Master Toyota Mechanic Reveals Why The Fifth-Gen 4Runner Is So Reliable

Summary

• The Toyota 4Runner’s GR Series engine is reliable and powerful
• The 4Runner’s design has remained mostly unchanged since 2014 due to Toyota’s reluctance to alter its successful original design.
• The A750 five-speed automatic transmission in the 4Runner is rock-solid, offering smooth shifting and several advantages over transmissions with more gears.

There are countless YouTube channels focus on car information, offering content ranging from car reviews and maintenance tips to general how-to information. In many instances, the adage “you get what you pay for” holds true, implying that free advice often lacks value. Additionally, some content is merely clickbait, lacking genuine substance. However, every so often, you come across a true gem – a YouTuber who is both knowledgeable and engaging, delivering informative content that stands out.

AMD, also known as The Car Care Nut, is a Toyota Master Diagnostic Technician with over a decade of experience. He operates TCCN Automotive, an independent automotive repair shop specializing in Toyota and Lexus vehicles. AMD shares his wealth of experience and passion for cars on his YouTube channel, which he launched just two years ago and has already garnered nearly a million subscribers.

His videos encompass a wide range of topics, from buying guides for various Toyota models to in-depth insights into car components and how-to guides. In this instance, we bring you particularly intriguing facts from a video in which he talks about the 5th-generation Toyota 4Runner. Focusing more specifically on the 2023 models, especially the TRD Pro, he delves into what makes it exceptionally reliable, highlights its distinctive features, and explores the reasons behind its nearly unchanged design from 2010 to 2023.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, Toyota and The Car Care Nut.

The 4Runner Features Toyota’s Old-School V-6 GR Series Engine

The first aspect to examine in this 4Runner is the engine, and there’s quite a bit to discuss about it. It features the second iteration of the GR-FE.

When it hit the market in 2010, it was already considered old-school. This engine lacks direct injection, turbos, or really complicated engine controls, but that’s where the beating heart of the 4Runner begins. Instead of following the trend of reducing engine size to decrease emissions like most of the other automakers, Toyota stood firm and continued to support it.

Guarantees A Minimum Of 270 Horsepower

What makes this engine truly exceptional is that it belongs to the GR Series Engine. Initially introduced in 2005 in the Toyota Avalon, it quickly expanded to the entire Toyota V-6 lineup until it started to gradually fade away, but still lingers here. Moreover, it’s not even the latest version of the V-6; it’s the old-school variant.

The reported output varies depending on the vehicle application, but is approximately between 270 and 314 horsepower at 6200 rpm with 248 to 260 pound feet of torque at 4700 rpm on 87 octane. The 4.0-liter V-6 gasoline engine comes equipped with Dual VVT-i, which improves horsepower, torque and fuel economy.

Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro 2023 Specs

(Data sourced from Toyota)

As AMD explains, there is a common belief that all Toyota engines are reliable, but the reality is that some are outstanding, while others fall short. In his opinion, this one sits at the very top.

AMD shared his personal and professional opinion regarding the reliability of this engine. He stated that, in his entire career working on Toyotas as a Master diagnostic technician, and now owning his own shop working exclusively on Toyota and Lexus, he has never been inside one of these.

“I have never torn a 4Runner engine apart, and that is a statement. A factual one,” The Car Care Nut

Despite Some Shortcomings, The 1GR-FE Engine Performs Admirably

This engine stands out as highly effective. While it may not be flawless, as perfection is an elusive standard, it undeniably exhibits a remarkable level of resilience and reliability. If you’re looking for a fast rig, this engine will disappoint you. One notable aspect is its intentional lack of high power, as this engine is designed to adopt a conservative approach on every front.

Simplicity characterizes both its maintenance and repair processes, and its compact size might give the initial impression of being tightly packed. However, upon closer inspection, you realize that beneath its seemingly compressed exterior, there is ample space revealed once covers are removed.

Another noteworthy aspect is that, in a concerted effort to prolong its lifespan, Toyota made a singular update to this engine — just one; not two or three. During a mid-year refresh around 2014, they introduced secondary air injection.

Typically, the mention of secondary air injection raises concerns, as many models worldwide have encountered issues associated with this feature at some point. Remarkably, the 4Runner stands as an exception, demonstrating an unusual resilience to the problems often associated with secondary air injection systems.

Its A750 Five-Speed Automatic Transmission Is Rock-Solid

Additionally, there’s another testament to the strength of this drivetrain — the A750 five-speed automatic transmission.

When this transmission was initially introduced, it leaned towards the old-school side. In simpler terms, this transmission is, for lack of a better word, bulletproof. Issues with these transmissions are exceedingly rare, and when they do occur, it’s typically due to inadequate maintenance rather than an inherent flaw in the transmission itself.

Some may argue that having only five speeds is insufficient and that more gears are needed. However, the merit of this transmission lies in its unparalleled smooth shifting. It is likely the smoothest-shifting transmission you’ll encounter in any vehicle. This excellence is attributed to its meticulous design, perfectly suited to the characteristics of the car it serves.

