The 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser, a retro-styled SUV, debuted in 2006 and ran until 2014 in the US market. It's known for its boxy design, inspired by the classic Toyota FJ40. Available trims included the base model. Its popularity stems from its off-road prowess and unique, eye-catching appearance. Expect a pricing range from around $15,000 to $30,000+ depending on condition and mileage.
The Good
The 2009 FJ Cruiser boasts impressive off-road performance and legendary Toyota reliability, appealing to practical buyers. Its unique retro design and adventurous spirit resonate emotionally. While comfort isn't its strongest suit, its rugged charm and capable 4x4 system offer undeniable value for off-road enthusiasts.
The Bad
Weaknesses of the 2009 FJ Cruiser include poor rear visibility due to thick pillars and small rear windows. Fuel economy is subpar. The rear-hinged "suicide doors" can be inconvenient. Check for rust, especially in areas with road salt, and ensure the 4WD system is functioning correctly.
2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: A 4.0-liter V6 gasoline engine was the sole offering.
- Horsepower: 239 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque.
- Fuel Economy: Approximately 16 mpg city / 20 mpg highway (EPA estimates), though real-world figures can vary depending on driving habits and terrain.
- 0-60 Times: Around 7.8 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base Model: Standard features included full-time 4WD (available), air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD stereo system, and antilock brakes. Cloth upholstery was standard.
- Available Packages/Options: Many were offered, including an Upgrade Package (aluminum wheels, upgraded audio), Convenience Package (cruise control, keyless entry), Off-Road Package (electronically locking rear differential, A-TRAC), and various appearance packages.
- Specific trim level differentiation beyond these packages was minimal, focusing on adding accessory packages rather than distinct trim levels in the same way as other manufacturers. Most differences are found in optional packages that could be added to the base model.
- Other options: roof rack, rock rails, skid plates.
- The 4WD models have either a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission, whereas the 2WD models are only available with a 5-speed automatic transmission.
2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | FJ Cruiser |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4WD |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | HAMURA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1948.18 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 2526.51 kg |
| Overall Height | 180.09 cm |
| Overall Length | 467.11 cm |
| Overall Width | 189.48 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 268.99 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.0-L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel |
| Steering Type | Power Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $23,320 USD |
| Invoice Price | $21,453 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $800 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser Have?
The 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser is generally considered reliable, but some common issues and concerns have been reported. Rust can be a problem, especially in areas with salted roads. Inspect the undercarriage, frame, and body panels carefully. Some owners have reported issues with the front differential actuator failing, preventing engagement of four-wheel drive. Cracking in the inner fender apron near the strut tower has also been reported. The exhaust manifold is also known to crack on some higher mileage vehicles.
While the FJ Cruiser has a good overall reliability record, it is still advisable to check for common Toyota V6 engine issues, like potential head gasket leaks (though less common on this generation than earlier ones).
Check the vehicle's history for any recalls. Toyota recalls are generally well-addressed, but ensuring that any outstanding recall work has been performed is critical. Specific issues by model year are less prominent than general trends, so a comprehensive inspection is always crucial before purchasing a used FJ Cruiser.
While the FJ Cruiser has a good overall reliability record, it is still advisable to check for common Toyota V6 engine issues, like potential head gasket leaks (though less common on this generation than earlier ones).
Check the vehicle's history for any recalls. Toyota recalls are generally well-addressed, but ensuring that any outstanding recall work has been performed is critical. Specific issues by model year are less prominent than general trends, so a comprehensive inspection is always crucial before purchasing a used FJ Cruiser.
How long will the 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser last?
With proper maintenance, a 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser can easily last for 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report exceeding 300,000 miles with regular servicing. Toyota's reputation for reliability contributes to this longevity. Key to long-term durability is consistent oil changes, coolant flushes, and transmission services. Weaknesses over time include potential rust development (especially in colder climates) and wear on suspension components due to off-road use. Routine inspections and proactive maintenance are vital for maximizing its lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser's tech and safety features were relatively basic for its time. Standard entertainment included a CD player with AM/FM radio. Available optional features included an upgraded audio system with subwoofer and auxiliary input. Navigation was also available as an option.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. Antilock brakes (ABS) and traction control were standard. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) was also included. Rear parking sensors were optional.
