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What year is the 4Runner bad?

The Toyota 4Runner is a popular and capable off-road SUV, but it may not be the best choice for everyone. Depending on your specific needs and driving preferences, the 4Runner could be considered a "bad" choice in certain situations.


Factors to Consider When Choosing the 4Runner


The 4Runner is known for its rugged design, impressive off-road capabilities, and reliable performance. However, there are several factors to consider that may make it a less-than-ideal choice for some buyers:



  • Fuel Economy: The 4Runner's large size and powerful V6 engine result in relatively poor fuel economy, with EPA estimates of around 16 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.

  • Ride Comfort: The 4Runner's body-on-frame construction and off-road-oriented suspension can result in a harsher ride quality compared to more modern, car-based SUVs.

  • Cargo Space: While the 4Runner offers a decent amount of cargo space, it may not be as spacious as some of its competitors, especially in the third-row seating configurationli>
  • Price: The 4Runner is generally more expensive than many of its midsize SUV rivals, with a starting price around $37,000.


These factors may make the 4Runner a less-than-ideal choice for buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency, ride comfort, cargo space, or a lower price point.


When is the 4Runner a Bad Choice?


The 4Runner is best suited for those who value its off-road capabilities, rugged design, and reputation for reliability. However, it may be a "bad" choice in the following scenarios:



  • Daily Commuting: The 4Runner's poor fuel economy and harsher ride quality may make it less than ideal for daily commuting, especially in urban or suburban areas with heavy traffic.

  • Families with Young Children: The 4Runner's higher ride height and less-than-spacious third-row seating may make it challenging for families with young children to get in and out of the vehicle.

  • Budget-Conscious Buyers: The 4Runner's higher price point compared to its competitors may make it a less attractive option for buyers on a tight budget.


In these situations, a more fuel-efficient, comfortable, and affordable midsize SUV may be a better choice than the Toyota 4Runner.

Which Toyota engine is the most reliable?


Discover the Top 5 Most Reliable Toyota Engines of 2024

  1. The Indestructible 2.4L 2AZ-FE Engine. Found in: Toyota Camry RAV4 and more.
  2. The Mighty 3.5L V6 2GR-FE Engine. Found in: Toyota Highlander Sienna and others.
  3. The Efficient 1.8L 1ZZ-FE Engine.
  4. The Durable 4.0L V6 1GR-FE Engine.
  5. The Timeless 2.5L 2AR-FE Engine.



At what mileage do 4runners start having problems?


Toyota said that they expect a certain amount to fail at 50k. Per several times on this post and across many others, owner experience is 150k-200k miles. So, 1/3 or 1/4 of normal expected lifespan.



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 is the most common problem with the Toyota 4Runner?


Top Toyota 4Runner Problems

  • Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages.
  • EVAP System Fault Due to Failed Charcoal Canister.
  • Car Won't Start Due to Worn/Corroded Solenoid Contacts in Starter.
  • Front Brake Rotor Wear Can Cause Pulsations.
  • Brake master cylinder may need replacing at 125,000 miles.



Will a 4Runner last 300,000 miles?


If you plan on driving your Toyota 4Runner for many years to come, it is important to understand the factors that contribute to the 4Runner's longevity and maximize its potential to well over 300,000 miles!



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.



Which 4Runner holds best value?


The 2023 Toyota 4Runner is our top pick for the best model year value for the 4Runner. With the 2023, you would only pay, on average, 79% of the price as new, with 92% of the vehicle's useful life remaining. The 2022 and 2021 model years are also attractive years for the 4Runner, and provide a relatively good value.



What is the most reliable year for a Toyota 4Runner?


The best used Toyota 4Runner years according to generation are as follows. The fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner received the least complaints from 2017 to 2021. In 2017, the complaints from customers dropped out of the double-digit range, and in 2021, only one complaint was lodged against it.



What year Toyotas had bad frames?


According to Wikipedia: In 2008, Toyota proactively announced a 15-year, unlimited-mileage corrosion warranty for 1995–2000 model years due to inadequate rustproofing and frame corrosion issues affecting over 800,000 Tacomas. Toyota will either repair the frame or buy back the truck for 1.5 times its KBB retail value.



What is considered high mileage on a Toyota 4Runner?


When examining the lifespan of the Toyota 4Runner, we can see that the typical lifespan is 200,000-300,000 miles. Thus, anything close to the 200,000-mile mark is considered high mileage for the Toyota 4Runner. These are the most common cars in used vehicle lots.


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.