Don't Buy A 4th Gen 4runner Without Checking For These Problems!
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- Опубликовано: 27 июн 2024
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Toyota 4runners are one of the most reliable vehicles on the planet but that doesn't mean they don't have a few expensive problems to watch out for. In this video, I run you through a few of the common ones.
How To Engage Your Toyota 4runner's 4WD: • How To Engage Your Toy...
How To Get Rid Of Your 4runner's Driveshaft Clunk: • How To Get Rid Of Your...
Fixing LCD Screen And Temperature Control Lights: • An Idiot's Guide To Fi...
00:23 Rust
02:25 Seized 4WD actuator
03:34 Cracked exhaust manifolds
04:25 Head gasket failure
04:48 Air Injection Pump failure
05:23 Check for diagnostic codes with FIXD
07:46 Air suspension leaks
08:19 Sticky brake calipers
09:25 Driveshaft clunk
09:50 Burnt out climate control bulbs
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For the V8 models:
1. Has the timing belt and water pump been changed? Some people have gone over 200,000 miles without changing.
2. Serpentine belt lasts around 90,000 miles. You will hear a squealing noise if it has gone bad.
3. CV axles go bad around 100,000 miles
4. Fuel Filler door does not open or fit properly. You may need to replace the door and could have your mechanic install a plate and rivet screws to replace the hinge.
5. Has the transmission fluid been changed? The fluid is good for 60,000-90,000 miles. Some people have gone well over 200,000 miles without changing it.
6. Has the coolant been flushed? The coolant lasts a really long time but bad coolant can ruin the water pump or head gasket by creating crud that messes up certain seals.
The SAIS (secondary air intake system) can be fixed with the Rutech Bypass kit for around $200. It can be difficult to remove the nuts in order to install the blocking plates. My mechanic was only able to install 1 of the 2 blocking plates but so far after 2 years and 10,000 miles, I have had no problem. This problem happened when my 2005 4Runner had 90,000 miles in 2020.
Is it just the limited models in v8 that have the air ride suspension?
Non-interference engines on them so people just wait till it snaps then they replace it. 😂
Thank you....looking at a 2005 V8, milage nearly 190,000. Vehicle looks well taken care of inside and out. So it makes me hopeful that engine was also taken care of.
I had one (07) and absolutely loved it!!! The issue I had was the head gasket. Also, a lot of the rust problems are due to road salt, so I've always tried to clean it well and repaint it before winter. Preventative maintenance is worth it if you want to keep your 4Runner going for the long run.
Wow the 07 had head gasket issues too? I thought that was just the 03-05 only and it was fixed for the 06-09. Now I'm scared to get one of these. How much did that cost you to fix??
@@Jedi_Luke Yup. But don't worry because it's okay if you do preventative maintenance.
Actually, I don't remember exactly the cost (I replaced the head gasket on my own), uh...maybe around $2500 for head gasket replacement (my near local shop price), and the body patch, primer, and paint aren't expensive for cleaning and repainting the rust.
I just bought an 06 diagnosed as needing headgaskets. Replaced crossover gaskets and resealed thermostat housing and haven’t added coolant in 500 miles. Previous owner was quoted $4000 to repair. Had a slow leak that ran down along the head that appeared to look like coolant was seeping out from the hg.
With the heavy rust problem areas, I use Liquid Wrench, or Seafoam Ant-Rust spray on those metal areas "only", it will destroy rubber brake lines and eat through wire coatings if not wiped off but works "very well" on metal and frame works, I use WD-40 for the rest of the vehicle which won't do that and it's non-conducting. :)
The actuators do not require anything being done to the transfer case. The transfer case actuator and the center differential actuator are both external and can be easily replaced WITHOUT doing anything to the transfer case itself or the center differential itself.
I’m in the process of buyin a 2003 4 runner but the 4x4 does not engage it just makes a beeping sound and that’s it. Do you think it can be expensive to fix??? Should I buy it?? It runs perfect in 2 wd mode it’s just the 4x4 that doesn’t work
Dam I’m in Chicago and we have around 4 months of winter ❄️. Was looking at an 07 with the 4.0 v6 later this week.
