Toyota 4Runner 4WD (GRN215) 4.0 l / 236 hp / 2006 / 2007 / 2008 / 2009 : Specs, Ownership Costs, Maintenance, and Longevity

October 27, 2025

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The facelifted 2006–2009 Toyota 4Runner 4WD (GRN215) is a midsize, body-on-frame SUV aimed at buyers who need dependable towing, cargo flexibility, and real off-pavement traction—without the size or cost of a full-size truck. Sitting between the Highlander and Sequoia in Toyota’s lineup, this fourth-generation 4Runner pairs the 1GR-FE 4.0-liter V6 (236 hp) with a robust 5-speed automatic and a two-speed, part-time 4×4 system. The 2006 refresh brought subtle styling and structural tweaks; by 2008, side-curtain airbags were standard across the board. Compared with unibody crossovers, the 4Runner trades some efficiency and ride isolation for durability, ladder-frame strength, and a stable towing demeanor. Its practical cabin, roll-down rear glass, and high resale remain key draws. This guide concentrates on the GRN215 V6 4WD configuration sold in North America during 2006–2009, covering specs and dimensions, driveline details, safety and trims, maintenance and known issues, and how it compares in the real world to rivals.

Fast Facts

Proven 1GR-FE V6 with timing chain and A750F 5-speed automatic; two-speed part-time 4×4 with A-TRAC, HAC and available DAC for steep descents.
5,000 lb (2,268 kg) tow rating when properly equipped; confident highway stability and strong aftermarket support.
Ladder-frame toughness; spacious cargo bay (≈42 cu ft seats up; ≈75 cu ft seats folded) and roll-down tailgate glass.
Caveat: inspect thoroughly for frame/underbody corrosion on snow-belt trucks; budget for aging shocks/bushings and X-REAS or rear air-suspension service if fitted.
Typical rhythm: engine oil and filter every 5,000–7,500 miles (8–12 months); rotate tires at the same interval.

Detailed overview

Toyota designed the GRN215 4WD to handle daily duty and weekend hauling with equal ease. The 1GR-FE V6 is an all-aluminum, port-injected DOHC with variable valve timing on the intake cams, known for smooth midrange torque and long service life when maintained. It’s backed by the A750F 5-speed automatic, a wide-ratio unit with a lock-up torque converter and proven internals shared across Toyota trucks of the era. The 4×4 system is a conventional part-time arrangement: rear-wheel drive on pavement for efficiency and wear, with 4H for loose surfaces and 4L for slow, technical terrain. The traction suite includes A-TRAC (Active Traction Control) that brakes a spinning wheel to shuffle torque across an axle, plus Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and, on many trucks, Downhill Assist Control (DAC) for controlled descents.

The facelift that arrived for 2006 brought a revised front fascia and important structural adjustments, improving side-impact performance; side-curtain airbags became standard by 2008. Compared with the same-era 4Runner V8 (full-time 4WD), the V6 4WD’s part-time system is mechanically simpler and lighter. Owners typically see real-world mixed fuel economy in the mid-teens (mpg US), with highway numbers around 19–20 mpg on stock tires and a clean alignment. Where the 4Runner shines is predictability when loaded: the ladder frame and rear coil-spring solid axle keep the truck settled with cargo or a small trailer attached.

On road, the 4Runner has a mature, “trucky” demeanor—moderate body roll, linear steering, and a firm brake pedal. Off pavement, the approach/departure geometry and available skid protection let it travel far beyond soft-roader limits, especially with decent all-terrain tires. Infotainment and driver-assist tech reflect the mid-2000s: simple, reliable, but basic by modern standards. For buyers who prioritize durability, parts availability, and straightforward servicing, the GRN215 remains one of the lowest-drama ways to own a true body-on-frame SUV.

Specifications and technical data

Engine and Performance (1GR-FE V6)

Configuration / code: V6, 24-valve DOHC, aluminum block/heads, 1GR-FE with VVT-i (intake).
Displacement: 3,956 cc (4.0 L).
Rated output: 236 hp (176 kW) @ ~5,200 rpm.
Rated torque: 361 Nm (266 lb-ft) @ ~4,000 rpm.
Induction / fueling: Naturally aspirated / port injection.
Compression ratio: ~10.0:1.
Timing drive: Chain (no scheduled replacement; inspect by symptom).
Fuel / octane: Regular unleaded (87 AKI).
EPA fuel economy (2009 4WD V6): 16/20/17 mpg city/highway/combined · ≈14.7/11.8/13.8 L/100 km.

