Baloney is right. If you look at Toyota's web site, you will see that full retail for that plan is $1050. I really don't like any aftermarket plans, for a number of reasons. Shop around for the warranty. Only Toyota dealerships can sell them, but you don't have to buy the warranty from the dealership where you bought it.
I plan to buy a 4runner 4 wheel drive to tow my future boat, total package weight about 2500 pounds. V8 has more torque and 5 speed auto but the V6 has a low range which I like. My question is does the V8 benefit from more torque and gear ratio to make up for the lack of a low range ?
I've done no off-roading to date but there's a 45 degree dirt slope that leads to the water I'd like to try.
My research of the 04 runner show I can not order the third row seat if I want a moon roof, is this correct ?
The V8 has a low range setting. You don't loose that. Based on your projected boat weight of 2500, you probably wont ever need it, but it is there on both. I tow 4200 pounds and have only used low once... on a VERY steep, short, slimy ramp at low tide when my trailer's wheels went off the end of the concrete.
Hello, Does JBL am/fm stereo radio, with cassette and 6 disc changer in dash all contain JBL components? I am concerned about the 6 disc changer that is jamming on the Nissan models and am wondering if Toyota is installing this same changer in their vehicles. The Nissan company is installing Bose radios and I believe their 6 disc changer is manufactured by Clarion. I checked with the Toyota web site and they gave me a corporate number to call. I won't be able to contact them until monday. Thanks, Bob.
Hello, Does anyone have the web address that the dealers use to locate Toyota vehicles. It's my understanding that there are not a sufficient number of 4 Runner sport editions or SR5 models that have curtain air bags on dealer lots. Just in case the dealer needs some prodding in looking for my vehicle of choice with options, this web address will come in handy. Thanks, Bob.
We've had a number of jeep grand cherokee limiteds and wranglers (along with an MB M class and a vw vr6 in recent years) -- now have an '03 4-runner ltd. the nice thing about jeep's and mb's and vw's roadside is that it's not just for emergency towing or things like that. the first time we ever used jeep's, one of the few times -- and by the way ITS FREE as is MB's and VW's -- we had just gotten a new limited and had gone to a party and at 3 a.m. the valet gives us the car and none of us could figure out how to get the fog lights on...we only had the car about 3 days. so we call the 800 number and she leads us through it like an air controller bringing in a crippled jetliner. does the toyota platinum plan offer that kind of thing, too. also, it's amazing that a major company like toyota doesnt offer their plan free like the other companies. that's a major negative for them in my opinion. BTW, ours is leased, 39 months, 15k a year, so it probably isnt worth our buying the toyota plan. or is it? what's the minimum plan you can buy anyway. thanks for everyone's responses to our questions and we may have more down the road. the salesman seemed knowledgeable when explaining the vehicle to us before we left the dealership. but when we took it on the road half of what he told us was totally wrong! ps -- any newcomers to the 4-runner beware if you have a dog of the downhill mode toggle on center console...we were doing 60 today and the dog's paw hit the toggle. my wife noted the downhill icon flashing. we stopped and hit the switch. there should be some sort of lockout mechanism to avoid this, even though from looking at the manual it cant hurt the transmission -- i think???? btw, i think the manual sucks. the vehicle is wonderful so far at 400 miles.
Well ,there is a 1800 number to Toyota for general questions and assistance that is free, although I am not sure if it is avaialble 24 hrs. I am sure that this number could provide roadside assistance (ie. arrange for towing, etc.), but at owner cost.
You are right though. I think more companies are offering free roadside assistance because it's a cheap way to make their customers happy. Even so, for $99/year (in NY, other states may vary), AAA Plus is great and provides more services than any manufacturer provided roadside assistance program. Toyota doesn't provide this plan for free, but this is a minor issue as Toyota's are supremely reliable. AAA might cost more in the long run, but the value added extras can come in handy, especially if you have a family and travel a bit. I've been able to save a small fortune on auto insurance, airline tickets, and hotel rooms so far.
Since you are leasing, it would be a waste of money to purchase the Platinum plan.
The downhill toggle mode isn't in the greatest location. I would have liked to have seen it located on the dash somewhere, but I guess Toyota's thinking is that it could be quickly access by being close at hand.
#8197 of 8200 jordan39 by cliffy1 Oct 25, 2003 (6:12 pm) Its done on a secure Intranet. I can't even access it from my house. Thanks. I was prepared for that. One dealer I checked with had a few 4 Runner limited models with curtain air bags but no sport edition or SR5 ere on the lot yet. Bob.
