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U.S. public vehicle records

Toyota 4 RUNNER transmission problems

37 complaint narratives mention transmission terms.

Key facts

1,034 owner complaints analyzed

0 distinct recall campaigns

25,500 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 1994 to 2005 model years. Data updated: . 312 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Transmission and shifting evidence

37 of 1,034 complaints match this topic (3.6%). The keyword filter can include complaints that mention a transmission without reporting its failure. View matching rules.

Owner report 534998 · 1998-04-29 (April 29, 1998)

TRANSMISSION FAILURE.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 534998 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 768680 · 2002-10-21 (October 21, 2002)

TRANSMISSION WILL INTERMITTENTLY DROP OUT OF 1ST AND 3RD GEAR. WHEN AT A DEAD STOP, TRANSMISSION WILL DROP OUT OF 1ST GEAR WHILE ACCELERATING, CAUSING LOST OF POWER. ALSO WHILE ENTERING THE FREEWAY, TRANSMISSION WILL DROP OUT OF THIRD GEAR, CAUSING LOST OF POWER. THIS PROBLEM HAS HAPPENED AT ABOUT 40, 000 MILES AND AGAIN AT ABOUT 99,000 MILES. DT

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 768680 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10017168 · 2003-04-18 (April 18, 2003)

WHILE DRIVING THE TRANSMISSION FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. *NLM WHILE DRIVING THE TRANSMISSION FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. CONSUMERS TWO SONS REMOVED TRANSMISSION. CONSUMER HAS TRANSMISSION IN STORAGE. *MR

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10017168 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10021859 · 2003-05-29 (May 29, 2003)

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION IS NOT WORKING PROPERLY. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10021859 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10025745 · 2003-07-09 (July 9, 2003)

A TOYOTA DEALERSHIP IS LOOKING TO REPLACE A COMPLETE TRANSMISSION ON MY DAUGHTER'S 1995 4RUNNER. THE TRUCK HAS 80000 MILES-THAT IS ONLY 10000 MILES PER YEAR AND THE VAST MAJORITY OF THE MILES ARE HIGHWAY MILES. IT HAS NEVER GONE OFF ROAD.*AK THE TRUCK HAS BEEN MAINTAINED; IT WAS ALSO INCLUDED IN A TOYOTA RECALL FOR BAD HEAD GASKETS WHERE THE UPPER HALF OF THE ENGINE WAS REPLACED. MY COMPLAINT IS THAT THE TRANSMISSION IS DEFECTIVE IF IT ONLY LASTED 80000 MILES BUT OF COURSE IT IS OUT OF MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10025745 at NHTSA ↗

Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

1,034 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-09-30.

30.2%Usable mileage312 / 1,034 records
83.8%Valid incident date866 / 1,034 records
100.0%Valid filing date1,034 / 1,034 records
83.6%Ordered incident and filing dates864 / 1,034 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

Component complaint heatmap
Component199419951996199719981999200020012002200320042005
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine
1223.1%
ODI 10017173

WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE STALLED WHICH MADE IT DIFFICULT FOR THE DRIVER TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED. *NLM

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5140.8%
ODI 10003548 · 141,000 mi

BLOWN HEAD GASKET. WAS TOLD VIN NUMBER DOES NOT FALL IN RANGE FOR "CAMPAIGN" SSCV06 OR BEFORE THE 10/94 MANUFACTURED DATE (VEHICLE HAS 12/94 MANUFACTURED DATE). CAUSING OVERHEATING, COOLANT CONSUMPTION, ROUGH STARTING, AND EXPENSIVE DAMAGE/REPAIR.

Look up ODI 10003548 at NHTSA ↗

1516.9%
ODI 513590

HEAD GASKET REPLACED PREMATURELY DUE TO POOR ENGINE HEAD DESIGN.

Look up ODI 513590 at NHTSA ↗

54.1%
ODI 10018500 · 101,658 mi

ENGINE STOP RUNNING, BECAUSE OF SLUG BUILD UP IN 4 RUNNER ENGINE 1997. OTHER CARS IN THE TOYOTA LINE HAVE SAME PROBLEM AND THEY ARE FIXING THE ENGINE FOR FREE, BUT NOT THE 4 RUNNER. THEY HAVE 3 MODELS THAT ARE DOING THE SAME THING, THE ENGINE ARE SLUGGING UP AND CAUSE ENGINE FAILURE. THEY SAID THIS MODEL DOES NOT FALL IN THAT LINE, AND WILL COST ME $9,000 TO FIX, BUT FIRST THEY QUOTE ME $5000. THE OIL HAS BEEN CHANGED EVERY 3000 MILES OR SO, NOT ALL BY THE DEALER. THE DEALER SEEN THIS PROBLEM WITH MY VEHICLE AND DID NOT SAY ANYTHING TO ME UNTI…

Look up ODI 10018500 at NHTSA ↗

54.2%
ODI 10009528

THERE WAS AN UNFAMILIAR RATTLING NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE. *DT *JB

Look up ODI 10009528 at NHTSA ↗

10.9%
ODI 10164245 · 111,000 mi

DT: THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE STALLS AND THE DEALER HAS BEEN UNABLE TO RESOLVE. THE CONTACT IS UNSURE IF THIS IS THE ENGINE AND THE TRANSMISSION. THE VEHICLE ALSO HAS A CONTINUOUS KNOCKING SOUND, AND A INTERMITTENT STALLING PROBLEM. ALSO THE VEHICLE HAS A VIBRATION WHEN IT IS ACCELERATING OVER 50 MILES PER HOUR.

Look up ODI 10164245 at NHTSA ↗

43.8%
ODI 10007349 · 21,990 mi

CAR STALLS ON DECELERATION WITH CHECK ENGINE LIGHT (RED). TOYOTA TRUCK WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP TWICE WITHOUT A PERMANENT RESOLUTION. UPON CONTACTING MANUFACTURER AND IN TURN TOYOTA SERVICE & REPAIR THEY STATED THEY ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND THAT THERE IS NO RESOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM. TOYOTA SERVICE ADVISED ME TO DRIVE VEHICLE AND NOT TO COMPLETELY FILL GAS TANK, BECAUSE IF THE GAS TANK IS OVERFILLED CAUSES CAR TO TURN OFF. DUE TO GAS GETTING INTO THE VACUUM SYSTEM. *PH *NLM **DIMSII IVOQ ENTRY POSTED AFTER 12/12/02 CUT OVER …

Look up ODI 10007349 at NHTSA ↗

13.2%
ODI 10037815

WHILE MAKING RIGHT TURNS VEHICLE WOULD LOSE POWER AND THEN T STALL OUT.*AK

Look up ODI 10037815 at NHTSA ↗

39.4%
ODI 10104252 · 48,000 mi

2002 TOYOTA 4-RUNNER ENGINE PROBLEM. LIKE OTHER TOYOTA ENGINES, THIS ONE AT 48,000 MILES, HAS A SEVERE SLUDGE BUILD UP PROBLEM DESPITE MAINTENANCE THAT HAS FOLLOWED RECOMMENED PRESECIPTIONS IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL. TOYOTA REFUSES TO HONOR ITS POWER TRAIN WARRANTEE IN REPAIRING OR REPLACING THE ENGINE DESPITE THE MALFUNCTION. MUSSON PATOUT HAS ACTED IN A DISHONARABLE AND DISREPUTABLE MANNER IN REPAIRING THIS AUTOMOBILE ACCORDING TO WARRANTEES PURCHASED WITH THE VEHICLE.*AK

Look up ODI 10104252 at NHTSA ↗

53.0%
ODI 10018836 · 800 mi

2003 TOYOTA 4-RUNNER V6 LIMITED GENERATES THIS UNUSUAL (TICK, TICK, TICK) ENGINE NOISE ESPECIALLY WHEN ACCELERATING. IT SOUNDS LIKE A LOOSE PART IN THE ENGINE BLOCK. THIS NOISE IS ESPECIALLY NOTICEABLE WHEN THE 4-RUNNER, DRIVEN BY MY WIFE, ACCELERATES BY ME OR WHEN I DRIVE WITH THE WINDOW OPEN NEXT TO A WALL. WILL THIS NOISE AFFECT ENGINE PERFORMANCE AND SHORTEN ENGINE LIFE? VERY CONCERNED CUSTOMER. *JB

