Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (service brakes, ABS, rotors and pads, parking brake).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
I am the owner of a Toyota FJ Cruiser (Year:2007), VIN: [redacted] ]) equipped with the TRD High-Performance Brake Kit, which is under recall campaign C0R / NHTSA 12E046. I recently experienced a serious safety issue involving the front TRD brake crossover tube. While driving, I suddenly noticed a soft brake pedal and significant loss of braking power. I was unable to stop the vehicle properly and nearly crashed into another car at an intersection. I had to swerve at the last moment, which could have caused a more serious accident. Upon inspection, I found that brake fluid was leaking from the crossover tube-exactly the defect described in the TRD brake recall. This failure happened without warning, and my safety and the safety of others was clearly at risk. This is unacceptable for a safety recall. I am requesting immediate investigation, assistance, and a permanent solution. …
I recently purchased the used 2007 Toyota FJ with 101,000 miles. During maintenance and inspection, it was found that the fuel tank straps are rusted out and need to be replaced. The rear brake lines are rusted out and need to be replaced. The frame is severely rusted out and failing at the factory welds. I was referred to submit a report and investigate filing a class action lawsuit against the manufacturer for negligence, as this is apparently a known issue. I am hoping that the will reach someone that is able to help all the owners with the same issues as this should be recalled and repaired to prevent unnecessary injury or death. This is a huge financial burden for those expecting a quality vehicle that will be safe. Failing brakes, loose gas tanks and weakened frames are recipe for disaster.
I purchased the vehicle with a clean carfax on 12/2/2021 Flew from Phoenix to Dallas to pick it up. Drove the vehicle from Dallas to Phoenix. The Brakes malfunctioned on the drive home. Fortunately it was late at night and not many vehicles on the road. Took car to mechanic on 12/4/2021. The frame, brakes, suspension, exhaust and engine mounts had been sprayed over to cover severe rust and rot of the the frame and undercarriage. The vehicle cost 14k The repairs to be done 20k The vehicle is not roadworthy and has not been driven since ai got back to Phoenix. The dealership purposely didn't disclose the frame or brake damage. The dealership sold this vehicle knowing it was for my daughter and 3 year old granddaughter
Due to rust on my 2007 FJ Cruiser, I've had many unexpected expenses. I first was losing brake pressure and my brake lines had to be replaced after breaking when in a mechanic's shop. I've also replaced all four calipers, all the rusted pulleys on the engine, lower control arms that were so rusted that they had to be cut out, and hub assemblies for both front wheels. The hub assembly lead to a failed vehicle inspection for safety concerns. The exhaust pipe literally broke apart near the rear frame crossmember and was sitting on it, so had to be replaced. The exhaust manifold rusted apart and separated from the engine block, leading to dangerous fumes in the engine bay and horrible gas mileage. The O2 sensors were rusted in place and giving poor readings and had to be replaced. …
While driving normally and less than 10 miles per hour, thankfully on a regular, paved, local road with little traffic, the driver side rear suspension spring seat and stabilizer bar attachment point on rear axle suddenly, unexpectedly, and without warning just tore apart and off of the axle housing to which it was mounted and the resulting sharp and heavy metal edged parts completely sheared off a brake line releasing all hydraulic brake fluid and causing the immediate loss of all normal braking ability. Thankfully nobody was injured, but the car can't be driven at all now, because it has no brakes at all, other than the mechanical emergency brake, and by using transmission "braking." lots of rust under car since we bought it used from dealer in morristown nj, apparently due to low quality steel used in initial construction and apparent lack of adequate factory anti-rust treatment of …
Bought my FJ new in 2007.when I did I asked if they had rusty jones or undercoating and was told with the new alloys I didnt need it. 3 weeks ago I was having my mechanic check the brakes and he called me down to show me a break in the frame connecting to the body.thankfully he found it because I was supposed to go to boston the next day. The truck only has 139,000 miles on it and the frame is completely rusted out so its not safe to drive.I brought it to the dealer I purchased it from and 2 reps came down from nh to look at who basically told me I had a good ride with it and they would do nothing.I then called Toyota cec and was told the same. …
Tl* the contact owns a 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, the instrument panel lighting and gauges began to fluctuate erratically as the vehicle suddenly stalled. The contact was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing where the technician advised that the ABS system would have to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure recurred. In addition, the instrument panel lighting would not illuminate and gauges would not provide a reading. The contact was able to restart the vehicle but the brakes would not respond. After shutting the engine off the vehicle could not be restarted. The contact inspected the vehicle and discovered that the battery was melted. …
Master cylinder failed - have to slam the brake pedal all the way to the floor and then I was still unsure if the car would actually stop. Had twin 3 year old boys in the car, scared for our lives. Dashboard lite up like a christmas tree. Second shop diagnosed it as a failed master cylinder. Parts plus labor = $3,066. I work for the school system and we don't have that sort of money. Will tow it home, hopefully find a used part, and try to replace it ourselves. The only reason I'm logging a complaint (because cars need repairs and I understand that) is because I'm seeing the exact same complaint over and over again "master cylinder Toyota FJ Cruiser 2007". How can so many of the same complaints on the exact same vehicle go unheard? Please help, make the master cylinder recall apply to the FJ Cruiser. It obviously should be included. Thank you for your time.
Tl* the contact owns a 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser. While driving 62 MPH, the vehicle stalled and the check engine warning indicator illuminated. In addition, the brake pedal was applied, but the brakes failed to respond and the steering wheel seized. The vehicle was able to restart after numerous attempts. The vehicle was towed to ridgeway sunoco service center but was not diagnosed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that unknown parts needed to be replaced. The dealer was contacted (t j Toyota inc, 6698 ny-56, potsdam, ny 13676, [phone]). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that the warranty had expired. The failure mileage was 105,000.
It seems to me that my anti-lock breaks are engaging when they shouldn't be. When I try to stop, it jerks so hard that it seems as though I've been hit from behind. It will try to stop while I'm driving and starts jerking. This has happened multiple times when I'm driving on the highway. My son is 20 years old and has this vehicle now and I am letting you know, that I will hold Toyota and NHTSA personally responsible should anything happen to him. I have read so about so many issues regarding the 2007 Toyota FJ breaking system that it's unbelievable that a recall hasn't been issued. You are playing with peoples lives.
Brake complaints in other FJ Cruiser years
Frequently asked questions
How common are brake problems on the 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser?
NHTSA has 75 complaints about the brakes of the 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser, 13% of the model year's 593 complaints. The component named most often is antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip (2 mentions).
Is there a recall for 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser brake problems?
No. NHTSA lists no brakes recall for the 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser, though it has 8 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser brake problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 56,000 miles, and 14% before 25,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 1 crash, 1 fire and 1 injury to brakes problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.