2006 Toyota 4Runner

The 2006 Toyota 4Runner is a popular SUV known for its reliability and off-road capability. Available engine options include a 4.0L V6 and a 4.7L V8. The 4.0L V6 produces approximately 245 horsepower and 282 lb-ft of torque, while the 4.7L V8 generates around 260 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the 4Runner for its ruggedness and longevity, while some common dislikes include fuel economy and outdated interior features.

Engine

4.0L V6

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: External coolant leak near the head gasket, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head gasket. It is generally recommended to have both head gaskets replaced at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak on the side of the engine, burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

4.7L V8

• Exhaust Manifold Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially upon cold start, exhaust leak sound.
  • Solution: Replacement of the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting, particularly between gears. Transmission slipping under acceleration.
  • Solution: Typically involves a transmission fluid flush, valve body repair or replacement, or in severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $3,500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, excessive play in the front wheel when lifted, uneven tire wear. This issue can be dangerous if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Air Suspension (If Equipped) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, air compressor running constantly, “Off Road” light flashing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air springs/bags, air compressor, or height sensors. Conversion to coil springs is also an option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on components and if converting to coil springs)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, warning lights on the dashboard (battery, check engine), difficulty starting, dead battery.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clock Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag light on, horn not working, steering wheel controls not functioning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clock spring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the frame, especially in areas exposed to road salt. Can lead to structural weakness.
  • Solution: Rust remediation, coating the frame to prevent further rust, or in severe cases, frame replacement (extremely costly).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+ (depending on severity and extent of repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Large cracks appearing on the dashboard, often due to sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard, use of a dashboard cover, or professional repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (dash cover) - $1,500+ (dashboard replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation Screen Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen flickering, dimming, or completely failing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation unit or repair of the screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Toyota 4Runner is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues. Engine issues like head gasket leaks (4.0L V6) and exhaust manifold cracks (4.7L V8) can be expensive to repair. Transmission problems, if they arise, can also be costly. Suspension components like ball joints and (if equipped) air suspension systems are prone to wear and failure. Electrical issues such as alternator and clock spring failures are also relatively common. Finally, frame rust can be a significant concern, especially in regions with road salt. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially dangerous situations, and the costs to fix can vary widely.