The 2016 Toyota 4Runner lasts around 350,000 miles with only minor sensor and alignment issues. At $25,725 to $37,325, it’s expensive, but worth it if you’re looking for a capable and extremely dependable midsize SUV.
Is the 2016 Toyota 4Runner a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 9/10 – 2016 is a great year for the 4Runner, it is a bit outdated in terms of technology, however, the amazing reliability helps it earn a high overall score. Owner reviews praise the off-road performance, low ownership costs, as well as the roomy interior.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are built for durability rather than looks, the seats hold up well over time, there’s also more cargo space than average.
- Reliability 10/10 – There are no widespread problems found on the 2016 4Runner, making it one of the most dependable midsize SUVs on the market. Models from 2010 through 2022 are all excellent choices.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is average from the V6 engine which is the only engine offred since the 4Runner is a heavy midsize SUV.
- Safety 7/10 – The 2016 4Runner gets 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests. A rearview camera is standard across all models while parking sensors are optional.
- Gas Mileage 6/10 – Fuel economy is bad at up to 19 MPG, giving 437 miles of range from the 23 gallon tank. Gas costs are $38 higher than average, at $297 per month.
- Value 9/10 – The Toyota 4Runner holds its value better than nearly every other midsize SUV, making it a great choice even if it is more expensive to buy up front.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Toyota 4Runner?
- Consumer Reports says the 4Runner is a great old-school body-on frame SUV with high owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the 4Runner at 4.5/5, praising the strong V6 engine, but doesn’t like the cramped third row.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the 4Runner a 4.6/5 enjoying the excellent off-road capabilities, but some owners don’t like the truck-like driving experience.
What Common Problems Does the 2016 Toyota 4Runner Have?
Common problems found on the 2016 Toyota 4Runner include a check engine light, pulling to one side, as well as some exhaust system issues. Overall, these problems are very minor compared to other midsize SUVs, leading to low repair costs as well.
A check engine light is a problem mentioned by some owners in the first 20,000 miles. There are many reasons a check engine light may turn on. The most likely cause is a worn-out gas cap, which costs around $30 to replace. Another common source is an intake sensor issue, which costs around $70 to swap out.
Pulling to one side while driving is another issue which shows up in the first 30,000 miles. Improper alignment is usually the source of the problem. If you take your 4Runner off-road a lot, the uneven terrain can throw the wheels out of alignment. Getting it aligned costs $80 to $150, depending on local labor rates.
Exhaust system issues also show up on some 4Runner models at around 15,000 miles, leading to a warning light on the dash. The EVAP system throws a code when there is a sensor issue. Diagnosing and then replacing the affected sensor usually costs around $150.
There are 8 minor recalls on the 2016 4Runner, which is better than many other midsize SUVs. The recalls cover load carrying labels, air bags, as well as a loose roof rack. None of the issues are mechanically serious, and Toyota will replace the parts on affected models for free.
How Long Will the 2016 Toyota 4Runner Last?
A well maintained 2016 Toyota 4Runner can last over 350,000 miles, which is even longer than the highly-rated Toyota Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are lower than average according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $492 per year.
Since many used 2016 Toyota 4Runner models on the market have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to change the A/C drier assembly for $375, battery cable terminals for $50, as well as the emergency brake cable which is around $500.
Yes, it is very reliable. I have not had any problems with mine. I have replaced the battery and upgraded the headlights, but only to make it better for myself.
Yes, it is extremely reliable. I wish however the warranty would've lasted longer. I am overdue for a maintenance 25k check now.
It is very reliable. I haven't had any problems with mine at all. Like no problems really not even tire pressure problems.
No it is totally reliable if maintained will last forever. It is completely reliable and versatile. I am sure it will last for at least 15 years.
My 4Runner has not experienced any maintenance or other service problems and has been a very reliable vehicle.
I think the 2016 Toyota 4Runner is reliable due to all the safety standards that it have. Some of the problems that it potentially has sometimes is the quality of the products
No problems, it's built to last. I'm pretty hard on it. Only downside would be the gas mileage. But it gets me wherever I need to be, in all types of weather
Very reliable! I drive long distances and long times a lot and every single time it has not let me down no matter how hard I push it. I haven't had a problem with it yet but I know it will come eventually with old age.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is good in the 2016 4Runner with a standard 6.1-inch touchscreen stereo system as well as an optional JBL stereo system. Safety technology is worse than some competitors since the 4Runner only has a standard rearview camera, with optional sensors. There’s no advanced safety technology available.
