Buyer's checklist: 6th gen Toyota 4Runner 2025–2027

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.

Inspection sheet Mark up every panel, what is underneath and how it drives.

Look for 6

Known problems, and how to check for each.

Transmission overheating on off-road climbsAll yearsAsk whether a transmission temperature warning has ever come on, and on what kind of climb.^1,2
Clunk on the 1-2 shiftAll yearsDrive it from a cold start and feel for a clunk or hunting between first and second gear.³
Front brake squealEarly production, 2025–2026Listen for brake noise, and ask whether bulletin TSB-0006-26 was done.³
Hood flutterAll yearsWatch the hood at highway speed and over bumps.⁴
Rattles and loose trimAll yearsDrive on rough pavement and listen at the rear window, the doors and the rear spoiler.^5,6
Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto drop outAll yearsPair a phone and confirm it connects again after a restart.^7,5

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

Recall 25V5950002025A software fault at start-up can stop the instrument panel showing speed and warning lights. Ask for proof the recall work was done.⁸
Recall 26V5710002026The load label can show wrong figures for the weight of added parts. Ask for proof the recall work was done.⁹

What owners and the press say to steer clear of.

Hybrid cargo spaceHybridEdmunds counts lost cargo room as a con of the hybrid.¹⁰

The boxes are for you: nothing you tick is sent or kept.