2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser

Above average

Owners filed 593 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the body and frame. It has been recalled 9 times.

Avoid One of the Toyota FJ Cruiser years to avoid: 9.0× the complaints of a typical FJ Cruiser year. Which Toyota FJ Cruiser years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
53,000 milesMedian miles at failure

441 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser problems

221 of the 593 complaints (37%) are about the body and frame.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Structure › Body · body and frame185
100
Visibility › Windshield64
000
Unknown or Other43
001
Service Brakes, Hydraulic · brakes40
101
Suspension31
000
Power Train · transmission31
211
Structure · body and frame26
100
Seat Belts21
000
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system21
000
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration17
110

2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser body and frame problems

37% of all complaints

221 of the 593 complaints are about the body and frame.

Share of the 221 body and frame complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
71,000 mi
median of 163 reports
Peak year of filing
2020
46 body and frame complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
2 · 0 · 0
in these complaints
Recalls on the body and frame
None
“The contact owns a 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. The contact stated that while her son was attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic; however, no cause for the failure was found. The independent mechanic informed the contact that the undercarriage and subframe were severely corroded.”
Owner complaint, filed Sep 23, 2025 at 185,000 miles
“The contact owns a 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. The contact stated that after it had rained, the front driver's side seat belt was wet, even though the windows were rolled up and the doors were closed securely. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact related the failure to Technical Service Bulletin: 00707 (Structure); however, the vehicle was not included in the TSB.”
Owner complaint, filed Feb 12, 2025 at 90,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2006: 5 complaints, 0 about the body and frame'062007: 91 complaints, 22 about the body and frame2008: 38 complaints, 20 about the body and frame'082009: 39 complaints, 29 about the body and frame2010: 71 complaints, 7 about the body and frame'102011: 18 complaints, 4 about the body and frame2012: 14 complaints, 2 about the body and frame'122013: 19 complaints, 7 about the body and frame2014: 19 complaints, 4 about the body and frame'142015: 13 complaints, 4 about the body and frame2016: 8 complaints, 0 about the body and frame'162017: 11 complaints, 2 about the body and frame2018: 17 complaints, 5 about the body and frame'182019: 48 complaints, 27 about the body and frame2020: 82 complaints, 46 about the body and frame'202021: 53 complaints, 25 about the body and frame2022: 23 complaints, 11 about the body and frame'222023: 8 complaints, 2 about the body and frame2024: 7 complaints, 1 about the body and frame'242025: 7 complaints, 2 about the body and frame2026: 2 complaints, 1 about the body and frame'26Recall 06V235000 (tires)Recall 09V223000 (equipment)Recall 10V035000 (equipment)Recall 10V036000 (equipment)Recall 12E046000 (equipment)Recall 13V098000 (seat belts)Recall 13V163000 (headlights)Recall 14V743000 (seats)Recall 16V396000 (seats)
All complaintsAbout the body and frameRecall (red: the body and frame)

Complaints about the 2007 FJ Cruiser peaked in 2007, with 91 filed that year. No recall on file covers the body and frame, the subject of 37% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 2 so far.

9 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater/Cooler16V396000
Filed Jun 2, 20167,749 vehiclesSoutheast Toyota Distributors, LLC

Defect. Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.

Risk. If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy. SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.

Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater/Cooler14V743000
Filed Nov 19, 20143,233 vehiclesSoutheast Toyota Distributors, LLC

Defect. Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4x2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4x2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4Runner. The affected vehicles may experience compression of the seat cushion which may damage the seat heater wiring.

Risk. Damage to the seat heater wiring could cause the wires to short, increasing the risk of the seat burning and causing personal injury to the occupant.

Remedy. SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the heaters with copper strand heating elements and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory, free of charge. The recall is expected to began in January 2015. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226.

