Buyer's checklist: 4th gen Toyota 4Runner (2003–2009)

What to look for on this generation, worst first. Tick each line as you check it.

Free while the site is being tested. Every line comes from the dossier and keeps its source, and the dossier itself stays free.

Walk away if 1

Any one of these is reason enough to leave the car where it is.

Frame rustAll yearsInspect the frame and the front lower control arm mounts.^1,2

Known problems, and how to check for each.

Timing belt and water pumpV8Ask for records.^3,4
Air injection faultV8, 2005–2009Scan for air injection codes such as P0418 and P2445.⁵
Cracked exhaust manifoldsV8Listen for a ticking noise.^4,3
Head gasketV6, 2003–2005Watch for a misfire at cold start, most often on cylinder 6.⁶
Cracked dashboard2003–2005Look for cracks.⁷
X-REAS shock leaksSport Edition. Optional on SR5 and LimitedLook for oil weeping at each shock.⁸
4WD actuator4WD trucksConfirm it shifts into low range. Look for seepage at the actuator beside the transfer case.³
Rear air suspensionSome Limited trucksTwo members in one thread warn that the rear air bags are vulnerable: one to damage off-road, the other to wear when the truck is lifted. Neither reports a failure of their own. The thread gives no check.⁹

Recalls filed for these model years. Not every car is covered; check the vehicle identification number with NHTSA.

Recall 02V3390002003Trucks with port-installed alloy wheels need different wheel nuts for the spare. Ask for proof the recall work was done.¹⁰
Recall 03V1460002003Fuel pulsation damper can leak fuel. Ask for proof the recall work was done.¹⁰
Recall 11V1130002003–2009An unsecured or wrong floor mat can trap the accelerator pedal. Ask for proof the recall work was done.¹⁰
Recall 16V0650002004–2006Side curtain airbags can deploy unexpectedly because of control module programming. Ask for proof the recall work was done.¹⁰

What owners and the press say to steer clear of.

Frame rustAll yearsBoth generations rust at the frame, worst where roads are salted, and rust can leave a frame unsafe. Toyota's frame rust program for its trucks did not include the 4Runner.^11,12,4,1,2
2003–2005 V62003–2005Members of one thread split. Four steer buyers away from 2003–2005 V6s or shop only 2006 and later, while five owners of 2003–2005 V6s report no head gasket trouble, one at about 303,000 miles.¹³