Friend just got a 2017 limited.
All the bells a whistles.
With so many computer controls, it is going to give problems as it get older.
Still new with 37,000mi on it.
Great condition. Clean.
Shocks have been changed to replace the X-REAS.
We installed a Pedal Commander in it.
It works well.
Other than that, it's all stock.
He replaced the gas cap with a locking one.
Evap code came on, so I told him to put back the old one, to see if the code would come back.
Cap was a Stant.

What kind of common problems should we be watching out for????
Common problems with these ??????

When connecting my scanner, I normally do it key on/engine off.
How do I do it on this?????
No key.
To connect, I just started the engine.

He's happy with it.
I rather have his 1997 Pathfinder.

- Yes it has a few bells more than the other models I suppose but to each their own.
- Computer controls? No different than other models really and I would say problems are highly unlikely especially in the ideal conditions of your neck of the woods.
- Shocks out already? To each their own I guess, again I don't see a reason for that especially in your most ideal area, unlikely they wore out or failed.
- Gas cap situation, yes you learned, cannot do that on these vehicles for some reason, I get a code when I leave mine on for the weekend at the cottage (left at a marina), same type of cap. Just clear the code and put the stock cap back on.
- Common issues? highly doubt you will have one. Sunroof rattle maybe?
- OBDII code reading, button should have an accessory position same as turning the key forward without starting the vehicle.
- No Pathfinders of that vintage left in my neck of the woods they are long corroded into oblivion.

Cheers ....

You did not mention running boards, but in case it has the automatic type, be on the lookout for intermittent issues with them. I have a 2015 Ltd. with 41,000 miles (now). Problems originally began in November/December 2018 with the boards not retracting or not extending, or even retracting when you went to step on them! NOT GOOD!

In January 2019 the driver's side was finally replaced (parts needed to be ordered two different times which meant two seperate visits) and then in February the passenger side started acting up, so I had those repaired too. Fortunately, I have the extended warranty which covered the repairs, otherwise the total cost would have been over $4K. The dealership gave me a break (after I complained) and only hit me up once for the $100 deductible instead of twice, once for each claim.

Since the repair work, the boards have been working as they should.

I don't typically use the running boards since I am 6', but my wife, at 5'2, always does. They are useful for my grand children too.

There are no really “common” problems… from the top of my head (and those are most sever): needle bearing in front differential and timing cover leaks.
First one will not apply to Limited model… again both issues listed above are not common, but can occur.

IMHO: No doubt that every vehicle can have issues… But one thing for sure, there is a lower chance of your friend having an issue with 4Runner vs. having an issue with any other SUV made by other car manufacture…

My $.02