2003 Toyota 4RUNNER: grinding or squealing brakes

Filed Aug 30, 2021 · Body, Steering · MI

At the end of June 2021, while driving I experienced a loud clunk and grinding noise, with reduced control of steering and brakes on my 4Runner. I took the 4Runner to a Goodyear Automotive Service Center on Woodward Avenue in Royal Oak, Michigan, who told me that the vehicle was not driveable due to severe rust damage of the frame that resulted in a broken sway bar. I thought I should take it to the closest Toyota dealership in Troy, Michigan for advice and they responded that the vehicle was beyond repair and that a new frame would cost around $20,000. I could not leave my car there, and risked driving it home, where it has been parked ever since.

Filed Oct 18, 2019 · Brakes · 120,000 miles · AZ

When in motion or stopping, on city streets or the highway, turning included, the ABS system makes excessive nosies such as chirping, squeaking, and grinding. Currently, there has not been a crash or injury as a result; however, there is documentation within toyota service and online forums of this issue and concern among 2003 models.

Filed Aug 26, 2019 · 56,700 miles · WI

The frame on my 2003 toyota 4runner has severe rust damage. I have always taken great care of this truck. Regular washing, cleaning, maintenance etc... I have tried to grind off the rust, use rust inhibiting products, and undercoating without any luck. The truck is in excellent condition, but the frame is rotting away right before my eyes. I'm afraid this $37000 truck will not make it to 75000 miles. I know toyota has had recalls on the tacoma and tundra truck frames, but did not include the 4runners for some reason. The 4runner truck frames are total junk and should also be recalled. Thank you for your help in this matter.

Filed Nov 9, 2010 · Brakes · 41,000 miles · NY

Tl*the contact owns a 2003 toyota 4runner. While driving approximately 25-30 MPH, the contact applied the brakes and heard a squeaking noise. The contact stopped the vehicle and inspected it; he could find nothing wrong. The vehicle was taken to a local repair shop where the contact was informed that the bottom two floating caliper pistons were locked. The vehicle had not been repaired. The contact called the manufacturer and filed a complaint. The current and failure mileages were approximately 41,000. Updated 1/21/11 *cn updated 02/07/11

Filed Sep 2, 2010 · Brakes · 96,400 miles · WV

2003 toyota 4runner (v6-4wd) had 2 frozen front brake calipers. Had the brakes checked bc intermittent squealing noise and increased braking distances. On each side: outer brake pad barely had anything left (literally less than paper thin) + inner brake pad looked great bc never really used since calipers frozen. Needed both front brake pads and rotors replaced, along with 2 calipers (1 each side). So I basically had no front brakes for months and no way to tell unless someone notices the outer pads are worn and goes to replace them. Poor design leading to safety issue.

Filed Jan 15, 2004 · CA

The 4 runner has a loud squeal as start up. Once the car warms up the squeal is a low, but still a wrong sound.

Filed Dec 2, 2003 · Seats · 5,000 miles · PA

The rear seat back rest on passenger side squeaks and makes a rattling noise. If the back rest is folded down the noise goes away. It seems to be the locking mechanism. Based on research on the internet, this seems to be a common problem. Dealer offered to look at it.

Filed Nov 9, 2003 · Engine, Fuel system · 100 miles · NE

2003 4 runner v6 has loud ticking noise coming from engine conmpartment. I ran it by the dealership 1 week after purchase too see what the problem was. Service manager said it was normal. Approximatly 2 months later rear seat was squeaking. Made appointment with dealer had them fix the seat and diagnose the noise coming from engine compartment again. They fixed the seat and was told it was the injectors making the noise. I told the sevice manager that I was not happy with the quality. The 2002 4 runner is very quiet. I am planning a return trip to the dealer when I find enough information on the problem.

Filed Aug 28, 2003 · Visibility · 3 miles · KY

Moonroof makes loud grinding noise on driver side when being closed. Outside seal of moonroof glass is bubbled up, not sealed/installed correctly

Filed Jun 18, 2003 · Engine · 1,970 miles · NY

Ticking noises on acceleration. Engine uses a tremendous amounts of gasoline and always sounds as if it is over accelerating. Smells of burning rubber often. A belt has been replaced for the 3 rd time. No heat or fan on one occasion. Squealing fan belt on 3 occasions. The third time lost all water and coolant and had to be towed. Strong burning smell and loss of power steering. Could have had serious accident. It has been at the dealer 2 weeks this time and they claim they are replacing pulleys. I am fearful of driving this car. I have a 60 mile commute.

Filed Apr 28, 2003 · Engine · 437 miles · CA

Engine belt squeaks. Has been replaced once and adjusted another time. Squeak returned for third time with under 2000 miles on vehicle.