Transmission and Driveline

Gearbox: A750F 5-speed automatic with lock-up converter.
Transfer case: Two-speed, part-time (2H/4H/4L); no center differential (do not use 4H on high-grip pavement).
Front axle: ADD (automatic disconnecting differential) with manual high/low selection via console switch/lever (by year).
Traction aids: A-TRAC brake-based torque management; HAC; DAC (on many trims).
Final drive ratios: Commonly 3.91 or 3.73 (confirm via axle code).
Tow rating: 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) with factory Class III receiver and 7-pin wiring; typical tongue load 500 lb (227 kg).

Chassis and Dimensions

Construction: Ladder frame (boxed sections) with welded steel body.
Suspension:
Front: Independent double-wishbone, coil springs.
Rear: 4-link solid axle, coil springs.
Options: X-REAS cross-linked shocks (Sport) for flatter body control; Limited may feature rear load-leveling air springs.
Steering: Rack-and-pinion, variable assist.
Brakes: 4-wheel discs; ABS with EBD and Brake Assist.
Wheels/tyres (typical): 17×7.5 in with P265/65R17, or 18×7.5 in with P265/60R18 (Limited).
External dimensions:
Length: 4,805 mm (189.2 in)
Width: 1,910 mm (75.2 in)
Height: ~1,790–1,810 mm (70.5–71.3 in; roof rack/tyre dependent)
Wheelbase: 2,790 mm (109.8 in)
Track (F/R): ~1,575/1,575 mm (62.0/62.0 in)
Ground clearance: ~220–230 mm (8.7–9.1 in)
Turning circle: ~11.7 m (38.0 ft)
Weights and capacities (typical V6 4WD):
Curb weight: ~1,965–2,045 kg (4,330–4,505 lb) by trim/options.
GVWR: ~2,540–2,590 kg (5,600–5,710 lb).
Payload: ~480–540 kg (1,060–1,190 lb) package-dependent.
Fuel tank: ≈87 L (23.0 gal).
Cargo volume: ≈1.19 m³ (42.2 cu ft) behind 2nd row; ≈2.13 m³ (75.1 cu ft) with seats folded.

Fluids and Capacities (essentials)

Engine oil: ~5.2–5.5 L (5.5–5.8 qt) with filter; 5W-30 API/ILSAC conforming to period spec.
Coolant: Toyota Super Long Life (pink), ethylene glycol; ~9–10 L total depending on options.
Automatic transmission: Toyota WS ATF; service by condition (see schedule).
Transfer case: Gear oil per manual; typical 75W-90 GL-5 (capacity varies).
Differentials: 75W-90 GL-5; ~2.6–3.0 L rear (housing dependent).
Brake fluid: DOT 3.
Power steering: ATF per manual.
Selected torque values (verify by VIN):
Wheel lugs: ~113 Nm (83 lb-ft).
Engine drain plug: ~39–43 Nm (29–32 lb-ft).
Diff/transfer case plugs: ~49–64 Nm (36–47 lb-ft).

Performance and Economy

0–60 mph / 0–100 km/h: ≈7.9–8.5 s (V6 4WD, stock tyres).
Top speed (governed): ~110–115 mph.
Real-world fuel economy: 15–19 mpg US mixed (15.7–12.4 L/100 km) depending on tyres, load, and alignment.
Towing / payload: 5,000 lb towing · ~1,100 lb payload typical · roof load per rack spec.

Trims, options, safety and ADAS

Trims and key equipment (V6 4WD focus, 2006–2009)

SR5 4WD — Cloth seats, 17-in alloys/steel (by year), power rear glass, VSC/TRAC, basic audio, optional 3rd-row (rare), available convenience packages.
Sport Edition 4WD — Hood scoop, graphite accents, X-REAS cross-linked shocks, 17-in alloys, often a steering-wheel audio interface; best factory body-control on bumpy roads.
Limited 4WD — Leather, dual-zone climate, 18-in wheels, JBL audio options, and available self-leveling rear air suspension (heights sensors/compressor service considerations later in life).

