The Toyota 4Runner entered the early SUV scene back in 1984. The automaker’s guess that the world could use a capable off-roader that wasn’t as expensive as a pickup sure hit the nail on the head. The 4Runner was born capable and catered more and more to passenger comfort over its five generations. While 2025 will bring a new sixth generation to the table, the outgoing fifth-gen has been around for 15 years already. If you’re looking for a used 4Runner and wondering which years are the best for this midsize SUV, we’ve done some of the legwork for you here. Let’s review a few of the best Toyota 4Runner years based on the fewest owner complaints.

Keep in mind that we’re not arguing the best-looking or even the most capable model years here. Those are entirely different conversations.

The first two on our list are from the 5th generation, but the 2014 N280 facelift separates them slightly.

The 2013 Toyota 4Runner has fewer complaints than much newer models

The 2013 was offered with a single 4.0L V6 engine option and a five-speed automatic transmission. It has a 5,000-lb tow capacity and three configurations: the SR5, Trail, and Limited. For the model in general, base SR5 and SR5 Premium trims come with rear-wheel drive and the option to upgrade. Higher configurations bring part- or full-time four-wheel drive as standard.

NHTSA data on the 2013 Toyota 4Runner shows only 33 owner complaints since it hit the road. In fact, the 2018 and 2019 year models have a whopping 54% more complaints filed with the authority than the 2013.

After reviewing the complaints, the airbag system received 9 of the 33 filed. Turning to its recall history, the 2013 has several airbag recalls (including the infamous Takata problems) released in 2018 and 2019. If you’re considering any 2013, be sure all applicable recalls have been handled.

After airbags, the NHTSA reports five brake system complaints, three fuel system issues, and single complaints in various other areas.

All told, the 5th-gen pre-facelift 2013 has few owner complaints, making it one of the best Toyota 4Runner years.

The 2017 Toyota 4Runner does even better than the 2013

This post-N280 facelift 4Runner had the same engine and transmission option as its pre-facelift siblings. However, it came in six configurations: the SR5, SR5 Premium, TRD Offroad, TRD Offroad Premium, TRD Pro, and Limited. 

The 2017 boasts 42% fewer complaints than its successor 2018 and 2019 model years. The 30 complaints filed with the NHTSA are majority brake system issues. Some owners experienced seemingly intermittent problems with the brake pedal that the dealer could not duplicate. There haven’t been any formal recalls for these complaints.

On CarComplaints.com, the 2017 4Runner also shows fewer issues than the 2018. What’s more, the site reports fewer problems on the 2017 than any previous 5th-gen model, back to 2009 (the last 4th-gen 4Runner).

While we’re on the 4th-gen, this brings us to the idea that the best Toyota 4Runner year might be much older than you’d think.

A 4th-gen 2009 could be one of the best Toyota 4Runner years

The 2009 Toyota 4Runner comes with either a 4.0L V6 or a 4.7L V8. Both engine options have automatic transmissions. Tow capacity ranges from 5,000 to 7,500 lbs. At the time, you could choose from six configurations: SR5 V6, SR5 V8, Sport V6, Sport V8, and Limited V6 or Limited V8.

CarComplaints.com gave the 2009 its “Seal of Awesome” rating due to the 4th gen’s low reported issues and overall safety record. The 2009 has only three complaints there: two for transmission woes and another for the general drivetrain. On CarComplaints, this beats out all other model years up to 2020.

NHTSA data seems to agree that the 2009 is a stellar 4Runner for drivers. Only 22 people filed complaints with the administration.

Of course, if you’re looking for one of the best Toyota 4Runner years out there in person, get anything you’re considering buying inspected by a trusted mechanic.