What Problems Do FJ Cruisers Have? It’s one of the most frequently asked questions. The FJ Cruiser is a unique and rugged SUV that has gained popularity among off-road enthusiasts. It boasts a classic design inspired by the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser, with its boxy body, retro circular headlights, and distinctive white roof.
However, like any other vehicle on the market, the FJ Cruiser has its fair share of common problems that owners should be aware of. One of the most frequent issues is the transmission problem. Another common problem is front suspension bushing failure & faulty engine problems.
We all know that FJ Cruisers are well known for their unique style and go-anywhere attitude on rough terrain. But if you’re considering purchasing one of these vehicles, it’s important to research potential problems before deciding what to expect.
Moreover, some drivers have experienced vibration in the steering wheel caused by poorly balanced tires or worn-out wheel bearings.
So in this article, we’ll thoroughly inspect “what problems do FJ cruisers have.” Let’s dig in & learn all the possible problems that FJ Cruisers can have with solutions.
What Problems Do FJ Cruisers Have? Common Ones Explained!
FJ Cruisers may have numerous issues, but the common ones are-
- Transmission Problem
- Suspension Bushing Failure
- Faulty Engine Problems
Transmission Problem
A common issue with FJ Cruiser transmission is that many owners have reported so far. It’s that the car will occasionally refuse to go into fifth gear. But it’s common after 67,500 miles.
Transmission issues usually involve a hard shift accompanied by a whining noise. It leads to potential damage if left unchecked for too long. Nonetheless, it can be costly and frustrating.
How to fix it?
First, ensure your vehicle has enough transmission fluid, as low levels can cause shifting problems. If that doesn’t work, bringing your FJ Cruiser to a trusted mechanic specializing in Toyota vehicles is best.
They will run diagnostic tests and determine the root cause. It ranges from worn-out gears or solenoids needing replacement. Once identified, they will carry out necessary repairs and replacements to ensure the smooth operation of your FJ Cruiser’s transmission system again.
Suspension Bushing Failure
Suspension bushing failure is another common issue that Toyota’s FJ Cruiser model has experienced. The front suspension bushings absorb shocks and vibrations from the road. But over time, they can wear out or become damaged due to normal use and exposure to harsh driving conditions.
When these bushings fail, it can result in several symptoms. Such as clunking or rattling noises from the front end while driving over bumps or uneven terrain. Other signs may include uneven tire wear, decreased steering response, and a noticeable decrease in overall ride quality.
It’s important to address this issue immediately because ignoring it can further damage your vehicle’s suspension system. & it could be more expensive and dangerous if left unattended.
How to fix it?
Monitor your FJ Cruiser’s front suspension regularly and seek professional repair services if any issues arise with their suspension bushings.
Faulty Engine Problems
A faulty engine problem arose in models produced from 2007 to 2014 related to the crankshaft position sensor. The sensor can malfunction, causing the engine to stall or fail to start altogether.
The problem stems from an internal defect in the engine’s pistons, which can cause excessive oil consumption and eventually lead to catastrophic engine failure. Reports indicate that affected vehicles may experience reduced power, rough idling, and stalling at low speeds.
How to fix it?
Toyota has issued recalls and extended warranties for some models with this problem; not all affected vehicles are covered under these programs. Regularly inspect your vehicle’s performance and stay up-to-date on any recall or warranty information related to this issue.
FJ Cruiser: Years to Avoid!
Knowing which years to avoid is important if you’re an FJ Cruiser enthusiast. Toyota’s FJ Cruiser 2007 and 2008 models had issues with their front suspension, resulting in excessive wear and tear on tires, while the 2009 model suffered from transmission problems.
In addition, the 2010 model saw a decrease in horsepower and torque compared to previous models. In the final production year of 2014, Toyota addressed some of these issues with improvements such as a new audio system and a rearview camera.
So if you’re looking for a reliable FJ Cruiser, steer clear of those earlier problematic years.
However, you might wonder which years to get.
Probably between 2011 and 2014. The newer, the better. All of these models have been patched and sorted out the early problems. It’s a no-brainer to get a later model of the FJ Cruiser, as it comes with more technology and features than the early models.
Newer models are also more expensive than older ones. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide how much you can spend on the FJ Cruiser. Read more Why Are FJ Cruisers So Expensive?
Conclusion
Finally, you know what problems do FJ Cruisers have? The FJ Cruiser problem was a major issue that plagued Toyota for years. With its retro styling and off-road capabilities, this rugged SUV had initially been a hit with consumers when it first came out in 2006.
However, over time the vehicle began to experience significant problems and defects, which caused serious safety concerns for drivers.
Despite these challenges, Toyota has invested heavily in research and development to improve performance and safety across its entire lineup. Ultimately, they overcame this challenge by collaborating with industry experts and innovating continuously.
Still, many people consider the FJ Cruiser one of their favorite vehicles for adventure-seeking activities. It’s loved for its durability and capability on challenging terrains such as rocks or mud-filled roads! Happy off-roading!
FAQs
What is the typical lifespan of an FJ Cruiser engine?
Generally, you can expect the engine to remain intact beyond 200,000 KM. With proper care, a well-maintained FJ Cruiser can easily surpass 300,000 KM before requiring significant refurbishment of major components.
How fuel-efficient are FJ Cruisers?
FJ Cruisers have an average fuel efficiency of around 13-17 MPG or 5.5-7.2 KPL.
What’s the engine capacity of FJ Cruisers?
A 4.06L V6 engine powers Toyota’s FJ Cruiser while delivering plenty of power & torque to handle tough terrain.
Why are FJ Cruisers expensive?
It depends on the brand value of Toyota over the years. And so far, they have well-maintained their brand value, quality, and all.
What’s the top speed of the FJ Cruiser?
The top speed of the Toyota FJ Cruiser, a popular off-road SUV, is typically around 180 kilometers (112 miles per hour). However, it can vary depending on various factors, such as the vehicle’s condition, modifications, and other environmental factors.
Related: