Likely getting a 09 SR5...few questions

[nighthawk]

So, it's likely that I'll be getting an 09 SR5. Unfortunately, up here in Canada, none of the dealers in my area have any. Basically most of them didn't order many 09's cause of the 2010 models that will be coming out. Because of this, I was only able to test drive an '05 SR5 Sport. Can someone tell me if not having the X-REAS system makes much difference? Due to costs (it's an extra $5K up here for the Sport Edition) we can only afford the SR5.
My question is, I want heated exterior mirrors but the SR5 doesn't have it. If I bought a set of mirrors from the Limited or Sport which have heated mirrors, would they be able to just plug into the SR5? For the Homelink module, I just have to remove the existing sunglass storage part and put the one with Homelink in right? There's no modification required? I searched and couldn't find any instructions on how to do the Homelink mod. I just found threads mentioning that there might be one, but I can't find the thread.
I guess I should be really happy 'cause I'm finally able to get a 4Runner, but I'm just really not too excited about it just cause I HATE driving automatics. However, I was pleasantly surprised at how comfortable and nice the 4Runner was. That being said, I still prefer manual and still am quite sad that I won't be driving manual anymore. Oh well, at least I'll get a damn nice vehicle that doesn't break down every month. Oh yeah, the one I test drove, ever time I let go of the break, I hear the sound of air gushing out and also, every time I brake, the front of the seat cushion near where the adjustment knob is moves on me. Are those common issues?

Thanks guys, and hopefully I'll start contributing useful threads after getting my 4Runner as opposed to just constantly complaining that Toyota dropped the manual transmission...haha.

 

[CJ3Flyr]

I can't help too much but here's the Homelink: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1259

As far as XREAS is concerned. Yes it works as advertised and drives very nicely. Many love it. What's wrong with XREAS is that when doing a lift other than a spacer lift you have to remove it so why pay for it in the first place? The other thing that's wrong is when it develops leaks in the shocks it's cost prohibitive to replace with XREAS shocks so you end up changing all 4 shocks to non XREAS shocks.

If you keep a vehicle 4 years and 60k miles and you really want it you'll enjoy it. If you keep it beyond that or plan to do a non-spacer lift then maybe it's not money well spent.

The SE's look cool. Wish I had the telescoping steering wheel and maybe the hood scoop. Other than the steering wheel and some 'cool factor' I have no regrets. For some the fact it's more of a monochromatic scheme than a chrome accented look (like the SR5) is a big deal. That's just a matter of personal taste.

That's my 2cents. Good luck!
:cheers:

 

[nighthawk]

Thanks for the info.

I personally want the Sport Edition, but wife wants the SR5 cause she doesn't care for the nice extras on the Sport. However, I just found out from the dealership that no dealership in the area I live in ordered the SR5 so I will get my wish in getting the Sport Edition.

 

[nighthawk]

Oh yeah, one more question, how are the stock Sport Edition tires for winter/snow driving? They say they are mud and snow, so I'm hoping they are good for driving in the snow.

Thanks