Toyota 4Runner

sunnyday

toyboxx,
Thank you for your help.
The 4wheel stick has "4L N H" three choices. This lever is resting in the H position when the car is in 2wheel drive. How do I actually shift to 4H?
Yes, there is a center diff on the dash to the left of the steering.
Sunnyday

aggiedog

I have a 2000 Ltd and I'm sure the only difference is that before 2001 you also had a button to manually lock the rear diff. Unless they changed it drastically in 01, all you have to do is push the 4wd button that is on the left of the stick. It's easy to miss if you are not looking for it. In normal driving the stick is always in the 4H position. You can shift it on the fly as long as your are below 50 mph. You must also be driving in a straight line. You also can be parked too. In the 2000's you could also shift to 4L while driving straight but only in the appropriate conditions (snow,ice,etc.).

I hesitate to recommend the Toyota 4WD board here but you probably will find some useful info there. I think they know a little too much about 4WD's which may confuse you. I've had mine for 4 years and I get confused reading some of stuff they write.

sunnyday

aggiedog
Thanks. The manual never mentions what the button on the left side of the 4wheel stick is for! Now it is beginning to make some sense for a beginner.

allen42

As I said before I was using cheap gasoline on vacation and developed a knocking of sort. I was using the k-n fipk on my 2000 4 runner, but the check engine light came on just after I cleaned and re-oiled filter. I know, I put too much oil on the filter. Took runner to dealer and they cleaned air sensor and suggested using stock breather unit. I have changed to factory unit. I still have almost 3 gallons of gas in tank. I have a mixture of 89 arco and 91 chevron with a few additives added in for good measures. Techron to be sure. I still have a few rattles of such when engine gets to operating temp. Am going to use 89 octane of either chevron, shell, union 76, or texaco when I need to fill up. Was told by a person to add an additive to the tank before filling up. Am thinking of using an additive called Berryman. Any thoughts on my problem. Really liked my 4 runner. Thanks Jack

hlron

I imagine this may have been addressed here sometime on this board, but can anyone give me an idea of what is needed to add an electronic brake hook up to a 2004 SR5 V-6? I understand the hook up wire itself may be installed under the dash, but that a control box and the wiring from front to back needs to be installed - is that right? Thank you much in advance for any help or insight! Ron

glb5

A few post back someone mentioned they had installded a waag front bumper guard on a new model 4runner. I have a few questions about the installation. One: Does the bracket that attaches the guard to the truck only have one bolt on each side? Also does the guard bolt to the radiator upright that is just above the front tow hooks where there is a nut already inside the upright? And does the attachment go thru the tow hook itself?

corancher

glb5, you might check the 4Runner accessories discussion for postings from me and others who've installed this item. There is quite a bit of information and I don't want to waste bandwidth by repeating it all here.

In summary, though, the guards (both front and rear) were easy to install and solidy mounted. The front runner saved me (and the other party's insurance company) an expensive bumper repair when someone backed into me a couple of months later.

The front bumper guard is bolted with 2 bolts on each side to a bracket that is itself bolted to the 4Runner frame with 2 bolts. The bracket bolts to the frame on each side with one big bolt that goes into an already-tapped hole in the side of the frame and one small bolt that replaces a plastic fitting in the frame that already mounts a rubber flap. The instructions that came with the Waag products were fine, though they probably should have suggested thread locking compound.

nsmoller

Consumer reports briefly mentioned that the V6 has poor reliability for 2004 engines since it is first year. How true is this, what is everyone's opinion.

Are there any tips like i've seen that i should tell them to take care of off the bat? I read about a sulfur smell, etc...?

Thanks in advance

biglatka

Correction, that was for the 2003 4Runner, not the 2004 model, and it was based on a recall for a fuel system problem in the 2003 model. The problem has now been recognized and fixed. The V6 and V8 both have TSB's for the sulfur smell, that's, by the way, common in other cars too.