Look up ODI 10018836 at NHTSA ↗

23.0%
ODI 10047344 · 200 mi

STEERING WHEEL AND PEDALS VIBRATE IN 1600-2000 RPM RANGE AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. *LA

Look up ODI 10047344 at NHTSA ↗

16.7%
ODI 10144479 · 2,000 mi

WHILE STOPPED, MY 2005 4RUNNER MOVES FORWARD WHEN COMPRESSOR ENGAGES. THE RPM AT IDLE WILL FLUCTUATE BETWEEN 750 AND 1100. DURING THE LATER PORTION OF FLUCTUATION, ABNORMAL BRAKE PRESSURE IS NEEDED TO KEEP THE 4RUNNER FROM MOVING FORWARD. IDLE SPEEDS CAN REACH 25 MPH ON FLAT SURFACE AND 45 ON MODERATE SLOPE. IF YOU ARE CRUISING AT 60 MPH AND REMOVE PRESSURE FROM ACCELERATOR, VEHICLE IDLE WILL RETAIN 55 MPH. TOYOTA CLAIMS THIS IS NORMAL. PLEASE INVESTIGATE BEFORE THIS CAUSES A SEVERE ACCIDENT. IF YOU FORGET TO APPLY MASSIVE FORCE TO BRAKE PEDAL …

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Tires
11.9%
ODI 479579

GOODYEAR WRANGLER TIRE FAILURE. *AW

Look up ODI 479579 at NHTSA ↗

86.4%
ODI 10024954 · 44,000 mi

ARMSTRONG DESSERT DOG, 31X1.5R15 DOTCH60GP4208. THE CONSUMER STATED THE LEFT REAR TIRE VIBRATED WHILE DRIVING. THE CONSUMER PULLED OVER, AND NOTICED A 8 INCH LONG BULGE IN TIRE. TOOK TO AAA, AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT "THE BONDING OF THE TIRE CAME LOOSE FROM THE STEEL BELT. CONSUMER REPLACED ALL 4 TIRES. *AK *CB *JB

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910.1%
ODI 10076228 · 54,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING AT 120 KMPH, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE BLEW. THE CONSUMER MANAGED TO PULL OVER AND CHANGED THE TIRE. THE DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. THE CAUSE WAS NOT DETERMINED. DUNLOP#26560R16 DOT#DB72A16 . *LA *LA

Look up ODI 10076228 at NHTSA ↗

97.4%
ODI 10041635

THE FIRST TIRE THAT THE TREAD CAME OFF WAS WHILE TRAVELING ON THE FREEWAY - JULY, 2002. NO DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE OR MYSELF. TOW TRUCK DRIVER CAME OUT AND CHANGED THE TIRE. WENT TO DISCOUNT TIRE TO HAVE THE TIRE REPLACED, THEY REPLACED IT AT NO COST. WHEN I ASKED IF THE OTHERS WERE SAFE, THEY SAID YES, LEAVING THE OTHER DESERT DOG TIRES ON. AUGUST, 2003 - DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AGAIN WITH MY HUSBAND, WE FELT A VIBRATION, PULLED OFF TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND FOUND THAT THE TREAD HAD COME OFF ONCE AGAIN. HAD THAT REPLACED AT DISCOUNT TIRE,…

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1613.3%
ODI 10082281 · 116,400 mi

4 DUNLOP RADIAL ROVERS 235/75 R15 INSTALLED 2 OR 3 YEARS AND 30,000 MILES AGO ON MY 1998 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. I ALWAYS MAINTAINED RECOMMENDED PRESSURES AND JUST ROTATED THEM MYSELF LAST WEEK AFTER OUR PREVIOUS LAS VEGAS TRIP. ON OUR WAY BACK FROM LAS VEGAS JULY 19, 2004 2 PM NEAR FONTANA THE CAR BEGAN TO SHAKE PROGRESSIVELY UNTIL IT WAS UNDRIVEABLE ABOVE 45 MPH SO I PULLED OVER TO A SMALL TURNOUT. I CHANGED THE LEFT REAR TIRE THAT I FOUND HAD A MAJOR BULGE (3 INCH DIAMETER BUBBLE ON SIDEWALL WHICH CONTINUED ANOTHER 3 INCHES INTO THE TREAD.) CHAN…

Look up ODI 10082281 at NHTSA ↗

1816.4%
ODI 10048040 · 6,000 mi

THE TIRES WERE DISINTEGRATING AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO RIDE EXTREMELY ROUGH AND CHOPPY. *AK THE TIRES FELT LESS SMOOTH. FIRESTONE ADMITTED THAT THE TIRES FELT CHOPPY AND REFUSED REPLACEMENT. THE PROBLEM WORSENED AS TIME WENT ON. *SC *JB

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109.6%
ODI 10022491 · 500 mi

THE RIGHT REAR TIRE BLEW OUT. IT WAS DISCOVERED THE TIRE CONTAINED A 3 INCH GASH WITHOUT BEING PUNCTURE. *JB *TS *JB

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13.2%
ODI 10042425 · 11,033 mi

ALL FOUR VEHICLE TIRES ARE FEATHERING(IMPROPER WEAR). THIS CAUSES THE VEHICLE TO PULL TO THE RIGHT/LEFT WHILE DRIVING. THE CAUSE OF THE FEATHERING WAS UNDETERMINED. DUELER H/T689.*AK

Look up ODI 10042425 at NHTSA ↗

39.4%
ODI 10003054 · 16,553 mi

IN OCTOBER '02 I WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE THAT WAS TURNING FROM SOUTH TO WEST AS I WAS TRAVELLING NORTH. MY VEHICLE ENDED UP COLLIDING WITH THE OTHER VEHICLE AT ITS PASSENGER FRONT AXLE AND MY DRIVER SIDE FRONT END. AS CONTACT OCCURRED, I HAD MY WHEELS TURNED HARD TO THE RIGHT THUSLY CAUSING MY VEHICLE TO GRADUALLY WHIP THE BACK END AROUND CAUSING A SIDE IMPACT AS WELL. THE OTHER VEHICLE WAS PUSHED NORTHWARD APPROX. 15-25 FEET BEFORE THE COLLISION CAME TO AN END. BOTH VEHICLES WERE DISABLED IN THIS OCCURRENCE…

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42.4%
ODI 10025329 · 2,650 mi

P265-65R17, DUNLOP GRAND TREK TIRE COLLAPSED WHILE DRIVING TO WORK IN AN 03 TOYOTA 4-RUNNER. SPEED WAS APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH. NO ROAD HAZARD WAS ENCOUNTERED. NO LOUD EXPLOSION. TIRE JUST SUDDENLY WENT FLAT. TIRE SEPARATED 360 DEGREES AROUND FRONT OF RIM. TIRE IS COMPLETELY INTACT ON BACK SIDE OF RIM. TOYOTA DEALERSHIP SAYS THEY HAVE NEVER HAD A REPORT OF ANY PROBLEM WITH THESE TIRES. THEY REFUSED TO REPLACE TIRE AND REFERRED ME TO DUNLOP. THEY TOLD ME THAT THE REST OF THE TIRES, TO INCLUDE THE SPARE, NOW MOUNTED, ARE SAFE FOR DRIVING.*A…

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23.0%
ODI 10082348

COMPLAINT INVOLVES TOYOTA , 2004 4RUNNER. NOTICED SLIGHT VIBRATION IN STEERING WHEEL AT 62-64 MPH. HAD WHEELS AND TIRES ROTATED AND BALANCED AT 6000 MILES. PROBLEM CONTINUED. HAD TIRES BALANCED AGAIN BUT NO SUCCESS. NEW SET OF MICHELIN TIRES ORDERED BUT HAVE NOT BEEN PUT ON. ALSO, AM RADIO STATIONS EXPERIENCING EXTREME STATIC WHEN DRIVING OVER BLACKTOP ROADS. DOES NOT OCCUR WHILE DRIVING ON CONCRETE ROADS. IS NOT AFFECTED ON FM STATIONS. SERVICE MANAGER WILL EXPLORE WHEN TIRES ARE REPLACED. *LA

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00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip
11.9%
ODI 744142

BRAKES AND ROTORS CONTINUE TO FAIL OR WARP-FRONT ONLY-RESULTING IN DANGEROUS WOBBLE/SHUTTER WHEN BRAKEING. NUMEROUS REPAIRS INCLUDING TURNING/REPLACEMENT OF ROTORS AND REPLACEMENT OF BRAKES AND AT 98800 MILES IT IS IN NEED OF REPAIR AGAIN. ONLY HAVE 12,500 MILES SINCE LAST FRONT BRAKE CHANGE AND ROTOR TURN.*AK

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64.8%
ODI 10041576 · 86,000 mi

I PULLED OUT TO PASS SOMEONE, HIT THE BRAKES (WHICH WERE SUPPOSED TO BE ABS) AND THE TIRES LOCKED UP AND THE CAR BEGAN TO FISH TAIL AND SKID OUT OF CONTROL, THEN ROLLED THREE OR FOUR TIMES. *LA

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89.0%
ODI 702351

ON A STRAIGHT DECENT ROAD I APPLIED A BRAKE. SUDDENLY MY TIRE IS LOCKED W/ NO STEERING. THE ROAD WAS PARTLY COVERED BY SLUSHY SNOW AND WET. SINCE THE CAR IS EQUIPPED WITH ABS, I DID NOT TRY TO PUMP. AS THE RESULT MY CAR HIT A SNOW BANK AND ROLLED OVER. THE USER'S MANUAL DOES NOT INDICATE ABS MAY NOT WORK.

