Two problems related to transmission fluid leaking have been reported for the 2004 Toyota 4Runner. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2004 Toyota 4Runner based on all problems reported for the 2004 4Runner.
Transmission would not shift in motion leaving from a stop sign. I later found out my transmission lines had corroded away leaking a large amount of transmission fluid. After replacing brakes and adding brake fluid I noticed the brake fluid had leaked from bottom. I had to replace all brake lines and fittings due to corrosion.
Driving down the local highway, smelled transmission fluid burning. Pulled over to find transmission fluid leaking from under the radiator area. I was near the garage that work's on the vehicle and was able to drive there. Skid plate was removed and the transmission lines that run along the radiator support frame rusted through. The mechanic servicing the vehicle said I was lucky, that this could have caused transmission failure and or fire in the engine compartment while driving. Toyota dealer was contacted, said, this was a common problem with these vehicles, but no recall or notifications sent the the owners to inspect this item for rust through. When this problem was found, the frame under the radiator was found to be rusted through also. ( listed in another complaint. ).