2015 Toyota 4runner Safety Report

The 2015 Toyota 4Runner presents a mixed safety picture, with strong crash test performance but a notable number of recalls and specific complaint patterns. NHTSA awarded the vehicle an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with excellent 5-star ratings in side impact tests. Frontal crash tests also received a respectable 4 stars. However, the rollover resistance rating is only 3 stars, which is a common characteristic for high-riding SUVs. The vehicle has accumulated 85 total complaints, with 9 resulting in injuries, though no crashes, fires, or deaths were reported directly from these complaints. A significant concern for the 2015 4Runner is its extensive recall history, with 9 recalls issued. Two major recalls pertain to the AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE, which could lead to an inflator explosion and serious injury or death from metal fragments. Another critical recall addresses the FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP, where a failure could cause the engine to stall while driving, increasing crash risk. Several other recalls relate to accessory components like grille overlays, hood scoops, and exhaust tips, which could detach and become road hazards or cause injury. There are also complaints directly referencing these recalls, with some owners reporting issues with fuel pump failures and non-deployment of airbags in collisions, despite the recalls being issued. Common complaint patterns, beyond the recall-related issues, include problems with the AIR BAGS (12 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8 complaints), and SUSPENSION (7 complaints). Specific owner complaints highlight issues such as non-deploying airbags in collisions, steering difficulties and shuddering at highway speeds, and failures of the X-REAS or KDSS suspension systems. Other recurring themes involve door lock actuator failures, premature tire wear, and frame rust, particularly on the passenger side. While the crash test ratings are generally good, the high number of recalls, especially those concerning critical safety systems like airbags and fuel delivery, and the consistent pattern of certain mechanical failures, suggest potential areas of concern for prospective buyers.

Our recommendation: While the 2015 Toyota 4Runner boasts solid crash test scores, its extensive recall history and recurring complaints regarding airbags, fuel pumps, and suspension systems warrant thorough inspection and verification of recall completion before purchase.