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2010 Toyota 4Runner redesign

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Comments

  • agnostoagnosto Member Posts: 207
    edited May 2010
    I have the 2010 Limited 4WD with NAV and no issues after almost 10,000 miles and one oil change (do my own oil changes) is an excellent vehicle and the only version/grade that has the true on and off road 4WD drive ability at all weather conditions... and yes, I was able to achieve 27.1MPG (computer calculated 95% highway) at about 4,000miles in the ODO. One of the most valuable safety features I like is the Safety Connect (SOS) and no, no need for V8 as it has more than enough power...
  • nets46nets46 Member Posts: 6
    Since you do oil changes yourself, do you have service manual showing all the lube points and oil change?
  • chuck1919chuck1919 Member Posts: 176
    You can't tow a 5,000 pound trailer with the V6. The torque curve just isn't there. If you checked the specs of the V8 against the new V6 you can see for your self.

    You only want to tow 80% of a manufacturer's specifications.

    V8 = 7,500 pounds =6,000 pounds (80%)

    V6 = 5,000 pounds =4,000 pounds (80%)

    The extra 20% gives you lee-way for passengers, ice chests, etc.

    The manufacturer's numbers are based on driver only.

    For those of us who tow the new 4Runner is not an option.
  • pjc1pjc1 Member Posts: 72
    like chuck said,, if you tow a larger load it DOES NOT have enough torque and "power". If you are just hauling yourself and girlfriend around it is fine.
  • kris1987kris1987 Member Posts: 1
    I just brought the 2010 4Runner and absolutely hate it!! First, of all, it makes this "swishing" sound when the brakes are applied. I took it back to the dealer and lo and behold another 4Runner was in for service and made the same noise. Are there any other 4Runner owners noticing the sound also?

    Secondly, there is NO locking gas cap available for the 2010 4Runner!! I don't understand how they could put all this hi-tech equipment in this truck and not put something as simple as a locking gas cap, esp. with the price of gas.

    Are there any thoughts on this?
  • warrebwarreb Member Posts: 20
    I have had my 2010 4Runner for 41/2 months and no brake swishing. Hope you get it resolved. Share your disappointment with the a lack of locking gas cap. Other negatives include the pain of changing oil and filter, its ugliness (only car I've ever had where the bulging rear running light can distract my rear mirrror view!) and the rust already appearing on various metal surfaces under the car. The nanny nags are a nuisance, too.

    On the other hand, it drives much like the 2004 I traded in ( a big plus), has more efficient cargo compartment organization (second row seats collapse into less space) and has much better lighting on the auxillary instrument panel (you can actually read it during daylight). The capability to raise the rear window from the tailgate is also an improvement.

    I hope we both get the reliability that the earlier models provided.
  • chuck1919chuck1919 Member Posts: 176
    With the lack of a locking gas cap, no running boards, and no cross brackets standard for the roof rack, it's quite obvious the "bean counters" were involved in the redesign of the the truck.

    It's also likely corners are cut where you can't see it as well!
  • pjc1pjc1 Member Posts: 72
    edited May 2010
    Kris:

    I have the same noise with the brakes. When I depress the brake pedal it sounds like a leaking valve or plunger. It can be bothersome at times.

    I am also bothered by the protruding "growthlike" tail lights. At times when making a quick glance in my outside rear view mirror I mistake it for a car behind me. It is particularly noticeable when the sunlight reflects through it.

    But I view this hog as basic transportation and don't mind beating it up. I hope it can take it. As long as it runs and is reliable I can take the many shortcomings.

    But it is clear to me that after three or four years I will not be in another 4Runner. This is my first and last.

    P
  • snooky1941snooky1941 Member Posts: 1
    Chris,
    You mention that the oil filter was difficult to get to on your 2010 4 Runner.
    Your way ahead of me. I can't even find mine.
    Could you give me a clue?
    Thanks
  • tangmantangman Member Posts: 127
    Three questions:

    1. Has anyone tried to remove the slidding rear cargo rack in a Limited?
    2. More detail on the oil change, must you remove parts such as the skid plate on the 2004 to change. I understand that the oil filter comes in three parts instead of one. Is that true.
    3. Gas milage for limited models which are typical, not necessarily the best.

    Thanks.
  • warrebwarreb Member Posts: 20
    To drain the oil it is necessary to remove a small access plate held by two hex bolts. The drain plug is then easily accessible.

