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CarComplaints.com Notes: Although it has a stellar record in terms of vehicle problems, initially the 4th generation (2003 - 2009) 4Runner didn't earn our top "Seal of Awesome" rating because it received poor crash test ratings for rear impacts. However it's proven to have one of the lowest driver death rates out of all vehicles (not just SUVs), so we've bumped it back up to our top award.

10.0

really awful
Typical Repair Cost:
No data
Average Mileage:
155,050 miles
Total Complaints:
6 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. replace frame (4 reports)
  2. not sure (2 reports)
2004 Toyota 4Runner suspension problems

suspension problem

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2004 Toyota 4Runner Owner Comments

problem #6

Aug 012022

4Runner SR5 4.7L V8

  • Automatic transmission
  • 117,500 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

click to see larger images

frame rust frame rust frame rust

Toyota replaced rusted frames on their Tacoma's but not the 4runners. They should replace our frames or gives us market value for our unsafe trucks.

- Eduardo C., Chicago, US

problem #5

Dec 012019

4Runner V8

  • Automatic transmission
  • 185,000 miles

click to see larger images

frame rust

I will never buy another Toyota. This defect almost killed my wife, children, and myself. Toyota is taking no responsibility. This should be recalled before people are killed.

- Kathy H., Phoenix, MD, US

problem #4

Oct 012020

4Runner SR5 V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 180,000 miles

Frame tail on passenger side has a big hole and there is a big hole by the motor mount.

- Miguel S., Toledo, US

problem #3

Apr 052019

4Runner SR5 4.7L V8

  • Automatic transmission
  • 147,895 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

Rust is severe on entire frame and suspension parts. The right rear upper control arm bracket broke off due to the rust weakening it to the point of failure. The vehicle is know un-driveable. I almost lost control of the vehicle when it failed. Very dangerous!!

- John P., Bristol, US

problem #2

Jan 012019

4Runner Sport 4.7L V8

  • Automatic transmission
  • 98,243 miles

THIS IS A 2004 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER WITH 9800 MILES ON IT. A MECHANIC WAS WORKING ON THE BRAKES WHEN HE SEEN THAT THE FRAME WAS RUSTING AWAY. IT'S REAL BAD!!! I HAVE A 2000 SILVERADO WITH MORE MILES USED IN THE SAME AREA, FRAME IS IN VERY GOOD CONDITION!! TOYOTA NEEDS A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM. I'M RETIRED ON LOW INCOME CAN'T AFFORD A NEW CAR OR FIX THIS ONE BECAUSE TOYOTA SCREWED UP. SEEN ON THE INTERNET A LOT OF PEOPLE HAVING SAME PROBLEM. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF THERE ANY INFO ON THIS PROBLEM.THANKS FOR YOUR TIME.

- Michael M., Marion, OH, US

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problem #1

Nov 012018

4Runner Sport 4.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 201,406 miles

15mm hole starting to form on right side frame rail where the two frame rails meet together. Looks like the frame is rusting from the inside out.

- AJ C., Collegeville, PA, US

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