This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.
So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.
Vehicle failed state inspection due to rusted frame. With the exception of rust on the bumpers (which is also a common problem for this generation 4runner) the rest of the vehicle is in excellent shape and mechanically very reliable. Inspection station suggested that I contact Toyota since they were aware of recalls for rusted frames on other Toyota trucks (Tacoma, sequoia for example.) Toyota stated that there are no recalls for 4runners but offered a $500 customer loyalty rebate if I were to purchase a new or certified used Toyota vehicle. I believe this is a potential safety issue since the rusted frame problem would only be identified by a very thorough inspection of the underbody of the truck. It is possible that there are many other 4runners of this generation that are on the road with an undiagnosed rusted frame problem.
Took vehicle to local Toyota dealership for safety and mechanical inspection after purchasing used; mechanic notes that frame is rusted through on passenger side, near lower trailing arm bracket and on drivers side near fuel tank skid plate. Damage appears to have originated on the inside of the frame and has eaten its way to the outside. Mechanic advised that vehicle may not be safe to drive, no recall by Toyota on 4runners despite similar issues with same year Tacoma.
The contact owns a 2001 Toyota 4runner. The contact stated that the dealer found the suframe corroded in the fuel tank area while the front rotors and brake pads were being replaced. The frame was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure and current mileage was 112,080.
Brought vehicle to Toyota dealer for removal of seized hardware. Technician pointed out rust spot on frame, rot has spread to wheel well on both sides of frame and has continued down to transmission crossmember. Technician pointed out rot has eaten through frame on both sides at rear control arm bracket. Spoke with other early 2000's 4runner owners who all have rot in same places. Preventative maintenance practices have been used on this vehicle since I purchased it. Frame has no drainage holes forward of rust holes in wheel wells. Concerned for other 4runner owners who are unaware of rust spots by control arm brackets. Further rust on frame in same spot on other vehicles could result in separation of bracket, control arm and rear axle from frame.
- Enfield, CT, USA
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The contact owns a 2001 Toyota 4runner. The contact stated that the frame was rusted. The vehicle was taken to a private mechanic where the failure was confirmed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, several times. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000. Updated 12/20/13 the consumer stated the vehicle is on the same frame as other recalled Toyota vehicles. Updated 12/26/13
The contact owns a 2001 Toyota 4runner. The contact stated that while having routine maintenance performed on the vehicle, she was informed by an independent mechanic that due to the massive amount of corrosion to the frame, the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 125,000.
The contact owns a 2001 Toyota 4runner. The contact stated that he noticed the muffler making a loud noise when driving at various speeds. The contact inspected the vehicle and found that the rear sub frame mount area was corroded and exhibited holes. The manufacture advised the contact that the vehicle was a Canadian vehicle therefore it could not be repaired in the United States. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 229,000.
Frame rusted through at rear near muffler. Bottom of frame section approximately 4" missing, inside of frame perforated through approximately 18". rear support rod structural integrity compromised. Vehicle was purchased new from local deal (lynch Toyota, manchester ct) and is one owner garaged and maintained. Contacted Toyota and local dealer. Both unwilling to take any action. No recall on this vehicle.
3rd generation 2001 Toyota 4runner with excessive frame and body rust. The gas tank stem is rusted, the rear differential is literally porous and leaking oil due to excessive rust. Rear bumper is rusted, spare tire mount is rusted. Other areas of rust are too numerous to list. Repair shop said car is not worth fixing. Dana Corp that made frames for Toyota Tacoma/Tundra that were recalled also is best know for rear differentials. Why weren't the 4runners included in the recall/buyback by Toyota?
The 2001 Toyota 4 runner is rusting out. My son and I both have cut our self on the rear bumper. I needed stitches for my injury. I have a scar to remind me not to purchase another Toyota. The rust got so bad, I lost my bumper. When I looked under my vehicle at the frame, the entire bottom of the vehicle is riddled w/rust, including the frame. Called Toyota to see if I could at least get a safety inspection of my frame, they told me that my 01 4runner was not part of any recall and any inspection would cost me money.
Hello, I own a 2001 4runner and the front and rear bumpers are rusting horribly with the front and rear bumpers actually having an hole all the way through. I have contacted Toyota directly on 2 occasions and they have refused to do anything. I have been patching with fiberglass but the rust continues. I live in Massachusetts and every 2001 4runner that I see on the road has the same problem. This is a safety issue since the rust affects the integrity of the function of the bumpers in the event of a collision. Also, I cannot get an inspection sticker with holes in the bumpers. The cost to replace them is well over $1,300. From a visual inspection, large chunks will continue to rust off the inside of the bumpers during the next 6 months.
The front and rear bumpers on my 2001 Toyota 4runnder are completely rusted out (from the inside out). The rest of the vehicle is in excellent condition. Never been in an accident. Anyone walking by the vehicle could accidentally brush by the bumpers and get cut from the jagged edges; also not sure what good they would do in case of any impact.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
- Moravian Falls, NC, USA