5th gen recovery points

[Dario]

Is there a factory front recovery point on 5th gens? For rear recovery I can use the receiver hitch. There also appears to be a recovery point on the rear drivers side (u-shaped loop). I don't see anything in the front. I don't want to use the tie down hooks.

Assuming I'd use a soft shackle on the recovery loop and a D-ring hitch for the receiver. Anything I'm missing? Any negative experience using these?

Not expecting to get stuck, but want to be ready if the wife slides off the road in snow or ice and I have to get her out. Very, very unlikely, but want to be ready.

 

[CAN-03runner]

I understand your concern.

We use the front loops on 4th gens and FJ Cruisers all the time in my offroad club.

You could put a second strap to the second loop if you think that makes it safer/stronger. Or 2 shorter tree savers. Avoid real hard pulls with tow straps, try to use a kinetic strap/rope. Or winch it. 90% of the time I just winch them up right from those front loops.

 

[Raven]

It is my understanding that those are recovery points under the front end of the 5th gen, not just tie-down loops. Granted, they could have placed them a little higher (difficult to get at if your deep into a bog or mud hole!), but they are recovery points, and they are up to the task.
'Course, the argument becomes moot once I put a solid aftermarket winch bumper on the nose, with it's heavy duty shackle mounts!