Follow us today…
What are the initial problems with the 2025 Toyota 4Runner?
Emma Landree on the 6th Generation Toyota 4Runner Owners Facebook page said, “Well, it’s official, 1,800 miles later and my 2025 Toyota 4Runner is getting a new transmission.”
The highly anticipated launch of the 6th-generation Toyota 4Runner for the 2025 model year has been met with much fanfare and excitement from loyalists and new buyers alike. Toyota’s legendary reputation for bulletproof reliability has long been a cornerstone of the 4Runner’s appeal, making it a go-to choice for adventurers and families seeking a durable, capable SUV.
However, early reports from the field are casting a shadow on this pristine image, raising significant 2025 Toyota 4Runner transmission problems right out of the gate. Emma Landree’s social media post has ignited a discussion that no new car manufacturer wants to see, especially so soon after a major redesign.
Emma’s experience serves as a stark reminder that even the most reputable brands can encounter unforeseen hurdles with new model introductions.
With just 1,800 miles on the odometer, her brand-new 2026 Toyota 4Runner is already slated for a transmission replacement. “Well, it’s official. 1,800 miles later, and my 2026 Toyota 4Runner is getting a new transmission,” Landree stated, her disappointment is evident.
The incident that led to this alarming diagnosis occurred shortly after a routine car wash.
“I went through a car wash, then upon pulling out, it lunged hard as hell. Then the hybrid system and drive started malfunctioning, and it wouldn’t shift out of first gear.” This dramatic and sudden failure, manifesting as a jarring lunge followed by critical error messages and an inability to shift, points to a serious mechanical or electronic fault that could significantly impact the vehicle’s performance.
The appearance of a new Toyota 4Runner hybrid system malfunction alongside the transmission issue suggests a deeper, interconnected problem within the vehicle’s sophisticated new powertrain.
The plot thickens when considering the shared platform and components between the new 4Runner and the recently redesigned Toyota Tacoma. This shared architecture could mean that any issues identified in the Tacoma could potentially affect the 4Runner, raising concerns about the reliability of both models.
Emma noted that service technicians “guess they’ve seen quite a few on the new Tacomas (there’s even a TSB) but not yet on the 2026 4Runners even though they’re the same transmission.” This revelation is particularly concerning for prospective and current owners.
The fact that Toyota is already aware of a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for a similar transmission issue in the Tacoma, which shares this crucial component, immediately raises red flags. The transmission itself, rather than something unique to the 4Runner’s integration, might be the root cause. This linkage inevitably leads to questions about broader Toyota Tacoma and 4Runner shared transmission issues and the potential for a wave of similar problems in the 4Runner as more units hit the road and accumulate miles.
For Emma, the financial aspect of this major repair is covered under warranty, which is a relief, but the inconvenience and frustration are undeniable. “Ugh, I’m so disappointed. This is exactly why I leased it, though!” she explained. Her foresight in opting for a lease, anticipating potential “first model year” quirks, now seems prescient. However, the immediate practical consequences are far from ideal. “It’s all covered under warranty, but the transmission is on back order now.
“Now I’m driving around in a Camry LE with a 4Runner lease payment.”
Driving a midsize sedan while making payments on a rugged, off-road-oriented SUV is not the ownership experience anyone envisions when purchasing a brand-new vehicle. This situation highlights the significant disruption these early failures can cause in a customer’s daily life and underscores the impact of parts availability, a common challenge with new models.
Emma’s frank admission, “I knew first model years would have issues, but didn’t think of this,” perfectly encapsulates the dilemma many early adopters face.
Advertising
The allure of being among the first to own a redesigned vehicle often comes with the understanding that some teething problems might occur. Yet, a complete transmission failure at 1,800 miles pushes the boundaries of acceptable “issues.”
This incident fuels first model year Toyota 4Runner reliability concerns and can quickly erode consumer confidence, especially for a vehicle lineage celebrated for its durability. The question for many now becomes, is the 2026 Toyota 4Runner a reliable SUV? This incident, while hopefully isolated, does not inspire immediate confidence.
Despite her current predicament, Emma’s perspective is interesting, given her employment at a Toyota dealership. “I will definitely buy a Toyota next because I work at a Toyota dealer, so mentioning getting my extended warranty for the next one (if I buy) is a good idea.”
Her continued loyalty, even in the face of such a significant mechanical failure, speaks volumes about the brand’s overall standing and perhaps the support she anticipates receiving as an insider. However, her proactive consideration of an extended warranty for a future Toyota purchase, immediately after a major component failure on a new Toyota, is a subtle but potent indicator of how these early reliability hiccups can influence long-term purchasing decisions and the perceived need for additional protection.
In The End
The situation with Emma Landree’s 2025 Toyota 4Runner is a developing story that I will continue to follow closely. It serves as a critical early warning sign for both Toyota and potential buyers. While warranties exist to cover such manufacturing defects, the inconvenience, downtime, and initial disappointment can significantly impact the ownership experience.
For those wondering what to do if your new 4Runner transmission fails, Emma’s experience suggests documenting everything, leveraging your warranty, and being prepared for potential wait times for parts. Hopefully, Toyota will swiftly address these nascent issues, perhaps even leading to broader 6th-generation Toyota 4Runner recalls if the problem proves to be widespread, ensuring the long-term success and enduring legacy of the new 4Runner.
Conclusion:
Emma Landree’s experience with her 2025 Toyota 4Runner is precisely the kind of real-world feedback that can make or break a new model’s reputation, especially for a vehicle as iconic as the 4Runner. It’s tough to hear about a major component failure so early in a vehicle’s life, particularly when that vehicle carries such a heavy mantle of reliability.
The connection to the Tacoma’s known transmission issues is more than just a coincidence; it’s a flashing yellow light for Toyota and a reason for heightened vigilance among all new 4Runner owners.
While Emma’s warranty will cover the fix, and her dealership ties might offer her a unique perspective, the core issue remains: a brand-new, highly anticipated SUV is off the road for a critical repair with fewer than 2,000 miles on it.
This isn’t just about a part failing; it’s about the erosion of confidence that can accompany such an event. Toyota has a monumental task ahead to not only resolve these immediate technical issues but also to reassure the market that the 6th-generation 4Runner will uphold the legacy of its predecessors.
I’ll be keeping a close eye on this, because in the world of automotive journalism, early troubles often tell the biggest stories. Stay tuned to Torque News for updates.
We Want To Hear From You
Do you own a 2025 Toyota 4Runner? If so, click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know what experiences you’ve had with the new SUV and any advice you have for potential buyers.
Check out my 2025 Toyota 4Runner story: I Want to Trade My 2022 Ram TRX For A 2025 Toyota 4Runner, and the Dealer Tried To Rip Me Off, $14K Over MSRP and These Crazy Interest Rates
I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news, covering owner stories, and providing expert analysis, ensuring that you are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on X @DenisFlierl, @WorldsCoolestRides, Facebook, and Instagram
Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Emma Landree
Follow us today…
Source: torquenews.com
