The Most Reliable Car Ever
Safety

This Mechanic Told The Car World What he Thinks is The Most Reliable Car Ever!

Let’s face it: the last few years have dictated economic factors that are changing the lives and buying patterns of many consumers! The auto market has been no different, as prices have risen, and supply has been limited. Electrification has now begun its giant and Earth-conscious leap forward. Many buyers are now prioritizing dependability, and are beginning to ask the experts in their lives which are the most reliable models out there.

The Most Reliable Car Ever

The Autoevolution.com team wanted to consult a true “car wizard” about what they thought was a model to finish the distance. From daily drivers to full-on petrol heads, Honda, Lexus, Toyota, and Acura have long been given high marks. Earning their respective reputations as models that you won’t see on the side of the road too often is highly praised. The engines have a breed of simplicity that is still sturdy enough to withstand notable mile counts.

David Long has become a YouTube sensation because of his honest approach and many years of experience. He has always been known for playing well with others in the industry, and runs a shop in Newton, Kansas. Offering up a thorough recommendation for a car that is ideal for someone who needs to make an economical decision, he has always given incredibly solid advice.

What does this seasoned expert render a “must buy” for the most reliable car?

This expert’s fully-fledged seal of approval exists because he has changed everything from spark plugs to steering columns. The model that he claims is his top pick is the 2015 Toyota 4Runner, which was first introduced in 2014. The 2024 model will see a new SUV that is based on the same platform as the all-new Tundra, offering a modern and agile take on this classic. As a 4Runner was dropped off at his shop for a checkup with 70,000 miles, he gave it an in-depth inspection.

The four-liter power unit cranks out 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. Once up on the lift, it was pointed out that the vitals under the SUV are all constructed of metal. A careful look revealed that other than some minor rusts, there were no major flaws at the 70,000-mile mark. This reliable workhorse had a major thing going for it as its internals are put together nicely. There is also an abundance of room to complete repairs easily.

More about this reputable and inflation-friendly number:

The 2014 model year for the 4Runner offered a bolder design sporting front and rear fascias that have been reworked. This provided a more muscular stance and more knee room for those in the second row. A few of today’s modern marvels were also stocked on board. These included the Hill-start Assist Control, Downhill Assist Control, backup camera, and the STAR safety system. The smaller 2.7-liter engine was abandoned, and the whole range derived power from the 4-liter V6 engine.

This powertrain was paired with a 5-speed ECT-I automatic transmission and transfer case, and the trim levels were the SR5, Limited, and Trail. The SR5 and Trail grades rode on 17-inch alloy wheels, and the Limited came with 20-inch wheels painted black. The Trail version appealed to many off-roaders with its electronic-locking rear differential, along with higher ground clearance. The Multi-Terrain Select system offered the ability to adjust wheel-slip control to take on different varieties of terrain.

The “tell me about your personality” talk:

When the Car and Driver team first tested this incredibly long-lasting number, they were very impressed with its body-on-frame driving dynamics. The interior tech then featured the Entune Audio Plus System with a 6.1-inch high-resolution screen and SiriusXM capability. This setup also provided Gracenote and navigation, and the option to upgrade with JBL for a grand total of 15 boomin’ speakers.

The downhill assist control proves to be very useful when taking on the messy and fun conquest of muddy hills. It also does very well with the wintry white stuff. One trait that we love about this 4Runner is that it was unapologetically old-school for the genre. This is a sign of unique quality that led to its mechanical soundness. At the time, this 4Runner only snagged up a 3 out of 5 from J.D. Power & Associates for reliability, while scoring a 4/5 overall rating from NHTSA.

Time-capsule crosshairs: what was warranty coverage like for the 4Runner?

Toyota provided a one-year/12,000-mile limited warranty on all of its certified pre-owned vehicles. This also extended the original new-car powertrain warranty to seven years or 100,000 miles. Each CPO Toyota undergoes a rigorous 160-point inspection, and additional benefits such as roadside assistance and towing are also available. CPO vehicles are not the cheap used cars found on Craigslist: they are usually six years or newer. Less than 80,000 miles is most frequently where the odometer resides on a CPO.

4Runners are known for being simple, capable off-road, and offering segment-leading reliability. Much like the Jeep brand’s active fanbase, drivers of the 4Runner are known for being avid climbers, hikers, kayakers, and beyond. Drivers definitely love the feeling of being able to go anywhere during any weather condition. This is true even if it is just to the grocery store! At the time it was released, the 4Runner boasted more trail-ready skill than competitors such as the Chevy Blazer and Nissan Pathfinder.

Conclusion on the most reliable car:

This particular mechanic’s opinion was one likely well worth listening to. We do know that a 2015 4Runner may not be the ideal vehicle for every driver! Are there any other models that you think are experts at slaying the “test of time?” Let us know in the comments below, or check out another article from us about some repairs that every car owner should know about.

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Jon Weirman
I am a freelance writer in the Midwest who specializes in vehicles built for expert-level off-roading, and anything with a staggering amount of horsepower. In my first life I worked in broadcasting for Starz Network and Discovery Channel. I also love retro video games and sci-fi movies. Everything from the loud and burly muscle cars of the late 1970s to new crossover SUVs with futuristic tech features have populated my inbox!

    1 Comment

    1. I still see so many 4Runners on the road to this day and this explains why. Toyota has always been a durable brand.

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