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Toyota 4Runner Undercarriage Rust

Premature frame rust forming on the undercarriage of 4Runner, Tacoma, Tundra, and Sequoia

The owners of Toyota vehicles manufactured between the years 2003 and 2009 are highly recommended to take a detailed look at their cars’ undercarriage. Some of the models, such as Tacoma, Tundra, and Sequoia are reported to have premature frame rust forming on the undercarriage of their vehicles, affecting some vital car parts. The company had to settle a lawsuit without having admitted the fault. Moreover, Toyota decided to issue a recall that included the Toyota 4Runner model, too.

Plaintiff’s Toyota 4Runner

The reason why the 4Runner model joined the “squad” is that Gary Weinreich brought a case against Toyota following the lawsuit. The mentioned plaintiff purchased his vehicle in the year 2005. After having owned the car for approximately six years, he was informed about the vehicle’s undercarriage severely affected by the rust.

Afterward, the rust continued spreading to such parts, as the car’s exhaust system, engine splash shield (lower engine cover), as well as shocks. In 2018 Weinreich had a minor accident when one of the front control arms suddenly got broken while he was driving.

Toyota 4Runner undercarriage rust

Other problems caused by spreading undercarriage rust

Weinreich’s accident is just another example of what can possibly happen if a vehicle’s frame is affected by excessive rust. When it comes to Toyota 4Runner, in particular, being affected by the rust means that the entire vehicle ends up being held by parts that have been affected by rust.

Thus, the following problems can occur:

  • Alignment issues.
  • The tires wear out unevenly.
  • Weird noises when driving over bumps and vibrations.
  • Less weight support.
  • Faulty shocks and struts that end up in hard braking.

When it comes to trucks, in particular, the bed can get detached from the rest of the vehicle if affected by rust.

Fixing Toyota 4Runner’s frame

One of the most asked questions regarding 4Runner’s repair is related to the 4Runner’s repair, which is approximately a fifteen-thousand-dollar process. It involves replacing rusted car parts, as well as cutting out affected pieces, and welding the entire construction together afterward. The lawsuit made the company extend its warranty program. 4Runner model is also known for automatic transmission issues occurred in the past due to the bad quality control upon manufacturing the vehicles. All the 4Runner vehicles and trucks manufactured between 2003 and 2009 ought to be thoroughly checked to get the frame repaired on time.

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