Top 5 Problems with the Toyota 4Runner: 5th Generation (2010 to 2022)

The Toyota 4Runner is a popular SUV used by many as a daily driver. It’s currently in its 5th generation, and is still going strong with new models in this generation still being released since 2010. Our mechanics review the top 5 problems with the Toyota 4Runner owners have experienced.

5th Generation Toyota 4Runner Issues (2010 to Present)

1. Rear Wiper Not Working in Cold Weather

Symptoms of Problems with the Rear Wiper on the 2010 to 2022 Toyota 4Runner

• Rear wiper may not work if the outside temperature is too cold

Causes of the Rear Wiper Not Working

Despite diagnosing, the rear wiper may not work when the temperature is colder outside. You may find a flash update or checking the fuses still doesn’t fix this problem.

How to Fix a 5^th Gen 4Runner Rear Wiper Not Working

Check the fuses, or see if the sensor needs resetting or if the body control module (BCM) needs reprogramming. Try seeing if the rear wiper will function in a warmer outside temperature.

2. Rear Shocks Make Noise in Cold Weather

Symptoms of Noisy Rear Shocks

• Thumping noise from the rear in cold weather

Causes of Noisy Rear Shocks

The rear shocks on the 5^th gen 4Runner can make a thumping noise when the outside weather is colder, like around 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

How to Fix Thumping Rear Shocks

This problem can be fixed with a pair of new, upgraded shocks.

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3. Warped Brake Rotors

Symptoms of Problems with the Rotors on the 2010 to 2022 Toyota 4Runner

• Uneven or Warped rotors
• Pulsating brakes

Causes of the Rotors Warping

Some owners have complained of the rotors warping, even after low mileage usage, like 10,000 miles. The rotor has fins around the circumference of the rotor, and they’ve been known to rot from the inside out.

How to Fix Warped Brake Rotors

This problem may be able to be fixed under warranty where the manufacturer will machine the rotor to fix this problem temporarily. You can also solve this problem long-term by purchasing a different set of new brake rotors.

4. Defective Starter

Symptoms of Problems with the Starter on the 2010 to 2022 Toyota 4Runner

• Car won’t start or trouble starting the engine
• Engine stalling

Causes of Problems with Starting the 5th Gen Toyota 4Runner

The starter on the 2010 to 2022 Toyota 4Runner can corrode. If the corrosion moves up to the relay system, more problems like stalling can occur.

How to Fix a Bad Starter

Replacing the starter can fix this problem. You’ll want to fix this problem sooner than later to prevent more damage.

5. Airbag Not Deploying

Symptoms of Problems with the Airbag in the 2010 to 2022 Toyota 4Runner

• Airbag won’t deploy

Causes of Issues with the Airbag in the 5th Gen Toyota 4Runner

This issue applies to 2020 and younger models. This is a problem that Toyota recalled for many of their models.

How to Fix Airbag Issues

Bring the vehicle to a Toyota dealership and have them fix it.

5^th Generation Toyota 4Runner Model Years

• 2010 Toyota 4Runner
• 2011 Toyota 4Runner
• 2012 Toyota 4Runner
• 2013 Toyota 4Runner
• 2014 Toyota 4Runner
• 2015 Toyota 4Runner
• 2016 Toyota 4Runner
• 2017 Toyota 4Runner
• 2018 Toyota 4Runner
• 2019 Toyota 4Runner
• 2020 Toyota 4Runner
• 2021 Toyota 4Runner
• 2022 Toyota 4Runner

Related Content

• Top 5 Toyota 4Runner Problems: 4th Generation (2003 to 2009)
• Car Bouncing When Driving? Poor Gas Mileage? How to Inspect Shocks and Struts
• Signs of a Bad Starter

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