Buyer's checklist: 5th gen Toyota 4Runner (2010–2024)

What to look for on this generation, worst first. Tick each line as you check it.

Free while the site is being tested. Every line comes from the dossier and keeps its source, and the dossier itself stays free.

Look for 4

Known problems, and how to check for each.

Failed door lock actuatorAll yearsUnlock with the fob, then open every door from outside.^1,2,3
X-REAS shock leaksLimitedLook for wet, oily shocks.^4,5
RustAll yearsLook at the frame, the door bottoms, the liftgate and the door sills.⁶
Slow or freezing touch screenAll yearsSwitch between screens and sources, and watch for lag or a freeze.⁷

Recalls filed for these model years. Not every car is covered; check the vehicle identification number with NHTSA.

Recall 16V3400002010–2011The passenger airbag inflator can rupture when it deploys. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^8,9
Recall 16V9370002016The passenger airbag inflator may be missing parts, so the airbag may not fully inflate. Ask for proof the recall work was done.¹⁰
Recall 17V0060002012The passenger airbag inflator can rupture in a crash. Ask for proof the recall work was done.¹¹
Recall 17V8310002017–2018The load capacity label can be wrong, so the truck could be overloaded. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^12,13
Recall 18V0240002010–2013The passenger airbag inflator can explode after exposure to humidity and temperature swings. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^8,14
Recall 19V0050002010–2016The passenger airbag inflator can explode after years of heat and humidity. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^{8,9,11,14,15,16,10}
Recall 19V7410002010–2016The replacement inflator, of the same design, can explode. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^{8,9,11,14,15,16,10}
Recall 20V0120002014–2015The low-pressure fuel pump in the tank can fail and stall the engine. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^15,16
Recall 20V6820002018–2020The low-pressure fuel pump in the tank can fail and stall the engine. This widens recall 20V012000. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^13,17,18

What owners and the press say to steer clear of.

2010 to 2012 model years2010–2012Autotrader reports owner complaints about brakes, electrical faults, rust and peeling paint on these years, and says to take care rather than to stay away.⁷
2013 to 2016 model years2013–2016SlashGear names these years to avoid, citing complaint counts and recalls. Autotrader disagrees and is fine with 2013 to 2015.^19,7