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Toyota 4Runner

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Comments

  • bmw323isbmw323is Member Posts: 410
    I set my doors to unlock when put in park. I did it a while back and remember having some trouble. I think the important item was that the ignition key had to removed from the ignition before starting (or something like that). When I did it right, I heard a click. It took me three or four tries. Sorry I can't remember exactly the steps - I don't have my owners manual with me. But it does work.
  • coranchercorancher Member Posts: 232
    Some good advice here so far. I'd also recommend that you drive both types in quick sequence, over the same route.

    Also, search previous postings in this discussion. Many of us have posted our own experiences and there are several good lists of pros/cons.

    Both seem to be very good choices, so enjoy your new truck!
  • puckyhuddlepuckyhuddle Member Posts: 52
    I don't plan on towing so I had my mind made up on the V6 - until I test drove both. I really preferred the V8. It seemed "smoother". It purred going up some hills on the highway, whereas the V6 seemed like it was groaning. You really need to try both for yourself. Good luck!
  • rhomeorhomeo Member Posts: 3
    Has anyone had a problem with the memory chip inside there key? I called the local Toyota dealer they told me it cost $110 for a new one.
    $60 for the key
    $40 for programing the chip + tax.

    I have a problem starting sometimes I have to press the gas while turning the key to start. Yesterday the truck cut off on me while taking off at the light. I read in the (99 owners manual) that the key with the chip in it could cause this to happen. Is this TRUE?
  • cloudrippercloudripper Member Posts: 3
    My two cents -- top dollar for any cosmetic issue opinion.

    The hood scoop is on the Sport because it looks sporty. Same with spoilers. And red paint. And designer wheels. If all we drove were cars with strictly functional exterior design features, we'd all be driving Camrys. And everyone everyday would wear blue jeans, t-shirts and sneakers.

    Cladding: it's what they offered at the time. Does anyone think Toyota set out to anger people? They thought it was a good idea. They got some complaints, listened and changed it. Now they'll hear from others who want the cladding. I like it. Functionally, it's the part of the body closest to a stray shopping cart or the edge of another car's open door. Aesthetically, I like the contrast it makes with the dark gray paint.

    X-reas is another matter. The biggest knock on SUVs -- aside from mpg -- is rollover. Before buying this past May I test drove both an SR5 and a Sport Edition on twisty mountain roads. No comparison when it comes eliminating that feel that you're losing it on a turn. I do a lot of hiking and backpacking. My 4Runner's job is to get me to the trailhead, whether it's over miles of spaghetti-like pavement like the road to Mineral King in the Sierra or the dirt & rock 4WD type. It does all this in extreme comfort. Even more important than side air bags, I don't know why anyone wouldn't want it.

    I suppose there's a Garden Weasel board out there somewhere where people are complaining about the color or the fact it doesn't look like a real weasel so why would they call it that and...
  • bryancosbryancos Member Posts: 282
    "...) you will get into the drivers seat and start the truck to leave. From there you have access to the "up" switch on the dash."
    ===
    "If you're away from the vehicle using the remote, you might not notice this problem as easily as you would if you are in the vehicle using the switch. "

    ===
    The dash mounted button isn't the only way to roll it up. You can also roll it up by inserting the key and turning it clockwise and holding in place until the window raises to the desired point.
  • pat84pat84 Member Posts: 817
    I have a Titanium sport V-8 with the gray cladding. It has one other advantage; it doesn't get hot enough to burn you out in the beach.
  • rogers12rogers12 Member Posts: 140
    RE: Post 7310
    I just received a letter from a Customer Service Rep at JL that apologized for the lack of service I received. He says that he has forwarded my complaint to Regional Manager who is responsible for the operation of that JL store. He also provided me with his phone number so that I may call him if I wished.

    "Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention. We look forward to providing you with the highest quality service in the near future."