Exterior Lighting13V163000
Filed Apr 25, 2013208,000 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2007-2013 FJ Cruiser vehicles manufactured January 25, 2006 through February 23, 2013 and equipped with a Toyota Auxiliary Driving Lamp Kits mounted to the front bumper. These lamp assemblies include 55 watt bulbs and due to this wattage and mounting angle, the combination of the upper beam headlamps plus the auxiliary lamps are too bright and exceed the maximum light output allowed for an upper beam headlamp. Therefore, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108, "Lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."

Risk. Light intensities above the maximum allowable limit could cause increased glare for oncoming traffic and increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the 55 watt bulbs with 35 watt bulbs, free of charge. The recall began on June 6, 2013. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

Seat Belts › Front › Anchorage13V098000
Filed Mar 15, 2013209,000 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2013 FJ Cruiser passenger vehicles. The retractors for the front driver and passenger seat belts are mounted in the access door (rear door) panels of the vehicle. Due to insufficient strength of the access door panel, cracks may develop in the panel if the access door is repeatedly and forcefully closed over an extended period of time.

Risk. If cracks occur in the panel around the lower retractor anchor, the seat belt retractor could become detached, which could increase the risk of injury to an occupant in the event of a crash.

Remedy. The safety recall began on June 6, 2013. Toyota will mail an interim letter to owners late in April 2013. Remedy notifications to the owners for the repair will begin in late May 2013. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

Equipment12E046000
Filed Oct 17, 2012200,000 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota is recalling certain Toyota Racing Development (TRD) brake kits, P/N PTR09-35070, and TRD High-Performance brake kits, P/N PTR09-35100, installed by Toyota vehicle processing centers and sold by Toyota dealers as an optional accessory for model year 2007 through 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser vehicles. The subject TRD brake kit is specifically designed for the front wheels of 2007-2012 model year FJ Cruiser vehicles. Due to the shape of the outer brake tube of the brake kit, the clearance between the outer brake tube and a TRD 16 inch 6-spoke alloy wheel is minimal. If wheel balance weights are installed in an incorrect location, there is a possibility that the outer brake tube could be damaged due to interference with the balance weight, and brake fluid could leak from the damaged tube.

Risk. If a brake tube becomes damaged and leaks fluid, it may result in increased stopping distances, and in some cases, loss of vehicle front braking performance, which could increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. All known owners of 2007-2012 model year FJ Cruiser vehicles will be notified by first class mail. If the vehicle is equipped with one of the TRD brake kits, the brake caliper outer brake tube will be replaced with a newly designed one at no charge. During this service, if necessary, the dealer will make wheel balance adjustments. This remedy will be performed even if the vehicle has original equipment 16 inch or 17 inch wheels or TRD 16 inch Beadlock ring type wheels, which are not affected by the condition, to assure sufficient clearance in the event wheels are changed at a later time. Notification to owners began on December 17, 2012. Owners may contact Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

Equipment › Other › Labels10V035000
Filed Feb 3, 2010271,417 vehiclesGulf States Toyota, Inc.

Defect. GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.

Risk. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. DEALERS WILL ALSO CORRECT THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GULF STATES TOYOTA AT 713-580-3300.

Equipment › Other › Labels10V036000
Filed Feb 3, 2010153,418 vehiclesSoutheast Toyota Distributors, LLC

Defect. SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2011 PASSENGER VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.

Risk. A DRIVER MAY OVERLOAD A VEHICLE WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AT 1-800-301-6859.

Equipment › Other › Labels09V223000
Filed Jun 15, 200927,080 vehiclesToyota Motor North America, Inc.

Defect. TOYOTA IS RECALLING 27,080 MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2010 PASSENGER CARS BUILT FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 TO MAY 4, 2009. THESE VEHICLES WERE NOT EQUIPPED WITH LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS."

Risk. INCORRECT LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS COULD RESULT IN THE VEHICLE BEING OVERLOADED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE THEM WITH A NEW, ACCURATE LABEL TO BE INSTALLED OVER THE INACCURATE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 18, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-888-270-9371.

