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2008 Toyota 4runner Body & Structure Problems

9 owner-reported body & structure complaints from NHTSA data

9
Complaints
Feb 2019Dec 2016
Date Range

Data sourced from NHTSA public database. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified mechanic.

Owner Complaints (9)

criticalSTRUCTURE
Filed: Sep 2019

You heard a rattling noise while driving at various speeds. Two independent mechanics inspected your vehicle and found that the frame has rust damage, the top control arm post has melted, and a mounting plate needs replacement. One mechanic warned that the control arm could detach and potentially strike the fuel tank, making the vehicle unsafe to drive. This repair will likely involve replacing the damaged mounting plate and addressing the rusted frame and control arm assembly.

NHTSA #: 11257775
criticalSTRUCTURE
Filed: Jul 2019

Your 4Runner's frame has extensive corrosion throughout, with a hole longer than 15 inches in the passenger side front frame rail. A Toyota dealership has inspected it and deemed the vehicle unsafe to drive. This is a structural integrity issue that requires professional frame repair or replacement.

NHTSA #: 11235258
highSTRUCTURE,ENGINE
Filed: Apr 2022

Your 4Runner's frame is experiencing severe rust, particularly at the crossbeams, with metal crumbling when touched. You've already had to replace the muffler and tailpipe because the connections rusted through. The rust is happening much faster than expected for a vehicle with only 150,000 miles, and you're concerned there may not be enough metal left to properly treat it.

NHTSA #: 11460612
highSTRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
Filed: Jul 2020

Your 4Runner's underbody is experiencing severe rusting throughout, with rust returning to the tailgate even after two body repairs. Multiple components have failed prematurely due to corrosion at just 150,000 miles, including suspension parts, transmission cooling lines, exhaust system, and skid plates. Your brake calipers have failed four times in six years, likely due to rust and corrosion. This will require extensive rust treatment, protective coatings, and replacement of corroded brake and suspension components.

NHTSA #: 11341782
highSTRUCTURE
Filed: Feb 2019

Your vehicle's frame has developed significant rust in multiple locations, including critical structural parts like the differential. If left untreated, this rust could damage essential components that affect how your vehicle operates. Addressing this will likely require rust removal and protective treatment or replacement of affected frame sections.

NHTSA #: 11182728
mediumSTRUCTURE
Filed: Jun 2021

Your 4Runner has developed extensive rust on the frame and body panels. This appears to be a widespread issue affecting multiple 4Runners from this model year. Addressing rust typically involves cleaning affected areas and applying protective coatings or rust treatment products.

NHTSA #: 11419592
mediumSTRUCTURE
Filed: Aug 2018

BACK HATCH UNLATCHES ITSELF WHEN HITTING A BUMP AND FLIES OPEN. THIS HAS OCCURRED MULTIPLE TIMES, OBSERVED BY SEVERAL FAMILY MEMBERS.

NHTSA #: 11119416
mediumSTRUCTURE
Filed: Dec 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA 4RUNNER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FLOOR OF THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED. THE CONTACT CALLED A LOCAL DEALER WHO REQUESTED THAT THE VEHICLE BE BROUGHT TO THE SHOP FOR PICTURES. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC ADVISED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE FAILURE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 92,000.

NHTSA #: 10936593
mediumSTRUCTURE
Filed: Aug 2015

FRAME IS EXTREMELY RUSTED AND TOYOTA NEEDS TO ADDRESS THIS PROBLEM. I ALSO HAVE VARIOUS SMALL PIN POINT RUST SPOTS ALL OVER THE 4RUNNER ON THE PAINT.

NHTSA #: 10747337

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