Toyota 4Runner

rogers12 · July 2003

In general, these mirrors must be attached to mounts glued to the windshield. They don't fit the factory mounts in Toyotas. Many vehicles have mirrors that already have mounts for these mirrors. In general, Toyotas do not. The mounts must be glued on to the windshield. Check to see how your mirror is mounted and then check with a salesman at the mirror manufacturer to see if they can be mounted in the factory location. I have installed a few of these mirrors and they have always needed windshield mounts.

pfessor10 · July 2003

Thanks for the new hitch receiver info. I've looked at several dealerships but have not found any of the new ones yet. They were to go into production in May so they must be just getting here now.

4runtexas · July 2003

could anyone give me what most think is a fair price to pay for a set of the 17" rims and tires that toyota puts on the limited model. I would like to put these on my SR5, which currently has the stock 16" rims/tires.

also, if any one has any suggestions as to where i could sell my rims/tires and to where i could purchase the 17"s..

ie - i got an offer of 1,000.00 for take offs, not even brand new, 17" rims and tires. this seems a little high, any help is apreciated!

p.s.-if any one is willing to trade, and any costs would be discussed,let me know!

stever · July 2003

No buying and selling on Town Hall.

Most people seem to have good luck swapping rims and tires on eBay. Usual disclaimers....

Steve, Host

smg1062 · July 2003

About the headrest DVD screens; they seem like a nice option to the overhead. I never thought about the moonroof/weight problem. But if thats so, why do other vehicles have fold down screens AND moonroofs? I stated a few messages ago that Toyota was supposed to offer a rear entertainment system in the 4Runners (according to the brochure), but noone here has gotten one from them. Are any parts of the Toyota warranty voided with an aftermarket dvd system? Do you have any problems with the headrest model? Where is the dvd player located?

kjack100 · July 2003

Regional distributor, Southeast Toyota, is installing the Audiovox 7" overhead all-in-one units on their vehicles. My wife has that (and a sunroof) on her LC and the kids seem to like it fine. I would consider going to an established local auto electronics outfit and having one installed. I was looking at the Audiovox VOD806 (8" all-in-one) before we got hers which was already optioned with the 7". It would be cool to be able to wire in such a way where the remote that comes with the 4runner could be used for volume adjustments and you could use the existing Toyota wireless headphones. A good installer should be able to do that. Make sure there's at least a three year warranty.

terrafirma · July 2003

What is the deal with Toyota? They advertise the hell out of the silver/grey 4x4 sport and when I go to buy it all they have now is the fully painted version!
Grey cladding is not even an option! This is stupid beyond measure for several reasons:
1. It was obviously designed to be unpainted. If they wanted monotone, they should have metal panels for it.
2. Paint never sticks well to plastic. Paint chips off plastic easier than metal.
3. If you ever have to repaint, it cannot be made to "stick" to plastic like OEM. It will crack off in short order.
4. I hate the way it looks painted.

How long did the unpainted cladding version last? About 3 months??!! Annoying!!

peter78 · July 2003

The cladding was not well received. Toyota changed because of the market. In my opinion the grey cladding was a big blunder, I could not belive they put that ugly stuff on the 4Runner. Not only was in plastic it was a off grey with funny bumps.

Give credit were credit is due, Coke changed their cola when they realized it sucked and Toyota changed their cladding when they realized it sucked.

If you really must buy the grey cladding find one on the lot, used or new, it should have a greatly reduced price.

sacstate1 · July 2003

Hey, For those of us who like the grey cladding who are you to tell us it is ugly? Keep your opinions to yourself!

stever · July 2003

If everyone kept their opinions to themselves, it'd be awfully quiet in here!

Steve, Host

peter78 · July 2003

I remember when pictures of the new 4Runners came out, about a year ago. The biggest concern then was the cladding. Some people on this board said it could not be, it was just a ugly cover up to hide the real 4Runner when it comes out. But of course the pictures were real and so was the cladding.

"Keep your opinions to yourself!" Your kidding right, I mean this is a forum were people want your ideas, opinions and knowledge.

