which has more issues, V8 or V6?

grave

grave

Senior Member
over the years for 4th gens, which of these motors generally have more "issues?" i know TBs and water pumps for the V8s are pricey repairs that are required ever 90-100K, but what else happens to either of these motors that is of concern?
 
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Leaky exhaust manifolds and air injection pump failure on the V8 but it's easily by passed, some of v6s are starting to blow head gaskets after 150k. I have had the v8 in the 4Runner and the v6 in the FJ and would rather have the v8!


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I am pretty sure that when they freshened up the 4th gen with the 4.5 gen in 2006 they fixed the head gasket issue. Between the two, the 4.5 gen v6 is more reliable. And that is ONLY based on the secondary air injection pump. Which, you can bypass with slyfox's bypass kit. Given that, I would still pick the V8.
 
i keep telling myself i want the v6/5spd for better MPG, but then i come here and always want the V8!
 
Obviously everyone is going to tell you to get a v8, and if given the choice between the two with identical 4runners that's probably true. But don't let a v6 scare you. It still has plenty of power and for the 06+ models I'm 99% sure the head gasket issue was fixed. I'm not saying anything bad about the v8 I'm just saying I'd take a lot more into consideration like the shape of the vehicle and stuff rather than just the engine because they're both good.


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I like the v6 timing chain not timing belt. Huge aftermarket support for it. Also the v8 is all wheel drive. Not sure if that matters to you.
 
I wouldn't let a TB/WP maintenance every 90-100k deter you from the V8. A leaky manifold, however, is an expensive fix and it may not pass our strict CA emissions. I don't know about the gasket, but I think that's a less expensive fix (if it happens)?

Like someone else said, the overall condition of the vehicle, maintenance records, etc. are way more important than which engine you end up getting (unless towing). I drove a bunch of them before I bought mine, and just happened across a V8 in great condition. If I'm completely honest, I also wanted/preferred a V8 just because, but if it had been a V6, I probably still would have bought it.
 
When I was shopping for my 4th gen I test drove both the V8 and the V6. The V6 is awesome and brought a smile to my face, but when I drove the V8 that smile turned into a little boy giggling uncontrollably. However, I ran the math on maintenance and mileage and opted for the V6 when I made my purchase. Although the mpgs are close, in 12 months I have already saved enough money with the V6 to completely pay for my lift kit.
 
I own both and love both differently. V6 is not underpowered. But if you are gonna hang a bunch of steel bumlers, winch, and 35s on it, you will want more ass behind that grill.
 
186k on my V8 and i still love it. second timing belt service just done, did it hurt a little, yes, but the joy is worth it. the 8 is so smooth and just goes without having to be beat on...however it will really go when you beat on it! not many full time 4wd vehicles that will throw a traction light in the rain when you stomp it from a stop. pretty awesome.
 
Which has more issues you ask?

V6 has issues with lower torque and shallow (sometimes vacuum-like) exhaust note.

V8 has issues with loss of traction and has added noise pollution.

These are the important things one must consider. :thumb:
 
jsmith21 said:
Obviously everyone is going to tell you to get a v8, and if given the choice between the two with identical 4runners that's probably true. But don't let a v6 scare you. It still has plenty of power and for the 06+ models I'm 99% sure the head gasket issue was fixed. I'm not saying anything bad about the v8 I'm just saying I'd take a lot more into consideration like the shape of the vehicle and stuff rather than just the engine because they're both good.
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my thought process exactly. when searching, i have been looking more for condition of the vehicle, miles, and a 5spd trans. SR5/SE/LTD don't matter. if i found the right '03-04 with a V8, i'd go for it. same goes for '05+ V6. i guess i'll have to look into this V6 head gasket issue...


zonarunner said:
I like the v6 timing chain not timing belt. Huge aftermarket support for it. Also the v8 is all wheel drive. Not sure if that matters to you.
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AWD isn't that important to me, i live in southern california and have been without it (and 4WD for that matter) for my entire life.


Morphyne said:
I own both and love both differently. V6 is not underpowered. But if you are gonna hang a bunch of steel bumlers, winch, and 35s on it, you will want more ass behind that grill.
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i'm not really looking to do anything like this. i just want it to be a nice family truckster. KO2s and a roof rack are about all i would be doing. maybe a lift at some point, but nothing too wild.
 
I Believe the question was more issues, not which would you rather have, that being said, the v8 has a known exhaust manifold crack issue which costs between $2000-2500 to replace, the v8 has a timing belt as previously stated which needs to be done every 90k, otherwise a pretty bulletproof engine. The v6 03-05 (and a couple noted early 06, have a known headgasket leak which the engine needs to be pulled and costs $1500-2500, timing chain will also be a big job around the 250k mark. In general I have seen many v6 on autotrader with 250k do longevity isn't an issue provided you don't overheat. Same trans in both depending on 4x4 options. For me the ability to work on it myself is a big one, with the v6, there's a bit more room in the engine bay to maneuver compared to the crammed v8, but if you don't plan on doing anything yourself (read: dealer maintained). That all being said I'm looking for an 07+ v6 with around 100k.
 
I will definitely choose a V6. That's based on what I do everyday and an occasional 4 wheel drive use.

Here are a few of my reasons.
1. timing chain - no expense with the timing belt every 100000 miles.
2. the 4X4 or 4X2 option
3. gas savings
4. low cost maintenance

I'm now at 120000 miles and here are the only thing I've replaced so far.
- rear shocks
- spark plugs
- front caliper
- brake pads and rotors
- drive belt and pulleys
- alternator
- regular oil change (synthetic / once per year)
- air filter / cabin filter



grave said:
over the years for 4th gens, which of these motors generally have more "issues?" i know TBs and water pumps for the V8s are pricey repairs that are required ever 90-100K, but what else happens to either of these motors that is of concern?
Click to expand...
 
luke87gt said:
That's a major expense and 90K comes quickly... I'm thrilled that I don't have to deal with it on my V6.
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To each their own. For me $800 every 5-6 years isn't a reason to avoid one engine or another, but for sure not having to do it on the V6 is a perk of that engine.

Does anyone know what it costs to change the timing chain if it breaks/stretches?
 
I guess the question is, if you maintain your own car, get the v6. if you'd rather have someone fix it for you and pay for it, get the v8.

ChrisLovesUgly said:
To each their own. For me $800 every 5-6 years isn't a reason to avoid one engine or another, but for sure not having to do it on the V6 is a perk of that engine.

Does anyone know what it costs to change the timing chain if it breaks/stretches?
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grave said:
i keep telling myself i want the v6/5spd for better MPG, but then i come here and always want the V8!
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If it's for your wife/girl friend then go ahead and get the V6 otherwise get a V8 if you can find one. You are not going to save that much gas with 6 banger.

V6 = GIRL TRUCK
V8 = MAN'S TRUCK
 
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