2002 Toyota 4RUNNER transmission problems

Filed Oct 8, 2026 · Driver assistance, Transmission · 200,000 miles · CA

The contact owns a 2002 Toyota 4Runner. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle lost power while depressing the accelerator pedal. The failure initially occurred without warning; however, the VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) message was displayed with an audible beeping sound coming from the vehicle. In addition, there was a red warning light flashing on the instrument panel after the failure. The contact stated that the failure occurred mostly while turning the steering wheel to the left or the right. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer and the federal safety agency Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

Filed Jul 4, 2019 · Brakes, Transmission · FL

When the check engine light is illuminated, the traction control and anti lock brake features are automatically disabled.

Filed Jun 1, 2019 · Body, Transmission · 128,000 miles · MI

I purchased the 2002 4runner in 2014. At that time, the 4runner only had 79,000 miles and had been cared for meticulously. I have taken the car in for routine service over the past 5 years. Upon taking the 4runner in due to a vibration and check of the differential, the mechanic called me in to look at the frame while it was up on the lift. Below in the attached photos, there is extensive rusting of the rear differential, axle and frame. The vehicle was stationary and the issue was found during routine maintenance. The rusted frame and differential have rendered this vehicle practically valueless and unsafe.

Filed Oct 23, 2017 · Body, Transmission · 191,000 miles · ME

"takata recall" frame rusted out from the inside out. Looking at on frame it was at least 1.5 inches of dirt and small rock from maine roads and than when rained it was just mud the bad spot is on the passenger side d by torsion bar no way to drain. Also rear end differential gear cover rusted out on other vehicles you replaced just the cover on the 4runner I was told to replace the rear end price just for the rear end was $2500 than labor.

Filed Feb 23, 2017 · Transmission · IN

Rear differential covered rusting through.

Filed Mar 30, 2016 · Transmission · 172,568 miles · IN

Rear differential rusted through

Filed Feb 14, 2016 · Suspension, Transmission · 138,000 miles · CA

I took my vehicle in for a routine oil change recently and the technician said that I have some major rust issues on my rear axle and drivetrain. He should me when it was on the lift. He explained to me that the bolt and clip than holds the brake line down on the rear differential had rusted and broken off of the differential cover. The rear differential is now leaking gear oil. The technician advised me that it is too risky to attempt to repair as it may cause the entire differential to be damaged and the whole rear axle would need to be replaced. The technician also said that it is a risk to drive the vehicle and is possibly unsafe to keep driving. He stated that it is unknown how much longer I would be able to drive it until the rear axle ceases.

Filed Sep 27, 2015 · Transmission · 136,000 miles · NH

My frame is rotting out. I just had to replace my rear axle because it had almost rotted through. It was actually weaping gear oil out of small holes through the rot. Some of the frame had to be welded to pass inspection.

Filed Mar 24, 2015 · Body, Suspension · 60,000 miles · WV

The frame is rusting almost in two. Looks like it could break any time. Rear axel is also very rusted with pieces falling off.

Filed Dec 17, 2014 · Body, Transmission · 158,000 miles · NY

Frame and rear differential rusting out.