toyotaguy21

trailer brake hook up

I've got the 03 sr5 v8 sport but it should be the same for this. The wiring adapter should be in the glove box, at least mine was at delivery. I had to buy a trailer brake control box, screwed it to the under side of the dash , plugged it in to the toyota provided wiring harness and wired it to the box. Actually at guy at the hitch shop did the work . I seem to remember it took only 20 minutes.
The wiring is already in place to the plug on the hitch.
I've always wondered why these boxes are not built into the dash from the factory. They could certainly do a much better job that having a box and wiring hanging just above your feet.
Then I see an ad for 04 GMC suburban with just my idea.
Except that its the same old box with a GM name on it in the same old place in stead of a nice little switch in a good place on the dash. Let's hope toyota will do it first.
Cheers Steve

nsmoller

so is there any reason to get the v8? i'm not towing anything...

biglatka

There are many posts on this thread that address that issue. Two of mine, #9960 and #10037, plus those of others discuss the pro and con of the V6 vs. V8. Do a search to find them.
Hope this helps.

nsmoller

i heard from a dealer this is going on? is this true, where can i find info

stever

Our incentives page doesn't list college grad discounts but several Toyota dealers on the net are advertising it.

It looks like $400 is the current 4Runner college grad incentive, but it may increase to $1,000 if you finance through Toyota.

Try a net search for "Toyota 4Runner college grad incentive" for some examples.

Steve, Host

bryancos

I came across a discussion on another forum with regard to the Oil Filters on the 2003+ 4R... TRD has a high performance filter, part #00602-90915-007 and it's considerably larger than the OEM part. This can replace Toyota OE part #'s 90915-YZZB5 and 90915-20004

 

Interestingly enough, per the FRAM cross reference chart:

TOYOTA 90915-20004 = FRAM PH3614

TOYOTA 90915-YZZB5 = FRAM PH16

The TRD filter seems to be even larger.
 

I just spoke to the service folks at both local dealers in my area about the filter size discrepancy. While either can be used, they recommended that if you are running with the smaller PH3614 sized filter, you should change to the larger 90915-YZZB5 (PH16) size (or TRD) filter at your next oil change...

 

Apparently the "20004" is what came installed from the factory, but they are phasing them out and current cross ref charts end up having it replaced with the smaller filter. If you go to quick oil change places for service, they may errantly install a smaller PH3614 or equivalent and they should be using the larger PH16 or equivalent filter! I just had my oil changed and I'm going to look at swapping out for the larger TRD filter.

dpink11

I have been looking for a little while now, and out of necessity(sold my Maxima)I will be purchasing a 4Runner this week.

I have $5000 to put down, and I am seeing rates just under 4.9% for purchase. I am trying to keep my payment as close to $500/mo.

What model should I be looking at? I dont need all the bells and whistles, but the leather and JBL system is nice. I am looking to get a moonroof, the 1 CD is fine...

Any suggestions on the difference's in the SR5 and the Sport and the Limited?

69mach1

I wouldn't get the JBL system if I were you, unless you've heard the system and like it. For the money I think you could do a lot better with an after market system.

simba

I have a 03' 4Runner Ltd (v8)..have owned a 99 4runner ltd prior. Love them both. Bought the 03 the week it came out in 02' Never a problem after 24K miles....my mental dilemma I travel to UK quite often (40% of the yr), I rent 03 RangeRovers all the time. Love the vehicles, ride (diesel over there is great)and interior. I am seriously considering purchasing either a used 03 or new (04) RR. My brother works for Ford and I can get a discount on new, however with residual values a 03 used is the smart idea. I know the miserable history around later model RR's. But this is a German (BMW) engineered vehicle ....right?....

..Or am I just a madman for even considering giving up my 'reliable' albeit undistinctive Toyota. Anyone have any advise based on experience.

nsmoller

i am looking for the schematics for the 2004 sr5 jbl system... that system sux... it was forced upon me, since my region had only like 5 sr5 v8's...

hlron

Thanks for the reply and information, Steve. Particularly, I was wondering if the wiring was already in place to the hitch - seems that it would be, but I was not sure. My wiring adapter was indeed in the glove box, so I'll get a brake box installed using the provided wiring harness. Thanks again! /Ron

slandy

If anybody needs wiring info give me your fax#.