Is the 2016 Toyota 4Runner a Good Value?
Yes, the 2016 Toyota 4Runner is a great value since it’s one of the longest lasting midsize SUVs on the market. Blue book prices range from $25,725 to $37,325, making it more expensive than a Honda Pilot or Mazda CX-9. When new, the price range was $34,010 to $44,360. Depreciation is better than average, only losing about 7% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Toyota 4Runner?
There are four models of the Toyota 4Runner offered for 2016, from the base SR5 all the way up to the luxurious Limited.
SR5 is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Skid Plates
- Rearview Camera
- Keyless Entry
- Cruise Control
- Power Driver’s Seat
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- 1-Inch Touchscreen Stereo
- 8-Speaker Stereo System
Trail is a step up, adding:
- Standard 4WD
- Unique 17-Inch Wheels
- Hood Scoop
- Silver Exterior Trim
- Locking Rear Differential
- Crawl Control
TRD Pro focuses on off-road performance with:
- Matte Black 17-Inch Wheels
- Off-Road Tires
- Upgraded Bilstein shocks
- Higher Suspension
- Black Front Grille
Limited is the flagship model which has:
- 20-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Dual Zone Climate Control
- Ventilated Front Seats
- 15-Speaker JBL Stereo System
What Engines Come In the Toyota 4Runner?
The 2016 Toyota 4Runner comes with an average 4.0L V6 which makes 270 horsepower while getting up to 19 MPG. Performance is average, taking 7.8 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH. It also has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
What Colors Does the Toyota 4Runner Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Toyota 4Runner?
The 2016 Toyota 4Runner is a comfortable midsize SUV available with room for up to 7 people. Seating in the front is comfortable, while the bench seats in the back are less supportive than the competition.
Passenger room is good in the first two rows, while the optional third row has less leg room than any other midsize SUV.
How Much Storage Space Does the Toyota 4Runner Have?
Cargo space is good with enough space behind the second row for 6-8 suitcases, with the seats folded flat, there’s enough room for over 15 suitcases. The optional slide-out cargo tray also is nice for carrying supplies.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The fifth generation of the Toyota 4Runner was introduced in 2010, and is still being built in 2022.
2014: Updated exterior styling, new headlights, upgraded interior, standard rearview camera.
2015: Introduction of TRD Pro model with off-road features.
2016: Cell phone navigation system added to base model, slightly higher towing capacity.
2017: Trail and Trail Premium models renamed to TRD Off-Road and TRD Off-Road Premium.
2018: No major changes.
2019: TRD Pro model has Fox Shocks, available Nightshade edition with black trim.
2020: Standard Toyota Safety Sense P on all models, new stereo with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.
How Does the Toyota 4Runner Compare to the Competition?
The Toyota 4Runner is the highest rated midsize SUV of 2016 since it combines outstanding reliability with the classic body-on-frame SUV design.
The Toyota Highlander is another midsize SUV which costs around $5,000 less. Passenger room is better in the Toyota Highlander, while the Toyota 4Runner is more capable off-road. We recommend the Toyota Highlander for most shoppers since it has more safety technology, although both are outstanding choices and it comes down to personal driving preferences.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a competitor which starts at roughly $6,000 less. Interior materials are more luxurious in the Jeep Grand Cherokee, while the Toyota 4Runner offers better reliability ratings. We recommend the Toyota 4Runner since they hold their value with fewer mechanical problems.
Do Owners Recommend the Toyota 4Runner?
Yes, the Toyota 4runner trail is an excellent vehicle. Both for offroad and for family purposes. It is durable, safe, and comfortable.
Yes! I love the limited model that I have. It is white with dark brown leather interior. So nice. Feels like a truck but luxury on inside. Love my 3rd row.
Yes very dependable and gets great gas mileage. And rides very smoothly and holds many people which makes it good for me.
Yes absolutely. It is reliable sturdy and beautiful. I think the has the best suspension and is very versatile.
The Toyota 4Runner is a great, safe, reliable vehicle. It has plenty of room for our family and rides very nice. Not very luxurious but fairly smooth.
I believe that is a good vehicle because of its design and performance. IT also has a very stylish car for those who go off roading
Excellent vehicle! Perfect for carrying everything a family would need. Lots of options, great for towing and off roading.
Yes, it has room for people to be comfortable, has good speakers, is very safe when it comes to collisions and rolling (from personal experience)!