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Sometimes, even trusted and beloved models have their bad years. Although the Toyota 4Runner SUV is regarded as an exceptionally reliable vehicle, it’s had some down years. See which recent Toyota 4Runner model to avoid.

Avoid the 2016 Toyota 4Runner

According to Repair Pal, you may want to avoid the 2016 Toyota 4Runner because it’s widely unproblematic. However, the website features the many problems vehicles have faced over the years, reported by hundreds of real owners.

4Runner front brake rotor wear

For the 2016 4Runner, owner-reported issues included front brake rotor wear, starter problems, and even an EVAP system fault because of a failed charcoal canister.

Past that, many model years will see a similar issue. For example, the 1990 through 2011 model years all have the same problem frequently reported.

Then, it seemed to be fixed for a few years but returned with the 2016 model. Owners reported the average mileage for the problem to occur is 206,347, but it happened as early as 75,000 miles.

The 2016 Toyota 4Runner parked in dirt
2016 Toyota 4Runner | Toyota

2016 4Runner transmission shift errors

However, the most common 4Runner issue is “the automatic transmission may not shift correctly at high mileages.”

Although, this problem is more common in older models from 1990 through 2011. Then it struck again in 2016. This is part of another reason why the 2016 Toyota 4Runner is a model year to avoid.