2008 Toyota 4Runner

The 2008 Toyota 4Runner is a popular mid-size SUV known for its reliability and off-road capability. The available engine options were 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. The V6 was paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, while the V8 was paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the 4Runner’s longevity, build quality, and off-road prowess, but some common complaints include issues with rust, particularly in areas with salted roads, and some electrical component failures.

Engine

4.0L V6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover, leading to a burning oil smell and potential oil loss.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Evaporative Emissions (EVAP) System Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, fuel smell, difficulty filling the gas tank. Often related to the fuel filler neck or charcoal canister.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the EVAP system. This may involve replacing the fuel filler neck, charcoal canister, or other related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+ depending on the specific component.
  • Recalls: None Found

4.7L V8

• Exhaust Manifold Crack
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially when cold, which may diminish as the engine warms up. Could also cause exhaust leaks and reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Injection Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light. Louder than normal noise when first starting vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air injection pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during light acceleration, typically between 35-45 mph.
  • Solution: Sometimes a transmission fluid flush helps, but often requires a torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when turning. Loose steering or excessive play in the steering wheel.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected ball joint(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Air Suspension (If Equipped) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging in the rear, compressor running constantly, failure to maintain ride height.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air springs, compressor, or height sensors. Conversion to coil springs is also an option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the component and if converted to coil springs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window failing to go up or down, slow or erratic window movement.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, difficulty starting, stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the frame, undercarriage, and body panels, especially in areas with salted roads.
  • Solution: Rust repair or replacement of affected panels. Frame rust can be severe and costly to repair. Prevention with rust inhibitors is key.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dash cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$1000+ depending on the replacement/solution used.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Toyota 4Runner is generally reliable, but owners should be aware of common issues like valve cover leaks (V6), exhaust manifold cracks (V8), torque converter shudder, and rust. The severity and cost of these issues vary. Rust is a significant concern, especially in areas with road salt. Electrical issues such as power window motor failure and alternator failure can also occur. Pre-purchase inspections are recommended to identify and address any potential problems.