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.
high pitch squeal with illumination of abs,vsc,brake lights
The problem is with the brake accumulator and master cylinder, power brake assembly on these 4runners. It is one of the few engineering failures I have seen Toyota make, and they do not seem to be interested in corrected the issue. Apparently, a 1.25 oring goes out internally on these units and causes a catastrophic failure of the braking system. The repair costs range from 1500 to 3000 dollars. It can result in a crash due to the brakes not stopping the vehicle. If you notice a squealing from under the dash or firewall or an intermittent squeal from the same area. STOP! Go immediately to a Toyota repair facility and have the brake system inspected. It WILL fail!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
high pitch squeal with illumination of abs,vsc,brake lights
The problem is with the brake accumulator and master cylinder, power brake assembly on these 4runners. It is one of the few engineering failures I have seen Toyota make, and they do not seem to be interested in corrected the issue. Apparently, a 1.25 oring goes out internally on these units and causes a catastrophic failure of the braking system. The repair costs range from 1500 to 3000 dollars. It can result in a crash due to the brakes not stopping the vehicle. If you notice a squealing from under the dash or firewall or an intermittent squeal from the same area. STOP! Go immediately to a Toyota repair facility and have the brake system inspected. It WILL fail!
- John A., Plains, GA, US