Mechanical/functional options and identifiers

X-REAS: Look for hydraulic lines linking opposite-corner dampers and the control unit at the frame.
Rear air suspension (Limited): Height sensor arms near the rear axle; SUS “height” switch in cabin.
DAC/HAC: Buttons beside the steering column or console area; present on many 4WDs.
Axle/trans codes: Driver-door jamb build label; V6 4WD typically shows A750F transmission.

Year-to-year highlights (facelift window)

2006 — Styling update; structural changes that improved side-impact results.
2008 — Side-curtain airbags standard; TPMS present by this era.
2009 — Final fourth-gen year; equipment simplifications ahead of redesign.

Safety ratings (summary for 2006–2009 4WD V6 where applicable)

Moderate overlap front: Good.
Side (original test): Good for 2008–2009 when side airbags standard; earlier models require correct spec to achieve the same rating.
Head restraints & seats: Often Poor per IIHS methodology of the time (geometry/dynamic test).
These outcomes reflect the 4Runner’s robust structure with era-typical seat/head-restraint limitations.

Safety systems and ADAS (era-correct)

Front, side-torso, and roll-sensing side-curtain airbags (standard by 2008).
LATCH anchors at the rear outboard positions; top tether points present.
VSC stability control and TRAC traction control standard; A-TRAC integrates with the 4×4 system to limit wheelspin.
No factory AEB, lane-keeping, or adaptive cruise; head unit lacks camera/radar integration.
Calibration after service: Steering angle and yaw-rate sensors may require zero-point calibration following alignment or steering work—plan scan-tool time.

Reliability, issues and service actions

Overall: The 1GR-FE/A750F/ladder-frame combination is widely considered durable. The 4WD hardware adds front differential, CVs, and a transfer case—still simple by modern standards. Failures are usually age, mileage, and environment related, especially corrosion.

Common → occasional issues (prevalence • severity/cost • notes)

Frame and underbody corrosion (snow-belt trucks) • Common on poorly protected examples • Cost: medium→high.
Symptoms: Scaling rust on frame rails, rear lower control arm brackets, crossmembers.
Remedy: Lift inspection with pick/hammer; treat, repair or walk away if deep pitting near suspension mounts. Undercoating helps only on clean metal.
X-REAS damper leaks (Sport) • Occasional • Cost: medium.
Symptoms: Pitchy/heavy motions, oily film on damper bodies or cross-link hoses.
Remedy: Replace leaking units (often by axle pair) or convert to conventional shocks/struts.
Rear self-leveling air suspension (Limited) • Occasional • Cost: medium→high.
Symptoms: Sagging rear, frequent compressor cycling, height sensor DTCs.
Remedy: Renew air bags/height sensors; ensure dryer/desiccant health. Coil-spring conversions are common when repeated failures occur.
Front lower control arm bushings/ball joints • Common by age • Cost: medium.
Symptoms: Clunks on sharp bumps, wander on braking/turn-in, inner-edge tyre wear.
Remedy: Replace bushings or complete arms; align with sufficient caster for highway stability.
Rear axle seals • Occasional • Cost: medium.
Symptoms: Grease/oil on backing plates; reduced rear brake effectiveness.
Remedy: Replace seals and clean shoes/rotors as needed; check diff breather.
EVAP canister/purge valves • Occasional • Cost: low→medium.
Symptoms: EVAP codes and premature fuel-pump shutoff at the station.
Remedy: Smoke test; replace cracked canister or sticky purge valve; renew hoses.
Accessory belt/tensioner • Common with age • Cost: low.
Symptoms: Cold-start chirp or squeal with A/C load.
Remedy: Belt and pulley/tensioner refresh; inspect water pump for seep.
Sunroof drains (if fitted) • Occasional • Cost: low.
Symptoms: Wet headliner/footwell after rain.
Remedy: Clean drains; inspect cassette seal.

Powertrain specifics (1GR-FE V6)

Timing chain system: No scheduled replacement; investigate hot-restart rattle or cam/crank correlation codes. Chain, guide, or tensioner work is by symptom and measurement (not mileage alone).
Cooling system: Radiator end tanks and aged plastic fittings can seep by year 12–15; renewing radiator/hoses proactively in harsh climates is reasonable.
Oil consumption: Typically low; monitor at each fill, especially on high-mileage/towing usage.
Intake/throttle body: Port injection minimizes DI-style carbon; throttle body cleaning can resolve idle instability.

Driveline and chassis

A750F behavior: Generally robust; smooths out with clean WS ATF. Harsh 2–3 on cold mornings often improves after drain-and-fill plus adaptation reset.
Front CVs/boots: Inspect outer boots and clamps after off-road use; early catch saves axles.
Wheel bearings: Long life; a low growl on sweepers signals early wear.

Recalls, campaigns, and service confirmations (high-level to check by VIN)

Accelerator pedal/floor-mat interference campaigns (multi-year actions across Toyota lineup).
Airbag and sensor-related campaigns where applicable to individual VINs.
How to verify: Request the official VIN recall printout and dealer service history; match campaign codes to the work order. Use the manufacturer VIN portal for final confirmation before purchase.

Pre-purchase documentation to request

Full maintenance history (oil/coolant/ATF/diffs/brake fluid) and alignment sheets.
Photos of the frame on a lift, including control-arm mounts and crossmembers.
Evidence of suspension refurb (bushings, shocks, X-REAS or air-suspension repairs).
Recent brake service and tyre date codes; confirm even wear patterns.
Confirmation of recall completion for your exact VIN.

Maintenance and buyer’s guide

Practical maintenance schedule (distance/time)

Engine oil & filter (5W-30): 5,000–7,500 miles or 8–12 months; severe service (towing/short trips/dust) → 5,000 miles.
Engine air filter: Inspect each oil service; replace ~30,000 miles (48 months) or sooner in dust.
Cabin filter: 15,000–20,000 miles (24–32 months).
Coolant (Toyota SLLC pink): First change at ~100,000 miles (10 years), then every 50,000 miles (5 years).
Spark plugs (iridium): 90,000–120,000 miles (9–12 years).
Fuel filter: Integrated with pump—no routine interval; test by pressure/flow symptoms.
Serpentine belt / idlers: Inspect every service; typical life 60,000–100,000 miles; replace on cracks/glaze/noise.
Automatic transmission (WS ATF): Though labeled “lifetime” in period materials, longevity improves with 60,000–90,000-mile drain-and-fills.
Transfer case & front/rear differentials: 30,000–60,000 miles depending on towing/off-road; GL-5 gear oil (refer to manual for capacities).
Brake fluid: Replace every 2–3 years; test strips for moisture annually.
Brakes: Inspect pads/rotors each oil service; pull wheels to check inner pads and backing plates for axle-seal contamination.
Suspension/alignment: Rotate tyres with each oil service; align annually or after any steering/suspension work.
PCV/throttle body: Inspect/clean ~60,000 miles for smooth idle.
12-V battery: Load-test yearly after year 4; replace proactively at 5–7 years.
Timing chain: No fixed interval; service only when noise, wear data, or correlation DTCs warrant.

Fluid specs (quick reference)

Engine oil: API SN (or later) 5W-30.
ATF: Toyota WS.
Coolant: Toyota Super Long Life (pink).
Differentials/transfer: GL-5 75W-90 (check manual by axle).
Brake fluid: DOT 3.

Buyer’s checklist (what to inspect)

Corrosion hotspots: Inside frame rails, rear lower control arm brackets, front crossmember, body mounts, spare-tire hoist, bumper supports.
Suspension: X-REAS seepage (Sport), rear air-spring leaks/height sensors (Limited), front lower control arm bushings/ball joints, sway-bar links.
4×4 system: Smooth transfer case engagement, no binding in 2H, quiet CVs on full-lock; verify A-TRAC/DAC function on a gravel test if possible.
Driveline: Rear axle seals; listen/feel for clunks shifting into Drive/Reverse; cold-start transmission behavior.
Cooling: Radiator end-tank staining; brittle heater tees; water-pump weep hole.
Electrical: Rear hatch glass up/down and defogger; tailgate harness at the flex point; TPMS sensor age.
Interior: Sunroof drains; seat-track play; HVAC blend-door operation.
Tyres/alignment: Even wear across the tread; outer/inner edge wear suggests bushings or camber/caster issues.
Documentation: Service records plus an official VIN recall report.

Best configurations to target

Dry-climate SR5/Sport with documented fluid services and conventional suspension for long-term simplicity.
Limited if you want comfort features—budget for rear air-spring service or consider a reputable coil conversion if failures recur.
Seek stock-size tyres and unmodified suspension for predictable alignment and fuel economy; oversized tyres dull performance and can strain driveline angles.

