2nd gen best and worst years?

I sure hope I dont start some huge ass argument here but I'm in the market for a 2nd gen and I was wondering if there are some years that might be better than others or are there some years I should steer clear of?

 

I may be biased but 2013 gets you the updated front end and temp/compass/camera autodimming display in the mirror.

I believe 12 does as well.

I could be wrong but i think 14 and definitely 15 have a downgraded mirror no temp or home link. Small feature but if you're looking for differences thats one of the few besides the updated front end/interior trim of the 2012+

 

There's a couple threads floating around here with some similar discussion and usually a graph gets posted of like 05-2014 ish models with stats on issues reported or whatever.

Edit: people are just going to tell your their year is the best. People will also tell you more recent models were of cheaper feeling interiors but I don't know how true that is...

 

2012 and 2013 = Best years.

 

Thats what I was afraid of but dang it, whats a guy to do? I didnt want to just blindly go buy the first one I came across some kind of information on the subject.

 

2008, more performance options since in 09 they changed the plugs on the ECU. but that might be changing shortly with URD

 

Like I said. Differences arent major. I personally wouldn't get a pre 2012 because I love the new front end so much more. The better mirror is also definitely a plus but neither of these should be deal breakers if you find a great deal on a well taken care of truck.

Depending on where you live I'd recommend not going too old and/or inspecting the frame well as we all know how that could end up.

 

I would personally steer clear of anything earlier than 2010 given the known frame issues. From 2010 on there is still a chance they will have frame rust issues, it is too soon to tell. Other than that I think they are about the same, a few features here and there that aren't in other years.

 

2015 Duhhh. One can only hope all the bugs are worked out of a ten year old model.

 

2014 4Runner

 

IIRC the 05 and 06 had issues with the motor mounts collapsing into the frames, probably want to avoid those.

 

07 is a good truck but misses much of the upgraded features that the 2012-2015 have. So I give it to 2012.

 

this is just the kind of information I was hoping for. A guy can look at statistics until the cows come home but they will never compare in value to what you guys who drive them can give me. I have a 1st gen V-6 now that I'm still in love with but she has over 250,000 trouble free miles on her. I'm sure she's good for another hundred thousand but I'm getting ready to retire and so I need something a bit more fresh if ya know what I mean.

 

2013 gets you the most features for your money, for sure. The only thing that my 14 is missing is temp gauge but that'll be fixed with a new mirror and sensor in the months to come. Make sure it's leaf springs are updated and the frame isn't horribly rusty and you'll be fine. Both motors are bulletproof, and the aftermarket is extensive for all 2nd Gens

 

If you want a used vehicle get the 2012-2015. If you feel like spending more money get a 3rd gen. IMO if you want to get the best vehicle to consider an upgrade go with a 2012 or 2013. This is what I will be doing hopefully later this year or next year.

 

Worked at a Toyota dealer from years 2004-2012.
I've had a 2009 and now 2014.
My vote is for the 2011.
Unique grill and smaller brake and gas pedal after pedal recall BS
I don't know how many times my service department offered to grind my 2009 gas pedal to avoid pedal sticking to floor mat and never had them do it.

 

I feel like no one's asking the important question: what's your budget?

There are 11 years of 2nd gens, which means about $20k in price variance between a 2005 and a 2015.

 

I'd say 2012, it has pockets in the bedsides (which I heard was discontinued in 2013+?)

EDIT: I meant cavity boxes, above the wheel-wells. Although I have no idea what I'd use them for it IS something they took out

PLUS the temp gauge and compass in the rearview. I got mine under 25k miles a little under KBB value since the dealership just opened up and wanted to get a good reputation around town

 

I will say a 2013 because I own one.

 

I have a 2006 that I'm happy with. But Frame Rust Recall on 2005-2008! So Dana didn't make 2009+ frames. Anything 2009+
BTW mine just passed the frame inspection 9 Wisconsin winters!