The cladding at first did not go away, at first Toyota put a Appearance Package on the SR5 as a option, but after awhile Toyota decided to drop the cladding all together. I feel it is refreshing that a company can change to meet the market demands. Of course that is just MY OPINION.

nedzel · July 2003

Personally, I hated the look of the grey cladding -- it looked like a Chevy Avalanche to me. Yuck. YMMV.

bcmalibu99ls · July 2003

It's not a simple issue. I do like it, because it's great for off-roading. As for looks...people like different things

And, btw, Avalanche looks less attractive, imho, without the cladding. With cladding it looks much more rugged

claddingsuxs · July 2003

I saw 2 4runners side by side today at the dealership. One with the new Appearance package and the other with the gray cladding painted to match. The painted cladding looked better i thought. It makes the 4runner look bigger whereas the AP look smaller. This is because the gray cladding sticks out more over the fenders.

kbhockey · July 2003

I recently bought a 03 4Runner and plan to keep it a long time. Has anyone purchased the ext warranty-'extra care'? Any thoughts on Toyotas vs an aftermarket warranty? Cheers all-

4runtexas · July 2003

just got off the phone with a toyota dealer in north carolina, according to them, 18" enkei rims and tires are usually standard on all Limited 4WD 4Runner models!!

to my surprise, he told me that they are shipped to the dealers in the SE with the enkeis already put on, but the dealer orders them that way from the factory.
they do charge for them on the sticker, but at a discounted price. the salesmen told me "if people out their can afford to spend 40 grand on a 4runner, theyll usually spring for the extra 1800 on the rims"

seemed weird to me, just thought i'd post!!

yomols · July 2003

I have a 2003 SR5 and just added after market leather seats. Cost was $1100 and included the head rests and part of the inside door panels. It looks great. Just thought I would post for anyone thinking about it.

stever · July 2003

Did the dealer do it, Yomols, or hook you up with someone? Or did you find your own installer? Thx,

Steve, Host

rorr · July 2003

Did your SR5 include seat mounted side impact airbags? If so, what provisions were made to ensure proper functioning?

asdf · July 2003

If it's not too much to ask, could you send us some pictures of your new leather?
Thanks.

nedzel · July 2003

did you get heated seats with the leather?

terrafirma · July 2003

Well, the whole debate over painted and unpainted is moot because they are all painted now. I wish they left it open as an option but it is what it is. I guess you take it or leave it.

Leather aftermarket- my experience with aftermarket leather can be broken down into 2 parts:
1. Brand and quality of the leather hide and accuracy of the pattern.
2. Quality of the installer.
Usually, the seams are different than factory and the fit is not nearly as good. Over the long haul, they usually do not wear as well nor hold their shape either. Of course, there could be some great, high quality aftermarket interiors that work out great. I guess I'm trying to say don't just go to any dealer and ask for them to add it.

On a more general note, I find the quality (at least from a "test drive" kick the tires look) to be awesome.
The only cheesy bits are the filp out bin in the dash that feels like it's going to break off with one good pull and the interior of the center console that feels like one blow-molded thin piece of plastic.

Reading through, I noticed some engine noise/smell issues. Any "bits and pieces" issues?
Thanks,

terrafirma · July 2003

In an attempt to tap the knowledge of this forum, would you all list the things (had you to do it over again) to inspect, look for, make sure it's not missing, etc. when doing the final delivery inspection/test drive?

For example, I plan on looking at all the body cladding pieces are aligned and mounted properly, that the front seat doesn't wiggle (I think this was mentioned as a problem), engine squeak (although if it's going to happen, won't until no one else is around!;))
fyi, I'm getting the 4x4 sport v-6
THANKS!

bmw323is · July 2003

I used to do a VERY thorough vehcile inspection prior to taking delivery of a new car. However, new vehicles now, especially Toyota's, are built and assembled with much greater care. I wasn't able to find one thing wrong with the last two new vehicles I've bought. Although you definately should give it a good look, especially for damage (like scratches and chips). Eight years ago I bought a Ford pick up. About a week later I noticed a considerable dent on the inside of the tailgate. The dealer wouldn't repair it because they said I caused it.

