How safe is an FJ Cruiser?
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a rugged, retro-styled SUV that has gained a loyal following for its off-road capabilities and unique design. But when it comes to safety, how does the FJ Cruiser measure up? In this article, we’ll explore the safety features, crash test ratings, and overall reliability of the FJ Cruiser to help you make an informed decision.
Safety Features of the FJ Cruiser
The FJ Cruiser is equipped with a variety of safety features designed to protect its occupants both on and off the road. Here are some of the key safety features you’ll find in most FJ Cruiser models:
- Advanced Airbag System: The FJ Cruiser includes front, side, and curtain airbags to provide comprehensive protection in the event of a collision.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): This system helps prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking, improving control and reducing stopping distances.
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC): VSC helps maintain stability by reducing engine power and applying brakes to individual wheels when it detects a loss of traction.
- Traction Control: This feature ensures that power is distributed to the wheels with the most grip, which is especially useful in off-road or slippery conditions.
- Rearview Camera: Many models come with a rearview camera to assist with parking and reversing safely.
Crash Test Ratings
The FJ Cruiser has performed well in crash tests conducted by reputable organizations. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the FJ Cruiser a solid 4-star overall safety rating in its crash tests. Additionally, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the FJ Cruiser high marks for its roof strength, which is a critical factor in rollover accidents—a common risk for SUVs.
Off-Road Safety Considerations
One of the FJ Cruiser’s standout features is its off-road capability. While this makes it a favorite among adventure enthusiasts, it also introduces unique safety considerations:
- High Ground Clearance: The FJ Cruiser’s elevated design allows it to navigate rough terrain but can increase the risk of rollovers if driven aggressively on uneven surfaces.
- Skid Plates: Factory-installed skid plates protect the undercarriage from damage, enhancing safety during off-road excursions.
- Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): The 4WD system provides better control and stability on challenging terrains, reducing the likelihood of getting stuck or losing traction.
Reliability and Long-Term Safety
In addition to its safety features, the FJ Cruiser is known for its reliability and durability. Toyota’s reputation for building long-lasting vehicles extends to the FJ Cruiser, making it a dependable choice for both daily driving and off-road adventures. Regular maintenance and inspections are essential to ensure that safety systems remain in optimal condition over time.
Conclusion
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a safe and reliable SUV that offers a range of features to protect its occupants. While it excels in off-road safety and durability, potential buyers should be mindful of its higher rollover risk due to its design. Overall, the FJ Cruiser is a solid choice for those seeking a unique, adventure-ready vehicle with dependable safety features.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best year FJ Cruiser to buy?
Best Toyota FJ Cruiser Model Years For Reliability
From a reliability perspective, the two best FJ Cruisers come from the end of production, specifically the 2013 and 2014 models.
What is the life expectancy of a Toyota FJ Cruiser?
250,000 miles
How long do Toyota FJ Cruisers last? On average, a Toyota FJ Cruiser will survive 250,000 miles.
What is the life expectancy of the FJ Cruiser engine?
200,000 miles
With routine maintenance and regular service, an FJ Cruiser engine can last well over 200,000 miles and even beyond. Toyota engines, including those found in the FJ Cruiser, are known for their robust construction, efficient design, and durability.
Why not buy an FJ Cruiser?
Lack of modern features: The FJ Cruiser was discontinued in 2014, which means that even the newest used models may not have some of the latest features that are common on newer vehicles. For example, you may not be able to get a backup camera or other advanced safety features on a used FJ Cruiser.
Do FJ Cruisers break down a lot?
While the Toyota FJ Cruiser is generally considered reliable, like any vehicle, its reliability can be influenced by factors such as maintenance history, driving habits, and usage conditions. With proper care and maintenance, the FJ Cruiser can provide many years of dependable service, both on and off the road.
Is the FJ Cruiser safe in a crash?
In crash testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the FJ Cruiser received the top rating of "Good" in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset and side-impact tests. Its seat/head restraint design was also rated "Good" for whiplash protection in rear impacts.
Is the Toyota FJ Cruiser safe?
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is generally considered to be a safe vehicle, especially in terms of its robust construction and off-road capabilities.
What is the most safety Japanese car?
Lexus and Subaru Get Top Safety Pick Awards
These three cars all achieved top marks across the boards in crash safety making them all models to keep an eye on for a jump in sales.
What is the common problem of a FJ Cruiser?
Depending on the model year, the Toyota FJ Cruiser commonly develops drivetrain problems like vibration and loud road noise. Other common issues for the Toyota FJ Cruiser include a shaky steering wheel, loose foot rest pedal, bad driveshaft, and shuddering engine.
Why was FJ discontinued?
Several factors contributed to Toyota's decision to drop the FJ Cruiser from its lineup… Declining Sales: While the FJ Cruiser initially gained popularity and received positive reviews for its rugged design and off-road capability, sales gradually declined over time.
