2004 Toyota 4 Runner
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1994 | 52 |
| 1995 | 125 |
| 1996 | 89 |
| 1997 | 122 |
| 1998 | 120 |
| 1999 | 110 |
| 2000 | 104 |
| 2001 | 31 |
| 2002 | 32 |
| 2003 | 168 |
| 2004 | 66 |
| 2005 | 15 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
29% of complaints: engine and engine cooling — 19 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing catalytic convertor and exhaust system.
15% of complaints: power train — 10 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing automatic transmission and driveshaft.
11% of complaints: seats — 7 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing recliner and power adjust.
9% of complaints: tires — 6 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing pressure monitoring and regulating systems and sidewall.
9% of complaints: steering — 6 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing steering wheel/handle bar and hydraulic power assist system.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
WHILE TURNING THE VEHICLE THE POWER STRERRING BECAME UNSTABLE (HARD TO TURN - THEN LOSE) CAUSING THE SUV TO HIT A POLE, DAMAGING THE CORNER RIGHT BUMBER.
NHTSA ODI report, 20050617
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2004 Toyota 4 Runner — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (19 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (10 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for seats issues (7 reports on file for this year).
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2004 Toyota 4 Runner reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2004 Toyota 4 Runner is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2004 Toyota 4 Runner?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 29% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2004 Toyota 4 Runner have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.