I hear what you're saying, but if you'll allow me to play the devil's advocate for a moment, then as a former owner/lover of many dogs myself, I can't help but ask why you would allow even a small dog to have reign in the front passenger compartment? The front passenger compartment is really not a safe place for small children, let alone dogs that can't be restrained except by holding them in the lap of either the driver or a front passenger; nor is this a safe setting for the driver who must maintain control of the vehicle. (The lap is also a very unsafe place for dogs and kids!) And indeed, your story provides an excellent case in point. In addition, your loose canine could have also (for example) accidentally knocked the shift lever (which is of course located on the CENTER console) into neutral at a very unfortunate time, such as when you might be in the midst of a high speed PASS on a two lane road with oncoming traffic bearing down on you, your wife, and your pooch! Furthermore, one could face civil, criminal, and insurance liabilities if it can be proven that an "UNSECURED" pet was a key factor in an accident that involved injury or death to others, property damage, etc.
To borrow a phrase from military aviators, don't "screw the pooch" (i.e., CRASH) just because you and your wife can't go long without cuddling with your dog-- it ain't worth the risks involved, and it ain't worth risking your dog's life, either! In fact, responsible dog advocates, be they conscientious breeders, vets, dog clubs, etc.-- they all strongly recommend and insist that dogs (no matter their size) be properly and safely constrained and conveyed when traveling in a vehicle. With SUVs, such measures include the use of suitable REAR cargo area pet/luggage partitions, as well as portable dog crates. These devices provide for a number of safety features, including the prevention of the dog becoming a projectile in the event of a frontal collision, in which the dog may be violently thrown forward, hitting whatever, or whoever, is in its path. These inexpensive devices also not only keep the dog CONFINED to a SAFE area of the vehicle, but they also prevent them from relieving themselves wherever they might see fit, and that includes VOMITING due to motion sickness. Finally, dogs can be unpredictable, and keeping them properly and safely confined in a vehicle also prevents them from such accidents as (for example) jumping out of a window; breaking their neck trying to leap out of a closed window; startling the driver; spilling hot coffee in the driver's lap; distracting the driver, or... accidentally hitting any critical vehicle controls! I rest my case.
I just realized that my dealer told me that there is a safety mechanism built into the DAC system so that it won't actuate inadvertently if you are going at a certain speed (ie. highway speed). Nevertheless, any pet should be in a cage in the cargo area for obvious safety reasons.
I get nervous just seeing people driving and using their hand held cell phone, while a bunch of kids are watching "Sponge Bob Square Pants" on a video screen in a Ford Excursion (for example). Let's keep it safe
<<....I can't help but ask why you would allow even a small dog to have reign in the front passenger compartment? ...>>
Good points. Saab has been working toward pet safety, and offers related option for their wagons. I believe its called Saab Pet Gear. A search will turn up more info. Larry
I have hit the 36,000+ miles mark on my 2001 4runner now (SR5, 16" wheels) and, with the tires showing treadwear and needing replacement soon, and with the weather getting wetter and most likely icey and cold here in the Pacific NW, I am looking for advice on specific tires to get.
Right now, if the road is a little slick (wet or worn areas that are smoother), I get the "traction correction" kicking in, and I am tired of that...and it scares the wife when she drives.
So, I want to go to discount tires and get 4 new tires and I would like to get ones that I can be very safe in the winter (especially if I let the wife take the 4runner to go skiing in the mountains (lotta snow) and with the rain we get here.
You can have both. 1) Get an 04 with the 3rd Row Seat, and have the dealer install a moonroof (this is what I did), or 2) Get an 03 or 04 with the moonroof, and add a 'jumpseat' by www.littlepassengerseats.com'
I am also in the market for tires with a 2000 4Runner. I am considering top priority being wet traction and snow. I have decided to get Michelin LTX M/S P265/70R16 for my truck. They have a tread pattern that would seem to be able to squeeze alot of water out of the tread fast. (I like Michelins). A more agressive tread pattern is found in the Bridgestone Dueler A/T. The Bridgestones are also $25 cheaper per tire.
I am sure there are others that are as good or better, but these are the ones I like the best in my local tire store.
In my opinion, nothing is for free. Even though Jeep, MB, give you the roadside assistance for free, don't you think it's probably built into the cost of the car?
While shopping for 4Runners, I made the comments like I always do saying "I still can't believe car manufacturers don't include floor mats. Why do you always have to pay hundreds of dollars for them?" and the salesman and I got into this whole conversation. He said you're paying for it either way. Some people like to not have floor mats, I guess. And some people do not smoke in their car - hence, he said that's why Toyota makes it optional, for those who do want them, to buy floor mats and cigarette lighters.
Just passing on my 2 cents. Just think, you're toyota could have been $8 more a month and had roadside assistance, or you can get just the AAA plan. Either way, I guess....
I put on Michelin's LTXs on my 94. Those tires lasted over 65k. Never lost grip. GREAT TIRES!!
I now have Dunlops on my 03 Sport. They are beginnning to sqeal at 13k. Same thing happened to me with the Bridgestones on my 94 when I got that truck new. I should have waited until the dealer had a Michelin-shod 4-runner on the lot.
Personally, I've long since given up on carpeted floor mats. During the winters here, we get a lot of sand spread on the road. My boots track that sand (and the gravel from the gun club range) into whatever vehicle I'm driving. Then my boots grind through the carpeted floor mats in a hurry. I use rubber floor mats.
So I'd just as soon that carpeted floor mats were optional. Unfortunately, in most cases they are port installed and already on the sticker, so I end up paying for them anyways.
Actually, on my 03 4runner limited, I had no choice. I was forced to purchase the carpeted floor mats. I rather would have preferred rubber floormats, but wasn't given the option to exchange. Oh well. In the end, we all pay. It's "built in" one way or another.
If you want to make a custom floor covering cheaply, one option is to go to a carpet store and purchase some plastic carpet runners and trim them to fit your vehicle. The work pretty well, although they won't actually "hold" liquid spills as well as a custom designed "Husky" brand rubber mats with raised lips to contain spills.
I recommend the BF Goodrich All Terrain KO. I put 30K on them (on my previous 4x4) and never had a problem. I also had them "SIPED" which adds little slits across the tread. This greatly helps in wet weather driving. It also allows the tire to run cooler. I also live in the Pacific NW, and spend time at the local ski areas.
I have Michelin Cross Terrains on my truck, and love 'em. It initially came with Bridgestones, but my dealer agreed to swap a set of Michelins off of another 4Runnner on the lot. The Michelin MTXs are a more aggressive, mud and snow tire, so I would expect them to be a bit noisier and perhaps ride a bit harder than the Cross Terrains.
Regarding floor mats, I replaced mine with Husky floor liners in the front rear, and back cargo area. (I Scotchgarded all of the carpet and other fabric in my truck, for added protection, as well as making clean-up easier.) Carpeted mats just get dirty and are a real pain when it comes to mud, snow, slush, etc., where as the Husky liners are a breeze to clean. Husky liners are very overpriced, but I still like them.
For those of you with experience in off-roading,a couple of questions:
Do you consider the 03/04 4Runner's skid plates heavy duty? Are they comparable to the Jeep Wrangler's, for example?
Secondly, a Lexus mechanic told me last week that the reason why the GX470 has a manual lever for Hi/Lo shifting is because the transfer's case is extremely "beefy". He didn't know for sure, but speculated that the 4Runner's transfer case is not a tough and, therefore, is operated my motors activated by the in-dash electric switch. I am not sure if that makes sense,although I have noticed that Jeeps and Land Rovers have manual Hi/Lo levers.
What has been your experience in being able to switch from Hi to Lo in the 4Runner? Do you need to be in P or N, or can you do it in gear at low speeds?
Does anyone know if there is a difference between the quality/durability of the GX470's transfer case vs. the 4Runner's?
I dont know what the Wrangler's skidplates are like but the 4runner's are ok. Every stock truck including Jeeps are moderately ok. They will do the job for most. They must consider costs and how the weight would affect gas mileage and handling. If the Wrangler and 4runner had identical skidplates, they would protect the Jeep better because it is a lighter weight vehicle. But, the 4runner's skids do the job well.
For more serious off roading, there is a reason many companies make alot of money off of aftermarket skidplates for Jeep, Toyota and other off road trucks.
The GX470 has a manual transfer case shifter because it is a direct import from the Japanese/European market. It is called the "Prado" there. In those markets, they like the manual switchgear. The 4runner is specifically designed for the North American market. They found this market to prefer the electric dial. It has NOTHING to do with the strength of the transfer case. The GX/Prado is almost the mechanical twin of the 4runner. The other SUV's you mentioned all have lever shifting because they are older models. When the all-new models come out, most if not all will have something similar to the 4runner.
I had a set of Michelin LTX M+S tires on our '98 4Runner. They wore very well, rode and steered nicely and had good dry-road traction. Their wet-road traction, however, was mediocre at best, and their performance in ice and snow bordered on the dangerous. If bad-weather performance is a priority for you , I'd go with something else.
Our '03 4Runner came with Michelin Cross-Terrains. After 20K miles, their ride, handling and bad-weather performance is truly outstanding, and I'll plan to replace them with another set when the time comes. It does appear, though, that they aren't going to be quite as long-lived as the LTXs were, which is to say that it looks like their lifespan will be only great instead of outstanding!
