2003 V6 4runner reliability?

[Mr_DPark]

Hi, i was offered a new 2003 V6 4runner, but i noticed that the car magazines and other sources have deemed it unreliable. I read about the recall and the sulfur smell in this forum. But i wanted to hear from actual 2003 V6 owners. I was wondering if you've had any problems with the car. Any comments about the 2003 V6 4runner would be much appreciated. Do you think it is unreliable? Should i get the 2003 V6? Thanks

 

[scottp999]

I have 9800 miles on mine. No problems. The valves have been a little louder than normal since the begining but I think it is normal for this engine. The power is still the same as day one and I would recommend it if you are not planning on towing anything too heavy.

 

[tkr128]

2 months and 4000 miles on mine and it is mechanically perfect. I don't have loud noises. I do occasionally have the sulfur smell. It's not really strong though. And the recall only affects models built before March 2003.

 

[loyd]

get the v8! its proven

 

[peter78]

Consumer Reports says the V6 sucks and the V8 is great, yet they give the V6 high marks in their report. Check this thread out:
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showthread.php?threadid=1361

 

[ChuckyD]

All the noises I have noticed are apparently normal for the 03 V6.
3000 miles and 2.5 months old, and I love it! Haven't had a problem and the only time I smell something is if I have my back window open. I don't know if that is the sulfur smell the other have talked about it.. but its not an issue for me cause not only is it cold out, but I rarely have it open anyhow.

I def recommend it for more then just the obvious Toyota reliability. If you go down the list of standard features of all the competing vehicles of the 4Runner, you will see that the yota has more to offer for the same price.

 

[jharris2]

6,800 miles and no problems, no unusual engine noises. And I have one of the very first production engines built.

 

[Auburn 4Runner]

I have one of the first V6s on the market and 30,000 miles. I have had no problems except for the pulsation damper recall.

 

[Sad4RunnerOwner]

Hi! Me Too!

I had my pipe bent out to the side like my 1997 Limited. REALLY improve teh problem AND burning yourself while loading the boat & changing after skiing.

C -