2002 Toyota 4Runner Problems & Reliability

If you’re a fan of rugged, reliable SUVs, the 2002 Toyota 4Runner might have caught your eye. Known for its off-road prowess and durability, this vehicle has been a favorite among adventure seekers and daily drivers alike. However, like any vehicle, it’s not without its quirks and issues. In this blog post, we’ll dive into some of the common problems reported by 2002 4Runner owners and discuss the overall reliability of this iconic SUV. Whether you’re considering buying one or just curious about its performance, we’ve got you covered. Despite being over two decades old, the 2002 Toyota 4Runner still holds a reputation for being a dependable ride. Many owners praise its long-lasting engine and solid build quality, which have helped it stand the test of time. However, it’s important to be aware of some recurring issues, such as rust problems, transmission quirks, and electrical gremlins. We’ll explore these in detail, providing insights into what you might expect if you’re thinking about adding this classic to your garage. So, buckle up as we take a closer look at the 2002 4Runner’s strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision about this legendary SUV.
Body Components

Parts Assessed:

Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages

Analysis:

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner is generally known for its reliability, but like any vehicle, it can have its quirks. One issue that pops up with high-mileage models is the automatic transmission not shifting correctly. While this can be a headache, it’s not a universal problem and many owners still find their 4Runners running strong with regular maintenance.

Parts Assessed

Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.

Reported Problems:

  • EVAP System Fault Due to Failed Charcoal Canister

Analysis:

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner is generally known for its reliability, but one issue that pops up is the EVAP system fault due to a failed charcoal canister. This problem can lead to the check engine light coming on and might affect emissions, but its not a deal-breaker for most owners. Overall, while its something to keep an eye on, it doesnt overshadow the 4Runners reputation for being a dependable ride.

Parts Assessed

CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.

Reported Problems:

  • Car Won’t Start Due to Worn/Corroded Solenoid Contacts in Starter

Analysis:

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner is generally known for its reliability, but like any vehicle, it can have its quirks. One common issue is the car not starting due to worn or corroded solenoid contacts in the starter. While this can be a bit of a hassle, it’s a relatively straightforward fix and doesn’t overshadow the overall dependability of the 4Runner.

Parts Assessed

Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.

Reported Problems:

  • Front Brake Rotor Wear Can Cause Pulsations

Analysis:

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner is generally known for its reliability, but one issue that pops up is front brake rotor wear, which can lead to pulsations when braking. This isn’t a deal-breaker for most owners, as it’s a common wear-and-tear problem that can be fixed with routine maintenance. Overall, the 4Runner remains a solid choice for those looking for a dependable SUV, despite this minor hiccup.

Parts Assessed

Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Brake master cylinder may need replacing at 125,000 miles

Analysis:

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner is generally known for its reliability, but like any vehicle, it has its quirks. One thing to keep an eye on is the brake master cylinder, which might need replacing around the 125,000-mile mark. It’s not a huge deal, but something to budget for as your 4Runner racks up the miles.

Parts Assessed

Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.

Reported Problems:

  • Failed Emissions Test Due to Blocked EGR System

Analysis:

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner is generally known for its reliability, but like any vehicle, it can have its quirks. One issue that some owners have reported is failing emissions tests due to a blocked EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system. While this can be a hassle, it’s usually fixable with a good cleaning or replacement of the EGR components, and it doesn’t overshadow the overall dependability of the 4Runner.

Parts Assessed

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.

Reported Problems:

  • Hesitation or Misfire Due to Failed Mass Air Flow Sensor

Analysis:

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner is generally known for its reliability, but one issue that pops up is hesitation or misfire due to a failed mass air flow sensor. This problem can affect the vehicle’s performance, causing it to hesitate or misfire during acceleration. While it’s not the most common issue, it’s something to keep an eye on if you’re considering this model.

Parts Assessed

Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.

Reported Problems:

  • Toyota Recall For Lower Ball Joint Issue

Analysis:

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner is generally known for its reliability, but like any vehicle, it has its share of issues. One notable problem is the recall for the lower ball joint, which could affect steering and handling if not addressed. Despite this, many owners still find the 4Runner to be a dependable SUV with proper maintenance.

Parts Assessed

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.

Reported Problems:

  • Ignition Coil May Fail After 100,000 Miles

Analysis:

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner is generally known for its reliability, but one issue to keep an eye on is the ignition coil, which may start to fail after 100,000 miles. While this isn’t a deal-breaker, it’s something to be aware of as the vehicle ages. Overall, with regular maintenance, the 4Runner tends to hold up well over the years.

Flagship-One-Engine-Computer-In-Stock
Onboard & Powertrain Electronics

Parts Assessed

Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.

Reported Problems:

  • ABS Light Illuminated and Rear Axle Leaking

Analysis:

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner is generally known for its durability, but some owners have reported issues like the ABS light being illuminated and rear axle leaks. These problems can be concerning, as they might affect the vehicle’s braking performance and lead to potential maintenance costs. Despite these issues, many 4Runner owners still find the SUV to be reliable overall, especially with regular maintenance.

Parts Assessed

Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.

Reported Problems:

  • Pink Coolant in Reservoir and Transmission Slipping

Analysis:

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner is generally known for its reliability, but some owners have reported issues like pink coolant in the reservoir and transmission slipping. These problems could indicate a potential issue with the transmission cooler leaking into the radiator, which might lead to more significant transmission problems if not addressed. While these issues aren’t extremely common, they are worth keeping an eye on to maintain the vehicle’s overall reliability.

Parts Assessed

Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.

Reported Problems:

  • Oxygen Sensor Heater May Fail

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Failed Timing Chain Guides May Cause Rattling Noise

Analysis:

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner is generally known for its reliability, but one issue to keep an eye on is the timing chain guides. If these guides fail, they can cause a rattling noise, which might be a sign that they need attention. While this problem isn’t super common, it’s something to be aware of to keep your 4Runner running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.

Reported Problems:

  • Coolant Leaking from Rear Wheel Well

Analysis:

The 2002 Toyota 4Runner is generally known for its reliability, but some owners have reported issues with coolant leaking from the rear wheel well. This problem can be a sign of a more significant issue with the vehicle’s cooling system, which might require attention to prevent overheating. While not extremely common, it’s something to keep an eye on if you’re considering this model.

Conclusion

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