Respectfully, I didn't know about the "no sell policy." I'm having the front fascia of my 2003 4Runner (5,000 miles) replaced because I've never been too keen about the appearance bar ($500+ option). (The color is titanium silver.) I either hold onto the like new fascia for potential future use or try to sell it to someone needing a like fascia.
According to the manual and my experience, the DAC can only be engaged in neutral. Same with locking differentials and switching into Lo range. The DAC (and locked differentials) will flash, indicating it is not engaged, since it was not in neutral when your dog hit it. I have never put my Sport in neutral while it was moving and tried to switch to any of the modes. I wouldn't try it and would caution against it. I only took my 4Runner onto the beach in loose sand. I did not need, or engage the DAC, but did lock the differentials and shift to Lo. BTW locking the differentials turns the vehicle skid control off. There is a light on the dash that reminds you of that (VSC OFF) as well as showing the locked differential icon. Interesting, the guy that sold me my 4 Runner said I was the only one he sold one to that was planning on going off road with it.
I owned 2 different Jeep CJ-5's a 56 and and a 61. They were the short military version, which I don't believe are still sold new. They both had solid metal skid plates about a 1/4 inch thick. They really only covered the transfer case as that was the lowest point. The 4 Runner has skid plates that aren't as thick and have holes in them to reduce weight. They cover the transfer case, fuel tank and the engine oil pan. These points are about equally as low underneath the 4 Runner. You can look under neath and see them. Before I took my 4Runner out on the beach, i looked underneath to check they were all there. I understand that one of them has to be removed to change oil in the V-8. My Toyota dealer is very slipshod and I wouldn't be surprised if he took it off and never put it back on to make changinging oil easier. If I were to take my 4Runner over rocky terrain much, I may want beefier skid plates. BTW the jeeps were both manuals. They had a hand throttle in the dash to use as hill holding mode. I pulled out the hand throttle, with one foot on the brake, and the other on the clutch. As I let out the clutch until I felt the jeep start to move up the hill I let my foot off the brake. The hill holding on the 4Runner is automatic.
Last night I looked carefuly at the window sticker of my new '03 Sport, with basic/standard radio set-up. The window sticker says 7 speakers, though I had read in the brochure (and can count) only 6 speakers. Are there 7? Maybe a misprint on the window sticker? Or did Toyota know my wife is always with me? Larry
I did a search on this forum and didn't come up with much information on the third row. Quite a few discussions and speculations but little hard info. So here I go:
Does anyone have the third row? What do you think of it? I have a 7 year old and a 5 year old and would want a third row a few times a year. Who do you think would fit back there and for how long?
There aren't any third row 4 Runners at my dealership to look at and I don't really want to waste another dealers time if I have no intention in buying from them.
Can only be engaged when the vehicle is in low-range. I've hit the button by accident a couple of times myself, and it didn't do anything when it was in 4-Hi. I don't think I had to put it in neutral to get DAC to engage in 4-Lo the few times I've used it.
I have 2000 miles on my 4runner sport edition. The dealer told me to use regular gas which I did and had the sulphur smell.I have been using 91 octane for about the last 1200 miles and still get the smell,Not very often but it is still there. Going to the dealership next week to go with synthetic oil in my first change. will discuss this with the dealership and get back to the board,also have the clicking sound in the engine while riding along Jersey walls etc
sacstate1 responded: <<Did you count the speaker in the middle of the front dash? >>
No center dash speaker on my truck. This is the basic (not optional) 6 speaker stereo system. I guess the sticker had a misprint of "7" speakers. Larry
The Toyota Platinum plan is what is generally referred to as "bumper to bumper", although we are not allowed to call it that. The reason we are not is because the bumpers are actually excluded from coverage. The Platinum plan is "exclusionary" which means there is a list of excluded items. If a component fails and it is not on that list, it is covered. That list is comprised mostly of belts, hoses, fuses, light bulbs... and bumpers.
This site also shows retail pricing for both the $0 and $50 deductible plans. Dealers are not bound by the retail prices though. Many sell above retail and some will discount from it.
As with terrafirma, I have no knowledge about the Wrangler's stock plates. Are you thinking of replacing your Toyota, or adding another? From my experience, the Toyota skid plates work well for what I think they are designed to do: appeal to as many buyers, while keeping the cost/weight reasonable. Are they heavy duty? In my mind, stock plates by definition cannot be heavy duty. Then again, I work with steel in the construction industry.
While on vacation earlier this month, I had the opportunity to christen our '03 SR5 through Poughkeepsie Gulch near Ouray, Colorado. The oil pan skid plate (and the running boards and one of the alloy rims) lost their debate arguing with rocks. Oouch! The skid plate was pushed in, but not far enough to come in contact with the oil pan. Yes, the plate is thin and now deformed, but it served its job of protecting the pan.
