what % of head gaskets fail (2003-2005) ?? what to look for?

[mace4runner]

Hi --

I am still on my search for a 4th Gen --- and have narrowed it down to a few of them... 2003-2005's (my price range)

I know that in 2006, Toyota started having less problems with the head gasket failures - but I havent seen many 2006's or above in my price range. (too bad)


Is there any signs that I should look for in the engine that may tell me if the head gaskets will fail on these?

What are my chances that it does? 50% ? 20? etc.


Thanks for any info!

 

[cloudrunner]

Only the V6 motor was prone to head gasket failure. You can avoid the issue all together by narrowing your search to a V8.

 

[ben550]

Hi --

I am still on my search for a 4th Gen --- and have narrowed it down to a few of them... 2003-2005's (my price range)

I know that in 2006, Toyota started having less problems with the head gasket failures - but I havent seen many 2006's or above in my price range. (too bad)


Is there any signs that I should look for in the engine that may tell me if the head gaskets will fail on these?

What are my chances that it does? 50% ? 20? etc.


Thanks for any info!

The majority do not have problems. Make sure you look at the service records and check if the coolant has been changed. If it has not be sure to change it out with the new Toyota Pink SLLC. I had an 04 V6 and was always paranoid about the head gasket. I drove it up to 160,000 miles with no issues, although I did do a complete drain and fill of the coolant when i bought it used. I ended up selling it to a relative and he is still driving it with no issues.

If by some chance it does blow the head gasket after you buy it, spend the money to have it fixed and fixed correctly and you will have another 200,000 miles with your reliable truck.

 

[mace4runner]

I am only looking at 6cyl --

hoping to get an 06 - but found a really good deal on an 03 sport -- 1 owner with all records etc.

it seems as though all the ones in my price range have 120K - 150K miles.

Is there anything I can look for -- that would give me signs of it being an issue down the road?

 

[wnelax04sr5]

the percentage is probably incredibly small, you can look for things like a coolant leak or overheating but those would be indicative of an already failed HG