    However, to change the filter, the front skid plate should be removed. (Note that the front attachment of the plate is such that it is possible to get at the filter assembly by just "droping the back part down." However, most of the skid plate would still be in the way and be awkward, especially if the vehicle is not on a lift.) To remove the skid plate, my vehicle needs to be on ramps that raise the front wheels about 18" off the ground. The filter assembly is one piece plus two "O" ring seals that Toyota recommends be replaced at filter change. Also, the new filter includes an insert spout that can be helpful for pre draining the oil in the cartridge prior to unscrewing it.

    Because of the hassle involved in changing the filter, I would urge anyone who has this performed in a shop to be real paranoid about assuring the work is actually done.
  • warrebwarreb Member Posts: 20
    See my message 673. If you want to just look at the oil filter assembly, you can remove the four hex bolts holding the front skid plate in place and it will swing down. The filter is at the very front of the engine, just left of the center line, as close to the radiator as it can be. Alternatively, you can peak around the skid plate (from the left) and see it using a trouble light and a mirror.
  • tangmantangman Member Posts: 127
    Thanks warreb, your post on the oil filter change was most helpful. Also a great warning, since most folks who change oil in dealers and repair shops are rookies and often could care less.
  • tsu670tsu670 Member Posts: 293
    After seeing the 2010 and reading what so many have had to say about the new generation 4Runner, I've come to really appreciate our 2008 4Runner V-6. Oil filter? It's right on top. Running boards, roof rack cross braces, locking gas cap, window antenna, LED taillights, etc... all standard. Given the devaluation of the dollar to the yen since we purchased it, it's no wonder Toyo had to make big cuts. I'm almost surprised they didn't discontinue the model.
  • tangmantangman Member Posts: 127
    The complaints you cited are minimal costs of less than $500, most likely less than $200, which most people would be willing to pay. I think Toyota is writting off the older customers attemting to attrack the young with the tailgate speakers, sliding cargo rack etc. The slide cargo and tailgate speaker are costing customers already almost $500, many of whom simply don't want them.
  • chuck1919chuck1919 Member Posts: 176
    edited May 2010
    I would like to know where you arrive at those costs figures? They are awfully low.

    The things mentioned are left out because the bean counters were involved. Who would not want a locking gas cap, easier to change oil filter, and standard cross brackets on the roof, not to mention BRIGHTER, SAFER LED tail lights? And a radio antenna that can't be ripped off and broken easy?

    Yea, you don't use the roof rack everyday, but when you need it, you really NEED it.

    I believe the death march of the 4Runner is starting. Toyota cannot keep manufacturing low number niche vehicles.

    BTW- I am an owner, not a hater.
  • tangmantangman Member Posts: 127
    Substract our the prices of the sliding cargo. Then add the cost of the parts at a toyota dealer for the led tail light, locking gas cap parts, etc. This is only any estimate, but usually buying parts is the most expensive fully priced item. They can sell low numbers with high profit margins, which I think is the case. 4-Runners are higher priced than almost all comparible vehicles. They limit shipments to keep the supply down and the price up.
  • banco2010banco2010 Member Posts: 3
    I have the same problem with my 2010 and I absolutely HATE IT! I took it back to the dealership for the braking noise and they told me to turn up the radio they all do it. So then proceeded it to take it to a second dealership who had the Field Service Tech come out and also told me it is normal. I have opened a case with the 1-800 # hoping I can get some resolution to this noise it absolutely drives me CRAZY!!!

    Anyone had any luck getting this resolved?
  • tangmantangman Member Posts: 127
    Any rumours on the 2011. Anyone heard if the 6 spd trans, v8, locking gas cap, or led tail lights are in the near future? When do the 2011 usually appear? I am a diehard 4-runner fan but heard alot of folks complaining about power and gas milage in the 2010. The 6 spd should help that.
  • duke15duke15 Member Posts: 161
    I've had my 2010 4X4 SR5 for a couple of months now. Overall I like it. We still have our 2002 3rd generation, which we love, but for a general hauler (not towing) the new 2010 is doing great, except for one thing. When I first got it, I had it back in the shop the next week for a wheel vibration that started at about 60-mph. By vibration, I mean that the steering wheel kind of shimmies back and forth about a 1/2 of an inch in each direction (as if it were turning). It can do this shimmy almost violently, however it does not effect the driving line of the truck - in fact, I can even take my hands off of the wheel and it still goes straight. The shimmy is visually noticeable to driver and passenger. When I took it into the shop they balanced two wheels and at first I thought it was fixed, but it still does it from time to time - but not all of the time. The worst two times were in the morning after sitting all night (if that makes any difference). I also noticed this morning that when it does this shimmy, the passenger seat visibly vibrates as well. The shaking actually reduces as you get above 65mph. Other times, there isn't any shaking at all. This tells me it probably isn't a tire balance thing; the first time in the shop was probably just a coincidence as I wasn't doing hardly any highway driving at the time so I didn't get to the shake. But every time it does shake, it is right around 60mph.