Long-term durability outlook

A well-maintained GRN215 can realistically cross the 300,000-mile mark. The biggest life-cycle risk is severe frame corrosion. Mechanically, the 1GR-FE and A750F are tolerant of age if fluids are kept fresh and cooling is healthy. Expect occasional suspension refurbishments (bushings/shocks) and attention to EVAP components as the years add up.

Driving and performance

Ride and NVH. Unloaded, the 4Runner rides firmly over sharp joints but stays composed over broken pavement. Add passengers, camping gear, or a small trailer and the chassis feels even more settled. X-REAS (Sport) curbs float and heave on undulating roads but transmits more small bumps. The cabin is quiet for a body-on-frame truck of its era; wind and tyre noise increase with aggressive all-terrains or roof racks.

Steering and handling. Steering effort sits in the light-to-medium band with decent on-center stability. Expect some body roll relative to crossovers; quality highway-terrain tyres and a fresh alignment (with conservative toe and adequate caster) keep the truck tracking straight. The turning circle is larger than car-based SUVs, so plan tight parking maneuvers.

Powertrain feel. The 1GR-FE’s midrange is where it lives—clean throttle response, little drama, and predictable kickdown for climbs and passes. The A750F’s logic is conservative but decisive; it locks the converter early in steady cruise and holds gears smartly on grades in S-mode. Avoid oversized tyres if you want to preserve brisk response.

Braking. The pedal is firm with short, consistent travel. Fresh DOT 3 fluid and good-quality pads keep fade in check on long mountain descents; the truck appreciates downshifts to manage speed and heat with a load.

Real-world economy. Mixed suburban/highway use usually nets 15–18 mpg US (15.7–13.1 L/100 km); a calm 70–75 mph highway run can see 19–20 mpg on stock tyres. Winter blends, roof baskets, and all-terrain tread patterns can trim 1–2 mpg.

4×4 traction. On gravel, snow, or sand, A-TRAC is your friend—it brakes an open-diff wheel to pull you through when articulation lifts a tyre. Engage 4L for crawl control in steep or rocky sections; DAC keeps descents steady if you prefer electronic help. Remember: the V6 system lacks a center differential, so reserve 4H for low-mu surfaces.

Load and towing. With the factory Class III hitch and cooler, the 4Runner tows small boats or campers confidently up to 5,000 lb. Expect a 20–35% fuel-use penalty at highway speeds with a 3,000–4,000 lb travel trailer. A friction-sway control and thoughtful cargo placement improve stability in crosswinds.

How 4Runner compares to rivals

Honda Pilot (2006–2009, unibody AWD): Better ride isolation, third-row usability, and fuel economy. However, its unibody construction and transverse drivetrain don’t match the 4Runner’s towing stability or off-pavement durability. Choose Pilot for family urban use; 4Runner for long-term ruggedness.
Nissan Pathfinder R51 (2005–2012, body-on-frame): Similar truck bones and a low-range transfer case. Reliability and rust control are more variable; 4Runner typically holds value better and has fewer transmission/timing concerns.
Ford Explorer (2006–2010, body-on-frame): Available V8 power and competitive tow ratings, but thirstier and more complex in some trims. The Toyota’s V6/5-speed combo is simpler to service and often ages more gracefully.
Toyota Highlander (2008–2010, unibody): Quieter, more efficient, and easier to park. If you don’t tow or venture off pavement, the Highlander is the rational pick; the 4Runner’s ladder frame and transfer case pay dividends for hauling and trails.
Jeep Grand Cherokee WK (2005–2010): Strong engine choices and capable 4×4 systems (Quadra-Drive II) with more luxury features. Maintenance costs can be higher; some powertrains/gearboxes have spottier long-term records than Toyota’s V6/A750F pairing.

References

Gas Mileage of 2009 Toyota 4Runner 2009 (EPA/DOE FuelEconomy.gov)
2009 Toyota 4Runner 2009 (Safety Rating)
Scheduled Maintenance Guide 2009 (Scheduled Maintenance)
Look up Safety Recalls & Service Campaigns by VIN 2025 (Recall Database)

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for professional diagnosis or repair. Specifications, torque values, intervals, and procedures can vary by VIN, market, options, and production date. Always confirm parts, fluids, and procedures against your vehicle’s official Toyota service documentation and follow manufacturer safety standards.
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