2024 Tundra to 4Runner: What Should I do?

Hey Y’all,

Long story short, I purchased a 2024 Tundra a few months ago, as we needed a vehicle that was more comfortable than my mid-size truck and had the capability to occasionally (once a month) tow our 3500LB square drop trailer. Although I really enjoy how the Tundra drives and the extra room, I am doubting the build quality and long-term reliability of the vehicle.

I’ve already had a window seal replaced twice, and it seems like every other day, a new rattle or noise pops up. I planned on keeping this truck for at least the next 10 years, but I just don’t know if it will hold up. I test drove a TRD Off-Road Premium in Underground color on Monday, and although the powertrain is underwhelming, the fit and finish of the vehicle was great and super comfortable.

I’m pretty torn on what to do. Trade in the Tundra or keep it and see how things pan out?

I appreciate the responses in advance!

 

If you thought you needed a Tundra, why not trade yours in for a previous gen V8 Tundra? Those are tried & true.

If you're going to be towing, I'd expect that after a while you'll grow to hate the 4R.

 

Thanks for the response! This truck is my daily driver, so when I test drove the 2nd gen and the 3rd gen back to back, the 3rd gen drove way better and got better mpg. I actually get around 18 mpg in the 3rd gen Tundra with mixed driving.

 

I own both a 5th gen 4Runner and 3rd gen Tundra. The 4Runner has been absolutely bulletproof for the past eight years of ownership. I've only had the Tundra about six months, but I will agree there are some very minor annoyances (the JBL sound system causes more interior rattles than enjoyment). Besides that however, the Tundra is an amazingly capable and comfortable vehicle.

The Tundra is my daily, with my 4Runner being my weekend/mountains vehicle, and I kind of get spoiled by the Tundra's large interior and engine power. The 4Runner feels like a gokart in comparison due to the significantly shorter wheel base.

I guess my advice is, why not both?

 

The Tundra will hold up fine. The Runner is not free of rattles or water leaks.

 

I appreciate the response! Both would be great, unfortunately, my wife doesn’t want to trade in her almost paid off Outback…

 

I own a 2020 Tundra TRD Pro and a 2024 4Runner TRD Pro and love them both. The 4Runner is my favorite because it fits me better.

 

Cheaper to keep her. You’ll take a hit trading it in but if it’s what you want do it

 

If it makes you feel any better, I dumped a Raptor for a TRD Pro. Boring is good sometimes, and I agree, it's super comfortable.

 

WHICH do you NEED?????? A SUV or a truck????

 

I NEED something reliable that’s going to last and not spend time in service. I THINK either will work for what I do with a vehicle: Occasionally tow, camp/off road, haul two kids, carry bikes, daily commute. Just curious if the durability and proven reliability of the 4Runner’s powertrain is worth sacrificing the Tundra’s ride quality/performance.

 

Haven't had a Tundra, just a Taco and a pre-taco. I think my 4Runner rides better--just me!

 

A lot more moving parts on the new Tundra. The cost of replacing the Gen 3 engine and turbos when out of warranty will be expensive at best.
My 2022 Gen 3 SR5 4x4 Tundra spent more than six weeks in the dealer shop waiting for repairs in 17 months. I really liked the power of the TT 3.5, but decided I would rather have the dependability of the Gen 5 T4R than the power of the TT 3.5. I may not have traded in the Tundra for the 2024 T4R Pro had it been a limited TRD 2024?
I really hope the person that bought my Tundra has better luck than I did with it.
Edit: A change in towing needs also helped me decide to the T4R, it’s much easier for me to park the T4R in my garage and parking in general. I still have the stroked 83 Step side for Truck duties.

 

I have a neighbor with a 3/4ton Chevy for truck duties.

 

I love that squarebody!! I had one as a kid, it was a 73 I bought in 1993 when I was 14. I sold it around 2001, I still kick myself. Here it is circa 1997.

 

100% agree to this.

OP - If I were you, I'd buy a used second gen sequoia for towing & more space for your family

 

Great suggestion! Best of both worlds.

Maybe even a used 200 series could be an option too.