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1512.3%
ODI 10109007

COMPLAINT RECEIVED VIA EMAIL. THE BRAKES FAILED MANY TIMES ON MY CAR AND THEY WERE IN THE REPAIR SHOP FOUR TIMES. EACH TIME THEY FIXED IT TEMPORARILY. ALSO, THEY INDICATED THAT OIL OR GREASE WAS LEAKING FROM THE DIFFERENTIAL AND COATING THE BRAKE PADS, RENDERING THEM INEFFECTIVE. THE SYMPTOMS INCLUDED THE ANTI LOCK BRAKES KICKING IN TOO OFTEN/ LOSS OF BRAKING POWER, AND JOLTING AT SLOW SPEEDS. LAST TIME IN THE REPAIR SHOP THEY GUARANTEED THAT PROBLEM WAS FIXED, YET THE SAME PROBLEM RECURRED. THIS WAS VERY DANGEROUS. THEY TOLD ME THIS WAS …

Look up ODI 10109007 at NHTSA ↗

43.3%
ODI 717208

NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK

Look up ODI 717208 at NHTSA ↗

76.4%
ODI 10001922 · 25,000 mi

ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING IN SNOWY CONDITIONS, THE BRAKES FAILED TO STOP THE VEHICLE. EACH FAILURE OCCURED AFTER THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN DRIVEN SEVERAL MILES. WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED THERE IS A GRINDING NOISE. DEALERSHIP SUGGESTED THAT THE METALLIC BRAKES MAY BE WORN TOO SMOOTH, BUT COULD NOT PINPOINT PROBLEM. *TT *JB

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98.7%
ODI 10031426

CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING OVER BUMPS ANTI LOCK BRAKES WOULD SHUT OFF. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK

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13.2%
ODI 896022

WHEN APPLYING BRAKES AT A SUDDEN/ EMERGENCY STOP VEHICLE WOULD SLIDE OR SKID BEFORE STOPPING. DEALER NOTIFIED. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS ON THIS MATTER. *AK

Look up ODI 896022 at NHTSA ↗

39.4%
ODI 10024915 · 14,619 mi

WHILE DRIVING BRAKES FAILED WITHOUT WARNING, RESULTING IN A CRASH. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK

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31.8%
ODI 10110980 · 15,500 mi

WHEN BRAKING AT ANY SPEED THE BRAKE PEDAL GOES TO THE FLOOR, CAUSING EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE. DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *AK

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23.0%
ODI 10082162 · 1,000 mi

CONSUMER COMPLAINED THAT TRACKING SENSOR WAS DEFECTIVE. VEHICLE STALLED, AND SOMETIMES WHEN PRESSING THE ACCELERATOR VEHICLE GOT NO POWER AND STOPPED IN MID STREAM. CONSUMER TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER, AND CONTACTED MANUFACTURER. SINCE PROBLEM OCCURRED INTERMITTENTLY DEALER CLAIMED THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO UNLESS IT HAPPENED WHEN THEY WERE EVALUATING IT.*AK

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16.7%
ODI 10127623 · 7,124 mi

DT: ON 7-4-2005. WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 35 MPH AT A 8 LANE STOP BRAKES WERE APPLIED AND THEY FAILED. NO PRESSURE WAS FELT IN THE PEDAL, AND THE BRAKE WENT TO THE FLOOR. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ON AND NO NOISE. THERE WAS ALMOST AN ACCIDENT. OWNER HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED. THERE WERE NO BRAKES ALL THE WAY HOME. OWNER DROVE VERY SLOWLY, AND USED EMERGENCY BRAKE TO STOP. THEN THE DEALER CALLED OWNER AND REPORTED NO PROBLEMS. OWNER CALLED TOYOTA, AND THEY SAID THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. NO OTHER PROBLEMS WITH VEHICLE BEFORE. OWNER DID WANT…

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Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Gasoline
47.7%
ODI 537716

OIL GAUGE READINGS WOULD FREQUENTLY DROP TO LOW DURING NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS. DEALER NOTIFIED SOON AFTER PURCHASE. OWNER WAS TOLD THERE WAS NO PROBLEM IF NO EXCESSIVE OIL USAGE WAS NOTICED. FINALLY, ENGINE COMPLETELY SEIZED UP DURING NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS.

Look up ODI 537716 at NHTSA ↗

129.6%
ODI 507293

VEHICLE PERFORMS SLUGGISHLY.

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44.5%
ODI 537185

THE ENGINE STALLS WHEN DRIVING AND WHEN APPROACHING STOP LIGHTS. APPROXIMATELY A MONTH AGO I WAS CROSSING THREE LANES OF TRAFFICE AND IT STALLED. THIS VEHICLE IS UNSAFE AND WARRANTS REPURCHASING.

Look up ODI 537185 at NHTSA ↗

54.1%
ODI 533381

INTERMITTENT STALLING. *AK

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86.7%
ODI 538192

VEHICLE IN HEAD ON COLLISION, FIRE ERRUPTED IMMEDIATELY. (QCAW)

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76.4%
ODI 10000216 · 48,000 mi

VEHICLE STALLS AND DIES ON FREEWAY ALMOST CAUSING WRECK. FIND OUT THERE IS NO FUEL IN TANK EVEN THOUGH FUEL GAUGE READS 1/2. TOYOTA SAYS TSB EL010-00 ADDRESSES KNOWN DEFECTIVE 1999 AND 2000 FUEL GAUGES AND ALSO ADDRESSES SOME GAUGES INACCURATELY READING EMPTY WHEN 4 GALLONS REMAIN, BUT MY VEHICLE IS A FEW MONTHS AND MILES OUT OF WARRANTY SO TOY WILL NOT PAY FOR FIX. NO ENGINE, NO STEERING, NO BRAKES, LOTS OF TRAFFIC....

Look up ODI 10000216 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

39.7%
ODI 785970

CONSUMER STATES THAT AFTER WASHING AND SPRAYING THE UNDERCARRIAGE TO WASH OFF ROAD SALT, CONSUMER BACKED CAR INTO GARAGE WITH NO PROBLEMS BUT THE NEXT DAY THE ENGINE WOULDN'T START. *JG

Look up ODI 785970 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

21.2%
ODI 10013545 · 250 mi

MY 2003 4RUNNER V6 LIMITED GENERATES THIS UNUSUAL ENGINE NOISE ESPECIALLY WHEN ACCELERATING. MY OBSERVATIONS INCLUDE A POSSIBLE LOSS IN POWER AND AFFECTS ENGINE PERFORMANCE, AND POSSIBLY THE LONGEVITY OF THE ENGINE. I TOOK IT TO A SECOND TOYOTA DEALER WHERE IT WAS IMMEDIATELY RECOGNIZED BUT A SOLUTION IS YET TO BE DETERMINED SINCE THE V6 4.0 IS A NEW ENGINE. CURRENTLY, I WAIT FOR A TOYOTA TECHNICIAN FROM THE FACTORY TO EXAMINE THE ENGINE. MEANWHILE, I CONTINUE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE AND I AM AFRAID THAT I AM DOING MORE HARM TO IT'S LIFE EXPECTANC…

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11.5%
ODI 10061930

I JUST PERCHASED A 2004 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER SPORT EDITION V8 IN FEBRUARY. I HAVE JUST COMPLETED THE "BREAK-IN" PERIOD AND HAVE BEGUN TO INCREASE MY SPEED ON THE HIGHWAY. A CYCLICAL VIBRATION AND NOISE IS NOTICED FROM THE ENGINE AT 70 MILES PER HOUR THAT INCREASES IN FREQUENCY AS VEHICLE SPEED IS INCREASED. THE NOISE SUBSIDES ONCE YOU LET OFF THE GAS REGARDLESS OF SPEED. IN ADDITION, STEERING WHEEL AND BRAKE PEDAL VIBRATES BETWEEN 1500 AND 2000 RPM RANGE AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. *AK

Look up ODI 10061930 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

11.1%
ODI 8023265

CONSUMER NOTICE WHILE TRAVELING EXHAUSTS LEAKING SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE. VEHICLE WAS SERVICE BY DEALER TECHNICIAN NOTICE CORROSION ON THE CROSSOVER PIPE. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. TS

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00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

10.8%
ODI 10038120

CONSUMER STATED WHILE TRAVELING AT ANY SPEED AND WITHOUT ANY INDICATION VEHICLE WOULD STALL. VEHICLE WAS SERVICED, TECHNICIAN NOTICED A MOUSE HAD CRAWLED INTO THE MASS AIR FLOW . *AK

Look up ODI 10038120 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

3420.2%
ODI 10011039

TOXIC SULFUR/ROTTEN EGG SMELL IN CABIN OF AUTOMOBILE

Look up ODI 10011039 at NHTSA ↗

57.6%
ODI 10062166

ROTTEN EGG SMELL WHEN THE GAS PEDAL IS DEPRESSED QUICKLY FROM EITHER A STANDSTILL OR ALREADY MOVING. I'VE TRIED ALL DIFFERENT TYPES OF GAS BUT TO NO AVAIL.*AK