Tires › Bead06V235000
Filed Jun 26, 20069,434 vehiclesToyota Motor North America, Inc.

Defect. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH EITHER BRIDGESTONE DUELER OR DUNLOP GRANDTREK TIRES, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE INNER BEAD OF THE TIRE MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED. IF THE BEAD IS DAMAGED, A BULGE MAY DEVELOP ON THE SIDEWALL OF THE TIRE AND AIR MAY LEAK FROM THE AREA OF THE DAMAGED BEAD.

Risk. IF THE TIRE LOSES AIR PRESSURE IT MAY LEAD TO A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND INCREASE THE POSSIBILITY OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT ALL FIVE TIRES, INCLUDING THE SPARE TIRE, TO DETERMINE IF THEY ARE WITHIN THE AFFECTED TIRE-TO-WHEEL ASSEMBLY RANGE AND REPLACE ALL INVOLVED TIRES WITH NEW TIRES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 5, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331. NOTE: DUE TO AN ERROR IN THE DOT SERIAL NUMBER SECTION OF THE TECHNICAL INSTRUCTIONS, A NUMBER OF VEHICLES WERE NOT INSPECTED CORRECTLY. TOYOTA RELAUNCHED THIS CAMPAIGN IN MID-AUGUST 2006.

All 9 campaigns on file, newest first.

Technical service bulletins

163 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2007 FJ Cruiser. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 47body and frame 31electrical system 17transmission 16engine 12airbags 7tires 7seats 4
T-SB-0035-24 Rev2Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsDec 6, 2024body and frame

Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur. Acid rain damage can typically be identified …

T-SB-0038-24 Rev2Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsDec 6, 2024body and frame

To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. Consequently, the film should remain on the wheel for as …

T-SB-0039-24 Rev2Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsDec 6, 2024body and frame

The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especially the horizonal areas of the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage can occur. This damage is …

T-SB-0061-23 Rev2Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsDec 5, 2024body and frame

Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Removal Procedure in this bulletin to remove the RapgardTM protective film within 90 days from initial application.

T-SB-0062-23 Rev2Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsDec 3, 2024body and frame

Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be identified by the presence of small, red or brown particles on the paint surface. These particles are often difficult to see on dark …

T-SB-0055-24 Rev1Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJul 29, 2024body and frame

Some 2005 – 2024 Toyota vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is to provide general guidelines and procedures for odor remediation. This Service Bulletin provides a …

Showing the newest 6 of 31 bulletins about the body and frame, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser 4-DR.———★★★★★26.7%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Structure › Body
Filed Jun 25, 2026VA

Took FJ in for an inspection and was informed the frame was rusted to the point it could not pass inspection.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 7, 2026IL

Frame is rusted to the point of failure

Structure › Frame and Members › Underbody Shields
Filed Sep 23, 2025185,000 milesCO

The contact owns a 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. The contact stated that while her son was attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic; however, no cause for the failure was found. The independent mechanic informed the contact that the undercarriage and subframe were severely corroded. The contact was informed that the vehicle should not be driven because the wheels might detach from the vehicle. The vehicle remained with the dealer unrepaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 185,000.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 12, 2025NJ

I was driving the vehicle to work and was unable to stop. I had to use the emergency brake system.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 17, 2025NM

Silver paint is peeling off the hood, bumper, doors, ect

Suspension
Filed Jul 3, 2025PA

Frame and undercarriage have excessive wear for age of vehicle despite normal maintenance and care. Rust and corrosion has made the vehicle unsafe to drive.

