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2001 Toyota 4Runner recalls and problems

The 2001 Toyota 4Runner has 1 safety recall and 154 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Toyota dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
154
Crashes / fires
7 / 1
Injuries / deaths
11 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2001 Toyota 4Runner vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2001 Toyota 4Runner recalls

Recall 05V-225: Suspension

Reported May 17, 2005 · 768,379 vehicles affected · TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Problem: On certain sport utility vehicles, due to a manufacturing issue in the front suspension lower ball joint, there is a possibility that the surface of the ball of the joint may have been scratched. The ball joint may eventually experience excessive wear and looseness, resulting in increased steering effort.

Risk: The lower ball joint may separate from the knuckle causing loss of steering control and a crash could occur.

Fix: Dealers will replace the front suspension lower ball joints free of charge. The recall began on july 5, 2005. Owners may contact toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

2001 Toyota 4Runner problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Structure81
Power Train28
Suspension26
Unknown or Other22
Steering7
Engine and Engine Cooling5
Air Bags5
Engine5
Service Brakes, Hydraulic4
Vehicle Speed Control4
Electrical System4
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)3

Most reported parts

  • Structure › Body — 53
  • Structure › Frame and Members › Underbody Shields — 17
  • Structure › Frame and Members — 7
  • Power Train › Driveline — 5
  • Power Train › Driveline › Differential Unit — 4
  • Suspension › Front — 2
  • Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint — 2
  • Latches/Locks/Linkages › Hatchback/Liftgate › Lock — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 125,125 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2001 Toyota 4Runner complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Suspension · at 275,000 miles · reported Feb 19, 2026
The contact owns a 2001 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15 MPH, there was a thumping and clicking sound coming from the front of the vehicle before the front passenger’s side of the vehicle unintendedly lowered. The vehicle was stopped and inspected, and the ball joint was touching the ground. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the lower ball joint had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure…
Unknown or Other · reported May 20, 2025
I bought my 4Runner in 2021 and am just now getting ready to sell it. Did a carfax report and it shows a possible odometer rollback that the previous owner did in 2020. When I bought the vehicle it was my understanding that the vehicle had only 160,000 miles on it but it apparently had 236,900 miles. Because of this I’ve had to make countless repairs as I was under the impression that the vehicle had much less wear. Was researching what to do in this scenario and learned that this was the best place to report the incident.
Structure · at 119,000 miles · reported Aug 16, 2021
The contact owns a 2001 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated that he noticed a swaying while driving the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who stated that the sub frame was severely rusted between the sway bar and the differential. The certified mechanic referred the contact to the dealer. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer and was informed that the sub frame needed to be replaced. The dealer was concerned that the job was too extensive. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and referred the contact to the NHTSA for assistance.…
Structure · at 200,000 miles · reported Mar 30, 2021
First there were 3 recalls 1. 135468 2. 135469 and 3. 135469 dating back to 2005 that I was never notified of and I have a very bad corrugated metal bumpers and when I drive my vehicle and I hit a bump or something in the road it feels like my car is going to turn over. I had the shocks replaced and it hasn't helped
Structure · at 205,000 miles · reported May 6, 2020
The frame of my 2001 toyota 4runner is rusted to the point that you can break some of it off in our hand. Recently took my vehicle in for an oil change and was told that it would not pass inspection in its current condition. This required welding to some sections in order to keep driving. The welding will only keep me on the road for now but the overall condition of the frame is very deteriorated. The vehicle has over 205,000 miles on it but has been garage kept and maintained to all other standards. The auto shop said that the vehicle should not rust this much. I called toyota national…

Other Toyota 4Runner years

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Frequently asked questions

Does the 2001 Toyota 4Runner have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2001 Toyota 4Runner: 05V-225 (suspension). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2001 Toyota 4Runner?

Owners report structure problems most often (81 reports), followed by power train (28). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 125,125 miles.

Are Toyota recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Toyota dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.