• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • Automotive Apparel
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Tuning Pro - Automotive Performance & Tuning Guides

Automotive Tuning, Performance, and Modification Guides

The 3 Most Common Toyota 1GR-FE Engine Problems

December 29, 2020 by Zach Mayock 10 Comments

Toyota 1GR-FE 4.0L V6 Engine

The Toyota 1GR-FE is a 4.0L V6 engine introduced in 2002. It’s been through a few minor updates but still remains in production today. 1GR-FE engines make 236-270 horsepower. The power is underwhelming for a modern engine with a pretty large displacement. However, low output from the Toyota 4.0L V6 comes with benefits – longevity and reliability. It’s a solid engine all around. Though, no engine is perfect and the Toyota 4.0 V6 is no exception. In this article, we discuss a few of the most common 1GR-FE engine problems and overall reliability.

Toyota 1GR-FE 4.0L V6 Engine Problems

What Cars Use the Toyota 4.0L V6?

Early 4.0 V6 engine use single variable valve timing (VVT-i) on the intake cams only. In 2009, Toyota moved to a dual VVT-i setup on both the intake and exhaust cams. This lead to an increase in horsepower from 236hp to 270hp for the later engines. There were also a handful of other updates to later engines – mostly for emissions reasons.

Single VVT-i Toyota 1GR-FE

4.0L V6 Toyota engines with the single variable valve timing variant are on the following cars:

  • 2002-2009 Toyota 4Runner
  • 2007-2011 Toyota Land Cruiser
  • 2009-pres. Toyota Land Cruiser 70
  • 2004-2015 Toyota Tacoma
  • 2005-2009 Toyota Tundra
  • 2006-2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser

Dual VVT-i 4.0L V6

The dual VVT-i engine variant is in the following models:

  • 2009-pres. Toyota 4Runner
  • 2009-2017 Toyota FJ Cruiser
  • 2011-2014 Toyota Tundra
  • 2012-pres. Toyota Land Cruiser
  • 2012-pres. Lexus GX 400

Most Common Toyota 1GR-FE Engine Problems

It’s a good time to make a few points. We’re discussing the most common issues on the Toyota 4.0 V6 engine. That doesn’t necessary mean these failures are common; they may only affect a few percent of engines. We wanted to clear that up early since the 1GR-FE is a very reliable engine. Moving on, a few of the most common problems on the Toyota 4.0 V6 include:

  • Head Gasket
  • Water pump
  • Ignition Coils

We’ll discuss each of these faults throughout the rest of this article and finish it off with overall thoughts on 1GR-FE reliability.

Toyota 4Runner 4.0L V6 Engine Problems

1) Toyota 4.0L V6 Head Gasket Failure

Head gaskets seal the engine block and cylinder heads. They’re vital components in sealing the cylinders and keeping oil and coolant from leaking in. 1GR-FE head gaskets seem to fail most often around cylinder #6. They also typically fail over time rather than suddenly. If you’re experiencing misfires, white smoke from the exhaust, and coolant loss the 4.0 V6 head gasket(s) may be to blame.

Head gaskets are one of the more common failures on the 4.0L engine. Again, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re common. Plenty of 1GR-FE engines are running around at 250,000+ miles on the original gaskets. However, head gasket problems are worth the mention since they’re one of the more expensive issues.

The sooner you catch head gasket faults the better. Additional damage is pretty rare on the 1GR-FE 4.0 engine, but it can happen. As coolant enters cylinders it can wipe away oil and cause premature wear. Coolant can also cause damage to catalytic converters and other components.

Toyota 1GR-FE Head Gasket Failure Symptoms

A few potential symptoms of head gasket issues on the Toyota 4.0 V6 include:

  • White smoke from exhaust
  • Coolant loss
  • Misfires
  • Milky looking oil

There are a few other symptoms you may notice, too. White smoke from the exhaust may have multiple causes, but particularly pay attention if it has a sweet smell. This often means coolant is entering the 1GR-FE cylinders and burning. Coolant loss may be minor, but if you’re topping up on coolant often without any visible leaks the gasket may be to blame. Oil and coolant in the cylinders can also cause misfires and fouled spark plugs. Finally, coolant usually mixes with oil when the head gasket fails so check for milky oil on the Toyota 4.0.

4.0 V6 Head Gasket Replacement

Assuming you catch the head gasket leak quickly the chance of additional damage is very low. In this case you can simply replace the 4.0 V6 gaskets which can be had for about $50-100. It’s also not a bad idea to replace other parts with a gasket repair kit like this. Consider other parts in the area if you’re high mileage.

While the head gaskets are cheap the labor to replace the 1GR-FE gaskets can add up. Expect to pay about $800-1200 for labor.

2) Toyota 1GR-FE Water Pump Problems

Water pump problems on the Toyota 4.0 engine is an interesting discussion. Many hold up to 150,000+ miles and failure after that point probably isn’t fair to consider a problem. Water pumps are standard wear and tear items that take abuse with age and mileage. Some do run into actual Toyota 1GR-FE water pump failures.