@@wilbertortiz9469 I took my 4runner to several places including non-dealerships and dealerships. All the non-dealerships had absolutely no clue about the toyota 4wd. The first dealerhip gave a quote of $8,500, and recommended replacing the transfer case, which it didn't need. The second dealership found that the front actuator on the front differential and also actuator on the transfer case both needed to be replaced. The total cost was $3,500. It was worth it to me, so I paid it. Actuators are almost always the cause.
I’m afraid you are wrong. I was able to get mine going without removing it from the transfer case.
@@marleythechameleonandherbi2724 I'm not wrong. The solution is different in each case depending on what is wrong with the vehicle. Don't assume your solution applies in all cases.
4th gen owner, 4L V6 4WD. My 4wd actuator froze up a bit, but I began exercising it twice a month, and now it's back to working smooth like butter. No other issues.
love your truck , love your honest quick forward content , love everything , keep doing you
Fantastic video. I am gonna be looking into getting a 4th gen 4runner in a year or two. So very helpful guide
Thank you so much for making this video!!
Thanks for this! I have a 2007 4runner! I think I’ll grab one of those FIXd sensors
I've been playing around with it and have already decided that it'll be replacing my traditional code reader for sure!
Excellent and very informative video on the 4th Generation 4runner with V8 👍👍👍👍👍
I have been driving muy 2008 4Runner SR5 for 15 years now with no problems at all. Even in the worst snow conditions it performs like a champ (keep in mind that this is a RWD SR5 with original tires).and this is in Iowa. I think this might reach 30 years of life.
GREAT INFO, THANK YOU!!
Thanks Tim!!
I use WD40 under the hood and under the vehicle to help prevent corrosion on the bolts, all the rubber hoses, all the wires to prevent cracking, and on the serpentine belt also to prevent cracking, frame and fuel tank cover and front skid plate a couple times a year, works very well, it's a non conducting product which does not affect electrical current and does prevent wires from stiffening up and cracking, I have been doing this for the last 27 years when I first bought my GMC Safari (new) and use it on my my 4 runner (4th Gen) which I bought 12 years ago. Great heads-up on the 4 Gens CG, Thanks for sharing.
Ripped CV boots (especially aftermarket axles and boots), coolant leak on the top, back of the motor (bypass gasket), leaking XREAS shocks, and a leaking transfer case are some of the other issues I've found. T-case leak could be a simple o-ring or the actuator that's $1,300 USD from Toyota for the part alone. Either way they're big money to replace just in labor.
I just got a 2004 4Runner with the 4.7L and had it inspected before buying so I knew what I was dealing with.. We're actually overlanding with it in Colorado right now and just checked into an AirBnB to shower and do laundry 😂
Quick question coolant leak ?? What was the cause of that ? Thank you
The fix for the CV boots is used OEM 5th Gen 4runner axles. I only use these vs repairing the factory 4th gen boots (they are a bad design which was fixed on the 5th Gen). It’s a straight across swap, no mods needed. Never run aftermarket Chinese axles…
@@nordicpride9708 Great advice, thank you NP. :)
I've had the same problem with seized front calipers. I've tried many rebuilt ones that usually last 2-3years even with servicing them every spring. Then about 4 years ago I tried a new Raybestos Element 3 caliper and no issues. The factory coating even still looks new.
That's good to know!
Powder coated Powerstop Calipers are another option, Centric collectes OEM calipers, remans them with OEM parts, then powdercoats them. Toyota does not use a sufficient corrosion coating on their calipers for the 4runner platform. The Raybestos calipers have a heavier Zinc coating than what exists from the factory but it won't last forever.
4th Gen 2WD V8. Problems I've faced was the secondary emissions pump went out and kept putting it into limp mode. My alternator went out and my car shut off on the freeway after the battery drained. I fixed everything myself so no need for a bypass for the emissions pump either. Here's the thing, fixing a car is stupidly easy if you're an adult male. Sure, it's a hassle but the main problem I see from a lot of guys is that they get really pissy when something goes wrong. Just have patience and almost every problem you will come across , the solution can be found online.
These trucks are pretty straight forward to work on!
Very clean!
Fantastic video and exactly what I was looking for brotha...I'm going to check out a 2005 V8 4runner here in Pennsylvania with 160k on it...I'm pretty excited going from a 2002 Nissan Xterra...I owned a 3rd gen before that I lovedddddddd!!!! Thanks for your input
Nice! I've always loved the Xterras as well but V8 4runners are tough to beat!
I got sick of replacing frozen calipers so I got a stoptech big brake kit, so far it’s solved that issue haha
hey so check out the blaster company for their rust remover and actually the rust prevention spray they sell. I found to my great delight that the Blaster Rust Sheild actually melts the rust off of your metal parts. I had an old subaru forester that I was changing my brakes and rotors and i got the rust sheild to put on the rotors... what I found out is that I could spray it onto the locked up bolts and nuts and after about 2 min i could wipe the rust off... yes i said wipe the rust off! I just thought since you made this video 9 months ago maybe this would be usefull info for you
checking out a 2005 4runner v6 tomorrow. thanks for the tips.
Same
@@franky1528 Good Luck! One badass 4th gen sold right before i looked at it. I ended up buying a 5th gen trail limited. Love it so far. Crawl control is amazing, saved my ass in the snow, would have been a long cold night otherwise.
That “fixed” commercial was smooth.
Making the switch from a rwd tundra and in the market for a similar year 4Runner. Your videos are a goldmine lol I’m leaning towards the v8 I don’t think I can downgrade to a v6 as economical as it may be
V6 gas savings is almost non-existent. 😂 Get the V8, you’ll be happier in the long run.
@@greenbanana2332 yeah coming from a tundra I can't imagine not having that v8 grunt. also found out i'm too tall for the 4runner lol. sequoia it is
I want one of these really badly to replace my 1992 Toyota pickup (3VZ-E) but omg they are hard to find here in the US I think in the last 3 months I've seen 5-8 for sale across the country online. Other than their rarity great video and super helpful!
I have my 2007 V6 for sale if your interested. It is in great condition.
Going to buy a 2006 4runner sport v6 with 99k miles tomorrow. Very clean inside/out and owner had many parts replaced like shocks, battery, alternator, wheels, etc. Looking forward to the car.
Lmk how it is
Look for rust underneath tailgate weather strip, especially where the catch is located. Debris can trap water.
I have a 2005 Toyota 4Runner the sport edition 4.0 I got a little tiny bubble on the hatch like that but the back towards the springs it’s rusted really bad cause there is holes in in but I’m hoping to reinforce it and keep her going. It only has 260,000 on the clock so she still has a lot of life left in her
Abs module as well 1200 to replace
Brake check - warm/hot wheel will indicate which caliper is dragging.
Hey, just a public service announcement here on V8 4th gens: check out the Doug DeMuro video from July 10th, about 11 minutes in....finally some recognition!!
Good catch! Definitely agree with him
Greasing the driveshaft doesn't always fix it. It can alleviate it for some time, it can fix it, or it might not do anything. Another known fix for it is getting the Lexus driveshaft. Apparently that actually will fix it, though I haven't done it
What’s different about how Lexus does it?
Hopefully, I'll be the proud new owner of one this weekend. Pray for me fellas!
Great video. Where did u get that bug deflector on the hood.
It's a Toyota one, it came with it when I bought it
Stuck front struts. Our strut tower is rust welded to the strut top mount and we can't get it loose. Frame is fine and coat protected.
Great video! What’s the lift/wheel and tire set up?
Thanks! It's got Fox 2.0 coilovers, OME 895 rear springs and 285/70/17s
Hey man beautiful rig ❤️ question were can i get your front hood bug deflector i love how your sits low and barely noticeable they ship to the states ?
It's a Toyota one but it seems like it's not available in the US
@CanadianGearhead, as of 2023 the frame CAL in South Carolina is being dismissed due to lack of sufficient evidence to proceed. Bell Legal Group noted that there may be avenues for appeals but for now 4Runner owners in North America are screwed.
well rust that happens on the car maybe be due to the original owner I got mine in 2006 and don't have any rust other than the ones I caused. my main concern has always be the engine and I've kept up with very good and i have no rust on the engine so yeah
Will the Fixed reader provide the tranny fluid temp? Also a great way to diagnose a sticky brake caliper is to take a temp reading of the rotors with a kitchen insta read thermometer right after driving the truck. A sticky caliper rotor will show a significantly higher temp.
