Shifterati

Toyota 4Runner · 4th gen (2003–2009)

2006 Toyota 4Runner

What buyers say

Reputation: what owners and the press report

  • Sought after: V8 All years One source so far

    The only 4Runner generation with a V8. Enthusiasts are said to seek out a clean one.1

  • Sought after: 2005 and later V8 2005–2009 One source so far

    35 more horsepower. Autotrader prefers a V8 from after the 2006 update.2

  • Sought after: 2006 and later V6 2006–2009 One source so far

    Five members in one thread believe Toyota changed the V6 head gasket around 2005 or 2006, two citing a part number change. None points to a Toyota bulletin, and one doubts it was fixed.3

  • Avoid: Frame rust All years Walk away

    Both generations rust at the frame, worst where roads are salted, and rust can leave a frame unsafe. Toyota's frame rust program for its trucks did not include the 4Runner.4,5,1,6,7

Before you pay

Open the buyer's checklist

Every warning and recall for this generation, with a box to tick.

Sources

  1. Jalopnik
  2. Autotrader
  3. Toyota-4Runner.org (head gasket redesign)
  4. Yahoo Autos
  5. IH8MUD forum
  6. CarComplaints 2022
  7. CarComplaints 2023