    Interesting. Possibly useless, but interesting.
  • highlander7highlander7 Member Posts: 177
    Has anyone used the 'Rear Height Control Air Suspension' for towing? My cargo trailer with load is 4000 lbs. I am using a weight distribution system (chains and bars) with my 02 Runner, it works well. I have asked two salesman and one manager about the capabilities of this system on the 03 Runner and if this would replace the mechanical system I am currently using. They did not have a clue and could not give me a good answer. They were more interested in selling what they had on their lot, no 4Runners in their inventory had the Air Suspension system. They tried very hard selling me a 03 Limited, they must be getting an incentive from Toyota or business is not that good?

    Told them with the 04's soon to arrive I would rather wait and then make the comparisons. Too bad the Sport Edition does not offer the Air Suspension, that would make that package even better.

    I like everything about the new 4Runner with one exception, the headroom. With the Limited's power seats you seem to have more range to raise and lower. Or maybe the leather seats just flex a little more? I'm sure someone in Toyota has heard this complaint, again the salesman said no one has yet to complain about the headroom. Why don't I believe him?

    Appreciate comments and suggestions. Thank you....
  • tangmantangman Member Posts: 127
    If anyone sees an 03 Titanium Sport V8 on the west coast, please let me know. Been looking for one without the sun roof. zeus248 if you are not interested in the one posted, can you let me know the general area where the dealer is.

    Also, does anyone know if you can install homelink at the dealer or yourself

    Thanks,

    Tangman
  • meyersejmeyersej Member Posts: 13
    I have read alot about this in other discussion forums and believe it to be a rather common 4Runner problem, but haven't seen it here. I'm having this same problem with my 03 V8 SE 4x4 (with 600 miles on it)

    The problem is a driveline vibration that occurs under the following conditions:
    * Speed >= 45MPH
    * Light throttle/slight acceleration

    The vibration can be felt through the floor, steering wheel and pedals. Easing off of the gas stops the vibration, regardless of speed, so it is not tire related.

    This is apparently a fairly common problem and I know of nobody who has complained about it having it successfully fixed. Anybody else here having this problem or any success in getting it resolved?
  • khaugkhaug Member Posts: 64
    I tow a Porsche 911 on a Trailex aluminum open trailer with our '03 Limited which has air suspension. Car/trailer weight is ~4,000 lbs. The rig handles impeccably, and I can see no need at all for any other load-leveling device or sway control. My 4Runner is an early '03, and came with the Class IV (5,000 lb capacity) hitch.

    I'm 6'2" tall with a 33" inseam and I have no headroom problems at all in our truck, which has a sunroof. There have been several complaints about limited headroom on the forums I read, but all seemed to relate to the sport or SR-5 models.