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00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Tires:Tread/Belt
23.8%
ODI 727752

TIRE TREAD SEPARATED FROM TIRE ON I-10W, TRAVELING @60MPH. I WAS ABLE TO PULL OFF HIGHWAY AND CALL ROAD SERVICE TO CHANGE TIRE. LUCKLY NO ONE WAS INJURED. CHANGED ALL FOUR TIRES IMMEDIATELY AFTER RETURNING HOME. TREAD ON TIRES WERE GOOD. *AK( DOT NUMBER: U8860 TIRE SIZE: P225/75R15 )

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10.8%
ODI 726000

WE HAVE NOTICED THAT THE TREAD HAS BEGUN TO CRACK OFF OF THE RIGHT FRONT TIRE OF MY 4-RUNNER. WHEN THE TIRES WERE INITIALLY PURCHASED EIGHTEEN MONTHS AGO, TWO (RIGHT REAR AND LEFT FRONT) WERE DEEMED DEFECTIVE BY THE TIRE STORE AFTER I COMPLAINED THAT THE RIDE WAS CONSIDERABLY ROUGHER THAN SHOULD BE, AND THOSE TWO WERE REPLACED DAYS AFTER PURCHASED. *AK( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: 225/75/R15 )

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22.2%
ODI 729028

TIRE FAILED WHILE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. TREAD SEPARATED FROM TIRE AND WAS LOST (COULDN'T SEE IT AT NIGHT). LOCATION WAS ON INTERSTATE 15 JUST SOUTH OF BARSTOW CALIFORNIA. TEMPERATURE WAS APPROXIMATELY IN THE IN LOW 50S. BEFORE THE TIRE FAILUE, I FELT A VIBRATION IN THE VEHICLE FOR A FEW MILES, WHICH GRADUALLY GREW LARGER. SUDDENLY THE SOUND OF THE CAR CHANGED DRASTICALLY (AS THE TREAD SEPARATED, I PRESUME) AND I HEARD MUCH ROAD NOISE. AT FIRST I THOUGHT THAT THE ROAD HAD CHANGED ITS SURFACE FROM ASPHALT TO SOMETHING MORE NOISY, LIKE A "CHIP-…

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64.9%
ODI 10037578

ROLLOVER IN TOYOTA 4 RUNNER - 1997. *JB

Look up ODI 10037578 at NHTSA ↗

1210.0%
ODI 10034055 · 23,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING LEFT REAR TIRE TREAD SEPARATED AND DAMAGED THE REAR FENDER OF THE VEHICLE. FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT II TIRE. *AK *LA

Look up ODI 10034055 at NHTSA ↗

76.4%
ODI 553656

FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT TIRE P225 75 R15 EXPERIENCED SIDEWALL AND TREAD SEPARATION, CONSUMER WANTS DEALER TO REPLACE ALL 5 TIRES. *SLC

Look up ODI 553656 at NHTSA ↗

32.9%
ODI 10046442

TIRE BLOW OUT CAUSED VEHICLE TO HIT A GUARDRAIL. *MR (THE LEFT TIRE EXPERIENCED A BLOWOUT) THE CONSUMER HAD MOVED OVER TO THE MIDDLE LANE WHEN THE TIRE BLEW. *SCC *JB

Look up ODI 10046442 at NHTSA ↗

412.9%
ODI 10074046 · 26,000 mi

TIRE TREAD BELT SEPARATED. CONSUMER DID NOT REMEMBER LOCATION OF FAILED TIRE. DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT REPAIR THE PROBLEM. STEEL RADIAL, 225/75R15, DOT# 3DBHHA630700. *AK

Look up ODI 10074046 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Air Bags:Frontal
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

21.6%
ODI 10052718

30 MPH HEAD-ON CRASH INTO A TREE IN GOLETA, CA. BOTH FRONT AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. CRASH RESULTED IN BROKEN ARMS, RIBS, AND SCALP LACERATIONS.*AK

Look up ODI 10052718 at NHTSA ↗

55.6%
ODI 10010496 · 2 mi

THE 1996 TOYOTA 4RUNNER HIT A STOP SIGN POLE AND A BIG TREE AT 50 TO 60 MPH DURING WET WEATHER. THE FRONT OF THE CAR WAS TOTALED AND THE AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY, RESULTING IN THE COLLISION OF THE DRIVERS HEAD TO THE STEERING WHEEL. *NLM

Look up ODI 10010496 at NHTSA ↗

54.1%
ODI 725803

SEAT BELT DID NOT HOLD HER. AIRBAG DEPLOYED TO SOON. SHE WENT FACE FIRST INTO THE DASH & WINDSHIELD WAS KNOCKED UNCONSIOUS. SHE HAS NECK & BACK INJURIES STILL TODAY. THE SEATBELT IS STILL LAYING ON THE SEAT. LAP PART HELD HER NOT THE SHOULDER STRAPE HER HEAD HIT THE WINDSHIELD & BROKE WINDSHIELD. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL ME IF YOU NEED MORE INFOMATION. *AK

Look up ODI 725803 at NHTSA ↗

21.7%
ODI 10011092 · 60,000 mi

I WAS IN AN AUTO ACCIDENT JULY 6, 2002. I DROVE A 98' TOYOTA 4 RUNNER. THERE WERE FOUR PERSONS WHO SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES. THE AIRBAG SEEMED TO PERFORM AS INTENDED, HOWEVER, TO THIS DATE I HAVE HORRIFYING PLASTIC MATERIAL COMING FROM THE INSIDE... AND OUTSIDE OF MY CHEEKS. IT HAS CAUSED VERY VISIBLE PATTERNS TO PROTRUDE FROM THE SKIN, CONSTANT PAIN, AND DESPERATE EFFORTS TO GET ANSWERS. THOUGH I HAVE BEEN TO MANY DOCTORS, I HAVE FAILED TO ESCAPE THE RESEARCH EVASIVE REALITIES OF MY PROVIDERS. LABS SIMPLY FAIL TO IDENTIFY, AND DOCTORS AGREE TH…

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98.2%
ODI 10169155

WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH HAD A FRONTAL IMPACT WITH A LARGE TREE IN WHICH THE FRONT END WAS CRUSHED. UPON IMPACT, DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, WHICH DID NOT PROTECT THE OCCUPANTS IN THE CRASH. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *NM

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76.7%
ODI 10097987 · 68,000 mi

MY WIFE TOTALED OUR 2000 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER, LIMITED. NEITHER AIR BAG DEPLOYED EVEN THOUGH THERE WAS SUBSTANTIAL FRONTAL IMPACT AND ROLLOVER. THE EMERGENCY WORKERS WERE SURPRISED THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. I HAVE DIGITAL PICS OF THE WRECKED VEHICLE IF NEEDED.

Look up ODI 10097987 at NHTSA ↗

13.2%
ODI 8018841

WHILE DRIVING AT THE SPEED OF 50MPH HAS A FRONT COLLISION, AND NEITHER PASSENGER OR DRIVER AIR BAG DEPLOY. DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. ANY DETAILS ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, FEEL FREE TO ADD ON.*AK

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13.1%
ODI 10048260 · 21,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING AT NORMAL SPEED VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL COLLISION AND NEITHER OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. *AK

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10.6%
ODI 10144883 · 53,000 mi

VEHICLE WAS HIT WITH SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE. DRIVER SUSTAINED FACIAL LACERATIONS, RESTRAINED CHILD SUSTAINED SHOULDER/CLAVICLE INJURY. MINIMUM ESTIMATED DAMAGE TO VEHICLE IS $7000, NEITHER SIDE CURTAIN OR FRONT AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. FRONT AIRBAGS WOULD HAVE LIKELY PREVENTED INJURY TO DRIVER. *NM

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11.5%
ODI 10126646 · 13,978 mi

INVOLVED IN ACCIDENT,AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY,SEAT BELTS DID NOT HOLD RESULTING IN HITTING STEARING WHEEL AND FRACTURING MY STEARNUM. COLLISION REPAIR CENTER REPLACED COMPUTER THAT CONTROLS AIR BAG AND SEAT BELTS.

Look up ODI 10126646 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System:Emission Control:Catalytic Convertor
23.8%
ODI 803742

THE TRUCK BURNED A LOT OF OIL, CONSUMER THINKS IT WAS THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, DEALER SAID IT IS NORMAL WEAR . PLEASE DESCRIBE . *AK

Look up ODI 803742 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

10.9%
ODI 707446

THE FOLLOWING WORK ORDER WAS GIVEN TO ME. FOUND DCT # PO420 INEFFECIENT CATALYTIC CONVERTER. TESTED A/F SENSOR IT WAS GOOD, IT MEASURED 1.8 OHMS. TESTED 02 SENSOR IT MEASURED 19.0 OHMS N@ 1800 DEGREES. DIAGNOSED SWITCHED GROUNDS AT E.C.U. E10 # 8 AND # 17 . REMOVED AND SWITCHED WIRES TO THE CORRECT POSITIONS. ERACED CODE IN ECU MEMORY.