    Anyone else experiencing this or have any suggestions?

    Thanks!
  • agnostoagnosto Member Posts: 207
    edited June 2010
    That is exactly one of the main reasons I decided to sell (traded-in) my ex 2010 4Runner LTD V6 4WD with NAV (after a couple of attempts to balance the wheels, the steering vibration at 60-65MPH would not go away...), it reminded me the days that I had the 1999 4Runner multiple times in the dealership to fix the steering vibration with no success... that is it for me, no more 4Runners and now I enjoy my 54+MPG on 2010 Prius, wow what an amazing vehicle the 2010 Prius is... good luck with your vibration...
  • embryoembryo Member Posts: 22
    same issue exactly. got rid of the crappy dunlop tires and smooth sailing for the last 4 months.
  • chuck1chuck1 Member Posts: 1,405
    Obviously,
    There were other "issues" at hand if you went from a 4Runner to a Prius. As for the wheel vibration, do a google search for a Hunter road balancing machine, that's is the RIGHT WAY to balance the wheels. Of course, it's possible you had a bad wheel or tire. But chances are that one of the tires/wheels on the front was causing the problem, but not both. If the front end was "bad" the dealer were have caught it on the alignment machine, assuming of course the dealer knew what they were doing.

    Enjoy your 54mpg. How well does the Prius handle off road?
  • blackdog4blackdog4 Member Posts: 67
    edited June 2010
    I have an aging Sequoia Ltd and would like to down size my next 4WD. When the 2011 Ltd 4Runner comes out I am thinking about a purchase. We are on the beaches about five months of the year and encounter deep wet sand at times. The Sequoia handles this very well. Have any of you 4Runner Limited owners had experiences that you can pass on to me. I understand that only the Ltd has a 4WD system like the Sequoias.

    I also wonder if any of you have previously driven Sequoias. Apart from less space and towing capacity, will I be disappointed in the ride and handling of the 4Runner on the road? (Shorter wheel base, lighter vehicle, etc.)
  • evergreenpearlevergreenpearl Member Posts: 4
    I had a 2010 Limited for most of a day, and the steering wheel would begin shaking at 60mph. The one I drove also had cabin squeaks, and road noise at freeway speed was bothersome. I did not buy it. Hoping for an improved 2011 4runner, and some decent color choices. Green, brown and blue have looked great on past models, and they'll need to use them again, along with better technology, to get me to close a deal.
  • sgc58sgc58 Member Posts: 5
    After test driving the 2010 4 Runner a number of times, I decided to buyout my lease on my 2007 4 Runner which has a V8 engine. I have been a loyal 4 Runner owner. The 2007 is my 4th. I was very disappointed in the lack of torque in the upper range of the 2010. I get 17 mpg in the city in my 2007 and I believe the 2010 V6 is listed at 18 in the city, so the increased mileage is all about perception. I'm still hoping that Toyota offers a V8 as an option in 2011. They clearly have the engine, which is offered in the Lexus.
  • sarfbubsarfbub Member Posts: 4
    I am at just over 11,000 miles on my 2010 SR5 and recently noticed a faint but annoying sound on the passenger side of my vehicle. The sound is comparable to a playing card in the spokes of a moving bicycle wheel. I have taken it to the dealer twice and they have not been able to pinpoint the sound. I can ignore it when the radio is playing but when taking a call via Bluetooth even the caller on the other end can hear it.
    A few things to note...it happens when I accelerate on an incline and also when I accelerate (incline or not) over 20mph. Has anyone else experienced this?
  • chuck1chuck1 Member Posts: 1,405
    Is sounds like you are describing a "harmonic sound". Something caused by the air moving over the vehicle. It could be mirrors, or some other part of the body.