Safety features included front airbags, side curtain airbags, and active headrests.
Crash test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) can be checked on their respective websites for specific details. The FJ Cruiser generally performed well in crash tests for its era, offering decent occupant protection. However, it lacks the advanced driver-assistance systems common in newer vehicles like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. Antilock brakes (ABS) and traction control were standard. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) was also included. Rear parking sensors were optional.
Safety features included front airbags, side curtain airbags, and active headrests.
Crash test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) can be checked on their respective websites for specific details. The FJ Cruiser generally performed well in crash tests for its era, offering decent occupant protection. However, it lacks the advanced driver-assistance systems common in newer vehicles like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black
Iceberg White
Titanium Metallic
Sandstorm
Voodoo Blue
Interior Colors
Dark Charcoal
2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser had an MSRP ranging from around $23,000 to $27,000, depending on options and configurations. Currently, used market prices range from approximately $15,000 to $30,000+, influenced by mileage, condition, and modifications. FJ Cruisers hold their value exceptionally well due to their iconic design, off-road capability, and Toyota's reputation for reliability. Low mileage examples and those in excellent condition command premium prices. Modifications, especially those geared towards off-roading, can positively impact resale value for the right buyer.
2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for the 2009 FJ Cruiser are typically average for an SUV of its size. Fuel economy is poor, making it costly to fuel. Maintenance is generally affordable due to Toyota's reliability. Repairs can be more expensive than some other Toyotas, especially if related to the 4WD system or off-road damage. Long-term ownership costs are moderate, leaning towards expensive due to fuel consumption, but offset by reliability, potentially saving money on major repairs if properly maintained.
2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
71.92 liters
City Mileage
7.23 km/l
Highway Mileage
8.93 km/l
2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser Recalls & Defects
Equipment
Recall date
2010-09-03
Recall no.
10e043000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Marathon IS Recalling Certain Seat Covers, Brand Superhides With Part Numbers 593, 594, 578, 960, 228, 228-09, 267-08, 333, 625, and 630, Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Seat Covers ARE Made OF Heavier Thread and ARE NOT Compatible With Seats Containing Side Airbags. THE Heavier Seat Cover Could Interfere With Full Deployment OF THE Airbag IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Consequence
AN Improperly Deployed Airbag Could Result IN Serious Injury.
Remedy
Marathon Will Notify Owners OF Record and Replace THE Seat Cover Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON September 14, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Marathon AT 1-800-735-2769.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Marathon Seat Covers and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, or Nissan Vehicles.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date
2010-02-03
Recall no.
10v036000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2011 Passenger Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." These Vehicles Were Sold Without THE Requisite Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels.
Consequence
A Driver MAY Overload A Vehicle Which MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Mail TO Consumers THE Corrected Label or THE Customer Will Have THE Option FOR Dealers TO Install THE Label Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 27, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Tires:pressure Monitoring and Regulating Systems
Recall date
2011-03-04
Recall no.
11v148000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008 Through 2011 FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Tacoma, Sequoia and Tundra Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 138, "tire Pressure Monitoring System (Tpms)." When Factory-Installed Wheels and Tires Were Replaced With Toyota Authorized Accessory Wheels and LT Tires Prior TO First Sale, THE Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Were NOT Re-Calibrated Correctly and Therefore DO NOT Start Illuminating THE Low Tire Pressure Warning Telltale AT THE Required Minimum Activation Pressure.