Look up ODI 707446 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

13.2%
ODI 10143950

I DRIVE HIGHWAY 90% OF THE TIME AND THEN 10% ON CITY STREET. I WAS TOLD BY GREENVILLE TOYOTA THAT MY CATALYTIC CONVERTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. I WAS QUOTED $1,070.00.00. I HAVE A 2001 TOYOTA 4RUNNER, 2WD, SR5. I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT THESE DON'T DIE THIS SOON. IS THERE A RECALL? *JB

Look up ODI 10143950 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

2011.9%
ODI 10016415

EXHAUST FUMES APPARENTLY ENTERING CABIN OF VEHICLE. SMELL OF SULFUR VERY STRONG EVEN WHEN ALL WINDOWS ARE UP. *JB

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69.1%
ODI 10062166

ROTTEN EGG SMELL WHEN THE GAS PEDAL IS DEPRESSED QUICKLY FROM EITHER A STANDSTILL OR ALREADY MOVING. I'VE TRIED ALL DIFFERENT TYPES OF GAS BUT TO NO AVAIL.*AK

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320.0%
ODI 10129002 · 100 mi

I HAVE A 2005 TOYOTA 4RUNNER SPORT AND THERE IS A HORRIBLE SULFUR SMELL THAT IS EMITTED INTO THE CABIN WHILE REACHING RPM'S OF APPROXIMATELY 3000 - 5000.

Look up ODI 10129002 at NHTSA ↗

Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
ComponentMileage range (25th–75th percentile)MedianUsable recordsExamples
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine52,525–104,375 mi91,350 mi34
ODI 10056929 · 95,668 mi

IN SHORT, I BROUGHT A 1994 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER WITH A WARRANTY BACK IN JUNE 2002 FROM POTAMKIN SPRINGFIELD AUTO WORLD. IN NOVEMBER 2003, THE TRUCK WAS DEEMED UNSAFE TO DRIVE BECAUSE THE HEAD GASKETS BLEW. I HAD THE REQUIRED MAINTENANCE DONE PLUS OTHER REPAIRS AND TOOK THE TRUCK TO BE SERVICED WHENEVER THERE WAS A PROBLEM PRIOR TO THIS SITUATION. I COMPLAINED TO THE DEALERSHIP ABOUT THIS BECAUSE THIS WAS A COSTLY REPAIR AND OF COURSE THE WARRANTY DID NOT COVER THE PART. I PAID OUT OF POCKET FOR THE REPAIR NOT KNOWING THEN THAT THERE WAS A RECALL…

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ODI 10169474 · 90,700 mi

I OWN A 94 TOYOTA 4RUNNER WITH A 3VZ-E MOTOR. THE HEAD GASKET WAS REPLACE UNDER THE RECALL IN 1997 WHEN THE VEHICLE HAD 45000 MILES. THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP JUST REPLACED THE HEAD GASKET AND NEVER RESURFACED THE HEADS. ON SEPTEMBER 20,2006 HEAD GASKET BLOW AGAIN.IT IS WELL KNOWN ABOUT THE DESIGN FLAW IN THIS MOTOR AND TOYOTA SHOULD BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIR TO BE DONE CORRECTLY. MY VEHICLE ONLY HAS 90700 MILES ON THE MOTOR.I CALLED TOYOTA AND THEY TOLD MY THAT THEY ONLY FIX IT ONE TIME. I ADVISED THEM THAT THEY NEVER FIXED THE FIRST HEAD…

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ODI 10003548 · 141,000 mi

BLOWN HEAD GASKET. WAS TOLD VIN NUMBER DOES NOT FALL IN RANGE FOR "CAMPAIGN" SSCV06 OR BEFORE THE 10/94 MANUFACTURED DATE (VEHICLE HAS 12/94 MANUFACTURED DATE). CAUSING OVERHEATING, COOLANT CONSUMPTION, ROUGH STARTING, AND EXPENSIVE DAMAGE/REPAIR.

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Tires6,000–54,000 mi19,800 mi13
ODI 10024954 · 44,000 mi

ARMSTRONG DESSERT DOG, 31X1.5R15 DOTCH60GP4208. THE CONSUMER STATED THE LEFT REAR TIRE VIBRATED WHILE DRIVING. THE CONSUMER PULLED OVER, AND NOTICED A 8 INCH LONG BULGE IN TIRE. TOOK TO AAA, AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT "THE BONDING OF THE TIRE CAME LOOSE FROM THE STEEL BELT. CONSUMER REPLACED ALL 4 TIRES. *AK *CB *JB

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ODI 10131269 · 44,000 mi

1995 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER LEFT REAR TIRE EXPLODED WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH.*MR THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO VIBRATE PRIOR TO THE BLOWOUT. THE VEHICLE ROLLED 3 1/2 TIME ACCORDING TO A WITNESS AND CAME TO REST ON IT'S SIDE. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A SHOULDER INJURY, THE DRIVER'S DAUGHTER WAS UNHURT BUT THE DRIVER'S DOG DIED IN THE ACCIDENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A TIRE DEALER THE WEEK EARLIER TO HAVE AN OLDER TIRE REPLACED AND THE OTHERS INSPECTED. (CONTINENTAL CONTRACT SUV TIRES). *NM

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ODI 10076228 · 54,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING AT 120 KMPH, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE BLEW. THE CONSUMER MANAGED TO PULL OVER AND CHANGED THE TIRE. THE DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. THE CAUSE WAS NOT DETERMINED. DUNLOP#26560R16 DOT#DB72A16 . *LA *LA

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Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip9,280–43,500 mi20,250 mi10
ODI 10041576 · 86,000 mi

I PULLED OUT TO PASS SOMEONE, HIT THE BRAKES (WHICH WERE SUPPOSED TO BE ABS) AND THE TIRES LOCKED UP AND THE CAR BEGAN TO FISH TAIL AND SKID OUT OF CONTROL, THEN ROLLED THREE OR FOUR TIMES. *LA

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ODI 10001922 · 25,000 mi

ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING IN SNOWY CONDITIONS, THE BRAKES FAILED TO STOP THE VEHICLE. EACH FAILURE OCCURED AFTER THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN DRIVEN SEVERAL MILES. WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED THERE IS A GRINDING NOISE. DEALERSHIP SUGGESTED THAT THE METALLIC BRAKES MAY BE WORN TOO SMOOTH, BUT COULD NOT PINPOINT PROBLEM. *TT *JB

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ODI 10005490 · 59,000 mi

AS I WAS DRIVING DOWN A 4 LANE HIGHWAY, THE STEERING WHEEL SUDDENLY JERKED OUT OF MY HANDS TO THE RIGHT. I WAS UNABLE TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL BACK TO THE LEFT TO CORRECT. THE ROADS WERE WET FROM AN EARLIER RAIN; THERE WAS NO STANDING WATER, NO POT HOLES, OR OTHER VISIBLE DEFECTS IN THE ROAD. I WAS IN THE LEFT LANE, TRAVELING ABOUT 60MPH. THE CAR SPUN OUT OF CONTROL - DOING 2 COMPLETE SPINS ON THE HIGHWAY, THEN INTO THE DITCH ON THE RIGHT; HITTING TREES, FLIPPING, HITTING MORE TREES, AND FINALLY COMING TO A HALT STRADDLING THE DITCH PERPE…

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Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:GasolineToo few reports for a range24,125 mi2 (sparse)
ODI 10000216 · 48,000 mi

VEHICLE STALLS AND DIES ON FREEWAY ALMOST CAUSING WRECK. FIND OUT THERE IS NO FUEL IN TANK EVEN THOUGH FUEL GAUGE READS 1/2. TOYOTA SAYS TSB EL010-00 ADDRESSES KNOWN DEFECTIVE 1999 AND 2000 FUEL GAUGES AND ALSO ADDRESSES SOME GAUGES INACCURATELY READING EMPTY WHEN 4 GALLONS REMAIN, BUT MY VEHICLE IS A FEW MONTHS AND MILES OUT OF WARRANTY SO TOY WILL NOT PAY FOR FIX. NO ENGINE, NO STEERING, NO BRAKES, LOTS OF TRAFFIC....