However, it seems some replace the pump thinking it’s failing when it may actually be perfectly fine. Occasionally the pumps show coolant stains or actual coolant leaking near the drain holes. A little coolant seepage is normal and typically indicates the coolant needs changing. It may also be a sign the 4.0 V6 water pump is actually failing.

Nonetheless, it’s important to fix Toyota 1GR-FE water pumps quickly if an actual failure occurs. A lack of coolant or coolant flow can lead to overheating which can ultimately lead to head gasket problems. Again, water pumps are wear and tear parts. They might fail sooner, but failures at 150,000+ miles aren’t unusual.

Toyota 4.0L Water Pump Failure Symptoms

Look for the following symptoms that may indicate problems with the Toyota 1GR-FE water pump:

  • Coolant leak
  • Overheating
  • Steam/smoke from engine

Visible leaks may point to an issue with the 4.0 V6 water pump. If the water pump completely fails the engine will lose coolant flow and quickly overheat. In this situation, shut down the 1GR-FE as soon as possible and address the issues before driving again. Finally, steam from the engine bay may be present if the coolant is leaking onto hot parts.

1GR-FE Water Pump Replacement

Toyota 4.0 V6 water pumps come in around $100. Labor will take a few hours so expect to pay another $250-500 in labor. It’s not a challenging DIY for those with a basic understanding of engines and some DIY experience.

3) 1GR-FE 4.0 V6 Ignition Coil Issues

Spark plugs and ignition coils are standard wear and tear items on the Toyota 1GR-FE engine. Some do experience premature ignition coil problems. However, the fact this makes the list is more a testament to the reliability of the 4.0L V6 engine. Many engines require ignition coil replacement around 150,000 miles. Sometimes ignition coils can last the life of the engine.

However, there are plenty of 1GR-FE 4.0 V6 engines making it well past 200,000 miles. Chances are the engine will outlast the effective life of the ignition coils. Anyways, some do experience premature faults with the ignition coils. It’s not too common but ignition coil failures around 100,000 miles can and do happen sometimes.

Fortunately, ignition coils are easy to replace and are pretty cheap in the grand scheme. We also come from the turbo BMW world where all 6 ignition coils require replacement every 25,000-60,000 miles. As such, a coil or two failing around 100,000 miles on the 4.0 V6 doesn’t sound bad at all to us.

Toyota 1GR-FE Ignition Coil Failure Symptoms

The following symptoms may indicate a problem with one or more ignition coils on the 4.0L V6:

  • Misfires
  • Rough idle / stumbling
  • Stuttering acceleration
  • Loss of power

You’ll also notice similar symptoms with faulty spark plugs. It’s a good idea to change the spark plugs every 80,000 – 100,000 miles. Spark plugs are also very cheap so if you haven’t changed them in 100,000+ miles then it’s a good starting point.

Otherwise, the above symptoms may be due to a faulty ignition coil on the Toyota 1GR-FE. If you have a code scanner you can read the fault codes to see which cylinder(s) is misfiring. Try swapping the ignition coil with another cylinder. If the misfire follows the ignition coil then you’ve found the likely culprit.

Toyota 4.0 V6 Ignition Coil Replacement

We recommend replacing all 6 coils at the same time. This is especially true if your Toyota 4.0L V6 is north of 100,000 miles. A set of 6 ignition coils is right around $90-150. It’s a very easy DIY that you can knock out in the driveway in less than an hour. The same goes for spark plugs and a set of 6 will only set you back about $50.

How Reliable Is The Toyota 1GR-FE Engine?

Toyota’s 4.0L V6 engine earns above average remarks for reliability. It’s without question one of the most reliable engines we’ve written about. The 1GR-FE does not suffer many common problems. When failures do occur they’re usually pretty cheap and simple to fix. The only exception are the issues with 4.0 V6 head gaskets. However, the head gasket failures likely only affect a very small percentage of all 1GR-FE engines on the road.

Plenty of Toyota Tundras, Tacomas, 4Runners, and FJ Cruisers have 250,000+ miles on them. It seems most owners have positive experiences even at incredibly high mileage. Of course, maintenance and oil changes are key to ensuring a reliable experience with the 4.0 V6 engine. That holds true for any engine.

Maintain your 1GR-FE well and it will reward you. Take care of repairs if and when they pop up. The Toyota 4.0L V6 engine itself can outlive the useful life of many other wear and tear components like ignition coils, water pumps, etc. As such, occasional issues will pop up on high mileage engines.

1GR-FE 4.0L V6 Common Problems Summary

The Toyota 1GR-FE is an excellent all around engine. Power output is fairly low for a large V6 engine, however it’s plenty of power for most needs. It also helps the 4.0L V6 engine earn exceptional remarks for reliability. There aren’t many common issues with the 1GR-FE. Also, when problems do pop up they’re typically simple, cheap repairs.

Look for potential issues with head gaskets, water pumps, and ignition coils. It seems most of these failures affect a pretty small percent of Toyota 1GR-FE engines on the road. However, the 4.0 V6 is known to hold up well beyond 250,000 miles. Expect a few problems to pop up as these engines reach and surpass that mileage.

What’s your experience with the 1GR-FE engine? Do you have a Tundra, Tacoma, 4Runner, or FJ Cruiser?

Drop a comment and let us know!

Or check out of 2GR-FE common problems post

Filed Under: 1GR-FE 4.0L V6, Toyota

About Zach Mayock

Zach graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder in 2016 and lives in Aurora, CO. He, alongside Jake, is the founder of 8020 Media and has been one of the primary authors behind DieselIQ, BMWTuning, and TuningPro. Zach has over a decade of experience working on and writing about cars.

Zach's true passion is BMW and he currently drives a 2007 335i making nearly 600whp. He is also in-line for a new G80 M3. However, his knowledge extends far beyond BMW having spent time with Ford, Chevy, Honda, Subaru, and much more.

Zach is an experienced author who has written over 400 articles in the car industry. This knowledge and experience allows Zach to deliver high-quality, detailed automotive articles for our blogs.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Alex Gomez de Ortega says

    February 24, 2021 at 6:08 am

    Excellent article. Very good information for a first time owner of a 4Runner SR5 – a 2007 with 176,000 miles and running like new. Bought on 02/22/21. Thank you!

    Reply
  2. Eric Wilson says

    May 30, 2021 at 12:13 pm

    I have one in an 06 tacoma with over 400000 and has only had sparkplug and runs flawless

    Reply
  3. Steven Burrows says

    August 3, 2021 at 7:23 am

    Mine is fitted into an Australian Hilux (similar to the Tacoma). 448,000 miles. Still going strong. Did blow a head gasket at 150,000 miles but no damage other than the gasket and a lot of labor.

    Reply
  4. babu Francis says

    January 25, 2022 at 6:11 am

    Toyota Fortuner and Prado also using same Engine.

    Reply
  5. Nathan says

    February 1, 2022 at 3:52 pm

    Great write up. I own a 2007 FJ Cruiser with 172000 miles on the clock and it runs like new. I took the FJ in for a wheel alignment and the mechanic attempted to start it as it was running because it is so smooth and quite. 👍🏻 Pleased with this engine for sure.

    Reply
  6. Bjorn Sigurdsson says

    February 13, 2022 at 5:27 am

    My 2005 Tacoma with 1GR-FE engine runs and sounds like new at 170.000 km, gets regular maintainance.

    Reply
  7. Ndeulita says

    March 10, 2022 at 1:58 pm

    very good article. I just bought a 2003 prado 4.0 and I was discouraged by the experience of high fuel consumption. I knew it would be high, owing to the engine displacement and number of cylinders, and car size. I also knew that the car is generally bullet-proof and the only niggle is the fuel consumption. However upon reading the article I am pleased to note that the engine has above average reliability. The body is always robust, this being a toyota. With this silky smooth ride, ever ready 4×4 ,and gadgets; i guess I just need to control my foot, plan my trips, and service it on schedule. thanks

    Reply
  8. Serghei Mardar says

    May 6, 2022 at 9:11 pm

    2010 4runner with dual vvti 1gr-fe. The engine has a ticking noise and no one can explain why. Lots of owners looking for this answer

    Reply
    • Zach Mayock says

      May 12, 2022 at 2:27 am

      Hi Serghei,

      The 1GR injectors can be a bit noisy and making a ticking sound. Exhaust manifold leaks are also a potential issue that causes ticking noises on the Toyota 1GR-FE. While there are some ticks that can’t fully be explained there shouldn’t be any major reliability or longevity concerns. We aren’t aware of any common 1GR-FE problems that cause ticking and are severe/concerning.

      Regards,
      Zach

      Reply
  9. Thomas A says

    August 9, 2022 at 9:32 pm

    Also a reminder that the 1GR-FE uses solid lifters and requires periodic adjustment of valve lash. That could be a possible cause of a ticking noise. Lash tolerances are usually posted on a manufacturers label affixed to the underside of the hood. Have a 2007 Tundra with a measly 52,000 miles on it and have never had a real problem. A small oil leak at the front cover was repaired under warranty, I think the 1GR was a rarely chosen option for the Tundra.

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Primary Sidebar

Corvette C8 Stingray Giveaway

More to See

best-truck-topper

Best Truck Bed Topper Guide

January 22, 2023 By Austin Parsons

Boss Ford 6.2 engine

Ultimate Boss Ford 6.2 Engine Guide

January 16, 2023 By Chandler

Footer

About Tuning Pro

We’re two gearheads with a passion for all things automotive performance. After running a BMW blog for the past 3 years, we’ve decided to expand our love for writing and helping other enthusiasts.

Tuning Pro is dedicated to providing performance modification, tuning, DIY, engine problem & general maintenance guides for all car brands.

Recent

  • 5.7 HEMI Engine Ultimate Guide
  • Best Truck Bed Topper Guide
  • Ultimate Boss Ford 6.2 Engine Guide
  • Ultimate Nissan VQ35DE Engine Guide
  • Top 5 Ford 4.6 Performance Upgrades

Privacy Policy

Search

Copyright © 2023 · Automotive Performance, Tuning, & Modification

TuningPro.co is owned and operated by 8020 Media.