Consequence
Failure TO Warn OF Tire Deflations IS A Non-Compliance With Fmvss 138 and Could Lead TO Tire Failure Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
FOR THE Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Tacoma and Tundra Vehicles, THE Dealer Will Re-Calibrate THE Tire Pressure Monitoring System ON Affected Vehicles and Install AN Updated Tire and Loading Information Label AT NO Charge. FOR THE FJ Cruiser Vehicles, THE Tpms Cannot BE Reset SO THE Electronic Control Unit (Ecu) FOR THE Tpms Will BE Replaced. Toyota IS Currently Developing THE Remedy Ecu. IF AN Owner IS NOT Certain Whether HIS or HER Vehicle IS Equipped With These Accessories, Please Contact ANY Toyota Dealer FOR AN Inspection AT NO Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON March 31, 2011. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date
2009-06-15
Recall no.
09v223000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling 27,080 Model Year 2005 Through 2010 Passenger Cars Built From September 1, 2005 TO MAY 4, 2009. These Vehicles Were NOT Equipped With Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels Which Fails TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence
Incorrect Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels Could Result IN THE Vehicle Being Overloaded, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify Owners and Provide Them With A New, Accurate Label TO BE Installed Over THE Inaccurate Label Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON August 18, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-888-270-9371.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date
2010-02-03
Recall no.
10v035000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Gulf States Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2010 Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." These Vehicles Were Sold Between September 1, 2005 and June 2, 2008 Without THE Requisite Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels.
Consequence
This Does NOT Meet THE Standard Requirements.
Remedy
Dealers Will Mail TO Consumers THE Corrected Label or THE Customer Will Have THE Option FOR Dealers TO Install THE Label Free OF Charge. Dealers Will Also Correct THE Owner's Manual. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 27, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Gulf States Toyota AT 713-580-3300.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment
Recall date
2012-10-17
Recall no.
12e046000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling Certain Toyota Racing Development (Trd) Brake Kits, P/N Ptr09-35070, and TRD High-Performance Brake Kits, P/N Ptr09-35100, Installed BY Toyota Vehicle Processing Centers and Sold BY Toyota Dealers AS AN Optional Accessory FOR Model Year 2007 Through 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser Vehicles. THE Subject TRD Brake KIT IS Specifically Designed FOR THE Front Wheels OF 2007-2012 Model Year FJ Cruiser Vehicles. DUE TO THE Shape OF THE Outer Brake Tube OF THE Brake Kit, THE Clearance Between THE Outer Brake Tube and A TRD 16 Inch 6-spoke Alloy Wheel IS Minimal. IF Wheel Balance Weights ARE Installed IN AN Incorrect Location, There IS A Possibility That THE Outer Brake Tube Could BE Damaged DUE TO Interference With THE Balance Weight, and Brake Fluid Could Leak From THE Damaged Tube.
Consequence
IF A Brake Tube Becomes Damaged and Leaks Fluid, IT MAY Result IN Increased Stopping Distances, and IN Some Cases, Loss OF Vehicle Front Braking Performance, Which Could Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
All Known Owners OF 2007-2012 Model Year FJ Cruiser Vehicles Will BE Notified BY First Class Mail. IF THE Vehicle IS Equipped With ONE OF THE TRD Brake Kits, THE Brake Caliper Outer Brake Tube Will BE Replaced With A Newly Designed ONE AT NO Charge. During This Service, IF Necessary, THE Dealer Will Make Wheel Balance Adjustments. This Remedy Will BE Performed Even IF THE Vehicle HAS Original Equipment 16 Inch or 17 Inch Wheels or TRD 16 Inch Beadlock Ring Type Wheels, Which ARE NOT Affected BY THE Condition, TO Assure Sufficient Clearance IN THE Event Wheels ARE Changed AT A Later Time. Notification TO Owners Began ON December 17, 2012. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Experience Center AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seat Belts:front:anchorage
Recall date
2013-03-15
Recall no.