I'd love to see a video on replacing the wheel bearings on this truck. Mine are grinding and I'll be doing that here soon.
Unfortunately I just had my fronts done at a friend's shop because I didn't have time to do it and film :(
I actually did one side (didn't solve the problem because i think it might actually be the other side) but it took me 5 hours including trips to the parts store
one very important thing to me when i bought my 2005 specially with the V8 is the dreaded timing belt service.
Definitely a great idea to check when the last service was!
@@CanadianGearhead paying $1600 US is definitely better than paying for motor!
I’ll take 8hr of work and a few hundred in parts every 90k and 10 yrs to have the million mile motor. I’ve got 3 of these motors in my family. It’s not a big deal.
They actually don't rust unless you live in an area where the roads are oversalted or a very high salt content in the air.
They don't rust in lots of places.
I'd say head-gasket repair history is the first thing to check for!!!!
Would you say it's better to see less or more history of maintenance?
@@lyonmackenzie10 more
I bought a 2004 4runner V6(only 141k miles) the frame is actually clean for its age , well previous owner made it spend most of its life in Mexico, my issue is hvac motor whenever i turn my temperature up or down it starts clicking even when i shut the air off it still clicks ,
my AC amplifier went out too
heater door actuator, might be that
The transfer case does not have too be removed and rebuilt if the actuator doesnt work. It is seperate and bolted on to the housing of the transfer case with several bolts. I know because ove serviced them before
Had a guy bring me a 4th gen occasionally would studder and stall turns out when the alarm was installed every time you used the left blinker it was trying to shift into reverse doing 70down the freeway 😂
Sounds like a great alarm installation haha
@@CanadianGearhead pro job for Shure😂
Nice video. 2008 V6 owner here. I have 290k miles on mine at the moment. The driveshaft thing freaked me out when I bought mine used. I initially thought I had a trans issue. I do lube my driveshaft but the clunk seems to come back every 6k to 10k miles without fail. My 4WD actuator was initially hard to use when I first got my truck. The prior owner probably didn't use it frequently as mentioned. I did replace most of my climate control lights including ones on the buttons too. For the first time, I'm getting a steering wheel shake around 65 mph and when I hit the brakes. My front pads and rotors were replaced about 20k miles ago. I am going to do an inspection on the brakes, is there a way to tell that the caliper is stuck?
I think the driveshaft can be considered a regular maintenance item, especially as it ages. Might be a good idea to grease it with every oil change interval. That sounds like warped brake rotors and it's also possible that a stuck caliper could have caused them to overheat
Un Even pad wear if it's really bad will fight you going back in
There are 6 grease fittings on ur drive shaft grease ALL of them. EVERY oil change no more problems. 👍
I have a 2008 V8 250k an so far no leaks in the exhaust manifolds 🤞
It could also be control arm bushings. Easy to check if they’re worn out or not
@@CanadianGearhead I checked the calipers and they were not frozen. I was able to move the pistons in without issues. What stinks is that I only have about 30k miles on the front rotors (Centric 12044129). Is the warping typical on these trucks? Is there a better rotor?
Where did you get that hood protector at? Really like it.
It's a Toyota one
1:47 the famous dragon optical illusion
Going to look at the 5th 4th gen 4runner in 2 weeks tomorrow morning. I hope this is the one…
I’m in the process of buying a 2003 4runner and already talking with seller . He said the 4x4 doesn’t engage but his mechanic said it’s an easy fix. I don’t know how truth that is. Any advice???
What size tires are you running and how much lift? I like the look and stance of your 4runner.
285/70/17 and a bit over 2"
2008 V6 4runner, I've had like 4 different lights on for the past like 3 years now, VCS or VSC whatever haha, engine light, tire air light, traction control light, apparently from my mechanic it's just an O2 sensor & when I start it up, it makes a noise where it sounds like a loose heat shield is rattling or something, like a nut is missing, noise comes and goes, has about 155k miles on it
Should be easy to take care of all that - rip the heat shield off, replace O2, clear codes, and disable TPMS system
sounds like my 06 v6. Ive had those dash lights on for probably 5 years. Just hit 215k and still runs like a champ though 💪
I was watching the captions and saw the bit about the rusty frames and possibility of a class action lawsuit. How can we keep on top of that, to get involved? My frame is pretty bad but everything else is good (except turn signal switch is getting replaced and no air conditioning LOL)
People have tried to bring up the lawsuit I have read. Toyota just neglects everything about it.
