2006 Toyota 4Runner

SUV, some people call it Stupid Useless Vehicle but if you’ve ever owned one you know just how useful these can be. Because of that, there is a strong draw to these trucks. I use the term truck here because the Toyota 4Runner is indeed a truck, not some sissy cute-ute or soft-roader. And it’s very useful, able to tow a decent amount no matter how the options are configured and carry 4 or 5o folks and their stuff easily. Now, the fact that Toyota has a reputation for reliability sure helps bring the 4-Runner to the top of the list for SUV’s to consider.

If you are looking at a 2003 – 2009 Toyota 4Runner you are looking at a vehicle that could be as much as 6 years old and have some miles on the clock. Since that’s the case, I’ll let you know about some of the things I’ve had to address on these vehicles. If you are checking out a car, pay attention to the amount of air that comes out of the heater ducts. This is hard to quantify if you haven’t driven a number of these but if the flow seems slow, there could be some ice build up in the blower motor housing. This issue effects 2003 - 2006 model years. Some special attention to the seams and gaskets can cure this, or wait till spring and the ice will melt. If the A/C doesn’t work, it could very likely be a simple relay, figure about $20 from the dealership.

Another “problem” I’ve encountered isn’t a problem at all. I’ve had customers complain of odd brake noises, almost like something broke when they let off the brakes. Well, this is common on 2003 – 2005 model years and is actually part of the “Hill Hold” feature. If the incline is steep enough, the brakes will make an odd noise when you release the brakes. This is because the Hill Hold feature isn’t designed for severe inclines. I say this isn’t a problem because most user manuals say not to rely on these types of features to hold the vehicle alone, but only to assist the operator. If you are driving a 2003 – 2005 model and smell a rotten egg type smell, expect to have the PCM (powertrain control module) reprogrammed for under $125 and the catalytic converter replaced. This is an emissions issue and may still be covered under the emissions warranty. Keep in mind that the emissions warranty is different than the manufacturer’s warranty. This emissions warranty is government mandated and normally extends to 100K miles so check with the dealership. Some 2005 and 2006 trucks equipped with the V-8 may experience a no-start condition after being driven long distances. Have the cam position sensor looked at; this should set you back less than $250. If the drivers’ seat makes a popping noise or feels loose, expect to replace the seat mechanism. If you have a sunroof on your 2003 – 2006 model year truck check to make sure it operates and is quite. If not, simple re-greasing may be required.

There are a few other issues I’ve seen here and there but they are not major issues and shouldn’t chase you away from a Toyota 4-Runner. There are some costs associated with regular ownership (of any vehicle) and I’ll try to outline them here. It’ll take about $600 to replace the A/C compressor and about that same amount to replace the alternator. Brakes (all 4 wheels) aren’t that bad at about $550. If you have a manual transmission, expect to pay somewhere in the neighborhood of $1200 for a new clutch, pressure plate and bearing. Shocks all around are a bit pricey at about $1500. When the axle joints wear out, expect a hefty repair bill, $2500 easily! As always, these are estimated dealer prices and will vary by state, dealer, lunar alignment and whim.

So, you can see there aren’t any serious issues you face with the Toyota 4Runner. These are fairly reliable, Toyota is known for that. Routine maintenance is just about in line with other 4WD vehicles today.