To give perspective, our scenic drive transitioned into an impromptu rock crawling seminar. Literally inching along with a spotter and frequently stopping to find/discuss the best line, speeds were extremely low (it was NOT our intent to test the rig's rockability). In this environment, the stock equipment worked as I expected. After market products would be better, especially for repeated trips. Since I live in LA, the truck is exposed to more freeway crawling than rock crawling.
Runner vs Wrangler? Offroad, a stock Wrangler takes it in a rock crawling environment, but I'd take a stock Runner in other situations. For an intermediate person like myself, the electronics of the Toyota make offroading a safe, secure, point and drive affair. No mess no fuss (well, o.k., a few tears were shed by the wife when we heard rocks saying, "I win, you lose.") and superb on-road manners to boot.
<< Runner vs Wrangler? Offroad, a stock Wrangler takes it in a rock crawling environment, but I'd take a stock Runner in other situations.>>
Couldn't agree more. I just sold a Wrangler Sport for this 4Runner. The Wrangler was GREAT in SF, CA where we live, and GREAT in the Sierra Mts, where we go almost weekly. The problem was that the 3 1/2 hours road time in between was miserable. So now we'll search a bit longer for parking in the city, and we'll choose the trails a bit more carefully in the mountains, (and totally avoid some old favorite crawling spots), but that's okay by me. (We actually spoke to each other while on the freeway last week. In the Jeep, we used hand signals and nodded a bunch). Larry
Message #7871 is but one example of a number of complaints describing a frequently occurring brake pedal vibration and associated "pump" noises when the brake pedal is depressed. I've been experiencing similar symptoms in my 2003 4Runner Ltd., and it is beginning to concern and annoy me. The brake pedal will frequently vibrate for a couple of seconds when braking (even after the vehicle has been running for a while), and there is often an accompanying, soft, hissing type of sound. Thus far, I haven't seen any brake system warning lights, and the brakes seem to be working well otherwise. Before I take the truck to my dealer for a diagnostic, I would like to know if you all have any further experience or thoughts about this issue, beyond the worries about the master cylinder. Thanks.
I bought an 04 without the 3rd row, but I learned something since my purchase from my manual which might influence your decision. The vehicle without a 3rd row has a second row that locks into place--it cannot recline. The vehicle with a 3rd row has a different 2nd row--it does recline. It also "tumbles" forward, similar to the 3rd row of a Sienna. Because of this, I think the 2nd row of a 4Runner w/ a 3rd row is better than the 2nd row of a 4Runner w/o a 3rd row.
Also, if I remember correctly, the manual states that the 3rd row is only for passengers up to 59 inches--that's 4 feet and 11 inches--a considerable limitation.
I went without the 3rd row to get the sunroof and navigation, and also because I haul a bunch of stuff around on a regular basis and so I need the large storage space behind the 2nd row. I believe the 3rd is removable. It's a tough call. Sometimes I think if I had to do it again I would get the third row. I also own a Sienna, which I'm keeping for the times I need the extra seating capacity. If I did not have my Sienna, I definitely would have gotten the 3rd row.
I heard somewhere that it is a big problem to change oil on 03-04 V8 4Runner. You need to remove a skid plate or something similar. Does anyone have any comments or experiences changing oil? Wondering if I will have to change myself or go to the dealer as a local oil change places will do something stupid.
I looked at the 4Runner, Pilot and Highlander today. All had the 3rd row. I believe the 4Runner 2nd row did have an angle adjustment, but it was limited to only 3 different positions. The 2nd row did not have the ability to move forward and thus the 3rd row was rendered pretty much useless. I would say even a person 4'11" would still be very uncomfortable back there. The 2nd row did fold forward and flip out of the way to allow excellent access to the 3rd row though. Much better access than the Pilot and the Highlander. Both the 04 Pilot and Highlander 2nd rows can be adjusted forward and backward.
I feel that the 4Runner by far has the best styling of the three. I like the look of the rear spoiler and the dash is very nice. Unfortunately I do need a functional 3rd row and will probably go with the Pilot since it seems roomier than the Highlander. Also, the 3rd row for the Pilot and Highlander both fold down so you do not have to remove the seats like you do in the 4Runner. The process of removing the seats is not the problem, but where to store them when they are not in the vehicle would be.
I would love to hear about any other 3rd row SUV's that anyone could recommend. I considered the Trailblazer/Envoy and the Explorer but ruled them out after talking to a friend that works in the warranty dept for a Chevy/Honda dealer and other personal preferences.
Comments
I've done no off-roading to date but there's a 45 degree dirt slope that leads to the water I'd like to try.
My research of the 04 runner show I can not order the third row seat if I want a moon roof, is this correct ?
