The Good
The 2005 4Runner's advantages lie in its proven reliability and robust off-road performance, appealing to practical buyers. Comfortable seating and a well-built interior offer a pleasant driving experience. Its rugged design and go-anywhere capability evoke a sense of adventure, appealing to emotional buyers seeking freedom and exploration. Strong resale value further enhances its appeal.
The Bad
Weaknesses of the 2005 4Runner include relatively poor fuel economy compared to newer SUVs. Potential issues to watch out for include rust, particularly in areas with road salt. Some owners have reported issues with the X-REAS suspension system (if equipped) and the automatic transmission. Check for proper maintenance records.
2005 Toyota 4Runner: Quick Overview
Key specs for the 2005 Toyota 4Runner:
- Engine Options:
- 4.0L V6: Standard on SR5, Sport Edition, and Limited.
- 4.7L V8: Optional on SR5, Sport Edition, and Limited.
- Horsepower:
- 4.0L V6: 245 hp
- 4.7L V8: 270 hp
- Fuel Economy (Estimated):
- 4.0L V6: 17 mpg city / 21 mpg highway
- 4.7L V8: 15 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (Estimated):
- 4.0L V6: ~8.0 seconds
- 4.7L V8: ~7.2 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,300 lbs (V8 models). V6 models generally around 5,000 lbs.
- Trim Level Features:
- SR5: Cloth upholstery, air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, CD player.
- Sport Edition: Adds sport-tuned suspension, unique styling elements, and upgraded interior trim.
- Limited: Leather upholstery, automatic climate control, premium sound system, heated front seats, sunroof.
2005 Toyota 4Runner Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2005 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | 4Runner |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Minivan Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.0 L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2005 Toyota 4Runner Have?
Recalls for the 2005 4Runner, while not extensive, should be checked on the NHTSA website to ensure any outstanding safety recalls have been addressed, such as issues related to airbag inflators (a common issue across many manufacturers during this era).
Long-term reliability concerns center around regular maintenance. Keeping up with fluid changes (engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, etc.) is paramount. Neglecting these can lead to premature wear and tear on critical components. The V8 engine, while powerful, can develop exhaust manifold leaks over time, leading to increased noise and reduced fuel efficiency. The V6 engine is generally considered very reliable, but timing chain issues can arise at very high mileage.
How long will the 2005 Toyota 4Runner last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (VSC), traction control (TRAC), and front and side airbags. Optional features included curtain airbags for enhanced side-impact protection.
Crash test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) should be consulted for specific details. Generally, the 2005 4Runner performed well in crash tests, earning good ratings for frontal and side impacts. However, specific ratings may vary based on the testing agency and year of testing.
Keep in mind that technology has advanced significantly since 2005. Modern vehicles offer far more sophisticated entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2005 Toyota 4Runner Prices and Market Value
2005 Toyota 4Runner Cost of Ownership
2005 Toyota 4Runner Fuel Efficiency
2005 Toyota 4Runner Safety Rating
NHTSA
2005 Toyota 4Runner Recalls & Defects
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
Equipment:other:labels
Equipment:other:labels
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
AIR Bags:side/Window
2005 Toyota 4Runner Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2005 Toyota 4Runner Compare to Other Wagon?
In terms of features, the 4Runner offered a solid suite for its time, but newer vehicles clearly surpass it. Pricing was competitive, and the 4Runner's strong resale value made it a good long-term investment.
Alternatives to the 2005 4Runner, depending on priorities, include: a newer generation Toyota 4Runner for improved fuel economy and features (but at a higher price); a Lexus GX 470 (based on the 4Runner) for a more luxurious experience; or a Nissan Xterra for a more budget-friendly and rugged option. If off-road capability is paramount, a Jeep Wrangler should also be considered.
Ranks #155 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★) |
| 155 | 2005 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Toyota 4Runner a Good Wagon?
Specific trims like the Limited offer more luxury, but the SR5 provides a solid base with good value. Avoid models with significant rust or neglected maintenance. If off-roading is a primary focus, a Sport Edition or a well-maintained SR5 with 4WD is a good choice. Overall, a well-maintained 2005 4Runner offers a compelling blend of reliability, capability, and value.
Iwantanother4Runner on January 17, 2024
2005 Toyota 4Runner V8 Limited2005 Toyota 4Runner Limited V8… Purchased as new from dealer in Ohio in 2005. Currently has 200,000 miles on odometer. Enjoyed every mile! Due to Ohio winters and salty roads - the suspension has been replaced, section of frame replaced, wheels pitted. Will be due for another timing belt change (expensive due to complexity). Excellently maintained by a local Toyota mechanic. It is my hope that this vehicle will last another 200,000 miles. The only negative is the 18mpg around town.