I'm hoping to have some time to dig into it and maybe then I'll do a video or article on the situation to bring everyone up to speed. I believe I have the lawyer's info
@@CanadianGearhead that would be awesome
I’ve got no ac in mine too lol
@@CanadianGearhead Current status, any update on class action? Cool video, really helpful too.
Just got a 2004 limited with a V8 and fulltime 4WD. 145K
Salvaged it with no repairs needed. 🤷♂️
Nice vid! What year is this 4runner?
2007
@@CanadianGearhead How is your Mph goes up to 180? Most 4runner 4th gen 2007 I try to shop around for only goes up to 110mph not like im going that fast but just curious.
I live in the US maybe its that reason?
How expensive is the exhaust manifold replacement fix that you said you did? I have the ticking sound on mine and just trying to see if it's something i need to have done, try myself, or ditch the truck (which i don't want to do).
I think the headers are typically around $1,000 and labor is probably another 1k depending on who does it
Mine is starting to have air suspension issues and I want to convert it to coils. What kind of conversion kit did you use.
I used the Metal Tech kit
Mud guards will stop a lot of these problems
did they weld your old catalytic to the dough Thorley header? did you get any check engine lights?
Yes I still have my OEM cats, no lights
What wheels and tire set up do you have boss?
Method Standards on 285/70/17 Goodyear Duratracs
I have a rhythmic knocking from the front driver wheel. I thought the knocking could have possibly wheel bearing starting to go out, so the hub and bearings were replaced but the knocking is back, 2 days after the repair. any suggestions.
Check driveshaft u-joints
What's the white blinking light next to your fuse box?
That's a module to prevent rodents from eating the wiring again
I assume you've never had the rear hatch window spontaneously explode while using the rear defrost, spewing shattered glass throughout the inside of the vehicle. It happened to me on my 2006 4Runner, it turns out Toyota issued a TSB on that very issue.
TSB 0189-17
I haven't had the problem but I've heard of other peoples' stories
Any updates on that rusty frame lawsuit ?
As far as I know, it didn't get anywhere unfortunately
Timothy the rust Doctor 4runner .
Will the fixd sensor show real time transmission temperature?
I don't think so but I could be wrong
Rust on the rear hatch - check. Cracked manifold - Check. (DT headers - $1363.00 Canadian + labor = $2500 approx.) I've been driving for over 2 years with the crack manifold... definitely time to get'r done. But OUCH, my pocketbook. I also had a rear main seal slow leak 2 years ago. $1200 to fix the 25 cent rubber seal part! 😳 (removal of transmission). I also just drove across Canada towing 6200 lbs if anyone interested in the particulars.
They have a rear main seal fix from Barr's for next time
Did you fix the manifold? If so, how much was it
@@franky1528 I had Doug Thorley headers installed last September. The mechanic charged me $1200 (Alberta). I got lucky to find a mechanic that was patient. He soaked the rusted manifold bolts over a couple of days with penetrant oil, then slowly eased out the bolts, half a millimetre turns at a time. (So not to break the bolts). That is the trick. Don't get a mechanic who just wants to hit those bolts with an impact. That will break off if you live in any rust belt.
I put the head gasket on my 06 4runner in July 2022
How
Much was it
@@franky1528 1300 dlls
Will those doug thorley headers fit on an 03 fourrunner with the 4.7
They make them specifically for the 03-04 model too
There’s another YT vid out there that he does this with DT headers.
Does the front suspension have air? I'm planning to swap out my stock suspension
Nope they're all coil up front
@@CanadianGearhead thanks man!
I'm starting to get a humming/whining noise on my '03 V8 limited with 300,000km. Both front wheel bearings were changed recently, the driveline is greased every other oil change and diff's & transfer case oil changed every 60k. It sounds like it's coming from the rear between 40 and 80 km/hr and doesn't change when turning left to right. Any recommendations on pin pointing the source? Some say the rear diff. carrier bearings get noisy at that many km's.