Thanx
Does JBL am/fm stereo radio, with cassette and 6 disc changer in dash all contain JBL components? I am concerned about the 6 disc changer that is jamming on the Nissan models and am wondering if Toyota is installing this same changer in their vehicles. The Nissan company is installing Bose radios and I believe their 6 disc changer is manufactured by Clarion. I checked with the Toyota web site and they gave me a corporate number to call. I won't be able to contact them until monday. Thanks, Bob.
Does anyone have the web address that the dealers use to locate Toyota vehicles. It's my understanding that there are not a sufficient number of 4 Runner sport editions or SR5 models that have curtain air bags on dealer lots. Just in case the dealer needs some prodding in looking for my vehicle of choice with options, this web address will come in handy. Thanks, Bob.
ps --
any newcomers to the 4-runner beware if you have a dog of the downhill mode toggle on center console...we were doing 60 today and the dog's paw hit the toggle. my wife noted the downhill icon flashing. we stopped and hit the switch. there should be some sort of lockout mechanism to avoid this, even though from looking at the manual it cant hurt the transmission -- i think???? btw, i think the manual sucks. the vehicle is wonderful so far at 400 miles.
You are right though. I think more companies are offering free roadside assistance because it's a cheap way to make their customers happy. Even so, for $99/year (in NY, other states may vary), AAA Plus is great and provides more services than any manufacturer provided roadside assistance program. Toyota doesn't provide this plan for free, but this is a minor issue as Toyota's are supremely reliable. AAA might cost more in the long run, but the value added extras can come in handy, especially if you have a family and travel a bit. I've been able to save a small fortune on auto insurance, airline tickets, and hotel rooms so far.
Since you are leasing, it would be a waste of money to purchase the Platinum plan.
The downhill toggle mode isn't in the greatest location. I would have liked to have seen it located on the dash somewhere, but I guess Toyota's thinking is that it could be quickly access by being close at hand.
Why does the manual "suck"?
Its done on a secure Intranet. I can't even access it from my house.
Thanks. I was prepared for that. One dealer I checked with had a few 4 Runner limited models with curtain air bags but no sport edition or SR5 ere on the lot yet. Bob.
To borrow a phrase from military aviators, don't "screw the pooch" (i.e., CRASH) just because you and your wife can't go long without cuddling with your dog-- it ain't worth the risks involved, and it ain't worth risking your dog's life, either! In fact, responsible dog advocates, be they conscientious breeders, vets, dog clubs, etc.-- they all strongly recommend and insist that dogs (no matter their size) be properly and safely constrained and conveyed when traveling in a vehicle. With SUVs, such measures include the use of suitable REAR cargo area pet/luggage partitions, as well as portable dog crates. These devices provide for a number of safety features, including the prevention of the dog becoming a projectile in the event of a frontal collision, in which the dog may be violently thrown forward, hitting whatever, or whoever, is in its path. These inexpensive devices also not only keep the dog CONFINED to a SAFE area of the vehicle, but they also prevent them from relieving themselves wherever they might see fit, and that includes VOMITING due to motion sickness. Finally, dogs can be unpredictable, and keeping them properly and safely confined in a vehicle also prevents them from such accidents as (for example) jumping out of a window; breaking their neck trying to leap out of a closed window; startling the driver; spilling hot coffee in the driver's lap; distracting the driver, or... accidentally hitting any critical vehicle controls! I rest my case.
I get nervous just seeing people driving and using their hand held cell phone, while a bunch of kids are watching "Sponge Bob Square Pants" on a video screen in a Ford Excursion (for example). Let's keep it safe
Good points. Saab has been working toward pet safety, and offers related option for their wagons. I believe its called Saab Pet Gear. A search will turn up more info.
Larry
I have hit the 36,000+ miles mark on my 2001 4runner now (SR5, 16" wheels) and, with the tires showing treadwear and needing replacement soon, and with the weather getting wetter and most likely icey and cold here in the Pacific NW, I am looking for advice on specific tires to get.
Right now, if the road is a little slick (wet or worn areas that are smoother), I get the "traction correction" kicking in, and I am tired of that...and it scares the wife when she drives.
So, I want to go to discount tires and get 4 new tires and I would like to get ones that I can be very safe in the winter (especially if I let the wife take the 4runner to go skiing in the mountains (lotta snow) and with the rain we get here.
What do people think?
Thanks!
Ron
1) Get an 04 with the 3rd Row Seat, and have the dealer install a moonroof (this is what I did), or
2) Get an 03 or 04 with the moonroof, and add a
'jumpseat' by www.littlepassengerseats.com'
I am sure there are others that are as good or better, but these are the ones I like the best in my local tire store.
