Just got a 4Runner, Tips?

[thirstyturtle]

Hey everyone, so here's a picture of my new 2006 4Runner Sport!

This is a far departure from all the cars I've ever had but I wanted something with more room, the ability to tow my future boat, and some off-road prowess. I've always had a "sporty" car, always a manual transmission, either a 4 or 6 cylinder. I'm currently coming from a 2007 G35S. So this is my first SUV, first V8, first automatic, and first 4-wheel-drive vehicle. Essentially I'm wondering if you guys have any tips to help maintain and take care of the automatic and 4wd transmission? Also, does locking the rear-differential turn off traction control and is it okay to drive in snow and/or mud with the rear differential locked (I don't really know when I need to use it). Additionally, when would one use the 4wd-low setting?

Sorry so many random questions, I'm just so lost coming to a 4Runner but I'm excited!

 

[CJ3Flyr]

Hey everyone, so here's a picture of my new 2006 4Runner Sport! Very nice! Congrats.

This is a far departure from all the cars I've ever had but I wanted something with more room, the ability to tow my future boat, and some off-road prowess. I've always had a "sporty" car, always a manual transmission, either a 4 or 6 cylinder. I'm currently coming from a 2007 G35S. So this is my first SUV, first V8, first automatic, and first 4-wheel-drive vehicle. Essentially I'm wondering if you guys have any tips to help maintain and take care of the automatic and 4wd transmission? IMHO fresh fluids are the best preventative maint you can do. I'd do the trans and axles 60k-90k at the latest. Also, does locking the rear-differential turn off traction control and is it okay to drive in snow and/or mud with the rear differential locked (I don't really know when I need to use it). Additionally, when would one use the 4wd-low setting? 4lo is an off-road kinda thing for the most part... I have the V6 and love 4lo at the boat ramp too. Due to the Torsen center-diff dry pavement and 4lo is ok (very rare in the 4wd world). OK, the lock is a center differential lock NOT an axle lock. ATRAC/TRAC handle the limited-slip duties. Yes, it does turn off the skid control and should only be used on surface slipperier than wet pavement (dry dirt ok).

Sorry so many random questions, I'm just so lost coming to a 4Runner but I'm excited!

Keep the fluids fresh and exercise the various 4wd modes periodically and the 4wd 4Runner will serve you well. Congrats! Check out the link below.:cheers:
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/59289-4x4-questions.html#post490618

 

[agb104983]

Ironically I just bought my 2005 4runner limited two weeks ago and the car I had right before it was 2005 Infiniti G35 coupe(Sport-tuned suspension package, Prem package, Aero Package) so I know exactly where you are coming from.

Most of the questions you asked have multiple posts dedicated to them that go into depth so your best bet is to do some searches. I spend the last 3 months reading/scanning over just about every thread on this forum so I have some idea.

First of all, unless you have some aftermarket modification, you don't have a rear locker, you have a center differential locker. The center differential locker is stock on our cars and is controlled by the button to the left of the steering wheel. All it does is lock the center dif so that the torque split between the front and rear axles is 50:50. Again, do some searching for more information but you pretty much don't want to engage the center dif unless you're offroad. I believe that locking the center dif disengages the stability control and the normal traction control but leaves the A-trac engaged.

As far as 4-low, you don't need to use it unless your are offroad. Beyond that, take a look at the threads that discuss it in more detail.