Hmmm, if it's a noise from the differential, you might be able to hear it by lifting it up and spinning the wheels
Could be rear wheel bearings. Very common on these
@@nordicpride9708 You're right! It was the right rear bearing. Much quieter now. Hopefully the left side lasts a bit longer.
@@4-Runner Glad you got her fixed! One thing overlooked is the differential breather. If it gets plugged it will blow the rear axle seals. Very common on these 4th gens
@@nordicpride9708 Great point! I usually give the vent a few spins when I'm putting on the summer tires every spring
did the rusty frame recall ever come to light? did the law suit ever happen?
I don't believe anything happened with it
Do u think the 05-09 are better than the 03-05 with regards to off roading ?
No they're basically the same off road
I just picked up a 04 Runner just like it color and all minus lift,tires and wheels..I just wanna ask is urs a 3 or 5in lift and what size is the tires
They're 285/70/17 with a bit over 2" lift up front and 2" in the rear
@@CanadianGearhead any wheel offset
Nope, 0 offset
Thank you for the info and have a good day
My back hatch rusted out bad. The dealership wasn't owning up to it, so I called Toyota.
AH yes... the elusive Shadow Mica color.
Is it really a rare color?
@@ONeal397 It's the coolest color on a 4runner ever made
@noctilucent7396 wow, I got lucky I got a 08 V8 limited in shadow mica
@ONeal397 I spent a long time looking for one of those eventually bought magnetic Gray 5th gen 6 years ago.
What year is yours?
2007
The hatch problem is water breaching the windows and getting inside the panel. All years
The rust is definitely a northern issue. I haven't seen rust on any one of them in the south.
I'm jealous
@@CanadianGearhead LOL, just know it is going to be 101 degrees F here down south today, and the rust trade-off might look different!
😀🤣👍
So don’t get a high mileage V8 4runner? I was seriously debating on buying one.
Nothing wrong with a high mileage 4runner at all, these are just a few potential issues to watch out for
2 more things - ABS actuator/ booster pump failure and on the V8, the cost of replacing the starter, which is buried deep between the cylinder heads and is an ugly expensive job.
Yeah I hope I never have to replace the starter on mine
Get 03-04 V8 no air injection pump. Stay away from the VVTI v8’s which are 05-09’s . 😅
Why would you stay away from them when you can easily bypass the system in 10 mins?
@@CanadianGearhead Less headache. Less sensors . And it’s not smog legal in most states to do the bypass. Honestly don’t even need the extra horsepower. Just my opinion!
I just bought mine, getting it Sunday now I’m debating that I bought a reliable truck lol
Every car is a reliable vehicle until it breaks down. Then they are all POS
Don't worry, they're definitely very reliable. This vid is just proof that there can be problems with any vehicle - I still strongly believe it's #1 over all competitors in terms of reliability by far
@@CanadianGearhead well mine has 27k miles on it so hoping it last a long time
@@24hrstolive27 Wow! Our 4runner has 250,000 km and our Tacoma has 330,00 km so yours should definitely hold up for a long time
@@CanadianGearhead 2001 Tundra 289K miles
2005 4Runner 238K miles.
Both run like champs.
bought an 04 at 180k. Head Gasket gave out 189k. v6 sr5
Did you fix it ?
@@artpolamo877 in the shop right now. toyota dealer quoted $2800 for HG, water pump, upper/lower rad hoses.
@@zdg3758 dam mine at 160k afraid it’s gonna go
……….i just bought one and i didn’t watch the vid
look like they didn't do a good job and just paint over rust
Lmao rust. Look where you live buddy .
They don't all rust mine has none this video is garbage...how bout don't buy one in a rust belt
Thanks, but why put stupid little video clips in your video. It's annoying
Man, I was considering one of these 4th gens.. but after hearing (and reading comments) about all the issues, now I’m not so sure. 🫤
They're still far more reliable than nearly any vehicle - but issues are bound to come up when they've been on the road for 20 years
@@CanadianGearhead - I guess you’re right. I’m trying to find a decent one in the same color as yours (shadow mica). Not an easy task. I’ve never seen that color in person but it looks so nice in your videos.