maxless

Just completed the sulfur TSB. Took two trips to the dealer as they did not have parts the first visit and would not take my word regarding the problem/fix. The Service Technician had to diagnose the problem. Other than that, 18,000 miles and not one problem. Great in the Minnesota winter. Highway mileage has gradually increased from 15 mpg to 19 mpg. And yes, this is calculated with actual miles vs. gallons of fuel used. Handles my 17' 2500lb boat like nothing. I was really amazed how nice 4W low is for pulling the boat up a steep boat ramp. The truck just walks out. What's funny is my father spent a day with me towing the boat and thought the truck was very nice, smooth and quiet. This is from a Ford guy. Can't get over how solid the truck feels. Then he towed my boat with his F150 and admitted his truck had to work at it.

beercoll1

I took my 4Runner in for the TSB. The dealer ran the VIN, saw I was covered, ordered the parts, and fixed it without a hassle.
30k miles, no complaints

kullenberg

I went through the RR vs. 4Runner choice process. I have always wanted a Land Rover. What swayed me to the 4Runner was the reliability issues with the RR, and the fact that my nearest LR dealer is 2 hours away. Not a happy combination.

Regarding renting a RR in the UK, where do you do this? I have searched high and low, have not found any. I find the higher driving position makes it easier to accomodate to driving on the left.
Thanks

jimxo

Will a child car seat fit behind the rear passenger seat while at the same time keeping the passenger seat moved all the way back. I hate having to slide the front seat forward each time I take the kid out in my GS.

kjack100

Doesn't seem to be too much new except for the new engine option available in January. Also, Salsa Red Pearl available again as a color choice.

stove1

Where can I find a horse power,torque curve for the new V8 ?

The 5 speeds have automatic overdrive control. Is there an off switch ? What happens if I'm towing ?

pat84

The 5 Speed on my 03 Sport V-8 is gated. In "D"it is 5 speed. You can put in 4,3,2,or 1 to limit how many gears you want to use. If you are near the towing limit, and going up hill, you may want to keep it in 4.

digitaldoc

I purchased my brand new '04 Toyota 4Runner. This is the 1st SUV I have owned. It was purchased from Westbury Toyota here on Long Island, New York.

     The tire pressure warning light was flashing when I went to pick the vehicle up. I noticed it on the vehicle review. The idiot light kept flashing, and it is annoying, and distracting. When I made it clear that I would not be picking up the vehicle witht he light flashing, I was told that the tire pressures needed to be adjusted, and that this had just been done. Of course, I wondered, why was this not done prior to me standing there and pointing out the flashing light. I was personally assured from the sales manager that the light would go out after I had driven 22 miles because the system would "need to reset."

I took the vehicle home, and it still flashes. From the above post #8812, I strongly doubt that the correct service was done, and they merely wanted to "get me out the door," and get their money.

I realize this is not the most crucial component of the vehicle, but for $30 grand, everything should be right.

I will post an update as to how Westbury Toyota resolves this issue. Any ideas from the forum are appreciated.

uktrucker

Does anyone know how to remove the top of the dash on a 2003 4Runner? If it's not difficult I'd rather fix a small rattle myself than let the mechanics loose on it...

anchortwn

Do u guys know when will the 2005 Toyota 4 Runner will be available? Thanks so much!

kheintz1

I'd be curious to hear more about the rattle you're referring to, as well as exactly where on the dash you think it might be coming from, and whether the rattle you're hearing seems to come and go depending on extremes of outside temperature(?).

2toyotas

I had the same problem with my 04 4 Runner. When the light flashes there is a malfunction. One of the wheel sensors is probably bad. That is what caused my problem. It took the dealership a few tries. Good Luck!!

chas215

I also have a dash rattle on my '03 4Runner that presents itself when the outside temperature is below 50 degrees. It's hard to tell exactly where it is coming from but appears to be closer to the windshield on the driver's side. It then disappears in warmer weather. Perhaps there is a design flaw. If the problem is more widespread than isolated, I would like to let Toyota know. Thus far I'm just living with it.

69mach1

I've got the same problem on my 2003 Sport. I believe the rattle is coming fron the defroster duct on the driver's side. The Toyota dealer acknowledged the rattle, but they couldn't fix it.

I first noticed the rattle not by temperature but driving on a rough road, however after living with this rattle for a while, it does in fact rattle more on colder days.