I know there are many different sources for checklists that you could use. You might search for "pre-deleivery auto checklists" or something like that, with your search engine of choice.

hpooh · July 2003

Got a 2003 4Runner Sport V6 4X2, just wondering if anyone of you out there has any idea on the 0-60 time?
the V6 has more HP and lighter than the V8... but the tranny has only 4-speed vs 5-speed for the V8.
I think it should be about 0.5 second slower..
any idea? I tried to push it at the 1st gear and seems lots of torque... compare to my friends IS300.. of course, after 2nd gear, the IS will smoke the 4runner (i know it's a bad comparison but that's my limitation)
So i assume that the V6 4runner will do at least 8.5 sec... feedback?

yomols · July 2003

Steve I called the Toyota dealer to see who they would suggest, then went to see their work and decided to go ahead. The manufacturer of the leather seats is Katzkin and they give a 3 year 36,000 mile warranty.

Rorr My runner doesn't have side airbags.

ASDF Sorry, I have a great truck but do not have a camera.

Nedzel I believe heated seats were an option but I did'nt look into it.

bryancos · July 2003

The particular shop I talked to stated they might have weight problems and wasn't able to tell if there was adequate support for the weight of the unit without installing a brace or bracket that attached to a more secure spot under the headliner. (he'd never installed in an 03 4runner -- I'm sure other shops have done it w/o any trouble)

I've had no issues w/ the headrest bracket mounted monitor other than the visible cable draping down the side/back of the seat. But since the monitor is only hooked up during times when we want to keep the child occupied, the cable(s) are just tucked away under the seat when the monitor isn't in use. The DVD player I purchased is mounted neatly under the passenger seat out of view. (facing the rear - the seat adjustment bar prevented me from facing it towards the front) There's a remotely mounted IR receiver in the front so we can control the player from the front. I plan to install a 2nd LCD monitor in either in the sunvisor or on a cellular type pedestal so that screen display can be seen when needed, or to keep the passenger entertained too.

===

#6791 of 6814 to bryancos.... by smg1062 Jul 15, 2003 (10:18 pm)
About the headrest DVD screens; they seem like a nice option to the overhead. I never thought about the moonroof/weight problem. But if thats so, why do other vehicles have fold down screens AND moonroofs? I stated a few messages ago that Toyota was supposed to offer a rear entertainment system in the 4Runners (according to the brochure), but noone here has gotten one from them. Are any parts of the Toyota warranty voided with an aftermarket dvd system? Do you have any problems with the headrest model? Where is the dvd player located?

bryancos · July 2003

I think it's the squared off wheel wells coupled w/ the cladding that makes the new 4RUNNER look "Avalanche-ish"... I don't think it'd be quite as bad if wells were rounded... or if they'd left it off the fenders altogether...

terrafirma · July 2003

I think Katzkin is one of the best suppliers for leather seating-- not 100% sure but seem to remember that they are.

jorgjorg · July 2003

You said you are getting the 4x4 sport v-6. Are you placing a build order or did you find a dealer who had one?

If so are you talking 2003 or 2004. Any details would be appreciated as I'm waiting until I can place an order for 04 since no 03's in my 7 state area (CO).

Thanks,

terrafirma · July 2003

No, there are dealers in my area that have them. I know one local dealer that can get 2 white 4x4 sport v-6 (although I didn't want white) although they didn't have one on the lot.

There doesn't seem to be an availability issue here in southern california. Maybe because we are so close to the shipping port?

chorton · July 2003

I want to know first hand just how bad [non-permissible content removed] the 4runners are in the woods,mud,hills ect. I know about the 02's but not had any real FUN time in a 03. ya'll let me know.

pfessor10 · July 2003

Do the "03 SR5 4-Runners have auto-off headlamps? I know the Limiteds do but what about the SR5's?

reddfish · July 2003

yes sr5 has them

bryancos · July 2003

I'm getting conflicting info regarding a replacement oil filter for the 03 4.0L V6.
(It was delivered w/ Toyota 90915-20004 installed)

The above number now cross references to a FRAM PH3614. (it wasn't listed on Fram's database a few weeks ago!)

