2003 Toyota 4Runner

The 2003 Toyota 4Runner is a popular SUV known for its reliability and off-road capability. It was available with two engine options: a 2.7L Inline-4 producing 150 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.7L V8 generating 235 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the 4Runner’s ruggedness, longevity, and strong resale value. Common dislikes include the somewhat dated interior and the fuel economy, especially with the V8 engine.

Engine

2.7L Inline-4

• No Issues Found

4.7L V8

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common around the valve cover gaskets, leading to a burning oil smell and potential oil loss.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Applies to both engine options)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifting, especially between 1st and 2nd gear, or 2nd and 3rd gear. May worsen over time.
  • Solution: Fluid change, valve body replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, stalling at low speeds.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500

Suspension

• Rear Coil Spring Sag/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded. Potential for broken coil springs, leading to instability and noise.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Lower Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Excessive play in the front wheels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 (per side)

Electrical

• Center Console Backlight Bulbs Burn Out
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control and radio controls in the center console are not lit, making them difficult to see at night.
  • Solution: Replacement of the backlight bulbs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50

Exterior

• Rust on Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Frame rust, particularly in areas with road salt exposure, can compromise structural integrity.
  • Solution: Rust mitigation, repair, or frame replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity, from $100 (rust converter application) to $5000+ (frame replacement).
• Power Antenna Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power antenna may get stuck in the up or down position, or it may stop working altogether.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power antenna assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Interior

• Multi-Information Display (MID) Pixel Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels in the Multi-Information Display (MID) in the instrument cluster may fade or disappear, making it difficult to read information such as the odometer and trip meter.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the MID.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400

Recalls:

• 05V482000

Summary

The 2003 Toyota 4Runner is a generally reliable vehicle, but it does have some common issues to be aware of. The most significant concerns are frame rust and potential transmission issues, which can be costly to repair. Other issues, such as valve cover gasket leaks, suspension wear, and electrical problems, are less severe but still require attention. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended, especially checking for frame rust.