Two problems related to speed sensor have been reported for the 2003 Toyota 4Runner. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Toyota 4Runner based on all problems reported for the 2003 4Runner.
Vehicle has a low gear sound which began when vehicle was relatively new as I travelled down slight grades. I never complained because that was the only time it seemed abnormal and there are only a very places in my town where the hill was steep enough to cause it. Plus I assumed it was related to the trac braking system and might be normal. Last weekend on a 5 hour trip each way the problem began to manifest itself as I accellerated on flat ground. The tachometer showed low rpms (under 2000) until 50-60 mph. However the sound was much more noticible with some additional vibration. The vibration is now worse, could it be a speed sensor problem? [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).
I was on an interstate highway going about 65 miles an hour when the car( 2003 Toyota 4 runner) started to lose power and come to a complete stop without any warning within a minute. Since I was in the center lane and it was rush hour, it was impossible to get off the road, plus I had no power. Finally a police car pulled up behind me and had me turn off the car and then restart. I was able then to pull over with the officer's help to the shoulder of the road. The car was towed to a dealership and I was told the "transmission input speed sensor(p0717)" had to be replaced. This seems to be a large safety issue that a car would just shut down without any warning (especailly on an interstate highway). I would far rather to have damage to a transmission than to be hit in the rear at a high speed while I have no power.