While shopping for 4Runners, I made the comments like I always do saying "I still can't believe car manufacturers don't include floor mats. Why do you always have to pay hundreds of dollars for them?" and the salesman and I got into this whole conversation. He said you're paying for it either way. Some people like to not have floor mats, I guess. And some people do not smoke in their car - hence, he said that's why Toyota makes it optional, for those who do want them, to buy floor mats and cigarette lighters.
Just passing on my 2 cents. Just think, you're toyota could have been $8 more a month and had roadside assistance, or you can get just the AAA plan. Either way, I guess....
Aaron
I now have Dunlops on my 03 Sport. They are beginnning to sqeal at 13k. Same thing happened to me with the Bridgestones on my 94 when I got that truck new. I should have waited until the dealer had a Michelin-shod 4-runner on the lot.
So I'd just as soon that carpeted floor mats were optional. Unfortunately, in most cases they are port installed and already on the sticker, so I end up paying for them anyways.
If you want to make a custom floor covering cheaply, one option is to go to a carpet store and purchase some plastic carpet runners and trim them to fit your vehicle. The work pretty well, although they won't actually "hold" liquid spills as well as a custom designed "Husky" brand rubber mats with raised lips to contain spills.
I also live in the Pacific NW, and spend time at the local ski areas.
tidester, host
"He's not selling anything since buying and selling are not permitted on the Town Hall boards.
tidester, host "
tidester, host
Regarding floor mats, I replaced mine with Husky floor liners in the front rear, and back cargo area. (I Scotchgarded all of the carpet and other fabric in my truck, for added protection, as well as making clean-up easier.) Carpeted mats just get dirty and are a real pain when it comes to mud, snow, slush, etc., where as the Husky liners are a breeze to clean. Husky liners are very overpriced, but I still like them.
Do you consider the 03/04 4Runner's skid plates heavy duty? Are they comparable to the Jeep Wrangler's, for example?
Secondly, a Lexus mechanic told me last week that the reason why the GX470 has a manual lever for Hi/Lo shifting is because the transfer's case is extremely "beefy". He didn't know for sure, but speculated that the 4Runner's transfer case is not a tough and, therefore, is operated my motors activated by the in-dash electric switch. I am not sure if that makes sense,although I have noticed that Jeeps and Land Rovers have manual Hi/Lo levers.
What has been your experience in being able to switch from Hi to Lo in the 4Runner? Do you need to be in P or N, or can you do it in gear at low speeds?
Does anyone know if there is a difference between the quality/durability of the GX470's transfer case vs. the 4Runner's?
Thanks.
For more serious off roading, there is a reason many companies make alot of money off of aftermarket skidplates for Jeep, Toyota and other off road trucks.
The GX470 has a manual transfer case shifter because it is a direct import from the Japanese/European market. It is called the "Prado" there. In those markets, they like the manual switchgear.
The 4runner is specifically designed for the North American market. They found this market to prefer the electric dial. It has NOTHING to do with the strength of the transfer case. The GX/Prado is almost the mechanical twin of the 4runner.
The other SUV's you mentioned all have lever shifting because they are older models. When the all-new models come out, most if not all will have something similar to the 4runner.
Our '03 4Runner came with Michelin Cross-Terrains. After 20K miles, their ride, handling and bad-weather performance is truly outstanding, and I'll plan to replace them with another set when the time comes. It does appear, though, that they aren't going to be quite as long-lived as the LTXs were, which is to say that it looks like their lifespan will be only great instead of outstanding!
-Karl
I'm having the front fascia of my 2003 4Runner (5,000 miles) replaced because I've never been too keen about the appearance bar ($500+ option). (The color is titanium silver.) I either hold onto the like new fascia for potential future use or try to sell it to someone needing a like fascia.
I have never put my Sport in neutral while it was moving and tried to switch to any of the modes. I wouldn't try it and would caution against it.
I only took my 4Runner onto the beach in loose sand. I did not need, or engage the DAC, but did lock the differentials and shift to Lo. BTW locking the differentials turns the vehicle skid control off. There is a light on the dash that reminds you of that (VSC OFF) as well as showing the locked differential icon.
Interesting, the guy that sold me my 4 Runner said I was the only one he sold one to that was planning on going off road with it.
I owned 2 different Jeep CJ-5's a 56 and and a 61. They were the short military version, which I don't believe are still sold new. They both had solid metal skid plates about a 1/4 inch thick. They really only covered the transfer case as that was the lowest point.
The 4 Runner has skid plates that aren't as thick and have holes in them to reduce weight. They cover the transfer case, fuel tank and the engine oil pan. These points are about equally as low underneath the 4 Runner. You can look under neath and see them. Before I took my 4Runner out on the beach, i looked underneath to check they were all there. I understand that one of them has to be removed to change oil in the V-8. My Toyota dealer is very slipshod and I wouldn't be surprised if he took it off and never put it back on to make changinging oil easier.
