So I bought a 2009 Trail and realized that there is very limited info on them anywhere online. I know they're very rare, but I still expected to see some more info than I did. I found this paperwork in the glove box and thought I'd share it since I hadn't come across it anywhere else. I'll also add some pictures just for fun and hopefully someone in the future will come across this info and it will help them out.
2009 Toyota 4Runner Trail Edition
- Thread starter ASUMTNEER
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Syr4RinNC
New member
Wow very cool. I didnt see you bought a trail in Your first post. It’s a little deceiving since it doesn’t say 4wd like the other models on the side so I was a little underwhelmed from your first picture thinking it was a 2wd
I’m surprised it has a smaller brake caliper so you can get a 16 inch wheel on there. I didn’t know about the bilstein suspension either
Nice find
I’m surprised it has a smaller brake caliper so you can get a 16 inch wheel on there. I didn’t know about the bilstein suspension either
Nice find
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Thank you. I thought the same thing about the caliper size. Kind of weird really. Also strange that they didn't put a 4WD badge on the side as well.
Bluesky 07
Senior Member
I'm not often envious of other 4th Gens, but I would have loved to find one of these. Pretty sweet.
Interesting how the text on this document talks about the locking rear diff whereas the sticker in the pic you posted in your other thread essentially said only to use it to get out of being stuck. I know the basics of 4WD, but for those who know the details, what exactly are the advantages of the locking rear diff?
Interesting how the text on this document talks about the locking rear diff whereas the sticker in the pic you posted in your other thread essentially said only to use it to get out of being stuck. I know the basics of 4WD, but for those who know the details, what exactly are the advantages of the locking rear diff?
gm350reratliff
New member
Those TE’s are so sweet. Really one of the best, most versatile 4runners ever. I remember they came out right after we purchased our 2008 4runner, had me really considering trading it.
MikeinNH67
Senior Member
Nice looking machine, cool on the locking rear diff but where's the Tom Tom? 
It does not. The allure for me is simply the rarity. I've had many, many 4runners and this one has been on my list for years.
Nice looking machine, cool on the locking rear diff but where's the Tom Tom?
I'm sure it was replaced many years ago for the much better head unit that is currently in it, though I would love to find one to put back in it just for the originality. Now if I could only get the rear diff to lock! All I get is the flashing light, so I imagine it's rarely or maybe never been used.
You know, I guess I assumed they were smaller because I always heard that 16" wheels wouldn't fit over the calipers in the sports and limited. If I get a chance, I'll check to see what stamp is on the caliper.
bob3dsf
New member
The mythical 2009 TE... Something I noticed in the pics, there is no rear window switch... at least in the spot above the 4WD selector, where it is in all the other trucks. EDIT: I see it on the center console next tot he shifter.
Does it have the rear locker in addition to the center diff lock?
Does it have the rear locker in addition to the center diff lock?
You found it, the rear window switch is to the left of the transmission shifter. I think this is a 2009 YM change, but not certain that's true. Yes, it has a locking rear differential as well as the locking center diff.
Step 0 - Find non paved surface
Step 1 - Shift to Neutral
Step 2 - Put in 4LO
Step 3 - LOCK CENTER DIFFERENTIAL - switch on dash by door
Step 4 - Hit Rear Differential switch - center console switch
Step 5 - Shift into any gear
Step 6 - Drive forward slowly - Turn in s pattern - Rear Diff will engage
Step 7 - Buy me a beer
Unner
New member
Yes I believe this was an 09 only thing with the window switch. I don't know why though... My 08 has it in the spot above the 4wd selector.
The switches are in the center console for one specific reason...
so your dog can open the rear window and activate the ATRAC at will...
Wait, you need to lock the center diff in order for the rear diff lock to work??? This is the 1st I've seen of this, or maybe I skimmed over it somewhere. I'll try it.
gm350reratliff
New member
Yep, my dog loves smashing that DAC button in the center!
Tell me where to send the beer :thanks:
worked like a charm the first time. I sure am glad I mentioned that little tid bit about the rear diff lock and that you noticed it!
