2002 Toyota 4Runner

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner is a popular SUV known for its reliability and off-road capability. Available engine options include a 2.7L 4-cylinder and a 3.4L V6. The 3.4L V6 produced 183 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque. Most commonly, owners appreciate its longevity, ruggedness, and resale value. Common dislikes involve fuel economy and some age-related maintenance issues. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.4L V6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, leading to a burning smell and potential oil loss.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Service
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt is a wear item, and failure can cause severe engine damage.
  • Solution: Regular timing belt replacement (typically every 90,000 miles).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking in the exhaust manifold, leading to exhaust leaks and noise.
  • Solution: Replacement of the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.7L 4 Cylinder

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or jerky shifts between gears, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Fluid change, valve body cleaning/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $800+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Lower Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive play in the front suspension, clunking noises, and potential for ball joint separation, leading to loss of control.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Coil Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, affecting ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not going up or down, or moving very slowly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle not starting, clicking noises when turning the key.
  • Solution: Replacement of the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Rusting of the frame, especially in areas with road salt exposure. Can compromise structural integrity.
  • Solution: Rust mitigation (cleaning, coating), or in severe cases, frame repair/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard material, especially in sunny climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard repair or replacement, dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cover) - $1000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner, while generally reliable, is prone to certain age-related issues. The most common problems involve engine oil leaks (valve cover gaskets), suspension wear (ball joints, coil sag), and some electrical component failures. Frame rust is a significant concern in certain regions. The severity of these issues varies, but many can be addressed with preventative maintenance and timely repairs. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to over a thousand for more extensive work like timing belt service or frame rust repair.