2020 Toyota 4runner Safety Report

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner presents a mixed safety picture. While it received generally good crash test ratings from NHTSA, with an Overall 4-star rating, 4 stars for Frontal crash, and 5 stars for Side crash, its Rollover rating is only 3 stars, which is a point of concern for an SUV of this type. The vehicle has a relatively low number of total complaints for its model year, with 30 complaints, 0 crashes, 0 fires, and 4 injuries reported to NHTSA. However, a significant pattern of issues related to the SERVICE BRAKES and STEERING systems emerges from the complaints, with multiple reports of brake pedal going to the floor and steering wheel shakes at highway speeds. Airbag non-deployment in crashes is also a critical safety concern, with two separate complaints detailing such failures, resulting in injuries. The recall history for the 2020 4Runner is minimal, with only one recall issued. This recall, concerning 'EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS' for incorrect load carrying capacity modification labels on vehicles equipped with 20-inch Black Gunner Wheels, could lead to unintentional overloading and increase crash risk. While this recall is important, it doesn't address the more frequent mechanical and system-related complaints. Other notable complaint patterns include issues with the SUSPENSION (e.g., fractured coil springs, X-REAS system failure at 45,000 miles), and unexpected sunroof shattering, which was reported multiple times. Overall, the 2020 Toyota 4Runner demonstrates solid performance in standard crash tests but is plagued by several recurring mechanical and system failures reported by owners. The low number of total complaints is reassuring, but the nature of some issues, particularly brake failures, steering problems, and airbag non-deployment, are serious safety concerns that potential buyers should be aware of. The single recall is minor compared to the scope of reported operational problems.

Our recommendation: While the 2020 Toyota 4Runner has solid crash test performance in some areas, be aware of recurring reports of brake issues, steering wheel shakes, and critical airbag non-deployment failures; a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially of the braking and suspension systems, is highly recommended.