    -Karl
  • claymore1claymore1 Member Posts: 21
    What brand and model of NAV system is used in the Limited model? I cannot find any Sport with it so I will have to get it installed. I want the same as what's installed in the factory.
  • stephend2stephend2 Member Posts: 21
    Terrafirma Touche on your response. I've read these comments before " what idiot would build a window that doesn't roll up with a remote.. I say what idiot can't see the safety feature here. Murphys law would certainly happen sooner or later with a remote in your pocket and a toddlers or dogs head sticking out the window. Give your head a shake if you can't see that comming. I had a 01 sequoia before my 03 4runner and use my window remote often. Sometimes to cool the car down in summer. Sometimes while walking up to it a passenger can put gear in the back without you having to be there. Then just roll up the window after climbing in.
    Cheers steve
  • iwannano2iwannano2 Member Posts: 12
    Hello, everybody,
    I am in the market for a new auto and have driven Murano, Pacifica, and 4 Runner . Thought about Pathfinder too but 4 R really got my attention and held the road almost as well as the muano . The Murano and 4 Runner handle great but the quality I noticed in the 4R seemed to be a cut above the rest. The Pacifica is out of the question as it has no tork and I do not have confidence in Chrysler or american cars since owning this Nissan since 93.
     I really would like any 03 4 runner owner if they could give me thier expeience with this SUV and any others you have owned and what you think about the 4 runner compared to all the reat in this class. I have not been up on any SUVs and this will be my first. Need the cargo space . Any help pros or cons willbe greatly appreciated. You can email me , if it is not too much trouble or you can post it and maybe I can find it.
    I am new to the townhall too so all this and the townhall will be quite a learning experience. I have read many pages tonight on the 4 Runner and also the Infiniti QX4, FX35 but unless it handles better than the 4 Runner and has the tork and stability and quality of he 03 Sport I drove to day, I will more than likely go with the 4 Runner as ther is a dealer locally and there is not with the Infiniti. I like th FX35 but am concerened with the problems I have seen oin townhall with quality control issues and do not know if it would have enough cargo space either. TOO much money too!
    Please try and be objective and if you have owned others in the past or have Toyota experience, tell me about the consistancy of Toyoto verses oterh makes mentioned. If ther is another make model you like better, please mention .
      I am going with the 03 probably because of the year end deals BUT if ther are fixes of 03 problems addressed with the 04 model I could wait until they are here since its so soon now. Seems the 4 runner is priced better than Murano and much better than Infiniti.
    I hope I have posted this in the correct way and look forward to hearing form some EXPERIENCED 4Runner owners who are objective and honest, regardless of the content. I saw the lemon and have been to NTHSA website and have seen all the complaints and defective summary for the model and feel there is really no major problems so far but you who have owned these can tell me MORE THAN ANYONE ELSE. Also what options seem to cause the most problems. I like sunroofs and the Sport model with X-REAS was a great ride and stable. Have not tried the LIMITED so please let me know the differences experienced without X_REAS. What about air suspension/ Does this make any difference in anything toher than towing. I do not tow much at all. Maybe a trailer once and a while but nothig on a regular basis. I would not go with the SR5 unlesss someone can convinvce it would be to my advantage. What abnout resale value. I see the Sport has the best and that does not make sense. seems the LIMITED would be better. What difference have owners noticed in the Limited and the Sport model? Just fill me email box up. I want to make a wise decision here and am asking for advise so pour it on me. I can take the truth. Period!
    God Bless you all,
    Have a great Holiday (LaborDay)
    PEASER REPLY TO ME BY EMAIL IF POSSIBLE! Otherwise I do not know if I can find your post back to me on this townhall but regardless, I will try .
  • canddmeyercanddmeyer Member Posts: 410
    I didn't buy. All the 2003 V8 SR5's & Sports were gone before 10am except for the Limited's which were beyond my budget, & I just couldn't convince myself to settle for the V6. The dealership was packed. No doubt they'll clear their inventory this weekend. I learned one thing-next killer sale get there EARLY. Thanks again.
  • jackj42jackj42 Member Posts: 6
    I have a V8 '03 4runner with the 7300lb tow rating (post '5/'03 production) Loaded, with Nav. and self adjusting suspension. I tow a 21' sea ray boat. Previous tow vehicle was a '99 Tahoe. Also own an '02 Grand Cherokee. I looked at and drove the Cayenne, X5, GX 470. For the money, IMO the 4runner is best by far. Quiet, powerful, great interior quality, I love the suspension. Almost as quick as the normally aspirated Cayenne, rides better than the X5, much cheaper than both. Yes, they are different vehicles, but I want an SUV to be an SUV. If I want to drive a sports car, I would drive my 911 TT. You hook up the boat, hear a hissing sound, and the car is level. Good power, great mix between driveability and utility. VSC (doesn't come on the Tahoe or Jeep also a great feature. Hopefully it will also have Toyota quality. 1000 miles on it no problems, love it so far. Because the dealers will discount them, it really is $12-15K cheaper than the Lexus which is basically the same vehicle with a few more whistles and bells and sound insulation, and a lower tow rating...

    A loaded Jeep, however, with all the incentives is probably $5K cheaper, not sure if you can get Nav.... but I am glad I spent the extra money.

