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Toyota 4Runner Repair in Winston-Salem, NC 

Toyota 4Runner Repair in Winston-Salem, NC

If your Toyota 4Runner isn’t performing like it used to—maybe it’s shifting oddly, riding rough over bumps, or flashing dashboard warnings—you don’t want to let those signs slide. At Carolina Mobile Auto Service in Winston-Salem, we handle all aspects of Toyota 4Runner repair and maintenance in-house. Although our name might suggest mobile service, we do all work at our well-equipped shop. Our team has years of experience working on 4Runners across multiple generations. 

The 4Runner is known for being dependable and adventure-ready. Whether you’re commuting, towing, or heading off-road, this SUV is built to last. But like any vehicle, it has its issues—especially as the miles add up. Below, we’ll highlight the most common 4Runner problems by generation and explain how we fix them. 

GMC Terrain Repair

Known Issues by Toyota 4Runner Generation

2003–2009 (4th Generation)

This generation saw the introduction of the 4.0L V6 and the optional 4.7L V8. It’s generally a reliable model, but not without flaws: 

  • Cracked Dashboards: Many southern owners reported dashboards cracking due to sun exposure. Toyota eventually issued a warranty extension. 
  • Head Gasket Leaks: The 4.0L V6 can develop head gasket issues around 150,000 miles. You might notice coolant loss or white smoke at startup. 
  • Rust on the Frame: Northeastern vehicles are especially prone to severe undercarriage rust. Some even had frame holes near suspension points. 
  • Rotor Warping: Premature front brake rotor warping led to steering vibration during braking. 
  • Power Window Failures: Worn-out window regulators or motors are often the cause of windows that won’t roll up or down properly. 

2010–2022 (5th Generation)

This long-running generation stuck with the 4.0L V6 but added updated electronics and a sturdier chassis. 

  • Transmission Hesitation: The 5-speed automatic can hesitate when shifting from second to third gear, especially when cold. 
  • Air Injection Pump Problems: A common emissions system failure. When the pump or control valve fails, it triggers check engine lights and limp mode. 
  • Roof Rack Water Leaks: Seals around the mounting bolts sometimes fail, leading to wet headliners or mold in the cabin. 
  • Rear Hatch Strut Failure: Over time, hatch struts lose pressure and fail to support the liftgate. 
  • Infotainment Glitches: Screen freezing or random reboots affect navigation and audio controls. A system reset or software update often helps. 

2023–Present (6th Generation)

Still early in its lifecycle, the 6th-gen 4Runner is packed with tech—but some issues have already appeared: 

  • Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Bugs: Frequent disconnections or audio dropouts frustrate drivers. 
  • Radar Sensor Misalignment: Forward collision alerts may go off randomly due to improper sensor calibration. 
  • Infotainment Lag: System slowdowns when switching functions are still being patched by Toyota updates. 
  • Parking Brake Warnings: False alerts for electronic brake malfunctions have been reported, especially in early production models. 

Full-Service Repairs Done at Our Winston-Salem Location

Carolina Mobile Auto Service handles every repair in-shop—no mobile work is offered. Whether it’s a 2005 model with a failing suspension or a brand-new 4Runner with electrical glitches, our Toyota repair experts have the diagnostic tools and OEM-compatible parts to get you back on the road confidently.

Engine & Performance Repairs 

  • Head gasket diagnostics and repair 
  • Ignition coil and spark plug service 
  • Valve cover gasket and oil leak fixes 
  • Radiator, water pump, and thermostat replacements 
  • Secondary air injection pump and hose replacement 

Transmission & Driveline 

  • Transmission fluid changes and software updates 
  • Transfer case repairs and fluid servicing 
  • Differential noise diagnosis and rebuilds 
  • Driveshaft and U-joint replacements 

Suspension & Steering 

  • Ball joints, bushings, and control arms 
  • Sway bar link and stabilizer bushing replacement 
  • Steering rack inspections and leak repair 
  • Shocks and struts for stock or lifted suspensions 

Brakes & Safety Systems 

  • Brake pad, rotor, and caliper service 
  • ABS warning light diagnostics 
  • Parking brake cable or motor replacements 
  • Brake fluid flushes 

Interior & Electronics 

  • Dashboard light and warning code inspection 
  • Window motor and regulator replacement 
  • TPMS (tire pressure monitoring) repairs 
  • Touchscreen resets and Uconnect troubleshooting 
  • Power outlet and accessory circuit fixes 

Heating, Cooling, and HVAC 

  • Heater core replacements 
  • Blend door actuator repairs 
  • A/C compressor and refrigerant system repairs 
  • Cabin air filter and blower motor servicing 

Recommended Maintenance for Long-Term 4Runner Reliability

Keeping your 4Runner in great shape doesn’t just mean fixing problems—it also means preventing them. We build maintenance plans tailored to your driving habits. Here’s our standard recommendation: 

Service 

Suggested Interval 

Oil Change (Synthetic) 

Every 5,000 miles 

Transmission Service 

Every 60,000 miles 

Brake Inspection 

Every 10,000 miles 

Coolant Flush 

Every 30,000 miles or 3 years 

Spark Plug Replacement 

Every 100,000 miles 

Suspension & Steering Check 

Annually or before long trips 

Battery Load Test 

Twice per year 

If you drive under harsh conditions or run a small business fleet, we can adjust these intervals accordingly. 

Customer Feedback from Local 4Runner Owners

“I had rusted brake lines on my 2006 4Runner. The team at Carolina Mobile Auto Service replaced everything and made sure it passed inspection. Great work.” 
— Jeremy L., Winston-Salem 

“They solved an annoying air injection issue that caused a check engine light on my 2014. Toyota quoted me double. Glad I came here.” 
— Rachel N., Clemmons 

“Smooth process and no pressure. They helped me with driveline noise and fixed the suspension on my older 4Runner.” 
— George H., Kernersville 

Book Toyota 4Runner Repair in Winston-Salem

When your 4Runner doesn’t feel right—whether it’s transmission stutters, dashboard warnings, or suspension noise—don’t wait until things get worse. Bring your SUV to a team that knows Toyota vehicles. At Carolina Mobile Auto Service, we take a no-gimmicks approach: real diagnostics, honest pricing, and all repairs performed on-site. 

📍 Visit Us: Carolina Mobile Auto Service – Winston-Salem, NC 
📞 Call Now: (336) 765-8599 
🌐 Schedule Online

Let us help you keep your Toyota 4Runner running strong for years to come. We’ll treat your vehicle like it’s our own—because quality care doesn’t require leaving the shop.

 

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