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Is 4Runner unibody or body-on-frame?

The Toyota 4Runner is a body-on-frame SUV, meaning it has a separate frame and body construction rather than a unibody design. This traditional body-on-frame architecture is a key feature that distinguishes the 4Runner from many modern crossover SUVs that use a unibody construction.


What is Body-on-Frame Construction?


Body-on-frame construction is a vehicle design where the body of the vehicle is mounted on a separate frame, rather than being integrated into a single unibody structure. This design is commonly used for trucks, SUVs, and other vehicles that need to handle heavy loads, towing, and off-road use. The separate frame provides a robust foundation that can better withstand the stresses of these demanding applications.


Advantages of Body-on-Frame Design



  • Durability and Strength: The separate frame construction makes body-on-frame vehicles more durable and able to handle heavy loads, towing, and off-road use.

  • Customization: The modular design allows for more customization, as the body and frame can be modified independently.

  • Repairability: If the body is damaged, it can be replaced without having to replace the entire frame.


These advantages make body-on-frame vehicles well-suited for applications that require ruggedness, versatility, and the ability to handle heavy loads.


Why the Toyota 4Runner Uses Body-on-Frame


The Toyota 4Runner is designed for off-road capability, towing, and hauling, which are all areas where the body-on-frame construction provides significant benefits. The separate frame allows the 4Runner to have a more robust and durable chassis, which is essential for its intended use cases. This construction also enables the 4Runner to maintain its off-road prowess and towing capacity, which are important features for many 4Runner buyers.


In summary, the Toyota 4Runner is a body-on-frame SUV, which means it has a separate frame and body construction rather than a unibody design. This traditional body-on-frame architecture provides the 4Runner with increased durability, strength, and customization options, making it well-suited for off-road use, towing, and hauling.

Is a 4Runner unibody or frame?


For example, a Toyota 4Runner is an excellent example of why Body on frame is a great feature for an off-roading vehicle. Greater Towing capacity: The Body on frame allows for more flexibility and power to get through challenging terrain because it's built with a solid steel frame.



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 frame is the 4Runner built on?


body-on-frame
— L.Y., Scottsdale, Ariz. A: The 4Runner, as several alert readers pointed out, does have a body-on-frame, but does not share the same platform as Tacoma. The frame comes instead from the Land Cruiser Prado, which is not sold in the North American market.



How do I know if my car is unibody or frame?


The main difference is that a body on frame car has a chassis that is separate and then attached to the car's body. A unibody design has the car frame and chassis as one single unit.



Is the 2025 4Runner unibody or frame?


That frame is called TNGA-F, and it now underpins every body-on-frame Toyota and Lexus vehicle, running from the base $33,000 Tacoma, all the way up to the $130,000 Lexus LX600 Ultra Luxury (yes, that really is the name), and includes the all-new 2025 4Runner, Land Cruiser, Tundra, Sequoia and Lexus GX along the way.



What type of body is a Toyota 4Runner?


mid-size SUV
It's a mid-size SUV with body-on-frame architecture and seating for up to seven (when equipped with an optional third-row seat).


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.