One problem related to winch equipment has 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.
2003 4runner was in for service and I was informed that there was an excessive amount of rust damage on the front frame cross member and there is a danger that the radiator, which is supported by the cross member, could shift or work loose. The rust damage is most evident near the front right (passenger side) frame member where the tow hook is mounted. Due to weakness in this area, the tow hook pulled out when the truck was being winched onto a flatbed for towing.