During an alignment procedure (at the dealer), mechanic found the front right strut leaking - and recommended a complete XREAS system change out. This included the front right strut, the absorber accumulator, read left shock and associated high pressure tubes and fittings, $2250. Note: Google X-reas or go to YouTube - lots of examples there. having had the car now for 4+ years (purchased new) I never knew this tech existing. Since this system is limited to Toyota's, there is not an aftermarket replacement. The 'head scratcher' moment is that you can't refill the system with hydraulics. Once a leak occurs the entire system has to be replaced. Note: this system has been in use since '03 models as well as Lexus. My 4R has never touched a dirt road, and used for pavement driving only. Since my extended warranty (5-months remaining) covered the fixed, it was a no-brainer. If I didn't have an extended warranty, I would have removed the the entire X-reas system and replaced with conventional shock/strut assembly (google it!) - There are two X-reas systems (closed looped) per vehicle. When one fails, all 4-strut/shocks must be changed to conventional - if you desire to go that way. The X-reas is a mechanical device, not hooked up to any electronics or sensors, so changing out to conventional strut assembly appears to be promising.
I'm a very frustrated Toyota owner of a 2017 4Runner Ltd (40K miles)- and I question the durability of this system as well as the ridiculous cost to replace. But everything is ok due to an extended warranty, besides you always have options.
This message is to warn 'you' as a 4runner owner of this to look for.
During an alignment procedure (at the dealer), mechanic found the front right strut leaking - and recommended a complete XREAS system change out. This included the front right strut, the absorber accumulator, read left shock and associated high pressure tubes and fittings, $2250. Note: Google X-reas or go to YouTube - lots of examples there. having had the car now for 4+ years (purchased new) I never knew this tech existing. Since this system is limited to Toyota's, there is not an aftermarket replacement. The 'head scratcher' moment is that you can't refill the system with hydraulics. Once a leak occurs the entire system has to be replaced. Note: this system has been in use since '03 models as well as Lexus. My 4R has never touched a dirt road, and used for pavement driving only. Since my extended warranty (5-months remaining) covered the fixed, it was a no-brainer. If I didn't have an extended warranty, I would have removed the the entire X-reas system and replaced with conventional shock/strut assembly (google it!) - There are two X-reas systems (closed looped) per vehicle. When one fails, all 4-strut/shocks must be changed to conventional - if you desire to go that way. The X-reas is a mechanical device, not hooked up to any electronics or sensors, so changing out to conventional strut assembly appears to be promising.
I'm a very frustrated Toyota owner of a 2017 4Runner Ltd (40K miles)- and I question the durability of this system as well as the ridiculous cost to replace. But everything is ok due to an extended warranty, besides you always have options.
This message is to warn 'you' as a 4runner owner of this to look for.
- FV G., Houston, TX, US