Using Five-Speed Automatic Transmissions Comes With Various Benefits

Five-speed automatic transmissions have certain advantages compared to transmissions with more gears.

• Simplicity and Lower complexity: Five-speed automatic transmissions tend to be simpler and less complex. This can make them easier and less expensive to maintain and repair.
• Lower Weight: Five-speed automatic transmissions are generally lighter, a factor that can contribute to a reduction in the overall weight of the vehicle, potentially improving fuel efficiency and performance.
• Less Electronic Complexity: Transmissions with fewer gears may require less electronic control and sensors for operation, simplifying the system and reducing the likelihood of electronic failures.
• Lower Energy Consumption: In some situations, they may have a lower energy consumption due to the fact that there are fewer moving components and, therefore, less internal friction.

Simplicity Might Be The Perfect Term To Characterize This Off-Road SUV

The simplicity extends to fluid management as well. While some may raise concerns about it, the absence of a dipstick follows an old-school debate. Instead, this transmission features a straightforward, dipstick-less or sealed transmission design. Notably, there are two plugs, not one — a drain plug and another to check the transmission fluid level.

This uncomplicated setup reflects the straightforward construction of this transmission, seamlessly aligning with the overall vintage charm of this offroader.

The Original Configuration Was So Well-Designed That There Were Hardly Any Adjustments In The Later Models

Over the course of the 4Runner’s existence, there have been minimal alterations, not just in terms of mechanical components, but also in terms of aesthetics.

If you examine it closely, the design has remained virtually unchanged since 2014, with almost no modifications, except for a few minor details such as the addition of a 360 camera. And this option became available much later, but even then, the camera quality is reminiscent of technology from the 1980s.

Extreme Hesitancy Surrounds Any Changes To The Successful Original Design

The modifications made to the 4Runner are so few that it’s almost unbelievable that they’ve refrained from making any significant changes over the course of so many years.

Due to a reluctance to alter the original, well-received design significantly, these few changes seem more like bolt-ons. There’s a sense that these additions were not thoroughly thought out to ensure they synergized effectively with the existing design due to the fear of deviating from the successful original design.

In fact, even when we consider the front end (which, by the way, the design available for the TRD Pro Model exudes a nostalgic Toyota vibe with prominent lettering instead of the logo), the applied changes weren’t a complete overhaul; they were essentially attachments. It’s the same grille, with just one or two different pieces.

This reflects Toyota’s level of commitment to the 4Runner – they are hesitant to make significant changes, showcasing a strong reluctance to alter its core design. From 2014 to 2023, nothing has changed; everything around the SUV remains exactly the same. Surprisingly, even details like the fuel door have stayed unchanged. In the year 2023, there’s still no locking fuel door.

While Not Luxurious, The 4Runner’s Interior Excels In Functionality

Since 2010, there haven’t been that many updates, as AMD emphasizes enough in the video. The only changes on the 4Runner have been to the radio and gauges; everything else remains unchanged.

This is not in reference to the visible aspects you interact with, but rather behind the scenes; the wiring, seat construction, and materials used are all identical. The way this vehicle is built has remained precisely the same.

This is precisely why the 4Runner is what it is. They made minimal changes and focused on small improvements. This approach has led to the current state of the vehicle. If you examine the interior, while it may not be what you call luxurious, it is highly functional.

The 4Runner Was Built To Endure

Starting from the material of the dash, we observe that it is made of hard plastic. Despite the fact that the interior materials are not flashy or attention-grabbing like leather, they are, in fact, durable, and this choice is absolutely intentional.

The type of plastic used is durable and resistant to cracking. It is also easy to clean and doesn’t stain easily, contributing to the maintenance of the car’s longevity and preventing common issues associated with aging interiors.

Since The Fifth Generation, There’s Only Been One Notable Upgrade

Effectively, there has been only one significant change to the 4Runner since its inception in the fifth generation from 2010 to 2023. This change pertains to the electronic system within the interior — the key.

In 2022, the 4Runner still featured an old-school key system, specifically the non-smart key part. Toyota had to make a change, and I can imagine they weren’t thrilled about it. The new key design is the type you’ll find in newer models, and the 2021 4Runner was the last model to use the old-style smart key, a design that is no longer produced or used.

They had to update the 4Runner, bringing this “dinosaur” into the modern age to ensure compatibility with current technology. Otherwise, they wouldn’t be able to produce a key for it, given that the old system was obsolete.

This illustrates how things work with this car. Changes are only made when components become absolutely obsolete, and Toyota users seem to appreciate this approach. For 4Runner buyers, it’s not about the latest gadgets or large screens on the gauges. They value a vehicle that lasts for 15 years, driving just as well at year 15 with 300,000 miles as it did on day 1. The simplicity and durability of the 4Runner are key factors that resonate with its loyal customer base.