2001 Toyota 4runner problems
Owners have filed 206 complaints about the 2001 Toyota 4runner with NHTSA. Structure accounts for 39.3% of them — far more than any other system, ahead of power train at 13.6%.
Complaints206
Crashes8
Fires3
Injuries11
Deaths0
What owners report breaking
Structure 39.3% · 81
Power train 13.6% · 28
Suspension 12.6% · 26
Unknown or other 10.7% · 22
Steering 3.4% · 7
Engine 2.4% · 5
Engine and engine cooling 2.4% · 5
Air bags 2.4% · 5
Severity
Of those complaints, 8 describe a crash, 3 describe a fire and 11 report an injury.
Reading the numbers
Across the 17 model years of the Toyota 4runner in this data, 2001 sits 8th by complaint volume. 2004 draws the most.
Filings have fallen off, 3 in the last three years against 26 in the three before. That is normal as a generation leaves the road.
The median odometer reading at the time of complaint was 125,094 miles.
In owners' own words
Frame rusted through at rear near muffler. Bottom of frame section approximately 4" missing , inside of frame perforated through approximately 18". Rear support rod structural integrity compromised. Vehicle was purchased new from local deal (lynch Toyota, manchester ct) and is one owner garaged and maintained. Contacted Toyota and local dealer. Both unwilling to take any action. No recall on this vehicle. Structure · reported at 128,000 miles
The contact owns a 2001 Toyota 4runner. The contact stated that the frame was rusted. The vehicle was taken to a private mechanic where the failure was confirmed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, several times. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000. Updated 12/20/13*cn the consumer stated the vehicle is on the same frame as other recalled Toyota vehicles. Updated 12/26/13 Structure · reported at 306,781 miles
I just purchased a 2001 Toyota 4runner. All seemed fine .But when I went to get it inspected they would not pass starting it had frame rust through. I called Toyota customer service who said and I also read online that thousands of Toyota trucks have a frame recall but mine does not. And they are not willing to do anything. Others had the frame replaced, repaired or bought back. Hopefully you can help me. Structure · reported at 103,321 miles
Verbatim from NHTSA filings. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Safety recalls
Checking NHTSA for open recalls…