CarComplaints.com Notes: Although it has a stellar record in terms of vehicle problems, 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.
3.9
definitely annoying
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
31,026 miles
About These NHTSA Complaints:
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.
Drivers door latch mechanism would not permit driver to exit the vehicle. Door would not unlock, though all electric and manual actions to unlock the door appear to work, latch handle would not move. This condition was normal for the vehicle when new if the door was locked. All other doors in the vehicle would open from the inside if locked. Drivers door latch failed prohibiting driver from exiting the car and was replaced. Replacement latch would permit emergency exit from the vehicle if the lock was activated.
Front driver side door will not unlock with remote, key, inside latch, etc. Door will make sounds when electrical locks are pushed, so it is not likely the actuator (which has also been a problem in this make and model). Internet research has shown that there is a component within the latch, a spring of some variety, that breaks and/or falls down into the door compartment. Contacted dealer who was very busy and had never heard of such a problem, but we could bring it in and for 85 dollars/hr, they would look at it and see. Well, we are not even able to get the door open. If a crash were to happen, someone could get stuck inside, as currently one has to crawl from driver side to passenger side to exit vehicle. I feel this is a manufacturing defect, especially with the numerous similar complaints online, that should be recalled and fixed at the manufacturer's expense.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
- Richardson, TX, USA