Toyota 4Runner Lemon Law

Yes. A leaking KDSS system that causes unpredictable handling is a serious safety defect under the Song-Beverly Act. Because the KDSS directly affects vehicle stability and control, it likely qualifies as a safety-related issue requiring only two repair attempts before the Lemon Law presumption applies. Document the fluid leaks with photos and keep every repair invoice.

The age of the transmission design is irrelevant to your Lemon Law rights. Under the Song-Beverly Act, Toyota warrants that the A750F transmission will function properly for the duration of the powertrain warranty. If the harsh downshifts and failure to engage reverse persist after reasonable repair attempts, you have a valid claim regardless of whether Toyota considers the transmission design adequate.

A differential pinion seal leak that causes gear oil to contact the exhaust system is a fire hazard and qualifies as a safety defect under the Song-Beverly Act. If the dealer has resealed the differential and the leak returns, each repair attempt counts toward the Lemon Law presumption. The safety implications of a potential fire make this a particularly strong claim.

Toyota markets the 4Runner as a capable off-road vehicle with features like KDSS, crawl control, and multi-terrain select. Under the Song-Beverly Act, Toyota cannot deny a warranty claim simply because you used the vehicle for its intended and advertised purpose. However, if Toyota alleges abuse or misuse, they bear the burden of proving it caused the specific defect at issue.