    This was a big issue on the previous generation Highlanders for those who wanted to cruise with a window down. The noise was so bad it would sound like it would blast your eardrums out.

    You have to try to isolate it to fix it, assuming it can be fixed.
  • limited3limited3 Member Posts: 4
    I have a 2010 4 Runner Limited. Anyone hear a hiss when pushing the brake pedal?? How about a vibration in the break pedal once in a while when at a stop?
  • tangmantangman Member Posts: 127
    I currently own a 1999 and 2004 Sport 4-runner. Have owned a 1987, 1991, and 1996. I came to the same conclusion. Test drove 2010 numerous times and dicided to stay with my older 4-runners at 169,000 miles. They made great improvements inside, but missed the boat on the drive train (engine and transmission) for those who drive higher speed freeway miles plus offroad. Like the 2003 fender flair debacle, I hope Toyota recognizes the desires of their existing customer base in 2011. Their business models appears to be changing to limiting supply, so our wishes for the best in technology they have to offer (lexus drive train)doesn't appear promising.
  • roodog2roodog2 Member Posts: 1
    Hi, I have a 2001 4 runner the TRAC OFF, VSC & Check engine lights have come on, any ideas?
  • limited3limited3 Member Posts: 4
    Kris
    I plan to take it to the dealer this week to complain out the hiss. How about a small pulse in the pedal once in a while at a stop?
    Joe
  • limited3limited3 Member Posts: 4
    Let you know how I make out plan to take mine to the dealership this week.
  • banco2010banco2010 Member Posts: 3
    I opened a case w 800# Toyota a couple weeks ago service mgr and technical drove it again apparently it's "normal" and all on lot make noise. Let me kno what they say I am in Dallas Area been to 2 dealership and can't get it resolved. it's supposed to be a safety feature but it's so annoying! Thanks :mad:
  • banco2010banco2010 Member Posts: 3
    Auto zone checks for free w machine. My 01 did that it was a catalytic converter problem w exhaust.
  • pjc1pjc1 Member Posts: 72
    edited June 2010
    Agnosto...you traded in your "beast" for a prius? Weren't you the one who lauded the 4runner "beast" as the best vehicle you had ever driven...now you traded it in after less than a year?
  • pjc1pjc1 Member Posts: 72
    edited June 2010
    yes I have the hiss..sounds like a bad valve or plunger...annoying..
    I also find that I have to "stand" on the brake pedal at stoplights or the truck creeps forward a bit. horrbile brakes no doubt...

    toys are toys afterall...
  • agnostoagnosto Member Posts: 207
    edited June 2010
    The reality for me to trade in the 2010 4Runner for the 2010 Prius are the below facts:

    1. Will not support Gulf Of Mexico oil spill disaster (I hope others do their part as well in this catastrophe...)
    2. 4Runner is a great vehicle to drive it for the right reason...
    3. used to own a 2007 Camry Hybrid averaging 38MPG but trunk space was limited...
    3. over 60MPG with 2010 Prius vs. low 20's MPG with 2010 4Runner
    4. repeated attempts to fix the Steering Wheel Shake (reminded same issue I had with 1999 4Runner which was never fixed...)
    5. other minor issues that others have already expressed in this forum (i.e. braking noise, etc.)
    6. 2010 Prius 3rd Gen is way cute to ignore :) ...

    Anyhow, I guess it took another 4Runner (3rd one) to find out the correct vehicle for my daily need is just a Prius which after about 1000 miles of driving it (averaging 68.1MPG computer calculated) my only regret is I did not purchase it before the 4Runner...
  • pjc1pjc1 Member Posts: 72
    edited June 2010
    Got it. Call me slow but how does driving a 4Runner support a tragic accident in the Gulf Of Mexico? If you want to boycott "fossil fuel" good on ya, but even a prius uses gas...
  • chuck1chuck1 Member Posts: 1,405
    It looks like you traded it in for fuel economy, not because it was a bad vehicle.
  • smltoyotasmltoyota Member Posts: 1
    My 2001 did the same the and would not even engage into 4 wheel drive. It was the fuel ratio sensor in the exhaust. Ordered online and it took 5 minutes to install
  • limited3limited3 Member Posts: 4
    Went to the dealer to discuss the brake hiss inside the car. The dealer said its normal for that type of system. The 2010 4 runner does not have a vacuum break booster like most cars. The noise or pulse in the pedal is the system pumping back up because there is no traditional vacuum booster. It had to be designed this way due to all the other controls in the car such as down hill control, etc.
    Not a very good design if you ask me...........
  • pjc1pjc1 Member Posts: 72
    Not a very good design indeed... typical toyota..patch something together and get it off the showroom floor.
  • duke15duke15 Member Posts: 161
    Thanks for everyone's replies. I was looking for this thread to post an update and ended up posting the update in the maintenance and repair section before I remembered where I did the first post. My apologies for the double posting.

