🇩🇪 Deutsch
Toyota · Mid-Size SUV · 2007–2014

Toyota FJ Cruiser 1st Gen

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Engine Overview

The Toyota FJ Cruiser 1st Gen is available with one engine variant at 249 hp.

4.0L V6 · Benziner· 260 PS
2007 2014
Be Careful 6 weaknesses

The Toyota 4.0L V6 (Benziner, 260 PS) has the 1GR-FE (4.0L V6) — rated: "Be Careful", 6 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Gleicher Rahmen wie Tacoma — aber FJ Cruiser ist NICHT im Settlement. Klage 2022 abgewiesen, erneut eingereicht. Reparatur auf eigene Kosten: ~15.000 USD.

Same frame as Tacoma — but FJ Cruiser is NOT in the settlement. Lawsuit dismissed in 2022, refiled. Repair at own cost: ~$15,000.

Symptoms: Rust on frame rails, especially rear axle area
from 80,000 km
Ad frame rust FJ Cruiserframe replacement FJ Cruiser
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
896 complaints · 2007–2014
Body Structure
327 ⚠ 6
Brakes
138 ⚠ 3
Suspension
118 ⚠ 1
Other
110 ⚠ 1
Visibility
84 ⚠ 1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Body Structure (327 complaints)
⚠ Brakes (138 complaints)
⚠ Suspension (118 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

Alternatives

Same Segment

Hyundai Santa Fe DM

Mittelklasse-SUV (2012–2018)

Same Segment

Mitsubishi Outlander III

Mittelklasse-SUV (2012–2021)

Same Segment

Fiat Freemont JC

Mittelklasse-SUV (2011–2016)

Same Segment

Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2

Mittelklasse-SUV (2011–2021)

Same Segment

Mercedes-Benz GLE W166

Mittelklasse-SUV (2011–2019)

Same Segment

BMW X3 F25

Mittelklasse-SUV (2010–2017)

Known Problems and Issues

A total of 9 weaknesses have been documented for the Toyota FJ Cruiser 1st Gen (2007–2014) — 6 engine-related and 3 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Rust, Gearbox, HVAC.

FJ Cruiser (1GR-FE, 2007–2014) — Be Careful: Head gasket failure at high mileage, Thin cylinder liners cannot be bored out, Water pump fails prematurely at 65,000–80,000 km. Power: 260 PS.

What to watch out for with the Toyota FJ Cruiser? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Toyota FJ Cruiser 1st Gen have? +
The Toyota FJ Cruiser 1st Gen has 6 known engine weaknesses and 3 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Toyota FJ Cruiser 1st Gen? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: 1GR-FE (4.0L V6). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the 1GR-FE (4.0L V6).
Which Toyota FJ Cruiser 1st Gen engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Toyota FJ Cruiser 1st Gen — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} 260 hp V6, manual, retro design: the FJ Cruiser is cult. Prices climbing since discontinuation in 2014. BUT: same rust-prone frame as the Tacoma, without Toyota's settlement. Before buying: frame inspection mandatory.
Is the Toyota FJ Cruiser 1st Gen worth buying used? +
The Toyota FJ Cruiser 1st Gen requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Toyota FJ Cruiser 1st Gen? +
The Toyota FJ Cruiser 1st Gen is available with engine variants from 249 to 249 hp. Petrol: 1GR-FE (4.0L V6).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee