The 11 Most Common Toyota 4Runner DTC Issues

Are you the owner of a Toyota 4Runner? If so, I have compiled the 11 most common DTCs you will find on your car: B2284, B1248, B1241, C1201, C1408, 42, U0416, U1104, P0717, P0430, and P0606. Those are the 11 DTCs.
The Toyota 4Runner is a popular SUV known for its reliability and durability. However, like any other vehicle, it can still experience issues with its diagnostics systems. In this article, we will explore the 11 most common diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) that Toyota 4Runner owners may encounter. From engine misfires to transmission problems, we will cover the symptoms, causes, and solutions for these DTC issues. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a novice DIYer, this guide will help you diagnose and fix your Toyota 4Runner’s DTC issues.

THE 11 OBD DTC

4RUNNER DTC B2284:

Description:

The B2284 code is a generic OBD-II diagnostic trouble code indicating that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit.

Symptoms:

Engine warning light illuminated on the dashboard
Engine running poorly
Engine may stall or misfire
Engine may not start

Cause:

Malfunctioning ECT sensor
Wiring issues in the ECT sensor circuit
Failed Engine Control Module
Failed Engine Cooling Fan
Engine Coolant leaks
Possible Location:
The ECT sensor is typically located near the thermostat housing.

How to Fix the Problem:

Check the ECT sensor and its wiring for any signs of damage or corrosion
Inspect the Engine Cooling Fan and replace it if necessary
Check the Engine Coolant level and fix any leaks
Replace the ECT sensor if necessary
Replace the Engine Control Module if necessary

How Difficult to Fix:

The difficulty of fixing this issue will vary depending on the root cause of the problem. Inspecting the ECT sensor and its wiring is relatively simple, but replacing the Engine Control Module or Engine Cooling Fan can be more difficult.

Can You Drive With This Code:

It is not recommended to drive with this code as it can lead to further damage to the engine and potentially cause a stall or misfire while driving.

How to Clear the Code:

The code can be cleared using an OBD-II scan tool or by disconnecting the vehicle’s battery for a few minutes.

Tools Needed to Use:

OBD-II scan tool
Multimeter
Socket set
Wrench set
Engine Coolant
Engine Coolant Pressure Tester (Optional)

4RUNNER DTC B1248:

Description: The B1248 code is a generic OBD-II diagnostic trouble code indicating that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a problem with the Electric Cooling Fan Circuit.

Symptoms:

Engine warning light illuminated on the dashboard
Engine overheating
Engine Cooling Fan not functioning
Engine running poorly

Cause:

Malfunctioning Electric Cooling Fan
Wiring issues in the Electric Cooling Fan circuit
Failed Engine Control Module
Failed Engine Cooling Fan Relay
Failed Engine Cooling Fan Control Module

Possible Location: The Electric Cooling Fan is typically located near the radiator.

How to Fix the Problem:

Check the Electric Cooling Fan and its wiring for any signs of damage or corrosion
Inspect the Engine Cooling Fan Relay and replace it if necessary
Inspect the Engine Cooling Fan Control Module and replace it if necessary
Replace the Electric Cooling Fan if necessary
Replace the Engine Control Module if necessary

How Difficult to Fix: The difficulty of fixing this issue will vary depending on the root cause of the problem. Inspecting the Electric Cooling Fan and its wiring is relatively simple, but replacing the Engine Control Module or Engine Cooling Fan Control Module can be more difficult.

Can You Drive With This Code: It is not recommended to drive with this code as it can lead to further damage to the engine and potentially cause overheating while driving.

How to Clear the Code: The code can be cleared using an OBD-II scan tool or by disconnecting the vehicle’s battery for a few minutes. Note that disconnecting the battery will reset the relearn of the ECU.

Tools Needed to Use:

OBD-II scan tool
Multimeter
Socket set
Wrench set
Engine Coolant
Engine Coolant Pressure Tester (Optional)

4RUNNER DTC B1241:

Description: The B1241 code is a generic OBD-II diagnostic trouble code indicating that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a problem with the Air Conditioning Clutch Relay Circuit.

Symptoms:

Engine warning light illuminated on the dashboard
Air conditioning system not functioning
Engine cooling fan not functioning
Engine running poorly

Cause:

Malfunctioning Air Conditioning Clutch Relay
Wiring issues in the Air Conditioning Clutch Relay circuit
Failed Engine Control Module
Failed Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch

Possible Location: The Air Conditioning Clutch Relay is typically located in the engine compartment, near the battery.

How to Fix the Problem:

Check the Air Conditioning Clutch Relay and its wiring for any signs of damage or corrosion
Inspect the Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch and replace it if necessary
Replace the Air Conditioning Clutch Relay if necessary
Replace the Engine Control Module if necessary

How Difficult to Fix: The difficulty of fixing this issue will vary depending on the root cause of the problem. Inspecting the Air Conditioning Clutch Relay and its wiring is relatively simple, but replacing the Engine Control Module or Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch can be more difficult.

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Can You Drive With This Code: It is possible to drive with this code, but the air conditioning system will not function. This may not be a problem in cool weather, but can be an issue in hot weather.

Tools Needed to Use:

OBD-II scan tool
Multimeter
Socket set
Wrench set
Refrigerant
Refrigerant Pressure Gauge (Optional)

4RUNNER DTC C1201:

Description: The C1201 code is a manufacturer-specific diagnostic trouble code indicating that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a problem with the Engine Control System.

Symptoms:

Engine warning light illuminated on the dashboard
Engine running poorly
Engine may stall or misfire
Engine may not start

Cause:

Failed Engine Control Module
Wiring issues in the Engine Control System
Failed Engine Sensors (e.g. Throttle Position Sensor, Mass Airflow Sensor, etc.)
Failed Fuel Injectors
Failed Ignition System Components

Possible Location: The Engine Control Module and the various engine sensors are located throughout the engine and engine compartment.

How to Fix the Problem:

Inspect the Engine Control Module and replace it if necessary
Check the wiring in the Engine Control System for any signs of damage or corrosion
Inspect the Engine Sensors and replace any that are not functioning properly
Inspect the Fuel Injectors and replace any that are not functioning properly
Inspect the Ignition System Components and replace any that are not functioning properly

How Difficult to Fix: The difficulty of fixing this issue will vary depending on the root cause of the problem. Inspecting the Engine Control Module and its wiring is relatively simple, but replacing Engine Sensors or Ignition System Components can be more difficult.

Can You Drive With This Code: It is not recommended to drive with this code as it can lead to further damage to the engine and potentially cause a stall or misfire while driving.

Tools Needed to Use:

OBD-II scan tool
Multimeter
Socket set
Wrench set
Fuel Pressure Tester (Optional)

4RUNNER DTC C1408:

Description: The C1408 code is a manufacturer-specific diagnostic trouble code indicating that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a problem with the ABS Pump Motor Circuit.

Symptoms:

ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
ABS system not functioning
Brakes may feel less responsive
Brakes may feel pulsating or grabbing

Cause:

Failed ABS Pump Motor
Wiring issues in the ABS Pump Motor circuit
Failed Engine Control Module
Failed ABS Control Module
Failed ABS Pump Motor Relay

Possible Location: The ABS Pump Motor is typically located in the engine compartment, near the ABS Control Module.

How to Fix the Problem:

Check the ABS Pump Motor and its wiring for any signs of damage or corrosion
Inspect the ABS Pump Motor Relay and replace it if necessary
Replace the ABS Pump Motor if necessary
Replace the ABS Control Module if necessary
Replace the Engine Control Module if necessary

How Difficult to Fix: The difficulty of fixing this issue will vary depending on the root cause of the problem. Inspecting the ABS Pump Motor and its wiring is relatively simple, but replacing the ABS Control Module or Engine Control Module can be more difficult.

Can You Drive With This Code: It is possible to drive with this code, but the ABS system will not function. This may affect the vehicle’s braking performance in emergency braking situations.

Tools Needed to Use:

OBD-II scan tool
Multimeter
Socket set
Wrench set
Brake Fluid
Brake Bleeder Kit (Optional)

4RUNNER DTC 42:

Description: The 42 code is a generic OBD-II diagnostic trouble code indicating that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a problem with the Electronic Spark Timing (EST) circuit.

Symptoms:

Engine warning light illuminated on the dashboard
Engine running poorly
Engine may stall or misfire
Engine may not start

Cause:

Malfunctioning Electronic Spark Timing (EST) circuit
Wiring issues in the Electronic Spark Timing (EST) circuit
Failed Engine Control Module
Failed Ignition Control Module
Failed Ignition Coil
Failed Spark Plug

Possible Location: The Electronic Spark Timing (EST) circuit components are located throughout the engine and engine compartment.

How to Fix the Problem:

Check the Electronic Spark Timing (EST) circuit and its wiring for any signs of damage or corrosion
Inspect the Ignition Control Module and replace it if necessary
Inspect the Ignition Coil and replace it if necessary
Inspect the Spark Plug and replace it if necessary
Replace the Engine Control Module if necessary

How Difficult to Fix: The difficulty of fixing this issue will vary depending on the root cause of the problem. Inspecting the Electronic Spark Timing (EST) circuit and its wiring is relatively simple, but replacing the Ignition Control Module or Engine Control Module can be more difficult.

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Can You Drive With This Code: It is not recommended to drive with this code as it can lead to further damage to the engine and potentially cause a stall or misfire while driving.

Tools Needed to Use:

OBD-II scan tool
Multimeter
Socket set
Wrench set
Spark Plug Socket
Ignition Tester (Optional)

4RUNNER DTC U0416:

Description: The U0416 code is a manufacturer-specific diagnostic trouble code indicating that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a problem with the Invalid Data Received from the Body Control Module.

Symptoms:

Engine warning light illuminated on the dashboard
Engine running poorly
Engine may stall or misfire
Engine may not start
Various electrical systems may not function properly (e.g. power windows, power door locks, etc.)

Cause:

Communication failure between the Engine Control Module and the Body Control Module
Failed Engine Control Module
Failed Body Control Module
Wiring issues in the communication circuits between the Engine Control Module and the Body Control Module

Possible Location: The Engine Control Module and the Body Control Module are located throughout the vehicle, typically in the engine compartment or passenger compartment.

How to Fix the Problem:

Check the communication circuits between the Engine Control Module and the Body Control Module for any signs of damage or corrosion
Replace the Body Control Module if necessary
Replace the Engine Control Module if necessary

How Difficult to Fix: The difficulty of fixing this issue will vary depending on the root cause of the problem. Inspecting the communication circuits between the Engine Control Module and the Body Control Module is relatively simple, but replacing the Engine Control Module or Body Control Module can be more difficult.

Can You Drive With This Code: It is possible to drive with this code, but various electrical systems may not function properly. Additionally, the engine may run poorly or stall.

Tools Needed to Use:

OBD-II scan tool
Multimeter
Socket set
Wrench set

4RUNNER DTC U1104:

Description: The U1104 code is a manufacturer-specific diagnostic trouble code indicating that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a problem with the Lost Communication with Engine Management Module.

Symptoms:

Engine warning light illuminated on the dashboard
Engine running poorly
Engine may stall or misfire
Engine may not start
Various electrical systems may not function properly (e.g. power windows, power door locks, etc.)

Cause:

Communication failure between the Engine Control Module and the Engine Management Module
Failed Engine Control Module
Failed Engine Management Module
Wiring issues in the communication circuits between the Engine Control Module and the Engine Management Module

Possible Location: The Engine Control Module and the Engine Management Module are located throughout the vehicle, typically in the engine compartment or passenger compartment.

How to Fix the Problem:

Check the communication circuits between the Engine Control Module and the Engine Management Module for any signs of damage or corrosion
Replace the Engine Management Module if necessary
Replace the Engine Control Module if necessary

How Difficult to Fix: The difficulty of fixing this issue will vary depending on the root cause of the problem. Inspecting the communication circuits between the Engine Control Module and the Engine Management Module is relatively simple, but replacing the Engine Control Module or Engine Management Module can be more difficult.

Can You Drive With This Code: It is possible to drive with this code, but various electrical systems may not function properly. Additionally, the engine may run poorly or stall.

Tools Needed to Use:

OBD-II scan tool
Multimeter
Socket set
Wrench set

4RUNNER DTC P0717:

Description: The P0717 code is a generic OBD-II diagnostic trouble code indicating that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a problem with the Input Speed Sensor Circuit.

Symptoms:

Engine warning light illuminated on the dashboard
Engine running poorly
Engine may stall or misfire
Engine may not start
Transmission may not shift properly

Cause:

Malfunctioning Input Speed Sensor
Wiring issues in the Input Speed Sensor circuit
Failed Engine Control Module
Failed Transmission Control Module

Possible Location: The Input Speed Sensor is typically located on the transmission.

How to Fix the Problem:

Check the Input Speed Sensor and its wiring for any signs of damage or corrosion
Replace the Input Speed Sensor if necessary
Replace the Engine Control Module if necessary
Replace the Transmission Control Module if necessary

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How Difficult to Fix: The difficulty of fixing this issue will vary depending on the root cause of the problem. Inspecting the Input Speed Sensor and its wiring is relatively simple, but replacing the Engine Control Module or Transmission Control Module can be more difficult.

Can You Drive With This Code: It is possible to drive with this code, but the engine may run poorly or stall. Additionally, the transmission may not shift properly, which could affect the vehicle’s ability to drive safely.

Tools Needed to Use:

OBD-II scan tool
Multimeter
Socket set
Wrench set
Transmission Jack (Optional)

4RUNNER DTC P0430:

Description: The P0430 code is a generic OBD-II diagnostic trouble code indicating that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a problem with the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 2).

Symptoms:

Engine warning light illuminated on the dashboard
Engine may run poorly
Engine may stall or misfire
Engine may not start
Reduced fuel efficiency

Cause:

Failed catalytic converter
Engine misfire
Wiring issues in the catalytic converter circuit
Failed Engine Control Module
Fuel system issues

Possible Location: The catalytic converter is typically located in the exhaust system, near the engine.

How to Fix the Problem:

Inspect the catalytic converter and replace it if necessary
Repair any engine misfires
Check the wiring in the catalytic converter circuit for any signs of damage or corrosion
Replace the Engine Control Module if necessary
Repair any fuel system issues

How Difficult to Fix: The difficulty of fixing this issue will vary depending on the root cause of the problem. Replacing the catalytic converter is relatively straightforward, but repairing engine misfires or fuel system issues can be more difficult.

Can You Drive With This Code: It is possible to drive with this code, but the engine may run poorly and reduce fuel efficiency. Additionally, a failed catalytic converter can lead to increased emissions, which could result in a failed emissions test.

Tools Needed to Use:

OBD-II scan tool: to diagnose the problem and clear the code
Multimeter: to test the wiring in the catalytic converter circuit
Socket set: to remove the catalytic converter
Wrench set: to remove the catalytic converter
Oxygen Sensor Socket: to remove the oxygen sensor (if necessary)
Exhaust System Tools: to remove and replace the catalytic converter
Jack and Jack Stands: to support the vehicle while working on the exhaust system

4RUNNER DTC P0606:

Description: The P0606 code is a generic OBD-II diagnostic trouble code indicating that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected an internal control module processor error.

Symptoms:

Engine warning light illuminated on the dashboard
Engine may run poorly
Engine may stall or misfire
Engine may not start
Reduced vehicle performance

Cause:

Failed Engine Control Module
Corrupted software in the Engine Control Module
Wiring issues in the Engine Control Module circuit
Failed Powertrain Control Module

Possible Location: The Engine Control Module and Powertrain Control Module are typically located in the engine compartment.

How to Fix the Problem:

Replace the Engine Control Module if necessary
Reprogram the Engine Control Module if necessary
Check the wiring in the Engine Control Module circuit for any signs of damage or corrosion
Replace the Powertrain Control Module if necessary

How Difficult to Fix: The difficulty of fixing this issue will vary depending on the root cause of the problem. Replacing the Engine Control Module can be more difficult than checking the wiring in the Engine Control Module circuit or reprogramming the Engine Control Module.

Can You Drive With This Code: It is not recommended to drive with this code, as the engine may run poorly or stall. Additionally, the vehicle’s performance may be reduced.

Tools Needed to Use:

OBD-II scan tool: to diagnose the problem and clear the code
Laptop with diagnostic software: to reprogram the Engine Control Module (if necessary)
Multimeter: to test the wiring in the Engine Control Module circuit
Socket set: to remove the Engine Control Module
Wrench set: to remove the Engine Control Module

WORDS FROM ERWIN SALARDA
Diagnosing and fixing DTC issues in your Toyota 4Runner can seem daunting, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a manageable task. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual and a professional mechanic if you’re unsure about a repair. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent DTC issues from occurring in the first place. By staying on top of your Toyota 4Runner’s diagnostics