If I were to take my 4Runner over rocky terrain much, I may want beefier skid plates.
BTW the jeeps were both manuals. They had a hand throttle in the dash to use as hill holding mode. I pulled out the hand throttle, with one foot on the brake, and the other on the clutch. As I let out the clutch until I felt the jeep start to move up the hill I let my foot off the brake.
The hill holding on the 4Runner is automatic.
Larry
Does anyone have the third row? What do you think of it? I have a 7 year old and a 5 year old and would want a third row a few times a year. Who do you think would fit back there and for how long?
There aren't any third row 4 Runners at my dealership to look at and I don't really want to waste another dealers time if I have no intention in buying from them.
Thanks for any assistance.
No center dash speaker on my truck. This is the basic (not optional) 6 speaker stereo system. I guess the sticker had a misprint of "7" speakers.
Larry
All the details of this plan can be found at http://www.toyotafinancial.com/pyv/extended_service_coverage/inde- x.html
This site also shows retail pricing for both the $0 and $50 deductible plans. Dealers are not bound by the retail prices though. Many sell above retail and some will discount from it.
While on vacation earlier this month, I had the opportunity to christen our '03 SR5 through Poughkeepsie Gulch near Ouray, Colorado. The oil pan skid plate (and the running boards and one of the alloy rims) lost their debate arguing with rocks. Oouch! The skid plate was pushed in, but not far enough to come in contact with the oil pan. Yes, the plate is thin and now deformed, but it served its job of protecting the pan.
To give perspective, our scenic drive transitioned into an impromptu rock crawling seminar. Literally inching along with a spotter and frequently stopping to find/discuss the best line, speeds were extremely low (it was NOT our intent to test the rig's rockability). In this environment, the stock equipment worked as I expected. After market products would be better, especially for repeated trips. Since I live in LA, the truck is exposed to more freeway crawling than rock crawling.
Runner vs Wrangler? Offroad, a stock Wrangler takes it in a rock crawling environment, but I'd take a stock Runner in other situations. For an intermediate person like myself, the electronics of the Toyota make offroading a safe, secure, point and drive affair. No mess no fuss (well, o.k., a few tears were shed by the wife when we heard rocks saying, "I win, you lose.") and superb on-road manners to boot.
Couldn't agree more. I just sold a Wrangler Sport for this 4Runner. The Wrangler was GREAT in SF, CA where we live, and GREAT in the Sierra Mts, where we go almost weekly. The problem was that the 3 1/2 hours road time in between was miserable. So now we'll search a bit longer for parking in the city, and we'll choose the trails a bit more carefully in the mountains, (and totally avoid some old favorite crawling spots), but that's okay by me. (We actually spoke to each other while on the freeway last week. In the Jeep, we used hand signals and nodded a bunch).
Larry
Before I take the truck to my dealer for a diagnostic, I would like to know if you all have any further experience or thoughts about this issue, beyond the worries about the master cylinder. Thanks.
Guti
I bought an 04 without the 3rd row, but I learned something since my purchase from my manual which might influence your decision. The vehicle without a 3rd row has a second row that locks into place--it cannot recline. The vehicle with a 3rd row has a different 2nd row--it does recline. It also "tumbles" forward, similar to the 3rd row of a Sienna. Because of this, I think the 2nd row of a 4Runner w/ a 3rd row is better than the 2nd row of a 4Runner w/o a 3rd row.
Also, if I remember correctly, the manual states that the 3rd row is only for passengers up to 59 inches--that's 4 feet and 11 inches--a considerable limitation.
I went without the 3rd row to get the sunroof and navigation, and also because I haul a bunch of stuff around on a regular basis and so I need the large storage space behind the 2nd row. I believe the 3rd is removable. It's a tough call. Sometimes I think if I had to do it again I would get the third row. I also own a Sienna, which I'm keeping for the times I need the extra seating capacity. If I did not have my Sienna, I definitely would have gotten the 3rd row.
Brian
I feel that the 4Runner by far has the best styling of the three. I like the look of the rear spoiler and the dash is very nice. Unfortunately I do need a functional 3rd row and will probably go with the Pilot since it seems roomier than the Highlander. Also, the 3rd row for the Pilot and Highlander both fold down so you do not have to remove the seats like you do in the 4Runner. The process of removing the seats is not the problem, but where to store them when they are not in the vehicle would be.
I would love to hear about any other 3rd row SUV's that anyone could recommend. I considered the Trailblazer/Envoy and the Explorer but ruled them out after talking to a friend that works in the warranty dept for a Chevy/Honda dealer and other personal preferences.