Look up ODI 10000216 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10013545 · 250 mi

MY 2003 4RUNNER V6 LIMITED GENERATES THIS UNUSUAL ENGINE NOISE ESPECIALLY WHEN ACCELERATING. MY OBSERVATIONS INCLUDE A POSSIBLE LOSS IN POWER AND AFFECTS ENGINE PERFORMANCE, AND POSSIBLY THE LONGEVITY OF THE ENGINE. I TOOK IT TO A SECOND TOYOTA DEALER WHERE IT WAS IMMEDIATELY RECOGNIZED BUT A SOLUTION IS YET TO BE DETERMINED SINCE THE V6 4.0 IS A NEW ENGINE. CURRENTLY, I WAIT FOR A TOYOTA TECHNICIAN FROM THE FACTORY TO EXAMINE THE ENGINE. MEANWHILE, I CONTINUE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE AND I AM AFRAID THAT I AM DOING MORE HARM TO IT'S LIFE EXPECTANC…

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Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System8–1,000 mi25 mi21
ODI 10017800 · 500 mi

THE VEHICLE WAS DISTRIBUTING EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS OF SULFUR DIOXIDE GAS FROM THE EXHAUST PIPE . THE GAS WAS COMING THROUGH THE AIR VENTS AND MAKING THE OCCUPANTS SICK. *NLM

Look up ODI 10017800 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10020594 · 1,000 mi

THERE IS A STRONG SULFUR SMELL INSIDE OUR 2003 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER SPORT EDITION WHEN WE DRIVE. IT IS HARD TO BREATHE AT TIMES. OUR CONCERN IS THAT IT IS DANGEROUS TO OUR HEALTH. ARE WE ALSO GETTING CARBON MONOXIDE? TOYOTA DEALER TOLD US THERE IS NO FIX OTHER THAN TO TRY DIFFERENT GASOLINE. WE HAVE TWO OTHER VEHICLES ON THE SAME GAS WITH ABSOLUTELY NO SMELL. WE ARE AT A LOSS AS TO WHAT TO DO. SUGGESTIONS? TOYOTA GAVE US A COPY OF A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN DATED 2/24/03 ON SULFUR ODOR FROM EXHAUST. OBVIOUSLY, THEY ARE AWARE OF THIS AND ARE…

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ODI 10021208 · 12 mi

ROTTEN EGG SMELL FROM EXHAUST WHEN HATCH BACK WINDOW DOWN FOR INTERIOR AIR CIRCULATION. BELIEVE THE CAUSE IS LENGTH AND POSITIONING OF EXHAUST PIPE. *JB

Look up ODI 10021208 at NHTSA ↗

Tires:Tread/BeltToo few reports for a range26,000 mi3 (sparse)
ODI 10034055 · 23,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING LEFT REAR TIRE TREAD SEPARATED AND DAMAGED THE REAR FENDER OF THE VEHICLE. FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT II TIRE. *AK *LA

Look up ODI 10034055 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10074046 · 26,000 mi

TIRE TREAD BELT SEPARATED. CONSUMER DID NOT REMEMBER LOCATION OF FAILED TIRE. DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT REPAIR THE PROBLEM. STEEL RADIAL, 225/75R15, DOT# 3DBHHA630700. *AK

Look up ODI 10074046 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10076008 · 35,600 mi

WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH DRIVER SIDE REAR TIRE EXPERIENCED A BLOWOUT, CAUSING THE TREAD TO SEPARATE FROM THE SIDEWALL. TIRE SIZE P265/70R16, DOT DA72C440702. *AK

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Air Bags:Frontal17,489–64,000 mi53,000 mi7
ODI 10010496 · 2 mi

THE 1996 TOYOTA 4RUNNER HIT A STOP SIGN POLE AND A BIG TREE AT 50 TO 60 MPH DURING WET WEATHER. THE FRONT OF THE CAR WAS TOTALED AND THE AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY, RESULTING IN THE COLLISION OF THE DRIVERS HEAD TO THE STEERING WHEEL. *NLM

Look up ODI 10010496 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10011092 · 60,000 mi

I WAS IN AN AUTO ACCIDENT JULY 6, 2002. I DROVE A 98' TOYOTA 4 RUNNER. THERE WERE FOUR PERSONS WHO SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES. THE AIRBAG SEEMED TO PERFORM AS INTENDED, HOWEVER, TO THIS DATE I HAVE HORRIFYING PLASTIC MATERIAL COMING FROM THE INSIDE... AND OUTSIDE OF MY CHEEKS. IT HAS CAUSED VERY VISIBLE PATTERNS TO PROTRUDE FROM THE SKIN, CONSTANT PAIN, AND DESPERATE EFFORTS TO GET ANSWERS. THOUGH I HAVE BEEN TO MANY DOCTORS, I HAVE FAILED TO ESCAPE THE RESEARCH EVASIVE REALITIES OF MY PROVIDERS. LABS SIMPLY FAIL TO IDENTIFY, AND DOCTORS AGREE TH…

Look up ODI 10011092 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10058959 · 78,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH DOWN A CITY ROAD IN VA. BEACH A CAR ON OUR RIGHT HAND SIDE ENTERED THE INTERSECTION MAKING A LEFT HAND TURN. THE CAR ENTERED THE INTERSECTION APPROX. 20-25 FEET AHEAD OF US. I IMMEDIATLEY HIT THE BRAKES AND TURNED THE CAR TO THE LEFT AS TO TRY AND AVOID A COLLISION. WE ENDED UP T-BONING THE ONCOMING VEHICLE. OUR 4-RUNNER WAS CLAIMED A TOTAL LOSE DUE TO A BEND FRAME. THE FRONT END DAMAGE WAS ESTIMATED AT 4-6 THOUSAND DOLLARS. THE FULL FRONT END AND PASSENGER FENDER WERE DESTROYED. NEITHER AIRBAG DEPLOYED. I ESTIMATE THE MPH …

Look up ODI 10058959 at NHTSA ↗

Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System:Emission Control:Catalytic Convertor100–3,375 mi1,479 mi12
ODI 10018637 · 10 mi

PASSENGER COMPARTMENT FILLS WITH EXHAUST FUMES (ROTTEN EGG SMELL) MAINLY WHEN IN MOTION WITH THE BACK WINDOW DOWN. *JB

Look up ODI 10018637 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10020933 · 2,500 mi

THE EXHAUST SMELL FROM THE TRUCK HAS A HORRIFIC AND SICKENING SMELL. I HAVE NOT BEEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE DUE TO THIS ISSUE. IT HAS MADE ME SICK TO MY STOMACH AT TIMES AND MY WIFE AND KIDS CAN NOT STAND THE CONTINUOUS SMELL EITHER. I AM VERY UPSET WITH THIS AND WOULD LIKE A REFUND OF MY PURCHASE PRICE. TOYOTA SENT OUT A TSB REGARDING THE SMELL SAYING IT WAS THE GASOLINE (POOR) THAT PEOPLE USE. WRONG! I USE AMOCO AND TEXACO ONLY. *AK

Look up ODI 10020933 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10030648 · 957 mi

WHEN ACCELERATING THE ENGINE MAKES AN ODD NOISE THAT SOUNDS LIKE THERE IS AN EXHAUST LEAK. I ALSO INTERMITTENTLY HAVE THE "ROTTEN EGG" SMELL INSIDE THE VEHICLE. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER TO HAVE IT EXAMINED AND AFTER THE SERVICE MANAGER DROVE THE VEHICLE FOR 1.6 MILES, HE TOLD ME "THEY ALL SOUND LIKE THAT." IT SEEMS ODD TO ME THAT A VEHICLE DESIGNED TO BE SO QUIET WOULD MAKE SUCH AN ALARMING SOUND WHEN ACCELERATING. I ALSO FIND IT ODD THAT, IF THERE WERE NO EXHAUST LEAK, WITH ALL THE WINDOWS CLOSED, THE ROTTEN EGG SMELL OF EXHAUST IS STILL AB…

Look up ODI 10030648 at NHTSA ↗

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

1 reports2024-102026-09

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples
Monthly complaint and recall timeline
MonthComplaintsCampaigns announcedExamples
2024-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-09 (partial)0None

No examples available for this selection.

Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Age 0Age 1Age 259 reports

2004: 59 complaints · 2005: 14 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model yearThrough age 0Through age 1Through age 2
2004485959
2005101414
Date coverage across each selected cohort
Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
YearIncident dates usedFiling date fallbacksExcluded dates
20045817
20051401

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
ComponentEngine And Engine Cooling:EngineTiresService Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited SlipEngine And Engine Cooling:Engine:GasolineEngine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust SystemTires:Tread/BeltAir Bags:FrontalEngine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System:Emission Control:Catalytic Convertor
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine—
1
ODI 603831

SEVERE OIL LEAK FROM HEAD GASKETS.