    Jack
  • rollie3rollie3 Member Posts: 13
    I have just put 10,000 miles on 03 Sport [V6] It is hands down the best runner Toyota has made. This is the sixth 4 runner in our family since 1990. All have been great trucks. Quality and reliability are the two factors which make these rigs standout with compition. Resale value is tops. We sell our rigs with minimum of 100,000 miles and have always received more than 50% of purchase price. The new rig drives and rides better than my wife's Highlander. The new V6 is a major upgrade from previous models. I am obviously biased from our personal experiences but I do not believe you can buy a better rig with its exceptional quality than the new 4 runner. They will out last any other similar rig on the road. My 90' is still running great with 250,000 miles [a friend bought from me in 96'].
    Good luck to you---Go for it!!!
  • tidestertidester Member Posts: 10,059
    PEASER REPLY TO ME BY EMAIL IF POSSIBLE! Otherwise I do not know if I can find your post back to me on this townhall but regardless, I will try .

    We'd much rather that you stick around and participate in the discussion rather than email - that's what message boards are for!

    You can easily "find" your way back here if you cick on the "Bookmark" button near the top of this page. That will "subcribe" you to this topic and you can get back here simply by clicking on the "Message Center" links on any Town Hall page.

    tidester, host
  • pulleydogpulleydog Member Posts: 61
    As mentioned previously, Toyota decided to drop the Green and Red colors from the 2004 line-up. I'm more than a little disappointed and surprised. I suppose it is a marketing decision, but I wonder how they make that decision - is it based on 'ordered' vehicles? I've done a search of Toyota dealers within 150 miles and I've yet to find an "Impulse Red Pearl" and see only a handful of "Imperial Jade Mica" models available. In fact, I have yet to see a Red 4Runner on the road - did they really make any??? It's a sharp color (my opinion, of course) but at least it was an alternative to the same old colors that everybody has; Black, White, Silver... No offense to the Titanium owners out there, but aren't there enough Silver vehicles on the roads today??
    Is anyone else bummed with the 2004 color choices??
  • snigglesniggle Member Posts: 3
    I have read 5000 and 7300 lbs? Which one is it, or when did it change?

    Thanks
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    had a 5000 tow rating. Somewhere all the line (mid April?) the tow hitch receiver was upgraded, which allowed for the V8 to get a 7300 tow rating. The V6 remains at 5000 pounds.

    Bob
  • highlander7highlander7 Member Posts: 177
    Thanks to khaug and jacki42 for commenting on their positive experience with the air suspension system. With folks like them taking the time to assist others continues to make this forum an outstanding source of information. Asking the owners how well these options perform is of more value than asking a salesperson the same questions. Now to decide if the Nav system should be included in this package on the Limited.

    The hardest part of this decision is that I will be trading or selling my 02 Sport Edition. This is the best truck I ever owned. But the 4.7 V8 with the upgraded 7300 lb. hitch and many other improvements have me very close to purchasing when the 04's arrive. I'm sure there are many 4Runner owners with 02 and earlier models going through the same thought process.....making that decision when the best time to trade-up and upgrade.
  • rkymtnhghrkymtnhgh Member Posts: 14
    My '03 4Runner came with the protection package (which I did not want) which includes a sound shield, paint sealant, etc. The paint sealant is a petroluem based protective coating applied to the vehicle. The problem is, I noticed that when I drive in the rain, a strange dark discoloration appears on the rear fender just behind the rear wheel well. Because my truck is white, it's very easy to spot. It's definitely not dirt or mud and it looks a lot like heat/flame damage (like when you hold a lighter against a painted surface for a few seconds. It comes off with some very hard buffing but it's a little disconcerting. It's happened twice already and each time only when it rained. Anyone else have this problem or know what it is? I'm baffled. Thanks guys!
  • tidestertidester Member Posts: 10,059
    Perchance, is it anywhere near the exhaust pipe?

    tidester, host
  • jackj42jackj42 Member Posts: 6
    Not sure about the problem but I can understand why you didn't want the package. I was fortunate mine didn't have it. Retail price of the item is $699, I think, dealer cost is less than $200!
  • gcfor8gcfor8 Member Posts: 4
    I have the same problem with the stain on rear fender, don't know what it is. WD-40 works great to remove it with no buffing and won't hurt finish.