13v098000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2007 Through 2013 FJ Cruiser Passenger Vehicles. THE Retractors FOR THE Front Driver and Passenger Seat Belts ARE Mounted IN THE Access Door (Rear Door) Panels OF THE Vehicle. DUE TO Insufficient Strength OF THE Access Door Panel, Cracks MAY Develop IN THE Panel IF THE Access Door IS Repeatedly and Forcefully Closed Over AN Extended Period OF Time.
Consequence
IF Cracks Occur IN THE Panel Around THE Lower Retractor Anchor, THE Seat Belt Retractor Could Become Detached, Which Could Increase THE Risk OF Injury TO AN Occupant IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Remedy
THE Safety Recall Began ON June 6, 2013. Toyota Will Mail AN Interim Letter TO Owners Late IN April 2013. Remedy Notifications TO THE Owners FOR THE Repair Will Begin IN Late MAY 2013. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Recall date
2013-01-16
Recall no.
13v014000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Models Interspersed Through Model Years 2009 Through 2013 AS Follows: Model Year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and Rav4; Model Year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; Model Year 2010-2013 Model Year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; Model Year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; Model Year 2012 Prius V; and Model Year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During Modification BY SET TO Include Accessories Such AS Leather Seat Covers, Seat Heaters or Headrest DVD Systems, These Vehicles MAY NOT Have HAD THE Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System Calibration Tested. Without Passing THE Calibration Test, THE Occupant Sensing System MAY NOT Operate AS Designed.
Consequence
IF THE Front Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System IS OUT OF Calibration, THE Front Passenger Airbags MAY NOT Deploy or They MAY Deploy Inappropriately FOR THE Passenger's Size and Position. This Could Increase THE Risk OF Personal Injury During THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash Necessitating Airbag Deployment.
Remedy
Southeast Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Test THE Sensitivity OF THE Occupant Detection Sensors, and Recalibrate Them AS Necessary. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats
Recall date
2013-01-16
Recall no.
13v014000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Models Interspersed Through Model Years 2009 Through 2013 AS Follows: Model Year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and Rav4; Model Year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; Model Year 2010-2013 Model Year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; Model Year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; Model Year 2012 Prius V; and Model Year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During Modification BY SET TO Include Accessories Such AS Leather Seat Covers, Seat Heaters or Headrest DVD Systems, These Vehicles MAY NOT Have HAD THE Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System Calibration Tested. Without Passing THE Calibration Test, THE Occupant Sensing System MAY NOT Operate AS Designed.
Consequence
IF THE Front Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System IS OUT OF Calibration, THE Front Passenger Airbags MAY NOT Deploy or They MAY Deploy Inappropriately FOR THE Passenger's Size and Position. This Could Increase THE Risk OF Personal Injury During THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash Necessitating Airbag Deployment.
Remedy
Southeast Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Test THE Sensitivity OF THE Occupant Detection Sensors, and Recalibrate Them AS Necessary. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2013-04-25
Recall no.
13v163000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2007-2013 FJ Cruiser Vehicles Manufactured January 25, 2006 Through February 23, 2013 and Equipped With A Toyota Auxiliary Driving Lamp Kits Mounted TO THE Front Bumper. These Lamp Assemblies Include 55 Watt Bulbs and DUE TO This Wattage and Mounting Angle, THE Combination OF THE Upper Beam Headlamps Plus THE Auxiliary Lamps ARE TOO Bright and Exceed THE Maximum Light Output Allowed FOR AN Upper Beam Headlamp. Therefore, These Vehicles Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
Light Intensities Above THE Maximum Allowable Limit Could Cause Increased Glare FOR Oncoming Traffic and Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE 55 Watt Bulbs With 35 Watt Bulbs, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON June 6, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date
2014-08-04
Recall no.
14v475000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2014 FJ Cruiser and Tacoma Vehicles Equipped With Accessory Wheels and Tires Installed BY Toyota or Dealers Prior TO THE Vehicle's First Sale. THE Affected Vehicles MAY List Incorrect Spare Tire Size And/Or Cold Tire Inflation Information ON THE Tire Placard. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims FOR Passenger Cars."
