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Toyota 4Runner

Report: Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages

Toyota 4Runner Problem
15 Reports
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Model Years Affected: 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997

Drive Train Affected: 4WD

Average Mileage: 173,857 mi (149,000 mi - 223,000 mi)

Verified

At higher mileages, (125,000-150,000) the automatic transmission may not shift correctly. This can be caused by the throttle position sensor being out of adjustment or a shift solenoid needing to be replaced. Typically the transmission does not need to be completely overhauled.

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  • Report #1
    mcatucci, 1997 Toyota 4Runner, 4WD, 175,000 mi
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     Rookie

    Truck will not shift out of first gear, must do it manualy. No passing gear. Check engine light is on and it the code is for the solenoid.

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  • Report #2
    Visitor, 1995 Toyota 4Runner, 223,000 mi

    My Runner will not shift into overdrive unless the vehicle has been driven for some time. It's worse in cold weather. Last night, it wouldn't shift above 2nd gear. The "check engine" light comes on when it's been sitting in below freezing temperatures. Probably the low 20s or less.

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  • Report #3
    emickett, 1990 Toyota 4Runner, 156,000 mi
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     Rookie

    We have shift problems when we are driving down the highway. it is like the engine is having to work harder to keep up to highway speeds. It will get up to 60 Mph but anything other than that you have to hit the ECT button and then the engine revs very high like up into the 5.2k rpm. I have changed out the tranny fluid and the filter and it does shift ALOT better now but still has the problem of running or keeping up the speed on the highway. ie 70mph.

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  • Report #4
    Visitor, 1992 Toyota 4Runner, 200,000 mi

    truck periodically will not shift into drive at initial start-up. Will very often shift fine after warm-up. Occasionally will not shift into next gears without letting up on the accelator. Drives ok some of the time.
    Took to dealer and they said transmission was beyond repair - they have no parts for it - it has the A340 transmission so I'm puzzeled that this tranny is not reparable??? Or is the dealer pullint a fast one to have me purchase a new transmission at what would end up costing more than the car is worth?

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  • Report #5
    bobmosby, 1993 Toyota 4Runner, 154,000 mi
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     Rookie

    on my 93 manual states that until car reaches operating temp it will not shift into overdrive

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  • Report #6
    Visitor, 1995 Toyota 4Runner, 149,000 mi

    Just noticed today it takes more rpm to move off the line, hard to tell if shifted into 2nd, acts as if slipping in 2nd. This just happened... I'll report problem & solution after consult w/mechanic. Using synthetic oil. I checked oil, it is ok. Very puzzled.

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  • Report #7
    Visitor, 1994 Toyota 4Runner, 160,000 mi
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