Question about spoiler

[jharris2]

I'm getting ready to order a new 4Runner SR5. Basically, we have to make some compromises.

To get a sunroof, the only models I can get include a spoiler. Basically, the spoiler looks out of place, and I can't find any information regarding its function. The question - does the spoiler have a useful purpose/function in life? Or is it just a "decoration"?

Also, looking for opinions on Titanium versus Pacific Blue Metallic as the exterior color. Does one look better with the gray cladding than the other?

Thanks!

 

[Thai]

Jharris,

The spoiler is mostly for looks. In theory, it is supposed to push air down into the rear cargo window to help clear it from dust and rain. On my 2002 4Runner, the rear spoiler does little to clear the rear window of anything.

So, the answer to your question is...if you don't like it, then don't get it if you're ONLY concerned about function.

I like Titanium and gray cladding...seems to be a good match...however, i have not seen the blue color yet.

Hope this helps.

 

[jharris2]

Thanks, Thai. That's kind of what I thought.

Interesting to me is that it is almost impossible to get a 2003 model with sunroof and without spoiler.....unless you are willing to wait 6 months for a special factory order. The distributor (speaking through the dealer, of course) claims that they must place their 4Runner orders 6 months in advance and are not allowed to alter the order or they lose their place in the manufacturing queue.

BTW, I've seen the blue on a Limited and it is really nice. Just haven't seen it with the gray cladding. Seems that there are very few of them being made, based on the order list I saw for the distributor.

 

[Diablo3305]

actually i don't like the titanium with the cladding. The titanium is a lighter silver, so the cladding stands out alot. However with the blue, the cladding actually blends well. I really like the blue also, I went with Titanium Limited because its much easier to keep clean, and its a very nice silver color.

 

[vaccarjm]

lol....i tried looking for a sr5 with spoiler and sunroof. All i could find were ones with the sunroof but with no spoiler. This is only for the white color in that makes a difference.

 

[jharris2]

Here in Arkansas, getting an SR5 with sunroof and spoiler doesn't seem to be a problem. The dealer said that the distributor, Gulf States Toyota, is ordering all sunroof-equipped models with spoilers, so try contacting a dealer in one of the Gulf States region dealers (TX, OK, AR, LA, AL, MS).

As I recall, Gulf States had 3-4 white SR-5's on order with sunroof and spoiler for delivery within 60 days.

My problem is that we want a color other than white.

 

[Mindcore]

Not sure if this helps, since the last time I owned a 4Runner was almost 10 years ago..But..The spoiler made a HUGE differance in keeping stuff off the back window..Not having it on when I bought it, then putting it on afterwards, it was like night and day!

 

[Dipstick]

Mindcore, the difference is that the spoiler you put on was probably one of those small unobtrusive ones. The spoilers on the 03 4Runner is a big plastic thing, and I think it ruins the look of the vehicle. I've been trying to find a Limited WITH a sunroof, but WITHOUT a spoiler, and have had no luck. Dang I hate Gulf States Toyota. They seem to think every buyer fits in a convenient little pigeon hole and will want exactly the same options as everyone else.

They are also fond of putting about $300 worth of stuff (mats, glass etching, etc.) in one of their special "option" packages (that is on the vehicle whether you want it or not), and charging about $1,500 for it.

 

[jharris2]

Dipstick, the only way I have found to avoid the extras that Gulf States likes to add is to order the vehicle and be absolutely firm with the dealer that you will not pay for anything else.

Of course, if they add them anyway, I'll either get them for free or walk from the deal. After all, I'm the customer!

The one thing Gulf States does tell their dealers is that if you try to alter an order, you lose your place in the manufacturing queue and it is an extra 6 month wait. Sounds like a load of hooey, but at least they are consistent in the story.

 

[jharris2]

Update --the local dealer just called and mentioned that there is a local company that installs power sunroofs for them. Cost is roughly the same as getting it factory installed. Apparently, it will be very similar to the Toyota version, except it won't have the two-stage wind deflector.

It also means I can order the 4Runner without the spoiler!!

Have you had any experience with an aftermarket sunroof?

If it's a viable alternative, Dipstick, you could see about one in your area. If they have a company in Little Rock that does it, certainly the larger cities do, too.

Thanks!

 

[Dipstick]

I have always been very reluctant to even consider an aftermarket sunroof. There's just so much chance for error. Unlike shocks or a lift or other aftermarket goodies, it is irreversible. I would only consider it as the absolute last alternative. In fact, I'd probably just forget the sunroof.

 

[jharris2]

Funny you word it that way -- the more I think about the idea of an aftermarket sunroof, the less I like it. Just have visions of "Jim Bob" crawling around on the top of a new vehicle using a sabre saw to cut a hole in the roof. Not a pretty sight.

So, thanks to Gulf States, it seems to come down to blue with no sunroof or titanium with sunroof and spoiler. Haven't had any luck going outside the Guld States region, either.

 

[Thai]

Jharris,

Get the one with the sunroof!! I have heard a few horror stories about aftermarket sunroof installations...they're never as perfect as factory! DO NOT GO THERE! (A few Honda CRV owners did this.)

If you have the money, go for it! Spoiler...it looks OK...just get it!

 

[jharris2]

Thai -

See, that's the tough question. My wife prefers the blue over titanium, and we're trading in HER car for the 4Runner...so even though I'll probably get the 4Runner and she'll take the 97 Camry, she gets a vote.

But to really seal the deal, I have to sell my F150, too.

 

[Good Times]

jharris2:

Why don't you try and getting a 4runner from somewhere else?
I know someone that sells in CA that will ship it to ya and she even offers great deals.

Check her out..

http://carsontoyota.com/html/special.html

Dianne
Carson Toyota
Southern CA
310-522-2317

She's done alot of out of state sales and her prices are the cheaper out there! She will get you your 4runner in the exact detail you want it too!!

Never hurts to try! (fyi) whatever you do, don't go w/ an aftermarket moonroof (it's not good as the orig). the spoiler is indeed ugly and useless (also it collects lots of water in between which will leave ugly spots).

send dianne an email or call her for the exact spec and she'll call around and find one for ya and ship it to u. (ofcourse u'll have to pay for shipping but atleast it'll be exactly how you want it).

gl..

 

[jharris2]

Thanks! We'll see if this leads anywhere.

 

[Swaro]

On color, my opinion is the silver looks much better with the grey cladding. They are similar colors and somehow it looks ok. I've only seen pictures of the lighter blue SR5, and it looks extremely ugly to my eye. The cladding seems terribly accentuated. I like the Dorado gold with the ugly plastic best.

 

[jharris2]

This afternoon, I finally bit the bullet and ordered a titanium SR5 with V6. Should arrive in about 3 weeks. It has a spoiler but it has the sunroof , so I guess it all balances out in the end.


Thanks, everbody, for your thoughts and insights!

 

[Good Times]

Jharris2:

I'd like to be the first to say welcome to the 4runner club! Congratz on your new truck! when you get it make sure to take some pix and show em off!!! hehe

 

[4Runner2003]

Hey Jharris2

You can get the sunroof without the spoiler with no problem in the southeast. They are pretty much all over. Althought I had to special order a Black LTD (w/spoiler) because they did not have any black ones in the SE region.