Look up ODI 603831 at NHTSA ↗

00000
2
ODI 803742

THE TRUCK BURNED A LOT OF OIL, CONSUMER THINKS IT WAS THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, DEALER SAID IT IS NORMAL WEAR . PLEASE DESCRIBE . *AK

Look up ODI 803742 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10030648 · 957 mi

WHEN ACCELERATING THE ENGINE MAKES AN ODD NOISE THAT SOUNDS LIKE THERE IS AN EXHAUST LEAK. I ALSO INTERMITTENTLY HAVE THE "ROTTEN EGG" SMELL INSIDE THE VEHICLE. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER TO HAVE IT EXAMINED AND AFTER THE SERVICE MANAGER DROVE THE VEHICLE FOR 1.6 MILES, HE TOLD ME "THEY ALL SOUND LIKE THAT." IT SEEMS ODD TO ME THAT A VEHICLE DESIGNED TO BE SO QUIET WOULD MAKE SUCH AN ALARMING SOUND WHEN ACCELERATING. I ALSO FIND IT ODD THAT, IF THERE WERE NO EXHAUST LEAK, WITH ALL THE WINDOWS CLOSED, THE ROTTEN EGG SMELL OF EXHAUST IS STILL AB…

Look up ODI 10030648 at NHTSA ↗

Tires
1
ODI 603831

SEVERE OIL LEAK FROM HEAD GASKETS.

Look up ODI 603831 at NHTSA ↗

—0000
1
ODI 877251

MODEL, SIZE AND DOT # DA72C44 WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH LEFT FRONT TIRE HAD A BLOWOUT, ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT ON A 2000, TOYOTA, 4 RUNNER. *AK THE CUSTOMER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE WHEN THE TIRE BLEW UP, AND THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG FAILED TO DEPLOY. *YH

Look up ODI 877251 at NHTSA ↗

0
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip00—
1
ODI 717030

CAR ENGINE SHUTS DOWN WITHOUT WARNING. ALSO, POWER STEERING BECAME VERY HEAVY AND SLOW, AND POWER BRAKES NO LONGER WORKED. *AK

Look up ODI 717030 at NHTSA ↗

00
1
ODI 763982

WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS IT BECAME NECESSARY TO TAKE EVASIVE MANEUVERS. WHEN I SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES I DID NOT FEEL THE ABS ENGAGE. I LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND HIT A GUARDRAIL. WHEN THIS OCCURRED THE VEHICLE ROLLED FRONT OVER BACK AND THE AIRBAGS NEVER DEPLOYED. THIS CONCERNED ME. HOW CAN A VEHICLE ROLL OVER AND THE AIRBAGS NEVER DEPLOY?*AK

Look up ODI 763982 at NHTSA ↗

0
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Gasoline00
1
ODI 717030

CAR ENGINE SHUTS DOWN WITHOUT WARNING. ALSO, POWER STEERING BECAME VERY HEAVY AND SLOW, AND POWER BRAKES NO LONGER WORKED. *AK

Look up ODI 717030 at NHTSA ↗

—0000
Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System0000—00
2
ODI 10062168

SULFER EXAUST FUMES ENTERING CABIN. OCCURS AT VARIOUS TIMES. SPOKE TO DEALER AND MANUFACTURER; BOTH BLAME GAS. MY CONCERN IS THAT THE FUMES ARE GETTING INTO THE CABIN AREA.*AK

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ODI 10062166

ROTTEN EGG SMELL WHEN THE GAS PEDAL IS DEPRESSED QUICKLY FROM EITHER A STANDSTILL OR ALREADY MOVING. I'VE TRIED ALL DIFFERENT TYPES OF GAS BUT TO NO AVAIL.*AK

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Tires:Tread/Belt00000—00
Air Bags:Frontal0
1
ODI 877251

MODEL, SIZE AND DOT # DA72C44 WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH LEFT FRONT TIRE HAD A BLOWOUT, ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT ON A 2000, TOYOTA, 4 RUNNER. *AK THE CUSTOMER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE WHEN THE TIRE BLEW UP, AND THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG FAILED TO DEPLOY. *YH

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1
ODI 763982

WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS IT BECAME NECESSARY TO TAKE EVASIVE MANEUVERS. WHEN I SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES I DID NOT FEEL THE ABS ENGAGE. I LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND HIT A GUARDRAIL. WHEN THIS OCCURRED THE VEHICLE ROLLED FRONT OVER BACK AND THE AIRBAGS NEVER DEPLOYED. THIS CONCERNED ME. HOW CAN A VEHICLE ROLL OVER AND THE AIRBAGS NEVER DEPLOY?*AK

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000—0
Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System:Emission Control:Catalytic Convertor
2
ODI 803742

THE TRUCK BURNED A LOT OF OIL, CONSUMER THINKS IT WAS THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, DEALER SAID IT IS NORMAL WEAR . PLEASE DESCRIBE . *AK

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ODI 10030648 · 957 mi

WHEN ACCELERATING THE ENGINE MAKES AN ODD NOISE THAT SOUNDS LIKE THERE IS AN EXHAUST LEAK. I ALSO INTERMITTENTLY HAVE THE "ROTTEN EGG" SMELL INSIDE THE VEHICLE. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER TO HAVE IT EXAMINED AND AFTER THE SERVICE MANAGER DROVE THE VEHICLE FOR 1.6 MILES, HE TOLD ME "THEY ALL SOUND LIKE THAT." IT SEEMS ODD TO ME THAT A VEHICLE DESIGNED TO BE SO QUIET WOULD MAKE SUCH AN ALARMING SOUND WHEN ACCELERATING. I ALSO FIND IT ODD THAT, IF THERE WERE NO EXHAUST LEAK, WITH ALL THE WINDOWS CLOSED, THE ROTTEN EGG SMELL OF EXHAUST IS STILL AB…

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000
2
ODI 10062168

SULFER EXAUST FUMES ENTERING CABIN. OCCURS AT VARIOUS TIMES. SPOKE TO DEALER AND MANUFACTURER; BOTH BLAME GAS. MY CONCERN IS THAT THE FUMES ARE GETTING INTO THE CABIN AREA.*AK

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ODI 10062166

ROTTEN EGG SMELL WHEN THE GAS PEDAL IS DEPRESSED QUICKLY FROM EITHER A STANDSTILL OR ALREADY MOVING. I'VE TRIED ALL DIFFERENT TYPES OF GAS BUT TO NO AVAIL.*AK

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00—

Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

8 patterns with matching reports.

Stalling or loss of power

42 mentions · 4.1% of complaints

Median mileage: 60,000 mi (16 usable records).

ODI 10017173

WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE STALLED WHICH MADE IT DIFFICULT FOR THE DRIVER TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED. *NLM

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ODI 733286

NO EVIDENCE OF OIL LEAK AND CHECKED WITHIN ONE MONTH. ALL REQUIRED MAINTENANCE ON VEHICLE COMPLETED THROUGHOUT THE LIFE OF THE CAR WITH VERIFICATION. HEAD GASKETS CHANGED UNDER WARRANTY AS DIRECTED 1.5 YEARS PRIOR TO FAILURE. AT 60MPH, COMPLETE LOSS OF POWER AND ENGINE SEIZED UP. DEALER NOTES THAT OIL PUMP FAILED ACUTELY DRIVING THE ROD THROUGH THE ENGINE BLOCK. RESULTED IN A TOTAL LOSS OF THE VEHICLE AT ONLY 6 YEARS AND 80,000 MILES WITH FULL MAINTENANCE. VERY DANGEROUS TO DRIVER WITH COMPLETE LOSS OF POWER ON BUSY FREEWAY.*AK

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ODI 10007361

THE VEHICLE STALLED, AND DID NOT RESTART.*JB

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Matching rule\b(stall\w*|loss of power|lost power|engine shut\w* off)\b

Brake response concerns

34 mentions · 3.3% of complaints

Median mileage: 15,500 mi (11 usable records).

ODI 8002687

WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED A VERY UNUSUAL NOISE OCCURS. ALSO, BRAKE PEDAL HAS TO BE PUMPED TO GET VEHICLE TO STOP. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK

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ODI 982825

WHILE DRIVING ON WET PAVEMENT, EXPERIENCED BRAKE FAILURE, WHEN REAR WHEELS LOCKED UP, CAUSING TO VEHICLE TO SKID, NO PRIOR WARNING. *AK

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ODI 602609

WHILE TRYING TO AVOID ACCIDENT BRAKES FAILED FOR THE THIRD TIME, CAUSING VEHICLE TO ROLL OVER.

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Matching rule\b(brake fail\w*|brakes fail\w*|brake pedal|braking distance|unintended braking|phantom braking)\b

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

23 mentions · 2.2% of complaints

Median mileage: 14,557 mi (12 usable records).

ODI 723634

WE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN 1/2000, ON 6/1/2000, I WAS DRIVING THROUGH A FAST-FOOD DRIVE-THROUGH I WAS STOPPED, I PRESSED ON THE GAS, THE ENGINECHECK LIGHT WENT ON, THE CAR QUIT AND A HUGE AMOUNT OF SMOKE CAME OUT OF THE TAIL PIPE. THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP WHERE WE BOUGHT THE CAR STATED THAT THE PISTON BLEW DUE TO THE BAD HEAD GASKET. THEY FOUND ANTI-FREEZE AND WATER IN THE ENGINE. NO WARNING LIGHTS WENT ON BEFORE THIS. THE TRUCK SHOWED NO SIGNS OF OVERHEATING BEFORE THIS. TWO MINUTES LATER, I WOULD HAVE BEEN ON THE FREEWAY.*AK

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ODI 10166344 · 104,441 mi

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 50MPH, THE ENGINE HESITATED WHILE THE THERMOSTAT GAUGE ELEVATED. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED TO INDICATE A FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP WHO DETERMINED THE HEAD GASKET WAS BLOWN AND NEEDED REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALERTED.

