2016 Toyota 4Runner

After enjoying a bully proof 2001 4Runner limited for several years, it was time to retire it for a 2016 SR5 Premium. I wisely bought the extended warranty . Things went well for a few years but then I noticed the liftgate was developing blistered paint and rust pinholes. Toyota covered this and dealership re-painted it (I should have insisted liftgate replacement.. more later). Then at 60k miles my steering got very difficult in random parts of a turn, like power steering was varying. Turns out the steering universal was worn and needed replacement for $1k. At about 65 k there was a loud rattle and the muffler heat shield (aluminum) became detached from body and was just laying in the muffler. Same thing happened at about 80k but with the catalytic converter heat shield. In both cases I did not replace as the attachment is just bad design, the steel has galvanic reaction with aluminum and just dissolves at fastener interface. All the while, my liftgate continued to rust from the inside and rattles so loudly with rust particles when I lift it. The rust staining is all over rear bumper. Now at 92k the rear window mechanism in the liftgate face out and window fell down all crooked as I was driving on a cold wet day. So I’m done with this lemon. Not what I expected, Toyota!

The Echols looks good but the AwD limited model was very sluggish and horrible gas mileage. For those that rate this vehicle high please go test drive a Jeep Cherokee or Honda pilot. Much better ride.

Great vehicle. Carries all the gear for construction or camping. Added rack for handling lumber. Too easy! Exceptional reliability on and off road. Solid highway truck, smooth and stable. Solid off road, tough and handles 4 wheel areas with ease. Awesome truck!