2016 Toyota 4runner Safety Report
2016 Toyota 4Runner: Strong crash ratings, but numerous recalls and recurring electrical/accessory complaints.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Toyota 4runner
Reliability Score
The 2016 Toyota 4runner receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Toyota 4runner
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Toyota 4runner:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airbag Inflator Malfunction (Takata) Multiple recalls (NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 16V340000, 16V344000, 16V862000) address defective passenger side frontal airbag inflators that can explode, projecting metal fragments and causing serious injury or death. |
High | Common | N/A miles |
| Accessory Detachment (Grille, Hood Scoop, Roof Rack) Recalls (NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 18V204000, 16V607000, 17V024000) indicate issues with aftermarket grille overlays, hood scoops, and roof racks detaching, creating road hazards and increasing crash risk. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Electrical System Malfunctions Numerous complaints (10 total) describe issues like radio/USB/blower motor/dash cluster power loss, hard starting, and wiring harness melting causing window damage. |
Medium | Common | 50000-120000 miles |
| Backup Camera Failure Multiple complaints detail the rearview camera randomly displaying a blank screen, becoming more frequent with higher mileage. |
Low | Common | 125000-143000 miles |
| Door Lock Actuator Failure Several complaints highlight premature failure of door lock actuators on both driver and passenger sides, preventing locking/unlocking and posing a safety risk. |
Medium | Common | 55000-100000 miles |
| Suspension Component Failure (Coil Springs, X-Reas) Complaints mention front coil springs cracking and the X-REAS sport enhancement system failing (leaking struts/shocks) at relatively low mileage. |
Medium | Occasional | 58000-114000 miles |
| Fuel Pump Failure At least one complaint describes a fuel pump failure causing the vehicle to stall at 70 mph, despite a recall for other 4Runner model years. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Toyota 4runner:
Frequent reports of power loss to various components (radio, dash, blower), hard starting, and wiring issues.
Beyond recalls, complaints mention unexpected airbag deployment and issues with knee airbags causing injury.
Issues with coil springs cracking, X-REAS system leaks, and general vehicle shaking at speed.
Complaints about clear coat peeling on horizontal surfaces (hood, roof) and accessory detachment.
Recurring problems with the rearview camera displaying a blank screen.
Reports of fuel pump failure and hesitation during acceleration.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Toyota 4runner
Is the 2016 Toyota 4Runner safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Toyota 4Runner has strong crash test ratings (4-star Overall, 5-star Side), indicating good occupant protection. However, it has been subject to 8 recalls, including critical airbag inflator issues, and has 75 consumer complaints detailing various electrical, suspension, and accessory problems, with 5 reported injuries. While crash protection is good, the recall history and recurring complaints suggest potential reliability and safety concerns in other areas.
What are common problems with the 2016 Toyota 4Runner?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Toyota 4Runner include electrical system malfunctions (10 complaints), airbag system concerns (8 complaints, separate from recalls), and suspension problems (6 complaints). Other common problems highlighted in complaints are rearview camera failures, door lock actuator malfunctions, and clear coat peeling.
Are there any major recalls for the 2016 Toyota 4Runner?
Yes, the 2016 Toyota 4Runner has been involved in multiple significant recalls. Several relate to defective passenger side frontal airbag inflators (Takata recalls) that can explode and cause serious injury or death. Other recalls address accessory detachments like grille overlays, hood scoops, and roof racks, which can become road hazards.
How does the 2016 4Runner perform in crash tests?
The 2016 Toyota 4Runner received a 4-star Overall safety rating from NHTSA. It scored 4 stars for Frontal crash, an excellent 5 stars for Side crash, and 3 stars for Rollover, indicating good performance in most collision scenarios but a moderate rollover risk.
Should I be concerned about the fuel pump in a 2016 4Runner?
While there was a recall for fuel pumps in other 4Runner model years (2014, 2015, 2017, 2018), the 2016 model was not explicitly included in that specific recall. However, at least one consumer complaint for a 2016 model describes a fuel pump failure causing the vehicle to stall at highway speeds, suggesting it could still be a potential issue for some vehicles.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the strong crash ratings but numerous recalls and recurring electrical/accessory issues, prospective buyers should prioritize checking if all 8 recalls have been addressed and be prepared for potential electrical or suspension repairs.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Toyota 4runner
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Toyota 4runner. The data includes 75 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 8 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 5 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Toyota 4runner an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 3 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.