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CarComplaints.com Notes: Although the 2003 model year is the "worst" model year for the 4Runner, it's not really bad at all -- mainly it's just that the other 4Runner model years are even better. Howver the 2003 model year has no major problems & no unexpected problems for a 17-year old vehicle. We award the 2003 4Runner our Seal of Awesome, since overall versus other comparable models of the same age, it's very reliable.

Initially the 4th generation (2003 - 2009) 4Runner didn't earn our top "Seal of Awesome" rating because it received poor crash test ratings for rear impacts. However it's proven to have one of the lowest driver death rates out of all vehicles (not just SUVs), so we've bumped it back up to our top award.

Collapse Safety Ratings

NCAP 5-Star Crash Test & Rollover Safety Ratings

Driver FrontPassenger FrontDriver SidePassenger SideRollover
2003 4Runner 4-DR.*********************
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IIHS Crash Test & Rollover Safety Ratings

Good Acceptable Marginal Poor

2003 Toyota 4Runner 4-door SUV

Moderate Overlap FrontSmall Overlap DriverSmall Overlap PassengerSideRear1Rollover
G Overall
G Structure
G Head/Neck Injury
G Chest Injury
G Left Leg Injury
G Right Leg Injury
G Restraints
Full IIHS Moderate Overlap Crash Test report »
Not tested. Not tested. Not tested. P Overall
A Geometry
P Dynamic
Full IIHS Rear Impact Crash Test report »
Not tested.

1 — All seats.

Ratings only apply to the model and body or seat type tested. The date of manufacture and optional safety equipment can affect results. For full details see www.iihs.org.

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