2007 Toyota 4Runner

The 2007 Toyota 4Runner is a popular mid-size SUV known for its reliability and off-road capability. Available engines included a 4.0L V6 producing 236 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.7L V8 producing 260 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the 4Runner for its durability and off-road prowess, but some common complaints include the vehicle’s age impacting the condition of various components and fuel economy.

Engine

4.0L V6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve cover gasket, leading to burning oil smells and potential oil loss.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
• Cracked Exhaust Manifold
  • Description/Symptoms: Whistling sound upon acceleration, especially when the engine is cold. Can also lead to reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800

4.7L V8

• Exhaust Manifold Leaks/Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or hissing noise, especially upon startup, that goes away as the engine warms up. May also notice reduced fuel economy or a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
• Timing Belt Replacement
  • Description/Symptoms: This is preventative maintenance, not a failure. The timing belt should be replaced at regular intervals (typically 90,000 miles) to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt, water pump, tensioner, and idler pulleys.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, or rough shifting, especially at highway speeds. Possible transmission overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. In some cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+
• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: rough or jerky shifting,
  • Solution: Perform a transmission flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300

Suspension

• Front Lower Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Excessive play in the front wheel when lifted. A failed ball joint can be extremely dangerous.
  • Solution: Replace the front lower ball joints. It’s recommended to replace both sides at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Rear Coil Spring Sag/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal. Rougher ride quality, especially with weight in the back.
  • Solution: Replace the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• X-REAS System Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking fluid from the shocks, diminished ride control, and potential warning lights.
  • Solution: Replace the X-REAS components or convert to a standard suspension system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Illumination Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some or all of the lights in the instrument cluster stop working.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows stop working or move very slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400

Exterior

• Rust on Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust, especially on the frame rails. This can weaken the structural integrity of the vehicle.
  • Solution: Treat and coat the rust, or in severe cases, frame repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Rust Treatment) - $5000+ (Frame Replacement)

Interior

• Center Console Latch Broken
  • Description/Symptoms: The latch on the center console breaks, causing the lid to not stay closed.
  • Solution: Replace the center console latch or the entire console lid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $200

Recalls

• Recalls:
  • 05V225000
  • 09V044000
  • 09V395000
  • 10V031000
  • 10V032000
  • 13V583000
  • 14V752000

In summary, the 2007 Toyota 4Runner is a dependable SUV but has some common issues due to its age. The engine and suspension components are the most prone to problems, with the potential for costly repairs like exhaust manifold replacement or X-REAS system failure. Frame rust is also a significant concern depending on the vehicle’s location and maintenance history. While some issues like valve cover gasket leaks or power window motor failures are relatively inexpensive to fix, others like torque converter failure or frame rust repair can be quite costly. Carefully inspect the vehicle for these potential problems before purchasing.