    I've now had my 4Runner back in the shop for the 2nd time and received a 4 wheel balance that fixed the problem for a few weeks, but it came back yesterday and appears to be here to stay again. I'll be bringing it back into the shop again shortly. The tech did mention a road balance if this didn't work, but they thought they got it last time. I'll mention the possibility of replacing the tires; although I doubt they do that before trying the more in-depth road balance. I do not know what the difference is in the types of balancing so if anyone would like to share I'd appreciate it.

    I have Michelin tires on my 2002 3rd Gen and love them. If I have to go in a 4th time, I'll see about insisting on new tires.
  • nets46nets46 Member Posts: 6
    I may have been lucky; have the Trail edition for 2,600 miles with no driving problems, (except some rust on the front suspension that I noticed upon delivery).

    Went 4WD and systems were functioning as specified.
  • rentschlrentschl Member Posts: 69
    I was disappointed by the 2010 model as a result of it lacking the following:
    -Wanted a v8 option (without having to pay for the Lexus)
    -Wanted a manual transfer case
    -Wanted it to stay the same weight, around 4400 lbs for a Limited.
    -Didn't like the bug eye style rear turn signals that stick out.

    Yes, I hope the put the 4.6 v8 in for 2011.
  • chuck1919chuck1919 Member Posts: 176
    Don't forget the old "pole style" antenna and the non-locking gas cap. The antenna was in the rear side windows before and it has a locking gas door.

    ('07 Sport 4Runner w/V8. Almost 80K and still going strong.....)
  • tangmantangman Member Posts: 127
    Like other previous 4-runner owners, I too am hoping for the v8 and 6 spd in the limited in 2011. There is actually very little difference in gas milage and smoother and Toyota already had it. I cann't believe toyota waisted their time with a 4cyl, when there are many more buyers out there for the v8, 6 spd, locking gas cap, and led tail lights. Does anyone know when toyota will announce the 2011 4-runner so one can order them?
  • chuck1919chuck1919 Member Posts: 176
    According to another website (lefthandlanenews) for 2011 Toyota is dropping the 4 cylinder 4Runner. THE ONLY MOTOR AVAILABLE WILL BE THE V6.

    I guess those of us with V8s will have to look elsewhere when it comes time to replace our 4Runners.
  • foxyesqfoxyesq Member Posts: 26
    As a 4Runner loyalist I eagerly awaited the redesigned 2010 4Runner as a replacement for my 2005 V-8 Ltd. I was at my dealer the day the new 4Runner arrived and left with a pit in my stomach. How could Toyota do this to what was my favorite truck? As noted in many of the posts on this forum, it is clear that Toyota cut corners to save cash on the new 4Runner. There have also been a number of questions about Toyota's commitment to quality.

    This past weekend, I looked at the 2011 Grand Cherokee. WOW!!! Looks like Chrysler got it right here - at least from a design perspective. The interior and exterior were what I was hoping to find in the new 4Runner. Elegant and classy yet rugged. No antenna frolicking in the wind, LED tail lights, ventilated seats (in Ltd. and Overlander) and a V-8 option. From a looks, ride, options ,and comfort perspective the new Jeep easily tops the 4Runner.

    I would buy this car in a minute (if it were a Toyota, it would have already been in my garage) if it were not for one thing --- its a Chrysler! Edmunds' test model tanked and had to be towed from the middle of nowhere. Jeep blamed this on the fact that the vehicle was an early production model. Apparently, things at Chrysler haven't changed.

    My debate is this: Are the extra features offered on the Jeep (especially V-8) and what I consider a much nicer vehicle, inside and out, outweighed by 4Runner's reputation for longevity quality? Will this new Jeep hold up any better than their past models, especially since the new model borrows heavily from Mercedes technology? Is it wise to wait a year for Jeep to work the kinks out? And, perhaps most importantly, how does the new JGC compare to the new 4Runner?
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