    Gary
  • 01426440142644 Member Posts: 8
    Hoping someone can give me some information regarding the "duct" that sits between the driver/passenger seats on the 4Runners.
    Is this a standard feature on All models? Does this cool as well as heat the rear area? I have dogs and this is a concern for me....

    I test drove a 2003 SR5 4x4 and the salesman told me that although the particular truck I drove had this feature, it is only standard on the Limited models. Confused, I went home and called Carmax. The salesman I spoke to on the phone told me the SR5 does not offer this feature (he should know, he said, because he owns one). I called a 3rd dealer and the salesman told me this feature is standard on All 4R models. I couldn't believe the conflicting answers!!!!
    Right now I am just doing some homework. Can anyone recommend a knowledgable/fair dealership in the Northern Virginia /Dc area??
    Many thanks for your help in advance!
  • tfuzztfuzz Member Posts: 93
    The rear seat AC ducts located in the back of the console between the front seats blows air to the back seat whenever the dash vents are on, i.e. AC and bilevel settings. They do not blow air when the system is set for floor, defrost or combination floor/defrost. These ducts can, however, be shut off by a thumbwheel control if you don't want them to blow when the AC in on. These ducts are standard on all 4Runners. There are heater ducts under the front seats for heat to the back seats. These are active for bilevel, floor, and combination defrost/floor.

    Perhaps what the salesmen were trying to say is that Limited models also have an exclusive standard dual temperature system--the driver and passenger can have different air temperature settings. My wife and I really like this because she likes it warmer than I do and the system works great.

    I frequently carry two large dogs in the cargo area (not in the back seat) and I like the fact that the rear AC ducts between the front seats can direct cool air back to the dogs. I consider this a positive feature for the "fur kids".

    Hope this helps.
  • nedzelnedzel Member Posts: 787
    The 4Runners have a label on the hitch indicating the capacity of the hitch. So if you are shopping for one, kneel down and look at the hitch. All it will take is one time seeing the 5000lb and the 7300 lb hitch to tell the difference. The look markedly different.
  • aheckaheck Member Posts: 36
    How long do you think it will take to see the 2004's at invoice pricing? We are considering going shopping for a V6 SR5 today, but don't really need a truck right now. With no car payments, it would be nice to wait a few more months to buy, but I'd definitely like to do something before the end of the year. Do you think you should be able to negotiate invoice prices on 2004's around Oct/Nov/Dec?

    Thanks, Aaron
  • terrafirmaterrafirma Member Posts: 212
    Toyota is offering rebates for the 03's added to the fact dealers want to clear out inventory so people can get better deals now.

    As for getting deals on 04's basically when they arrive (oct/nov/dec). It will be more difficult since there is no incentive for the dealer to cut you any deals.

