I'll start by saying that I've done extensive searches on this topic here and elsewhere, but am not finding a definitive answer. That said, I'm not claiming to be the sharpest tool in the shed

I tried using phrases in the Advanced Search with quotes around it, like "steering binds" and it seems to give me results containing either of those two words. I'm pretty good and finding things on the internet, which has resulted in me using this forum name in more complex searches using DuckDuckGo, and clicking on search results from this forum. However I'd prefer to know how to use these sort of searches inside of this forums search.

Now on to the real question ...

I've had a variety of 4wd and awd vehicles, with the two most recent ones being a 4th gen 2006 4Runner SR5 and now a 5th gen 2016 4Runner SR5.

In the 4th gen, which I recently traded in with 270k miles, I could leave it in 4H and never really notice any binding in the steering except for a minor amount when I'd be maneuvering into a parking spot or other sharp turn while going slowly. I generally didn't use 4wd unless I really needed it, but sometimes I'd forget it was in 4wd, even on dry roads, and it just didn't have any issues except minor binding when parking, which would alert me that it was still in 4rd. Okay, the light was on, but I just didn't notice

The 5th gen, which I recently purchased, is fine on gravel in 4wd, and I would assume also fine on snow or icy surfaces, though I've yet to have a use for that, but snow is expected later today! I've observed binding when making tight/slow turns on damp/wet paved surfaces, to the point where I have to make a few adjustments forward & backwards to get into the parking spot. I am reluctant to force the turning any harder because I fear doing damage.

I've noticed the 5th gen engages and disengages from 4wd quickly and easily, without the vehicle having to move more than a few inches. I really like this a lot, as my 4th gen required travelling a certain distance (like 20 feet or more) while travelling straight.

So my question is, should I be switching into 2wd as I an approaching any situation where tighter turns are required? That is what I've started doing, and am fine with that. I was just wondering if what I'm experiencing is "normal" for a 5th gen?

Thanks for any answers on this, as well as any tips on searching and/or links to threads that are a good match for what I am asking.

Your 4th gen had a center differential, effectively giving it an AWD mode, which the 5th gen does not. Driving the 5th gen in 4WD is equivalent to driving your 4th gen in 4WD with the CDL engaged. In that mode, the 4th gen would also bind when turning on a dry firm surface.

You should shift your 5th gen to 2WD to turn, or better yet, leave it in 2WD until the roads get slick.

Direct and to the point. Thanks for the reply!

You’re welcome! I also miss the unlocked 4WD mode of my 4th gen. I loved that in spotty weather.