*** V6 Head Gasket Action Request ***

[morphious]

I know this has been discussed a lot and I really don't want to start a thread about anything other than a simple survey of those that have had to have their head gasket replaced. If you are looking for info do a search and there is plenty of threads. I am just curious if there is any similarities and would like to put the information together once enough is complied.

Thanks!

Please post info as follows:

Year
Production Date
4x4 or 4x2
Mileage of failure
Cylinder # that leaked

*** FYI UPDATE ***
Thanks to momo.75 this thread has been combined with NuclearN8's. Great links and info can be found on pg. 5 POST #61.

 

[jake87toy]

2004
06/04
4x4
120k
#6

 

[MikeInNH]

I've never had the problem. 05 V6 with over 260k miles.

The BIGGEST problem with Aluminum engines is not letting it overheat. That is by far the biggest cause of head gasket failures. Probably 99% of all head gasket failures on Aluminum engines is due to engine over heating. Over heat just ONCE and you could have a head gasket failure.

Besides the life time Tranny fluid...I'm NOT a big fan of leaving coolant in the radiator for 4 years. I change mine out every other year. It's very very very cheap insurance of having a head gasket failure.

 

[Runner27]

I change mine out every other year. It's very very very cheap insurance of having a head gasket failure.

Do you get your coolant from the toyota dealer or just use a general coolant from auto shop? I realize that there's a difference in color (orange vs. pink) but not sure if that really matter.

 

[MikeInNH]

Do you get your coolant from the toyota dealer or just use a general coolant from auto shop?

I buy Zerex Asian formula. It's designed for Toyota engines (and several Asian engines).

I NEVER buy something like that from the dealer. The coolant from Toyota is made for them by one of the 3-4 coolant manufacturers. Probably Zerex.

 

[Sungod]

My neighbor just traded in his 2004 2wd Limited with low compression on #6. He had 180K.

 

[morphious]

With about 280 views and 1 member and a members neighbor that is a possible, not seeming like an epidemic at this point.

 

[jake87toy]

Mine is in the shop currently getting both head gaskets replaced. I wouldn't call it an epidemic either by any means, but I also would not ignore the fact that it is happening to people. Google search "P0306 Toyota 4.0" and read through a few. If are researching prior to a purchase, I would advise making sure you start the vehicle from a cold start in the morning and confirm that it runs smooth immediately. Toyota quotes this job at $2500-3200 and that is a very heavy expense for some.

 

[Calimander]

I agree with Jake, this is an issue that should be taken into consideration to anyone considering buying a used 4Th gen 4runner. Make sure you're not buying someone else's problem. 05 V6--Head gasket went at 93k--never overheated ----Cylinder #6

 

[j-dub]

2006 v6 2wd
152k
no head gasket issues

 

[birdmann]

2007 4wd 105,000 no issues. Never been overheated.

 

[wnelax04sr5]

2004
4x4
121xxx

I've never overheated it, owned it since 94k, no issues

 

[kao]

2004
05/04
4x4
120k
#6

Changed coolant at 100k as vendor recommends.
Radiator leaking preceded headgasket problem. But never overheating it.
Changed radiator in January and headgaskets in March)))

And i am not alone in my city.
Also there are many similiar problem with 1gr on tlc prado 2004

 

[SharonKR]

2004
4x2
137thousand miles
#6

 

[JEL]

Looks like a lot of problems occur on pre-06. Was there an update/redesign for the facelifts? I realize it could be down to age and mileage. but there have to be plenty of 06+ with just as many miles as earlier rigs by now...

 

[morphious]

An update of HG problems so far.

 

[telum01]

2006
4WD
140k+
no issues
*furiously knocking on wood*

 

[SharonKR]

Mine is in the shop currently getting both head gaskets replaced. I wouldn't call it an epidemic either by any means, but I also would not ignore the fact that it is happening to people. Google search "P0306 Toyota 4.0" and read through a few. If are researching prior to a purchase, I would advise making sure you start the vehicle from a cold start in the morning and confirm that it runs smooth immediately. Toyota quotes this job at $2500-3200 and that is a very heavy expense for some.

were you able to get the gasket fixed? i had the same problem toyota quoted 2000.00 to 8000.00 my husband optied to change now it idel high. not sur whats wrong any ideas

 

[SharonKR]

An update of HG problems so far.

did you replace the head gaskets?

 

[morphious]

did you replace the head gaskets?

No, I have not had any problems in 86,xxx miles so far since I bought it in Dec 03'.