Toyota 4Runner IV (N210) (2002 – 2009)
Reliability score : 9.1/10
The 4th generation Toyota 4Runner (code name N210) is a true dinosaur of reliability, built on a robust ladder frame shared with the Land Cruiser Prado 120 and the FJ Cruiser. Designed primarily for the North American market (and sold as the Hilux Surf in Japan), it marks a major evolution by offering a V8 engine as an option for the first time. Facelifted in late 2005 (2006 models) with revised headlights, rounded wheel arches, and LED taillights, it is considered by experts (Consumer Reports, J.D. Power) as one of the most reliable and durable SUVs ever built. Its excellent 4WD transmission with a Torsen center differential makes it an off-road icon, easily capable of exceeding 500,000 km with standard maintenance.
✅ Strengths
- Legendary mechanical reliability (V6 and V8)
- Almost indestructible A750F automatic gearbox
- Exceptional off-road capabilities (Torsen center differential, A-TRAC)
- Exceptional resale value (retains 65-70% of its value after 5 years)
- Build quality and durability of interior materials
- Less than 10% of owners report problems over 3 years (vs 20% industry average)
⚠️ Weaknesses
- Extreme sensitivity of the chassis to corrosion (perforating rust)
- Very high fuel consumption (especially the V8)
- Frequent leaks from the X-REAS suspension system (Sport Edition trim)
- Chronic cracking of the exhaust manifolds on the V8
- Head gasket on V6 models from 2003 to 2005
- Braking lacks bite and front calipers prone to seizing
🎯 Verdict
The 4th generation Toyota 4Runner (N210) is a highly recommended purchase. It is one of the most reliable vehicles of its decade, dominating the J.D. Power and Consumer Reports rankings. The choice between the V6 (1GR-FE) and the V8 (2UZ-FE) depends on your needs: the V6 is more rational and has a timing chain, while the V8 offers exceptional driving pleasure at the cost of gargantuan fuel consumption and a belt that needs replacing. Absolute caution: the legendary mechanical reliability of this model is often ruined by chassis corrosion. Never buy this vehicle without a rigorous inspection of the underbody. Favor post-2006 V6 models (to avoid head gasket issues) or V8s with a crystal-clear maintenance history.
Common issues
Corrosion excessive du châssis (cadre)
High
🔧 Variable, souvent visible dès 100 000 km dans les régions salées
💶 500 – 3 000 € (selon l'étendue, peut être plus si structurel)
Inspecter minutieusement le châssis, surtout les longerons et soudures, avant achat.
Défaillance du radiateur (mélange liquide de refroidissement/huile de transmission - 'Pink Milkshake')
High
🔧 150 000 – 250 000 km
💶 300 – 600 € (radiateur seul) ; 2 000 – 4 000 € (si transmission endommagée)
Remplacer le radiateur préventivement ou installer un refroidisseur de transmission externe.
Fuites ou défaillance du système de suspension X-REAS (sur certains modèles)
Medium
🔧 120 000 – 200 000 km
💶 1 500 – 3 000 € (pour remplacer par des amortisseurs classiques ou X-REAS)
Vérifier l'absence de fuites sur les amortisseurs, envisager un remplacement par des amortisseurs standards.
Défaillance du démarreur
Medium
🔧 180 000 – 250 000 km
💶 400 – 700 €
Écouter les bruits de démarrage, prévoir le remplacement à fort kilométrage.
Usure des rotules inférieures (Lower Ball Joints)
High
🔧 150 000 – 250 000 km
💶 300 – 600 € (par essieu, pièces et main d'œuvre)
Faire inspecter régulièrement les rotules inférieures pour la sécurité.
Estimated maintenance costs
| Oil change |
£70 – 130 |
| Complete brakes |
£280 – 550 |
| Estimated annual budget |
£600 – 1 100 |
Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.