    Not saying you can't since it's reasonable to expect something around invoice or at least between retail and invoice BUT I think it would be a lot more difficult than it is now.
  • rkymtnhghrkymtnhgh Member Posts: 14
    The discoloration actually appears on boths sides of the rear fender, so it not due to the exhaust pipe. I also found that the paint sealant cleaner that comes with the package works well too. At least I know I'm not the only one with this issue. I'll probably ask the dealer when I pick up my plates. Thanks.
  • orienteoriente Member Posts: 44
    I am considring a "dual" exhaust system in my 2003 4R. Informally I was told at the dealer that I void the factory warranty unless I go with the Borla system they sell ($600 plus, parts only). I believe a local muffler shop would do it for a fraction. I emailed Toyota and so far, no answer. Any suggestions/experiences on the subject? (I dont even know if the Toyota V8 sounds as good as the Fords and Chevys.)
  • orienteoriente Member Posts: 44
    Don't know if we are talking the same issue, but I had the Toyo Guard junk on my 2003 4R. It developed roughness on the surface that was visible too. The dealer gave it a courtesy "detail" job (polish) that took care of the problem. Prior to that, I had tried my own wax and did not work at all.
  • yomolsyomols Member Posts: 24
    Thx for your response on the locking system. I tried it every which way, key in, key out, etc. and couldn't get it to work. Probably some stupid simple thing I'm not doing. Guess I'll have to go to my friendly Toyata dealer. Thx again.
  • ukblokeukbloke Member Posts: 7
    I also think it's a shame that the red and green colours have gone for 04. I saw a dark green one for the first time ever in Bend Oregon this weekend and thought it looked great - it was parked next to mine which is in the beautiful pearl RED (IMHO!). I also have a V8 with no sunroof (I'm too tall) and with the cool body cladding, which will make this one of the rarest 4runners on the planet!

    I bought in July and got a killer deal because the vehicle had been sitting on the lot since December last year!! It had only 36 miles on the odo so it had been test driven about once per month at most. I think the last few digits of the VIN are 0000138 so that this was only the 138'th off the production line in this particular configuration. I guess no-one liked this car at all - but my wife and I totally love it, plus we'll probably never ever see another one just like it!!

    I've just completed an 1100 mile round trip journey from San Jose to Bend, and did the return journey in exactly 8 hours at an average speed of 66mph. The V8 is just the business for cruising by the semi's on highway 97.

    Mark.
  • 69mach169mach1 Member Posts: 60
    Just wondering what's involved in fixing the moonroof rattle in my 2003 Sport. I hope that the headliner doesn't have to come down as they never seem to get back right.
  • vpotlurivpotluri Member Posts: 47
    I see that the Navigation system isn't available on any models except the Limited. I am looking at SR5 V6 4WD. Can the dealer install the Toyota navigation system after purchase? Thanks.
  • bryancosbryancos Member Posts: 282
    Heres's the link to the official Toyota TSB for the headliner rattle problem dated April 25, 2003 as obtained from the NHTSA website

    http://152.122.48.13/prepos/files/Artemis/Public/TSBs/2003/SB-100- 01590-2488.pdf
  • bryancosbryancos Member Posts: 282
    The factory NAV systems from Toyota and other car manufacturers aren't all what they're cracked up to be according to many articles. Costwise, you're better off looking at the aftermarket units... One that received rave reviews was the Garmin StreetPilot III.

    Suggest you go out to pricegrabber.com and do a search... Etronics is selling it for $665 -- which was lowest price I found while typing this. Granted it's not as pretty as an indash unit, but I think accuracy is more important than cosmetics.

    If you're stuck on "in dash", check out the models that places such as cartoys.com and thegpsstore.com offer too... Pioneer, Kenwood and others make some nice unit$ if you have deep pockets. Read reviews on places like epinions and ask around in the other areas of edmunds. Feedback from real users matter the most!
  • nedzelnedzel Member Posts: 787
    I thought about getting the nav system but decided to pass. The technology is still evolving rapidly. With an in-dash unit, you are stuck with it. If you get an aftermarket unit, like the new Garmin 2610, if something better comes along, you just get a new one. And the aftermarket ones are less than 1/2 that of the factory units.
  • renshorensho Member Posts: 42
    Are the 2 units comparable to stock? The screen size is a very limiting factor to the Garmin.
    Nice that it is removable and travels car to car.