When you hear the rattle, try pressing down on the duct when driving and see if it goes away.

fergy4

There was a similar rattle on my 03 SR-5. I found that it was actually on the outside of the truck. It was caused by the piece of windshield trim in the lower corner of each side of the windshield. For example, look on the passenger side of the windshield near where the tip of the wiper rests. As I recall, two pieces of trim overlap at the bottom corner. I stuck a piece of neoprene rubber under the trim and the rattle stopped.

digitaldoc

Thanks for the reply regarding the tire pressure sensor. I hope to bring the truck back to the dealership soon (Westbury Toyota). I really feel that this should have been found prior to me standing there at the delivery of the vehicle. I also didn't appreciate the story about "driving to reset" that I was assured was straight out of the manual. I've read the entire 400+ page manual at this point, and it says nothing of the sort. It does state that if the pressure needs to be adjusted, that it will stop beeping in a "few minutes" after it has achieved target pressure.

uktrucker

kheintz1 and others. My dash rattle comes from a plastic strip which runs under the air vents at the base of the windscreen. If you push your finger through one of the vent holes you can touch this strip underneath and on mine it is springy. A little to the left of center (and probably on the right too) there is a raised section on this strip which come just close enough to the vents in the dash top to rattle against it. On mine the rattle is worse when it's hot or, strangely, when someone is sitting in the passenger seat. I found that by wedging a piece of foam under the vents and on top of raised section (easier said than done) I can make most of the problem go away but it doesn't look very cool. The rattle is annoying since the rest of the truck is so quiet.

The dash top looks like it's a separate molding so I was just wondering if came off easily.

glb5

Toyboxx I have looked back through the posts but can't seem to find your explanation on exactly how to remove the dastardly dd cargo system. If you could explain again it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

kheintz1

I have noticed this noise in my '03 4Runner during cold weather. It sounds like it's coming from the driver's side of the dash, where it meets the windshield. I was suspecting those two, little plastic domes (some type of sensors light sensors perhaps?) which reside in this area of the dash, but Uktrucker may be onto something here. At any rate, I sure would like to eliminate that "cold weather" noise, because it does tend to annoy me greatly.

nonunion

Can someone tell me exactly what features are different on the 1999 Toyota "Sport" model SR5 4WD as opposed to the regular SR5 4WD? I'm aware of the hood scoop and the fog lights.

jamonrob

I just took delivery on "04 SR5 v6 4x4.

Question: I want the Toyota platinum 7 yr, 100k extended warranty. My dealer wouldn't go below $1,175 for it.
Your input please: a) Is this a decent price? b) Do you know of a better price at another dealer or vendor?
Thanks

kheintz1

My dealer charged me ~$950.00 for mine.

jamonrob

Sounds great. Rules here permit you to post name, location of dealer. As I undertand it, any ealer can sell the warranty. Can you please do that?
Thanks

kjack100

I wouldn't really sweat a $225 difference assuming they gave you a good deal on your new vehicle. $1175 is still a good price. Just make sure it is a Toyota warranty and not a third party. Something tells me kheintz got his 4Runner and warranty below cost to get him out the door. Ha.

toyboxx

It is pretty simple. The two bolts that hold the tie-down loops right behind the rear seats need to be removed the the shelf just slids out.

You will be left with a lip with the trim piece under these two bolts. To get the right trim for a vehicle that never had the cargo system (and to get rid of the lip)is like $175 last time I checked. And lastly if you do switch the trim the carpeting is not exactly the same and will have some bare spots. You will need to get the cargo area carpeting also to completly switch over.

I just took the shelf out and some day I will buy the right trim when I can get it used for cheap.

ppatterson

Considering the purchase of a 4-Runner SR-5 (4.0 Liter V-6). Consumer Report was less-than complementary of that engine. Does any one know the specifics regarding that engine. Has anyone had any problems with that engine. Also, SR5 is not available with leather. Do the dealers offer leather after market and what's the price. Thanks......

golfdude54

I bought the 7yrs/100k warranty from toyota as well. I have 60 days to cancel it. Should I cancel? Why or Why not? Many thanks.

stever

Are Extended Warranties Warranted? (Smart Money)

Extended Warranties: Extending The Joys Of Ownership

Understanding Extended Warranties

Extended Warranties (Town Hall discussion)

Steve, Host

ohtoma

Interesting about the DD cargo system, which is one of the delivered options in the northeast. Was it defective or just plain useless? The DD cargo shelf is not offered here with the 3rd row seat.