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 12, 2025NJ

I am the owner of a Toyota FJ Cruiser (Year:2007), VIN: [XXX] ]) equipped with the TRD High-Performance Brake Kit, which is under recall campaign C0R / NHTSA 12E046. I recently experienced a serious safety issue involving the front TRD brake crossover tube. While driving, I suddenly noticed a soft brake pedal and significant loss of braking power. I was unable to stop the vehicle properly and nearly crashed into another car at an intersection. I had to swerve at the last moment, which could have caused a more serious accident. Upon inspection, I found that brake fluid was leaking from the crossover tube—exactly the defect described in the TRD brake recall. This failure happened without warning, and my safety and the safety of others was clearly at risk. This is unacceptable for a safety recall. I am requesting immediate investigation, assistance, and a permanent solution. Toyota must ensure this part is properly redesigned and replaced, and that no vehicle is left on the road with this faulty setup. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Seat Belts
Filed Feb 27, 2025158,305 milesFL

The contact owns a 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. The contact stated that the front driver's side seat belt failed to retract. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V098000 (Seat Belts). The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 158,305.

Structure
Filed Feb 12, 202590,000 milesSC

The contact owns a 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. The contact stated that after it had rained, the front driver's side seat belt was wet, even though the windows were rolled up and the doors were closed securely. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact related the failure to Technical Service Bulletin: 00707 (Structure); however, the vehicle was not included in the TSB. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Sep 4, 2024NY

-Toyota recalled the vehicles using the same/similar frame has the same rusty issues, like Tacoma. This recalled made me pay attention on this issue and I found the my FJ cruiser is no longer 100% safe while driving. -The frame of the body is very rusty after years which is not normal. I believe most owners of this model having the same issue. There are rust everywhere under the body, when change some parts, it was really hard to do so, need the fire gun to burn all the screws. And the exhaust system all rusty and leaked as well, cost me a lot of money to fix. -The frame may broken anytime while driving which is risky to me and my passengers. -No dealers would like to fix that frame for me unless to pay a huge amount of Labour costs, which is higher than the value of the car. -it has been inspected by more than 5 car specialists and body shop workers, saying that frame is dying and won’t last for long, maybe will completely broken in a few years. -There is no issues on mechanics, just the under body rust. It happened a lot of years maybe 5-7 years before. -I’m from Canada.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 16, 2024MI

While towing my boat, the rear frame to which the trailer hitch is a part of, ripped down both side of the frame. Basically, the rear frame of the truck is barley holding on by rust. The hitch and frame section are dangling down. Rust has completely eaten through the entire frame after closer inspection.

Suspension
Filed Apr 9, 2024TN

My fj cruiser has terrible rust on the frame. It literally looks like it was stored in the ocean for 50 years. This vehicle is from 2007 and should not have this much rust.

Seat Belts
Filed Mar 27, 2024191,700 milesOR

The contact owns a 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. The contact stated that the driver's side seat belt failed to retract, causing the contact to have to manually put the seat belt in place. The contact stated that the failure recurred several times and progressed where the seat belt would not retract. The contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V098000 (Seat Belts) and the dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 191,700. The contact stated vehicle has been repaired, and this case may be closed.

Seat Belts
Filed Mar 20, 2024WA

DRIVER SIDE SEATBELT DOES NOT RETRACT ON MY 2007 TOYOTA FJ CRUISER.

Suspension
Filed Mar 14, 2024OH

The fj cruiser is a common issue for rot/ rust on the frame of the vehicle, I have clean the frame often during the winter months and my frame is continuously rusting and rotting the frame of the vehicle I have decided to not drive the vehicle till the frame is either replaced or repaired due to the safety concern of driving it on the road, numerous others have same incidents of the holes in the frame due to rust the manufacturer did not put any kind of corrosion treatment on the frame to stop this from happening the frame flexes when accelerating and is not safe for anyone to including my passengers or other people on the road

Seat Belts
Filed Jan 26, 2024100,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. The contact stated that the front driver’s side seat belt retractor and locking mechanism was inoperable, failing to secure the driver as needed. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V098000 (Seat Belts). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 100,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 1, 2023MI

The gas tank strap rusted so the gas tank was hanging low. I fixed the problem myself