    I have not heard 1 bad thing about the Toyota nav, only good things. Perhaps the best system along with Honda/Acura.
    Far better than mercedes, bmw, audi, vw.
  • terrafirmaterrafirma Member Posts: 212
    I agree with nedzel. It is an evolving technology. Do you want to be stuck with the 21st century equivalent of 8-track in your dash?
    Besides, GPS is not only good in the car but if you go hiking or in someone else's ride, on your bikes, just basic exploring is much easier with GPS.
    If you're going to buy GPS, there are cheaper and more flexible solutions than in-dash.

    As nedzel says, when newer technology comes along, you won't be stuck.
  • deweyeddeweyed Member Posts: 3
    My maintence light just came on after 7500 miles, I assume this is pre-programed in the computer. How do I reset this? I perform my own maintence and will not need to see a mechanic until 20k miles.

    thanks
  • pat84pat84 Member Posts: 817
    It tells you how to reset the maintenance light in the manual.
     As I recall, you start with the 4Runner off , but with the key in the ignition. Push on the "reset" button that is the same as the trip odometer "reset". While holding the button in, turn the key as far as you can without starting. It will be in the the Accessory position. Leave it like this for a few seconds until the light goes out. Turn off the ignition .
  • intmed99intmed99 Member Posts: 485
    To all who thinks aftermarket is better, i advise that you research more! Out of all the aftermarket DVD navi systems, ONLY Kenwood is TOUCH-SCREEN. For me, touchscreen is the best in terms of functionality and ease of use. With Kenwood, there are a few cases of the screen breaking after a year or two of use.

    Alpine, Pioneer, etc. are all remote control-based navi systems. That is, it is not touchscreen. You have to scroll thru menus with your remote control or knobs, which i think is inferior.

    All DVD navi systems are pretty much equivalent in terms of coverage. However, Toyota/Honda systems are one of the faster ones.

    Garmin/Magellan etc are good units simply because of their portability. However, their system speed and coverage is far from being on the same playing field as DVD. Magellan costs nearly $2K, which is what Toyota charges for their integrated DVD systems...cost saving?? I don't see it.

    BTW, the above Alpine/Kenwood/Pioneer DVD systems costs close to $3-4K after installation!! Hmmm, that's even more expensive than OEM navi systems...yet, not nearly as well integrated nor touch-screen.

    Sorry, but for those who past on OEM navi systems BECAUSE of aftermarket ones, you've made a mistake in my opinion. Go and research them. I have. BTW, i don't have a navi system in my '02 4runner (no OEM system was available back then). The reason i know about the above is because i wanted to get an aftermaket unit. So, i am not biased towards OEM stuff.
  • mitchinpamitchinpa Member Posts: 40
    Had my 2000 4Runner to the dealer for an oil change this week. I noticed on the windshield reminder sticker that the next scheduled oil change is 3500 miles, not the usual 3000 miles. Is Toyota changing their philosophy on oil change intervals?
  • ddw5ddw5 Member Posts: 23
    I think the dealers vary but they like you to come in every 3000 miles or so. The manual states 7500 miles or 5000 for extreme conditions. My last 3 cars' manuals stated 7500 miles as well, and 2 were turbocharged. Unless you are towing/offroading/etc I seen no reason to go every 3000 or even 5000 miles. So long as the color of the oil looks good, I use the manufacturer recommended interval of 7500 miles.
  • kstittkstitt Member Posts: 9
    I have researched Toyota NAV, after-market NAV (in dash) and portable NAV units and reached the same conclusion expressed by intmed99 in message 7461.Each type has advantages and disadvantages, so the best unit depends on your needs. I considered getting an after market unit with the Sport, but discovered that the after market units such as Magellan & Garmin did not provide the functionality or detailed coverage which the Toyota NAV (made by Densco) provided. I checked out coverage in remote locations and found the Toyota NAV was superior. The Toyota NAV is similar, but not identical to the NAV in the Lexus. I could not find these Densco units as after market models. The principal advantage of Magellan is its portability. The Toyota in-dash unit has a greater ease of use and better warranty coverage. I ended up with the Toyota NAV in the 4Runner Limited and I am very satisfied.
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