It's okay to use regular even if the manufacturer recommends using premium gas. But owners should check their owner's manual before making the switch, and remember that some automakers say premium is required.



Can you put regular gas in a 4Runner?


Modern engines are equipped with sensors that can take care of pre-ignition and minimize the damages, but there is a still a slight chance. So, bottom line is stick to the recommended 87 Octane. That is peak efficiency for your Toyota.



What is the weakness of the 4Runner?


Zero responsiveness, any other vehicle behind makes it clear that this thing can't keep up with traffic. Everything else walks away from it on grades. This is my biggest peev with the 4runner. The second is interior noise.



What year did the 4Runner have a bad frame?


If you own a Toyota 4Runner that was manufactured between 2003 and 2009, your vehicle is most likely having a defective undercarriage that is prone to excessive and premature rusting.



What gas does a 4Runner take?


So, bottom line is stick to the recommended 87 Octane. That is peak efficiency for your Toyota.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.