Structure › Body
Filed Sep 26, 2023NC

I own a 2007 FJ Cruiser with very low mileage (below 80,000). It has a terrible carriage rust problem. I thought I'd had it remediated, finally, after endlessly searching for someone to address it. Dry ice treatment and undercoating were applied recently. I replaced the wheels and tires, as well. All seemed well and it passed inspection. But, then the power steering started stiffening. So I had that attended to. The mechanic then told me the rack and pinion and a plethora of other issues were happening due to rust and corrosion - at an additional $$$$$$ cost. So far, this summer, I have spent close to $5,000 to resurrect this vehicle. I can't afford to invest anymore or justify doing so. I am looking to sell. But first I am investigating the FJ class-action against Toyota. I understand this class-action was denied in part last year in California. I plan to check any legal status that might still exist. My hope is that Toyota will acknowledge the problem with the FJs, recall and FIX the problem or at least reimburse me all my repair/remediation expenses. I know they won't do anything unless there is a lot of pressure and outcry to do so. Although, my FJ spent the first 16 years of its life in NJ (which many claim is the cause and of course is plausible - I don't disagree but not to this degree), it was not driven that much, garaged and well cared for. I did not really notice the rust issue until January 2021 when I took it to the local Toyota dealership. I think I was taking i

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 1, 2023IL

I was driving down the street after filling up my fuel tank. I drove approximately 1/2 mile when I heard a sound, felt a clunk and stopped immediately. My fuel tank was hanging down on the ground. I called AAA and requested a flatbed and to bring a strap. He did not bring a strap and when my truck arrived at the mechanic the fuel tank had completely separated from the vehicle. The other complaint I have is the rusted frame. I purchased this vehicle used. I did not notice that the tube before the rear axle which holds suspension supports to the frame were completely broken off and separated from the rusted out frame that has failed. It has been welding but the rusted frame is very difficult to weld to.

Structure › Body
Filed Jul 10, 2023CO

Frame rust prematurely affecting integrity of the rear lower control arm mounts. Back half of frame almost completely rusted through requiring a full frame replacement.

Suspension
Filed Apr 3, 2023NY

Our 2007 FJ Cruiser when brought in for annual inspection has been deemed unsafe for use due to crack in frame due to corrosion. The vehicle has no other mechanical issues and runs as if new. We invested in 5 new tires and now find ourselves possibly having to purchase a new vehicle. We witnessed all the other Toyota vehicles frames being replaced due to the recall regarding insufficient undercoating and excessive rust. We inquired if our vehicle was included and if there was reason for concern and were told No. We also own a 2010 Prius which we purchased new. We had no reason to question the validity of the answer. Years later we are grateful we did not experience any incident and crack was discovered before one happened. We now want to know why we did not get a replacement as did all the other models.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Feb 23, 2023PA

Rust is inherently bad on these vehicles. The other day i heard a weird noise under my truck driving down the road. As if I flung a rock up and hit a spring or something. To my dismay, I noticed the fuel tank hanging. One of the straps rusted to the point that it broke allowing the fuel tank to droop.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 29, 2023OH

I recently purchased the used 2007 Toyota FJ with 101,000 miles. During maintenance and inspection, it was found that the fuel tank straps are rusted out and need to be replaced. The rear brake lines are rusted out and need to be replaced. The frame is severely rusted out and failing at the factory welds. I was referred to submit a report and investigate filing a class action lawsuit against the manufacturer for negligence, as this is apparently a known issue. I am hoping that the will reach someone that is able to help all the owners with the same issues as this should be recalled and repaired to prevent unnecessary injury or death. This is a huge financial burden for those expecting a quality vehicle that will be safe. Failing brakes, loose gas tanks and weakened frames are recipe for disaster.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 21, 2023WI

The frame on my 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser has severe corrosion, compromising it's roadworthiness and the safety of occupants. It is available for inspection. Frame would not protect occupants during a crash, and may fail during normal operation. The problem has been confirmed by two independent mechanics. It has not been further inspected. There were no warning lamps or symptoms until discovered by mechanic. Anecdotal information seems to indicate broad and serious corrosion problems with FJ Cruiser frames, but no warnings, recalls, or service bulletins have been issued.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 13, 2022IN