Consequence
IF THE Spare Tire IS Inflated TO THE Incorrect Pressure Provided ON THE Placard, Tire Failure MAY Occur While IT IS Being Driven ON, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
FOR THE Involved Vehicles, Overlay Stickers TO Correct THE Tire Placard Will Either BE Mailed TO Owners or Provided TO Dealers FOR Placement Over THE Incorrect Information ON THE Placard. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin IN September 2014. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
Recall date
2014-11-19
Recall no.
14v743000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4X2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4X2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4runner. THE Affected Vehicles MAY Experience Compression OF THE Seat Cushion Which MAY Damage THE Seat Heater Wiring.
Consequence
Damage TO THE Seat Heater Wiring Could Cause THE Wires TO Short, Increasing THE Risk OF THE Seat Burning and Causing Personal Injury TO THE Occupant.
Remedy
SET Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Disconnect THE Heaters With Copper Strand Heating Elements and Refund THE Purchase Price OF THE Seat Heater Accessory, Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Began IN January 2015. Owners MAY Contact SET Customer Service AT 1-866-405-4226.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
Recall date
2016-06-02
Recall no.
16v396000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain 2005-2011 4runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander Hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry Hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla Vehicles Equipped With Aftermarket Accessory Seat Heaters With A Copper Strand Heating Element. THE Electrical Wiring IN THE Seat Heaters MAY BE Damaged When THE Seat Cushion IS Compressed.
Consequence
IF Damaged, THE Copper Strand Heating Element MAY Short Circuit, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
SET Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Disconnect THE Seat Heaters, Free OF Charge, and Refund THE Purchase Price OF THE Seat Heater Accessory. THE Recall Began ON July 14, 2016. Owners MAY Contact SET Customer Service AT 1-866-405-4226. SET Number FOR This Recall IS Set16b.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Corrosion
Original warranty
60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Drivetrain
Original warranty
60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser Insurance
Insurance for a 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Key rivals to the 2009 FJ Cruiser include the Jeep Wrangler and Nissan Xterra. The FJ Cruiser offers better on-road handling and a more comfortable ride than the Wrangler, but the Wrangler provides superior off-road capability and open-air driving. The Xterra is more practical with better cargo space and fuel economy, but lacks the FJ Cruiser's distinctive styling and off-road prowess.
In terms of reliability, the FJ Cruiser generally outperforms both the Wrangler and Xterra. Prices are competitive with similar used Wranglers, but generally higher than comparable Xterras.
Alternatives include the Toyota 4Runner, which offers a similar blend of reliability and off-road capability with more practicality, though at a higher price point. For serious off-road enthusiasts who prioritize capability above all else, the Wrangler remains a strong contender. For those needing more cargo space and better fuel economy, the Xterra is a viable, more budget-friendly choice. The FJ Cruiser strikes a unique balance between style, reliability, and off-road ability.
In terms of reliability, the FJ Cruiser generally outperforms both the Wrangler and Xterra. Prices are competitive with similar used Wranglers, but generally higher than comparable Xterras.
Alternatives include the Toyota 4Runner, which offers a similar blend of reliability and off-road capability with more practicality, though at a higher price point. For serious off-road enthusiasts who prioritize capability above all else, the Wrangler remains a strong contender. For those needing more cargo space and better fuel economy, the Xterra is a viable, more budget-friendly choice. The FJ Cruiser strikes a unique balance between style, reliability, and off-road ability.
Ranks #126 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 126 | 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser is ideal for those seeking a reliable and capable off-road vehicle with a distinctive retro style. It's worth buying if you appreciate its unique design and prioritize off-road adventures. However, be mindful of its poor fuel economy and limited rear visibility. A used FJ Cruiser is the only option, so look for well-maintained examples with a clean title and service history. Specific trims aren't crucial, but desirable options include the Off-Road Package with the locking rear differential. Ensure any potential purchase undergoes a thorough inspection for rust and mechanical issues.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.