No Tranny Problems?

[ToolmanJohn]

I notice a lot of threads that nit-pick at the various quirks or failings of the new 4runners, but I haven't seen any that specifically mention the transmission.
Since this is my first Toyota/SUV , has anyone any complaints about the transmission? 4 speed.

 

[Thai]

The 4-speed auto in the V6 models are pretty much bullet-proof. This is basically the same auto tranny that was on the 3rd gen 4runner. It's probably one of the most reliable tranny out there.

Toyota makes one of the best tranny...the only other competitor is GM (yes, GM makes good transmission...that's about the only thing good about them!).

 

[Thai]

Here's an interesting thread on the topic of reliable transmissions:

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=321

Hope this helps.

 

[khaug]

The four-speed in the current 6 cyl 'Runners has been around forever and has earned a truly enviable reputation for durability.

I personally owned a '98 with this tranny, and over the course of five years, put 75K miles on it, including towing a 4,000 trailer for 25K miles. I had no aux tranny cooler or any other non-standard stuff, changed the ATF only once and never had any trouble. The overheat warning light never came on , even when towing in the mountains in 90-degree weather. When I sold the truck, the tranny (and most everything else) was still working like new.

The five-speed in the 4th gen V-8 was new for '03. Judging by the utter absence of gripes on the various web sites I read, it's well on its way to earning the same reputation that its predecessor has.

 

[HuntRunner]

Funny you say that about GM......That is the one area I have always known them to have problems with (in there 1/2 ton series trucks). I had my last one rebuilt at 56,000 miles; the transmission place said GM keeps them in business. I personally know 5 other people that have gone through the same thing, one guy rebuilt his twice. Just my experience.....glad to know others are having better luck.

 

[EXTEX]

5 Speed Auto

I pay alot of attention to transmissions.

The only concerning thing I have seen discussed here, and experienced myself, is a minor lag coming out of Park into gear. I experience this only when it's cold, and I do not engage for at least 30 seconds after starting the engine.

Historically, this 'lack of rapid pressurization' is an early warning sign for autos, likely indicating a dirty filter, or worse.

Bear in mind, I'm new to Toyota, and I do not invent problems, but have experienced this lag myself. Just a characteristic.

While we're talking trans, I also feel like if you got 5 of 'em, why cruise around town in 5th, the gear capable of going 100+?

I usually keep it out of O/D until 40. There is no ? the taller the gear, the weaker the gear, and, it mite help gas mileage. Mine consistently reads out 18.2 - 18.8; a lie I kno, but a pretty good [numerical] lie compared to most of the 4.7s I see posting #s.

 

[Kanab]

Re: 5 Speed Auto

I pay alot of attention to transmissions.

The only concerning thing I have seen discussed here, and experienced myself, is a minor lag coming out of Park into gear. I experience this only when it's cold, and I do not engage for at least 30 seconds after starting the engine.

Mine does not do this, I would have yours checked.