Serviced 99% of the time at Toyota dealer. Within a week of having the vehicle serviced by the dealer, I noticed a rattling/banging. One gas strap had completely rusted through, and the other was hanging on by about a quarter inch of material. I always ask the dealer to inspect the frame due to the history of rust problems on FJs—they have never flagged anything but I inspect it as I can myself, but have no way to lift the vehicle up thoroughly. I also have the service fluid applied by Rust Check to prevent/inhibit deterioration. On a sidebar, this summer I was traveling on the interstate when the rear-most crossmember rusted out while I was using a hitch haul to move a dresser to South Carolina.

Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 10, 2022NC

This is a 2007 vehicle I have owned since 2009. One of the two Fuel Tank straps broke in April of 2021. This left one strap holding the tank in place. This happened while driving allowing the tank to drag on ground. I stopped before it became a more serious problem. The strap was completely rusted through. Both straps were replaced. The remaining strap had serious rust as well.

Structure › Body
Filed Dec 7, 2022NJ

Took the vehicle to a toyota dealership which stated the frame is dangerous and rusted very badly. they told me to file a complaint since the delaer was not covered under the lemon law

Structure › Body
Filed Dec 7, 2022WI

The frame and associated components are severly corroded putting the vehicle in danger of the back axel detaching . i was informed of this by a repair shop who were concerned of the safety of operating vehicle. there is some type of coverage for related vehicles but not for this model. i think this is the same platform which was recalled under a truck model. toyota refuses any coverage or help for this problem. the vehicle has 70k miles but is unsafe to operate. photos are available. although the top of the vehicle is what you would expect with 70k miles, it is unsafe to operate because the back axel could fall off at any time

Structure › Body
Filed Oct 25, 2022NY

I was planning on trading in my FJ Cruiser, so I took it to our local mechanic to look it over. After he put it on the lift, he showed me that the frame and gas tank straps were rusted out and that it wasn't safe to drive. I took it to another body repair shop and after putting it up on the lift, he said he has never seen a frame so rusted out in his twenty five years of doing body work. I contacted Toyota and they said they would NOT repair the frame.

Suspension
Filed Oct 15, 2022OH

Backing out of my driveway we heard a slight pop and a dragging feel on the right passengers front.( thought I ran over a landscape brick) Stopped and inspected nothing was under the vehicle starting to leave my complex vehicle started to shake some. When I got up to 20 MPH it was obvious I should not drive. Called tow truck. Thought I needed ball joints or something similar. Mechanic said frame was completely rusted out and unfixable. The Toyota FJ cruiser is suppose to be a tough off road SUV which I never used for off road driving They even advertised how tough the frame is in commercials . I see there has been recalls for other Toyota models of SUV and trucks of the same year and their is a class action lawsuit already started I think in California. If I would have continued to the freeway A serious accident would had happened. I contacted Toyota and opened a case # [XXX] which after two communications they closed because there is no recall on the vehicle. The car is in great condition other wise. A frame should last more than 15 years on a truck \SUV designed for off road driving . her are some details of the pending lawsuit: Plaintiffs allege that a manufacturing defect causes excessive rust and corrosion to the frames of 2007-2014 FJ Cruiser vehicles. The suit claims the defect weakens the structure of the vehicle, therefore posing a serious safety threat to vehicle occupants. In some cases, vehicles failed to pass safety inspection and are no longer safe to drive. As

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 7, 2022MN

I was hauling a hitch hauler in my hitch which was carrying a portable fish house that weighed approximately 80 lb. As I was leaving the parking lot, I heard a loud clunk noise in which when I look back the hitch hauler and my fish house were laying on the road. The vehicle behind me had to swerve out of the way. I had to haul the fish house to the side of the road and as I was inspecting my vehicle realized the hitch and the frame were cracked and not usable. I had to leave my equipment there because I had no way of hauling it back. I brought the truck to an auto body repair shop and there he told me that I have extensive damage and my frame was rotten. I paid him to repair the damage to the best of his ability. He said that the frame was too bad and that I would have to bring it to another specialist. Since then the front body mounts have rotted off.