TomK on June 26, 2023
2005 4Runner going strongI have a 2005 Toyota 4Runner with over 428,000 and she's still going strong and rides as smooth as the day I brought her home from the dealer. She still has her original transmission and engine. I'm hoping to make it to 500,000 later this year.
captsolo on December 8, 2022
i OWN A 2995 4RUNNER v6 FROM NEW.i OWN A 2995 4RUNNER v6 FROM NEW. I have a little over 200,000 miles. Runs and starts great. Replaced 4 starters in 17 years of ownership for approx. $100 a starter. Not a big issue IMO.
rex on October 1, 2022
SatisfiedI have had Toyota's before and when I found this one I knew I had to have it, this 2005 has luxury, comfort, style, and power. Before I test drove it I asked my sales rep. how the bottom was and before I could say another word he was on the ground under it snapping pics for me to see talk about above and beyond the call of duty. He made getting this vehicle fun and easy to get, answering all my questions and so far my 4 Runner has been awesome, and already knowing their last 4 ever ability I'm one happy camper
Pete on July 18, 2022
V8 4RUNNER - 4TH Gen - Buy it!This is my Third 4Runner. Where do you start? My first was when I moved to Colorado in 1991 - Bought new - Awesome truck! 91 V6 stick. Bit of a dog in the mountains, but in town Denver was fine. Bought a 2003 Sport Edition V8 new and put 227,000+ miles on it- ran Fantastic! LOVED IT! THE V8 IS A PHENOMENAL! ENGINE IN THE COLORADO MOUNTAINS!! The TORQUE is INCREDIBLE! 4WD - IN SNOW - UNSTOPPABLE! (Michelin tires or similar - change your oil and do your maintenance - timing belt. brakes, etc.). Anyway, going for 500K MILES, when a sleeping (texting?) driver slammed into it early morning before Thanksgiving 2021, - In front of our house, and totaled it out. Thank God no one was injured. After a month-long search throughout the state - I found a 2005 Limited with the V8 - well taken care of - repaired the cosmetics with a new paint job - and this truck is AWESOME! I will keep it until I retire, then sell it to someone in the family. If you can find one that has been taken care of like I do - BUY IT!! BTW - my summer car is a 2017 Corvette Grand Sport. I will Always have a 4Runner! - unless they goof it up. Michelin tires, and maintenance - that is the key. If you are lucky enough to find a V8 - GET IT! Bottom line: If you can find one that is not beat up - BUY IT!
SteveD on December 10, 2020
In it for the long haulWe bought this car in 2009 to haul our small travel trailer and it has proven equal to every task we've put it through. It has plenty of power and is very comfortable for long trips. The only major issue we have had is the extremely expensive replacement of the master cylinder, which came as a shock. In cars I have owned in the past the master cylinder was a fairly simple apparatus, but with the technology in more recent models, even 15-year-old ones, the master cylinder has all sorts of computerized circuitry in it. Sometimes maybe too much technology? At any rate, we have about 175K on it and it just plugs right along.
Glenner on December 6, 2020
Best SUV I’ve ever ownedThe 4.7L V8 is fantastic! Smooth, powerful and incessantly reliable. I owned a 2011 before and like this one better, despite the ancient interior. This truck can do everything well, including it’s over 7,000 lbs towing capacity (a lot more than the V6). It’s the perfect vehicle for my dog (Hunter) and I to take off in, especially with the rear window capability. My daughter and I can throw the canoe on the roof rack and head out in the back country for a day on the lake. It tears through the mud with its KOA tires and kicks into passing gear nicely when on the highway. The 2005 is bullet-proof reliable and gives me total piece of mind. Downsides are the dated interior and small fuel tank. I don’t care about fuel economy because of the fun and versatility of this SUV.
Blayne Thacker on November 27, 2020
Most issues I've had with a vehicle within a monthThought it was a great car, but within a month of purchasing it, there were two issues that needed to be addressed and the dealership has bene the biggest hassle to deal with in regards to getting the car repaired.
Deak17 on September 10, 2020
V8 option is greatFor a 15 year old vehicle it doesn't seem that dated. The V8 option is great and have had not issues after 100k plus miles.
Mike on August 12, 2020
Best vehicle I've ever owned, period.Great traveling car with plenty of room for a midsize SUV. One of the very few SUVs with great gas mileage, smooth ride, off road capabilities, tough as nails but still beautiful and very long lasting and dependable. , and still built on a frame like a sturdy truck while still maintaining great handling and a smooth ride. Highest recommendation.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.