I went to the local dealer who was having filters on sale for $4 ea. and he handed me Toyota P/N 0892202011 which looked a bit shorter than the original, but he said the number ending in 20004 was a japanese part number. (I later noticed this is the same filter that was mentioned in an earlier post that had a link to here: http://mkiv.com/techarticles/parts/toyota_filter/)

I went ahead and bought 3 because they were cheap. I then cross referenced the "2011" number and it also comes back to a FRAM PH3614 which is also a short filter.

But another source gave me a part number of 90915YZZB5. This cross referenced to a FRAM PH16! I've not been able to compare the PH16 to a PH3614 yet, but I'm running w/ the "2011"/PH3614 equivalent without any problems. I have two extra $4 dealer filters to use up first, which should put me at around 15K mi (or about 18 mos from now-I'm a low mileage driver) before I can try the FRAM filter.

bryancos · July 2003

Thought I'd share a deal I found on ebay. If you're looking for vent visors at a good price, here ya go $39 plus $8 S&H - best price I've found -- only 9 left, so better hurry.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2935939164- - - - &category=undefined

terrafirma · July 2003

I'm picking up my 4x4 Sport V-6 on saturday. It was almost exactly Edmunds TMV price so I feel good about that. Just a few hundred over invoice.

I guess they made some color changes mid-year. The interior is stone, not charcoal. I think the earlier unpainted Sport models came with charcoal interiors. Both look nice.

There aren't too many options available but I got the indash 6 disc/10 speaker stero, mats, homelink and a couple other things that all get packaged together- so you really don't get a choice.

Also, the running boards are standard on the Sport now. I could do without them but my girlfriend will appreciate them.

chorton · July 2003

The way it was explained to me the difference may be an anti-drainback valve in the filter itself. This means that the valve closes when the engine is off to keep the oil from draining off the engine resulting in the "cold" starts. The right filter should have this feature.

bryancos · July 2003

Has anyone done much reading on the Toyota Surf, the foreign twin to the 4Runner? (even available in Diesel) Apparently those red lenses in the rear bumper are indeed rear fog lights, and I suspect that we could find the harness/switches from a distant Surf dealer or parts distributor to get them functional.

For a photo, see this link:
http://www.batfa.com/new_car_toyota_hilux_surf.htm

rward99 · July 2003

Yes, the Hilux Surf is the Japanese version of the 4Runner. 4Runners/ Hilux Surf are made at the Tahara plant in Japan, and I think a few are made at Hino Motors. I have a brochure for the Hilux Surf, and there are lots of available options. One is the "American" version, which has the cladding, but it appears semi gloss; either polished or with a clear coat covering.

Toyota doesn't ship any of those models or options over here. I don't know of any outlet here in the US that would carry them.

kjack100 · July 2003

It's a shame that you can't hold of some of these neat HiLux accessories. Here's a link below. Love the rear tray. There's a DVD player solution. Just get a portable player and a tray.

http://makeashorterlink.com/?B29656F45

bpratico · July 2003

Good news. The August edition has a comparison tests on 6 Suvs, including the new 4Runner and the Nissan Murano. Their conclusion: "The 4Runner is the only vehicle of the six we tested for this report that had all the requisites to be recommended."

Here is their summary on the 4Runner test: "The redesigned 4Runner is the best off-road-ready SUV in this price range and a marked improvement over its predecessor. Despite retaining a body-on-frame construction, the 4Runner rides better than the Murano and some other car-based SUVs. Its cabin is the roomiest and the quietest in this group. The 4Runner doesnt provide the nimble, carlike handling of car-based models, but it is sound and secure. Based on its predecessor, reliability should be very good."

You can also access their report online at their web site, if you are a subscriber.

rward99 · July 2003

Thanks, that's the link for the catalog I have. I don't read Japanese and the catalog doesn't have the link, but the photos are identical. I like some of the luggage options for the interior. Hopefully I can find some kind of luggage cage like the one they show. (It's attached to the roof and swings down to behind the second seat.)

As best as I can tell, the red lenses on the 4Runner rear quarter panels are red tail lights on the Hilux. I don't see anything in the catalog to change them to anything else. BTW, why would anyone want fog lights in the rear bumper? Backing up in the fog :-)

sbcooke · July 2003

Consumer reports had the new 4runner listed as having a towing capacity of 6400lbs yet the new models now say 5000lbs?