Suspension
Filed Oct 1, 2022OH

Frame is rusting out.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 28, 2022IN

I filled up my truck with gas. Upon driving to work I noticed a loud clank. I looked under the vehicle but it was dark and saw nothing obvious. I continued down the road and heard knocking only when braking hard. When examined in daylight, I could see that the Fuel Tank Support Strap (Rear) rusted thru and the weight of the tank/fuel caused it to shift toward and rub against the Drive Shaft. The loud clank I would hear was caused by the tank being struck by the Drive Shaft balancing weight. The more I research, the more I see others have experienced the same thing. I made it safe until I could procure parts and make the repair. I examined the area and the replaced straps. The rear strap is doomed to fail. The OEM part is painted but exposed in the left rear tire well. Basically, the strap is doomed to be sandblasted by road debris, salt, sand and plain old dirt. Photos and descriptions of others with similar problems are always in the same location. I feel Toyota should make the Straps from a better quality material not as susceptible to corrosive properties of Salt. This is a serious fuel tank issue. If there was a problem with the front strap the rear strap failure could have dropped the tank on the road. Will it take the death(s) of the occupants of affected vehicle should a fire or explosion occur for Toyota to step up and assume responsibility? Or maybe if the tank falls out of the vehicle and car that runs over it then it explodes and kills those occupants will get Toyo

Suspension
Filed Sep 9, 2022OH

Frame rust has become a major safety issue even though we do rust prevention twice a year.

Structure › Body
Filed Sep 9, 2022KY

Toyota used interior metal to make the frame and it has rusted to the point the whole frame needs to replaced.

Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 1, 2022IL

The frame has rusted to the point the car is not driveable. This is caused by the rust protectant that Toyota used on their FJs frames.

Suspension
Filed Jul 8, 2022MN

Massive amounts of rust underneath the car on the frame and pretty much everything is affected around it. Concerned for my families safety…Toyota needs to address this immediately!!!

Structure › Frame and Members
Filed Jul 5, 2022160,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. The contact stated while having the vehicle routinely serviced, the mechanic observed that the subframe showed severe corrosion. The contact had taken the vehicle to another independent mechanic and had the subframe inspected. The contact was informed that the subframe was dangerously corroded and perforated and that the vehicle should not be driven. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Jul 2, 2022OH

I purchased this vehicle used in April 2022. It was not driven much until June 2022 because the car was purchased for our son, who attends school at the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. The goal was to get him a car before his 3 week summer break and he and his sister and his best friend would drive it out to Colorado for him to use throughout his last two years. Their trip began on June 16, 2022, leaving central Ohio. We started getting texts from our daughter about loud noises the car was making while she was sitting in the back seat. Then we started getting texts from our son about noises by the rear tire. We had him check the tires for proper inflation or for any damage. None was reported. My daughter complained about the handling of the vehicle when she was driving. Saying it was not easy to control when going 70 through the plains of the US. They were very pleased to arrive in one piece out in Colorado. My son started to think it was a suspension issue because of the way it handled going over bumpy roads. He took it to a dealer and the dealer took video of the frame, and the black goo used to try and cover the holes and cracks in the frame. $21,000 was their estimate to put a brand new frame on the vehicle. This is a known defect with this vehicle. We should not have to pay for such poor manufacturing.

Structure › Body
Filed Jun 19, 2022NJ

The vehicles frame and other underbody components have rusted extremely badly. The fuel tank straps broke due to rust, the radiator splash guard fell off while driving due to being very rusty, exhaust clamps have also broken due to rust.

