I'm looking for a used (eh..previously owned, as they say) 2003 4runner. I have my eye on one with the v6 engine. I've heard of problems with this engine and to only opt for the v8. Any truth to these rumors.
I believe it is the first year of this all aluminum 245 hp engine.
Thanks for any comments.

 

Yeah, the V6 got really poor quality ratings by various magazines. I honestly do not know why. I hear the V8 is the hot ticket.

 

The 4.0 gets a bad rap but it's probably kust as good as the 3.4 and better in time to come, most likely will replace the 3.4

 

As an owner of the V6, the rumors are vastly overstated. It got a poor rating from Consumer Reports because there were several recalls on the engine for fuel rail, pulleys, etc. but nothing serious or internal to the engine. It pulls well, gets very good gas mileage for a vehicle this size and is a pleasure to do self maintenance on. On the down side, it is not an overally quiet engine and some, like mine, do have a noticeable valve tapping type sound although it appears to be related to the rolled steel exhaust resonating so much more sound than cast manifolds. From a value standpoint, the V8 is only $800 more when new and will probably hold a better resale value and is one smooth engine. Of course, if gas prices keep climbing then the V6 may hold more value than the V8 so take your pick. The 03 V6 should still be under warranty so you'll be covered.