Was there a design change? Is this just a government rating thing? How much can someone realistically expect to tow with the new 4runner (i.e. with a boat/trailer that is slightly over 6000lbs.)

aggiedog · July 2003

You may want to check your state motor vehicle laws before you put that DVD up front. It is illegal in some states. I just heard a story about that yesterday. Here is what the Commonwealth of Virginia says:

Motor vehicles not to be equipped with television within view of driver.

No motor vehicle registered in the Commonwealth of Virginia shall be equipped with, nor shall there be used therein, a television receiver forward of the driver's seat or the screen of which would otherwise be visible to the driver while driving the vehicle. The operator of a motor vehicle which is not required to be registered in Virginia shall not operate a television receiver which violates the provisions of this section while driving in the Commonwealth.

I'm sure other states have similar laws. Nav systems are exempt of course.

feral · July 2003

Hi all,

I have been away from the group for a while but i did a search and dont think this question has been posted before.

Do any of you know if aftermarket brackets are available that will drop the driver side seat height down at least .5" to 1"??

I am not sure what the option packages are available in the US, but up here in canada ONLY the base comes without a moonroof and unfortunately i cannot comfortably fit into the 4runner with a moonroof. EVERY option package comes with a moonroof?!?!?!

I would REALLY prefer to have the sport package as I will be going offroad and towing, not all the time, but at least twice a month int the summer months.

I am curious if there are aftermarket brackets that would lower the seat height by .5-1". There appears to be room at the seat base to lower it, but i havent heard of anything to do it. I would prefer not to have to drop an additional $1000 on an aftermarket seat.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

khaug · July 2003

Toyota's US web site indicates 4Runners built after 5/1/03 have a towing capacity of 7,000# (4wd) or 7300# (2wd). Earlier '03 'Runners came with only a class IV hitch, which limited the towing capacity to only 5,000#. Go here:

http://www.toyota.com/html/shop/vehicles/4runner/specs/4runner_sp- - - ecs.html

to verify this information.

-Karl

khaug · July 2003

Feral, go try out a Limited, if you haven't already. There's considerable height adjustment built into the seat. I'm not sure if this is so with the Sport and SR5 models. BTW, I'm in the USA.

I'm 6'2" tall with a 33" inseam, and I'm very comfortable in our '03 Limited with sunroof. There's plenty of headroom.

-Karl, '03 4WD V8 Limited

bcmalibu99ls · July 2003

All 4Runners have the same towing capacity, just get a SR5 with V8. And SR5 is better for off-roading than Sport because 16-inch rims have more meat on the ground than 17-inch, thus better traction

Your problem has been solved. 4 grand saved :-)

reddfish · July 2003

This post is to advise anyone interested that the lemon arbitrators agreed that my 03 SR5 V8 4runner was a "lemon", based on evidence and testimony by Toyota employees. We had put our heart and soul into researching and saving for this vehicle. It was too bad that this had to happen, but we could not and would not live with the smell after spending all that money. Toyota never offered any type of help or made any offers to rectify the problem, they just blamed the gas.
It's nice to know that a regular citizen can win against a big corporation and their lawyer without having to retain legal council. I liked the power and torque of the V8, but Toyota's overall quality has gone down. The instrument cluster design was not thought out very well and the headliner was almost non existent. I had to use a 2 by 4 and hammer to get my trailer hitch on, even after filing it down. If they had offered a comparable V6, I would have taken it, but the party that delivered my check said he took in a V6 with a belt tensioner problem. After 20 years with Toyota, we are very disappointed with their attitude and service (except for 2 people that actually stood up for us). Good luck to all that have an 03 and I hope the 04's are a big improvement. If the sulfur smell had gone away, we would have kept the vehicle. A trade in would have cost us about 6k. We got all of our money back plus interest.There was an off-set for mileage, but we had under 4k. If anyone has a problem that they can't live with that effects the use, value, or safety, lemon law may be your only viable solution.

Toyota 4Runner

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