Structure › Body
Filed May 14, 2022NY

While working on car notice extreme rust and broken frame welds

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 25, 2022MA

Heavy rust continues to occur and rot frame from seemingly within the frame. Terrible build quality. I have spent thousands keeping this car alive. Plenty of 07-era cars on the road with not this much rust and I clean my CAR!

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 19, 2022NJ

The SUV frame rails are prematurely rusted completely through from within the frame rails at a minimum of four know locations while other areas of the frame still appears solid (a further deeper inspection will be performed and repairs will be made after documenting the rust failures). We were at risk of the frame rail failing completely under load due to the size/length of rusted our areas which measure up to 12-inches or so, which would lead to loss of control of the vehicle while driving. The vehicle is home in my driveway for repairs of the clutch system (after failure on the roadway at 65mph) when rusted areas were observed April 2022. The dealer performed a recall for an unrelated part on the vehicle in April 2020 along with performing an oil change, however the dealer did not report an issue to me at that time.

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 7, 2022OH

Structural frame rust. I have already had to have plates welded in to support stab links. Also a gas tank strap had to be replaced because it had rusted through.

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 7, 2022WA

Excessive frame rust eventually leading to catastrophic failure.

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 6, 2022OH

Major frame issues due to poor quality steel.

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 2, 2022IL

Possible structural frame rust. Just like every other FJ cruiser Toyota has built. I’m making this complaint in hopes that the NHTSA will force Toyota to recall FJ cruiser frames due to the amount of FJ cruisers that have the same frame rust issue.

Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 31, 2021MN

Frame Rust, I just spent about $6000 for upper engine repair only to find out that the shop has now reported that the frame on the 2007 FJ Cruiser is not safe to drive any longer. Frame is rusted through multiple locations on the frame from side to rear - Frame is so bad that if I hit a bump just right It could cause an accident. I washed vehicle weekly to prevent rusting, it did not help. I am not reporting engine repair I am reporting the Frames rusted through issue and now I have no money to buy a vehicle and no vehicle to drive. Toyota has recalled other vehicles with this known issue but not the FJ Cruiser why, They even lost the law suite for frame rust Issues, They should be accountable for these vehicles as well. I was quoted approx. $2000 more to fix the frame.

Service Brakes
Filed Dec 17, 2021AZ

I purchased the vehicle with a clean carfax on 12/2/2021 Flew from Phoenix to Dallas to pick it up. Drove the vehicle from Dallas to Phoenix. The Brakes malfunctioned on the drive home. Fortunately it was late at night and not many vehicles on the road. Took car to mechanic on 12/4/2021. The frame, brakes, suspension, exhaust and engine mounts had been sprayed over to cover severe rust and rot of the the frame and undercarriage. The vehicle cost 14k The repairs to be done 20k The vehicle is not roadworthy and has not been driven since ai got back to Phoenix. The dealership purposely didn’t disclose the frame or brake damage. The dealership sold this vehicle knowing it was for my daughter and 3 year old granddaughter

Structure › Body
Filed Dec 10, 2021NM

Frame ha rusted to the point of failure after only 14 years.

Complaints 1-50 of 593, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2007
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20150100Routine
201430500Routine
201323400Routine
201241510Routine
201123700Routine
2010661210Routine
200971200Routine
20081241110Routine
2007 — this page593950Above average
20061000Routine

Compare every FJ Cruiser year →

2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser: questions buyers ask

Is the 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the FJ Cruiser years to avoid: owners filed 593 complaints, 9.0 times as many as a typical FJ Cruiser year. The most common complaint is about the body and frame (37%).

What is the most common problem with the 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser?

The body and frame: 221 of the 593 complaints (37%) are about it. The typical report comes at 71,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser have?

9 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jun 2, 2016. The largest, 10V035000, covered 271,417 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 53,000 miles. For the body and frame the midpoint is 71,000 miles.

Are there service bulletins for the 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser?

The manufacturer filed 163 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the body and frame (31), the electrical system (17) and the transmission (16). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Jun 2, 2016. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.