The current generation of the Toyota 4Runners is the fifth generation. Most of these vehicles come with standard GPS navigation, and several additional features have been added through various trims to make life easier.
When you drive the Toyota 4Runner today, you can enjoy some or all of the following features, depending on the trim and model selected.
- 4G LTE Internet access from Verizon Wireless.
- Standard Sirius XM Satellite radio.
- Android Auto smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Alexa.
- A JBL premium amplified audio system.
- HD Radio and Safety Connect.
When Toyota first introduced the 4Runner in 1984, the SUV sold a total of 6,498 units. In 1987, that figure dropped to only 3,635.
In 2020, Toyota had one of their best sales years ever for the 4Runner. The automaker moved over 129,000 vehicles, and it was the first time in the lineup’s history that five consecutive years of 100,000 or more units were sold.
The best year for the Toyota 4Runner was 2018, when the automaker sold 139,694 units.
5th Gen T4Rs
The fifth generation of the Toyota 4Runner was introduced to the public at the Texas State Fair in 2009. It comes with three different trim levels, two of which were previously available. They all offer a 4WD option, but the SR5 and the Limited trim also come with a 2WD selection.
Production on the fifth generation of Toyota 4Runners began on August 31, 2009. In 2013, the automaker gave it a facelift, revising the front and rear fascia with LED lighting, projector headlamps, and an updated interior.
For the 2015 model year, Toyota introduced the TRD Pro trim, badging the update as an off-road package. Every vehicle built for the United States market came with a touchscreen infotainment system with a 6.1-inch display.
One of the latest models of the fifth generation, the 2019 Toyota 4Runner, started the Nightshade package. It’s on the Limited trim with lower fascial wheels and interior. It also blacks out the badging.
Are There Any Issues with the Toyota 4Runner?
Although the Toyota 4Runner is traditionally a reliable vehicle (the 2015 edition received poor ratings), the design does have a few common problems worth reviewing.
The latest models typically score higher than the older generations. If you have a 2020 Toyota 4Runner, it has an 82 reliability rating from JD Power and Associates. Its resale value is also 94 out of 100.
That means you can run the 4Runner for years with careful use and proper maintenance.
Even when you do everything right, there can be some issues with the vehicle to manage. Here are the most common problems reported.
1. Some models have problems with the brakes.
From 2014-2017, the 5th Gen T4Rs had some braking issues that required immediate attention from drivers. Some vehicles experienced temporary system failures, including lock-ups that happened on only one side of the SUV.
The issues from the previous generation with the calipers and warping pads seem to have been solved. You’ll still want to review the brakes for premature wear on the front brake rotors and the master cylinder.
If you need to replace the brake pads, don’t forget that the front and rear pads are often separate. The wear and tear can be different on each one, so it helps to get a genuine OEM product to repair this issue.
2. The Toyota 4Runner likes to revert to manual shifting.
Some models ion the fifth generation of Toyota 4Runners have problems reverting to manual shifting because of how the automatic transmission functions. It might not shift into overdrive or engage at the initial startup. This issue typically leads to rough clutch action and an overall loss of power.
If you encounter this problem, it’s usually due to a faulty throttle position sensor or a solenoid that requires replacement. It isn’t necessary to have a complete overhaul in most circumstances, but a professional evaluation is a good idea.
3. Toyota vehicles have a reputation for airbag failure.
The automaker recalled over 900,000 vehicles on the road in 2019 to replace high-risk airbags. The 2015 Toyota 4Runner was included on that list. Engineers found that this specific model had a potentially defective inflator that could cause the safety feature to fail to deploy or explode during an accident.
If you’re interested in purchasing a 5th Gen T4R from the 2015 model year, you’ll want to verify that the recall work was completed before purchase.
4. The T4R can develop emission control problems.
This issue with the fifth generation of the Toyota 4Runner is typically limited to the initial model year. The charcoal canister purchase control solenoid has a reputation for failing, causing emission control issues for the vehicle. This fault typically turns on the check engine light.
The most common reason for the charcoal canister failure is debris coming into the evaporative emission system.
Once you have a worn canister, the only way to fix the problem is to replace it. The part alone can be close to $500, and you’ll end up paying for an hour or two of labor.
If you’re lucky, the vapor canister purge solenoid might be the problem. That part can be as cheap as $60.
5. 4Runners have undercarriage corrosion issues to manage.
Although the 5th Gen T4Rs have improved in this area dramatically, you can still see some issues develop around 150,000 miles with this vehicle. The suspension and frame in the older generations were susceptible to corrosion, and the newer ones still need regular inspections.
It’s still better than the 2005 model that went through a recall for this problem. After receiving thousands of complaints, Toyota decided to issue a recall to repair the affected parts.
If you don’t stay on top of the corrosion issue with paint updates and ongoing maintenance, the repairs can turn into a significant cost.
How to Care for Your 5th Gen T4R at Home
The best thing you can do for your Toyota 4Runner is to keep it clean. You’ll prevent most of the body corrosion and paint problems that exist with this make and model. That means an investment into a power washer and other tools you can use for cleaning it at home makes a lot of sense.
I’m a big fan of the Westinghouse Outdoor WPX3400 Gas Powered Pressure Washer.
Not only does it deliver 3,400 PSI through its wand, but you also receive five nozzles to vary the strength of the stream. It uses less than three gallons per minute at the highest pressure, allowing you to use soap and cleaners to keep your Toyota 4Runner clean.
The pressure washer offers a robust steel frame with a one-foot profile, making it easy to maneuver around your driveway or property. You’ll get the engine oil you need in the box, plus a quick-start guide that lets you get to work right away.
The heavy-duty 212cc engine is a four-stroke design with an OHV horizontal shaft. It starts easily, provides a consistent flow once it gets going, and will help you manage many of your household chores.
If you don’t need as much PSI at home, you can use the Westinghouse WPX3200 or the WPX2700 to save a little money without disrupting the cleaning power you want.
It delivers an outstanding performance with great value, just like you’ll get from the fifth generation of Toyota 4Runners.
