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Sulfur Smell from Toyota 4Runner

862 messages,  Last post on Aug 20, 2009 at 3:48 PM

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What is this discussion about? Toyota 4Runner, Engine, Exhaust, Fuel System, SUV

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#662 of 862 highlander7 by user777 Jan 22, 2004 (8:06 pm)
and possibly the problem experienced by SOME owners is a result of an emissions system component or fuel delivery / consumption problem with their specific vehicle...
#663 of 862 Tailpipe extension, possible Toyota changes by corancher Jan 23, 2004 (5:15 pm)
rcgator, it's unfortunate that the shop extended the tailpipe to the rear. Since part of the problem is presumed to be the stagnant air at the rear of the vehicle, an extension to the rear seems unlikely to fix the problem of exhaust getting into the cabin.   I'm guessing that Toyota is planning to change one or more of the catalysts. There are four on the V6s and 3 on the V8s. For example, there are reports that adding nickel will prevent the formation of the stinky sulfur compounds in the converters. That might reduce or eliminate stink, but doesn't change the problem of getting exhaust gases in the cabin when on recirculate.   Thanks for your reports in any case. Please let us know what you learn from here on out.
#664 of 862 by sequoiasoon Jan 23, 2004 (7:37 pm)
Whatever happened with the guy who taped off his rear air vents? Is his smell gone for good or still there? From all the posts we know not everybody has the problem. Extending the tail pipe to the rear obviously didn't work. I had the smell on my Sequoia once or twice after stopping after a long uphill drive. My climate control is always on fresh so maybe I just haven't noticed it. The "rear" air is on most of the time and that draw from inside the cabin anyway so I figure it must put some intake pressure on the rear vents no matter what the front is set on. I did add the rear spoiler which made a HUGE difference in junk/dirt that collects on the back of the truck (and also exhaust I presume). The down draft is a direct source to help move the air away. If mine was having a noticeable smell I might want it to keep smelling at times (to let me know that the exhaust and CO is getting into the cabin which is obviously bad) Just brings back bad flashbacks of the old VW bugs and 411/412 series that had the air cooled engines and forced hot air heat exchangers, they rusted out and exhaust made its way in making people pass out.   Just another "what if it helps" idea. I think popular consensus is that the interior smell is caused by the air being drawn back into the cabin through the rear vents (whether caused by recirc mode or other)What if somebody were to take 1-2 pieces of some of type of dryer ducting or PVC pipe or something like it and route it to the front of the vehicle half way maybe by transfer case etc. or up under the hood or all the way to the front behind the grill. I don't think you would need to actually need to "seal" it to the vents but have it at least terminate right by them. This forced ram air effect should provide a source of fresher air and maybe help direct the exhaust away from them.   I know it's not "our" problem or job to fix a design issue but if it helps solve the problem I think it's better than just complaining or threating lawsuits etc. Of course those that can't or don't want to deal with the problem should do what is best for them up to and including getting rid of it whether it's at a $ loss or not.   Another idea is like ????? had done and tape off the vents. You still need some way for the air to escape when doors shut etc. We just changed the brake lights in my Dad's Chevy Express Van, the vents are located behind the taillights rubber flap and all they're about 3 inches wide and 12 long. Maybe they (or another vehicle like it) can be custom fit to go behind a different vertical surface on the 4Runner? Replies to this message: fl4runner (Jul 01, 2004 8:05 am) toyboxx (Jul 01, 2004 9:48 am)
#665 of 862 Replacing 87 4Runner with new??? by cl3inco Jan 26, 2004 (2:58 pm)