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ODI 750647

BLOWN ENGINE HEAD GASKET. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALERSHIP FOR ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS. BLOWN HEAD GASKET IDENTIFIED. I CHECKED WITH MANUFACTURER REGARDING RECALL AND WAS TOLD THAT HEAD GASKET RECALL IS BY VIN NUMBER ONLY AND THAT MY VEHICLE VIN NUMBER IS NOT PART OF THE RECALL. IT IS VERY UNUSUAL FOR A HEAD GASKET TO PREMATURELY FAIL AT 100K MILES. AND IT SEEMS THAT THIS PROBLEM IS PREVALENT ON TOYOTA 4RUNNERS AND THE RECALL SHOULD NOT BE BY VIN NUMBER BUT A TOTAL RECALL.*AK

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Matching rule\b(warning light\w*|check engine|dashboard warning\w*|malfunction indicator)\b

Hard or delayed shifting

9 mentions · 0.9% of complaints

Median mileage: 5,300 mi (5 usable records).

ODI 738893

THIS COMPONENT HAS FAILED NUMEROUS TIMES IN THE PAST 4 YEARS, REQUIRING 7 TRIPS TO THE DEALERSHIP AND PART REPLACEMENT 3 TIME. THE LAST TIME THE ENTIRE CLUTCH PEDAL ASSEMBLY WAS REPLACED. THE MAIN FAILURE IS IN A CHEAP PLASTIC BUSHING THAT CONSTANTLY FALLS APART. THE CLUTCH PEDAL WHILE WORKABLE DOES BECOME SOMEWHAT JERKY IN ITS WORKING AS WELL AS NOISY AFTER THIS PART BREAKS.

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ODI 10005490 · 59,000 mi

AS I WAS DRIVING DOWN A 4 LANE HIGHWAY, THE STEERING WHEEL SUDDENLY JERKED OUT OF MY HANDS TO THE RIGHT. I WAS UNABLE TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL BACK TO THE LEFT TO CORRECT. THE ROADS WERE WET FROM AN EARLIER RAIN; THERE WAS NO STANDING WATER, NO POT HOLES, OR OTHER VISIBLE DEFECTS IN THE ROAD. I WAS IN THE LEFT LANE, TRAVELING ABOUT 60MPH. THE CAR SPUN OUT OF CONTROL - DOING 2 COMPLETE SPINS ON THE HIGHWAY, THEN INTO THE DITCH ON THE RIGHT; HITTING TREES, FLIPPING, HITTING MORE TREES, AND FINALLY COMING TO A HALT STRADDLING THE DITCH PERPE…

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ODI 770752

TIRES: THE TIRES DID NOT PHYSICALLY FAIL, HOWEVER AFTER ONLY 10,000 MILES, THEY WERE PRACTICALLY BALD - ALL 4. I REQUESTED THAT THE DEALER REPLACE THE TIRES WHICH THEY REFUSED TO DO ALTHOUGHT THEY ACKNOWLEDGED THAT THE TIRES WERE DANGEROUSLY WORN. THE SERVICE TECHNICIAN INFORMED ME "OFF THE RECORD" THAT THEY KNEW THIS TO BE A PROBLEM WITH THE VEHICLE - THAT THE TIRES WHICH CAME "STOCK" FROM THE FACTORY WERE IN FACT "TOO SMALL" TO BEAR THE WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE. IN LIGHT OF THE SAFETY ISSUES REGARDING BRIDGESTONE?FIRESTONE AT THAT TIME, I EL…

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Matching rule\b(hard shift\w*|rough shift\w*|delay\w* shift\w*|shift\w* hard|jerk\w*|lurch\w*)\b

Steering assistance concerns

6 mentions · 0.6% of complaints

Median mileage: 31,235 mi (2 usable records).

ODI 717030

CAR ENGINE SHUTS DOWN WITHOUT WARNING. ALSO, POWER STEERING BECAME VERY HEAVY AND SLOW, AND POWER BRAKES NO LONGER WORKED. *AK

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ODI 609311

POWER STEERING PUMP FAILED. YH

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ODI 8006525

CONSUMER STATES WHILE DRIVING 45-50 MPH WITHOUT WARNING POWER STEERING WENT OUT RESULTING LOST OF CONTROL OF VEHICLE CAUSING A MAJOR COLLISION. NLM

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Matching rule\b(power steer\w*|steering assist\w*|steering lock\w*|steering wheel lock\w*)\b

Fuel smell or leak mentions

3 mentions · 0.3% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 714690

I DON'T KNOW WHAT THE CLUNKING IS STILL. THE GAS SMELL IS ELLUSIVE. TAIL LIGHTS = FRUSTRATING!!!

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ODI 851987

CONSUMER SMELLS GAS INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK

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ODI 891739

CONSUMER CAN SMELL FUEL. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK

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Matching rule\b(fuel leak\w*|gas leak\w*|gas(?:oline)? smell|smell\w* (?:of )?(?:fuel|gas))\b

Battery drain and no-start mentions

2 mentions · 0.2% of complaints

Median mileage: 170,000 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 10147868 · 170,000 mi

I BOUGHT A 1995 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER IN NOVEMBER, 2005. THE VEHICLE WAS IN RUNNING CONDITION WHEN I BOUGHT IT AND DROVE IT ABOUT 1,500 MILES WHEN SUDDENLY THE ENGINE OVERHEATED AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. AFTER ALLOWING IT TO COOL DOWN AND PUTTING IN COOLANT IT DID START AND I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE BACK HOME. RESEARCHING THE MATTER I CAME TO FIND THAT TOYOTA HAD A RECALL ON THE 4 RUNNER DUE TO A FAULTY COOLING SYSTEM LEADING TO A FAILURE OF THE HEAD GASKET. TOYOTA WAS DOING THE FIRST ROUND OF GASKET REPAIR FOR THE OWNERS. WHEN I CONTAC…

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ODI 740091

ENGINE HEAD GASKET FAILURE CAUSING LARGE AMOUNT OF SMOKE FORMED FROM FUEL EXHAUST AND ENGINE COOLANT MIXED. CAR WOULD NOT START AFTER FAILURE BECAUSE OF BUILD UP OF COOLANT INSIDE THE CYNLINDER SO PISTON WOULD NOT COMPRESS AND CAR WOULD NOT START. *AK

Look up ODI 740091 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(parasitic drain|battery drain\w*|dead battery|won.t start|would not start|no.start)\b

Oil consumption or dilution

2 mentions · 0.2% of complaints

Median mileage: 88,500 mi (2 usable records).

ODI 10104053 · 122,000 mi

I PURCHASED A 1995 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER WITH A V6 IN JULY OF 2003 DURING SUMMERTIME. WHEN WINTER APPROACHED, IT APPEARED THE THERMOSTAT HAD BEEN STUCK OPEN (HEATER WAS NOT WORKING). LATER FOUND OUT THAT THE THERMOSTAT HAD BEEN REMOVED PRIOR TO MY PURCHASE (DEALER APPARENTLY DIDN'T KNOW) BECAUSE THE HEAD GASKET WAS BLOWN. REPLACED THE HEAD GASKETS AT $2500 AND NOW THE ENGINE BURNS OIL CONSISTENTLY AND THE POWER OF THE V6 IS JUST NOT THERE. I AM EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED WITH TOYOTA BY NOT REPAIRING OR TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR ALL OF THEIR PROBLEMS. …

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ODI 10108336 · 55,000 mi

I HAVE 2002 TOYOTA 4-RUNNER WITH 55,000 MILES. AFTER SEEING BLACK, DARK SMOKE FROM THE EXAUST SYSTEM, I THOUGHT IT NEEDED TUNE-UP. I TOOK TO JOHNSTONS TOYOTA DEALER FOR TUNE-UP (OVER $500.00), AND CAME BACK THE CAR WAS GETTING WORST. TOOK THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALER TO LOOK AT IT WHY? I WAS TOLD THAT I NEEDED TO FLUSH MY ENGINE (ANOTHER $100.00), AND ONCE AGAIN THE CAR GOT EVEN WORST. TOOK BACK FOR THE THIRD TIME, I WAS TOLD THAT SERVER SLUDGE AND IT NEEDED TO TEAR DOWN ENGINE TO CLEAN/REPAIR (THEY ASKED ME TO PAY $6,100.00 WHICH I REFUSED)…

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Matching rule\b(oil consumption|burn\w* oil|consum\w* oil|oil dilution|gas(?:oline)? in (?:the )?oil)\b