Well, the time has come for me to consider replacing my 87 4Runner. Test drove the 2004 V8 Limited. Was initially impressed. As the original owner for my 87 4Runner, with 185,000 miles, it's has lost some spunk over the years. But it is the most reliable automobile I have had for 17 years. I have 3 autos in the household, and the 4Runner beats all. But, a loss of performance during mountain driving in Colorado has positioned me into replacing with new. Plus, I have a few interested buyers in wanting to purchase the 87 for around $3000, knowing the dependability. They are conversion specialist for 4WD shops; so they know. The aftermarket Soft Top is in perfect condition as well, considering I traveled from our beach home back to MD/VA during Hurricane Hugo years ago with the soft top on; no leaks at all.   However, with all this talk about the emission odors (as well as emissions that do not have odors) within the cabin, I suspect I may hold out for another year until such time a PR announcement can be finalized by Toyota. I hope Toyota is listening; If they want owner loyalty to continue, then they must impress this 17 year loyal customer.   Everyone knows we don't drive around with the back window down. This was known in 87. However, fumes coming into the cabin from other entrances of the car are a problem. I will frequent this site often for updates. In the meantime, if anyone has information regarding buying/selling price for 87 4Runner, please respond. Vehicle has been kept in good condition, except for WARN hubs that replaced Toyota Automatic hubs about 10 years ago.
#666 of 862 cl3inco by sequoiasoon Jan 26, 2004 (7:09 pm)
While you wait and decide on new, try tossing in a can or 2 of BG 44K into your fuel tank. If you've never had the fuel injectors cleaned you'll be amazed at the difference! You can get it at many Toyota dealers. Check the website www.bgprod.com My Corolla had 130k on it the first time I used it (from somebody elses recommendation) After the first tank I was like holy crap, I didn't think the car had lost so much power until I got it back. Cost about $15 a can but it's like 10x as powerful as Techron.
#667 of 862 Replace It! by gooner3 Jan 26, 2004 (7:50 pm)
Glad to hear you've had great luck with your '87 4runner. I purchased an '03 V6 2 months ago, and have yet to smell the sulfer odor. Needless to say, I picked up my '04 Gran Prix last week (company vehicle,) and when I pulled out of the dealership I smelled eggs. I'm sure the dealership filled it up with 87 octane, and I'm filling the 4runner up with 91. This problem isn't just with the 4runner.   I'm very loyal to Toyota, having owned a Tacoma and Camry in the past. You will not be upset with the overall quality of the truck. If your leary, stick with an '04 or wait for the '05's. I couldn't wait that long. I think Toyota does a great job of listening to their customers, and would not risk putting out faulty redesigns. Check the TSB's for all new models...   -Avalanche, 1 recall, 64 TSB's -Trailblazer, 4 recalls, 60 TSB's -H2, 1 recall, 71 TSB's -4runner, 0 recalls, 25 TSB's
#668 of 862 Post 665 and States where sulfur problem most common by tangman Jan 28, 2004 (11:42 pm)
I just order an 04 and sold my 87 4-Runner. Mine was a totally stock SR5. They are selling in the northwest for between $3000 and $4,000 when they are in excellent condition.   For the sulfur problem, has anyone compiled a list of people having problems or the states where the sulfur smell is the most common. I would think that some very angry buyers would have checked notes with others having the same problem.
#669 of 862 RE: Post 665 and States where sulfur problem most common by cl3inco Jan 29, 2004 (9:02 pm)
Curious to know what model you ordered, options, and price you paid??? Also, did you notice a supplemental sticker that references "Regional Price Adjustment"? I guess some local dealers don't realize the economy still sucks for a few of us.
#670 of 862 Reference Post 669 by tangman Jan 29, 2004 (11:08 pm)
Hi:   I ordered a v8 sport, no sun roof, 6cd, spoiler, mats, AC plug, auto dimming mirror. My strategy for price comparison is againt MSRP since all dealers have the exact same MSRP number for a vehicle configuration. Most important is to do your homework and know precisely what you want. Forget invoice, since many dealer place spin on the invoice number. No regional price adjustments, but I did have the TDA (regional advertising)which all dealers claim they must pay and does show on the invoice. I don't have the vehicle yet, so I cann't say what I paid. You never know with toyota dealers. It is an actual factory order since V8 sports without a sunroof are very rare in the northwest. The closest I could find one was in LA (CA). My goal is $3000 less than MSRP. We will see on delivery.
#671 of 862 Toyodor smell / gas problem by reddfish Jan 31, 2004 (9:50 am)
The smell problem has been reported in all states, including CA. The V8 seems to have the worse record as far as the number of complaints go. I wish I had kept my 91 runner. Good Luck. If it's not to late, you may want to reconsider.

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