Service intervals? WoW! Just amazing.

[cbreze]

I've been a Toyota truck fanboy since 1974 and have certainly owned my share, all bought new. I'm just amazed at the intervals shown in my manual for some of the service items. 10k between oil changes is pretty much in itself, but 15k before any lube? Seems a stretch. What really got me tho was the spark plugs not until my 4Runner hits 120k? That's not what's astonishing, but that there is a footnote in the service book that says " service of spark plugs is required under the terms of the emission control warranty". So I guess if not for that they'd be lifetime parts then? Amazing!
I know everyone here does service stuff usually in plenty of time or even early, people who frequent forums are usually enthusiasts, but are these vehicles so well built these days that the average Joe, and there are many of us, can just go with what the book recommends and be fine well into the hundred thousand range of mileage? Or is it a secret ploy by Toyota to get us to buy new more often? One thing for sure that free Toyota care thing up to 25k miles is just a lot of practically nothing as they certainly won't be doing much if they go by the book. Oh, and check the driver side floor mat adjustments every 5k. LOL!!
Loving my 4runner so far went four wheeling in the snow yesterday and it was definitely impressive.

 

[1engineer]

Actually the maintenance intervals are right in line with other manufacturers. I personally have no problems going 10K between oil changes as I don't tow often nor do I take it down dusty roads for hundreds of miles. 15K for lube is really no big deal. That will only be 6 months for me as my 2011 4Runner had over 60K in less than two years. Why do you say it's a stretch? Not being smart or anything but are you a lubrication engineer or do you design vehicles for a living? I find the intervals normal for Honda,Toyota and Subarus. Go read some of the 4th gen threads on milage vs problems. I know the 5th gens have not had any problems as some have already gone over 100K with no issues.

Now you are exactly right about the "Average Joes." There is very little to do as far as maintenance to these vehicles and 99% or more people can't do anything to them except change the oil so many change it more often because I guess it makes them feel like they are doing something to increase the longevity of their 4Runner. Does it? I don't think so but I quit using 1970's specs for that in 1980. Some people are stuck in that era. There are many good threads on lubrication and oil changes located in this 5th gen section, enough for hours of reading if you so choose.

That Toyota Care thing is worth about $200.00 so I would take advantage of it if you have a dealer you trust. I notice you did not say anything about your transmission - it has no dipstick lol. They don't want you to check it because that is how much confidence they have it it's durability. Again, I know a little about machines and I don't think twice about following their intervals. As a matter of fact, I think they are a little too conservative in some cases lol. Have fun with it!

 

[cbreze]

Actually the maintenance intervals are right in line with other manufacturers. I personally have no problems going 10K between oil changes as I don't tow often nor do I take it down dusty roads for hundreds of miles. 15K for lube is really no big deal. That will only be 6 months for me as my 2011 4Runner had over 60K in less than two years. Why do you say it's a stretch? Not being smart or anything but are you a lubrication engineer or do you design vehicles for a living? I find the intervals normal for Honda,Toyota and Subarus. Go read some of the 4th gen threads on milage vs problems. I know the 5th gens have not had any problems as some have already gone over 100K with no issues.

Now you are exactly right about the "Average Joes." There is very little to do as far as maintenance to these vehicles and 99% or more people can't do anything to them except change the oil so many change it more often because I guess it makes them feel like they are doing something to increase the longevity of their 4Runner. Does it? I don't think so but I quit using 1970's specs for that in 1980. Some people are stuck in that era. There are many good threads on lubrication and oil changes located in this 5th gen section, enough for hours of reading if you so choose.

That Toyota Care thing is worth about $200.00 so I would take advantage of it if you have a dealer you trust. I notice you did not say anything about your transmission - it has no dipstick lol. They don't want you to check it because that is how much confidence they have it it's durability. Again, I know a little about machines and I don't think twice about following their intervals. As a matter of fact, I think they are a little too conservative in some cases lol. Have fun with it!

I'm not complaining, just kind of surprised with it, but definitely in a good way. I'm fine with longer intervals its just that its my first experience with it. My 04 Tacoma was serviced every 3k so it's a difference for me, hence the "it's a stretch" remark. I appreciate your response tho and its nice to hear someone with most likely more mechanical knowledge than I sees no issues with longer intervals. I think it's a great idea actually, just never had it before. I'll be following their recommendations and not worrying about it just enjoying my truck.
Didn't notice the no tranny dipstick. That's sweet. Not gonna worry bout that then. My 08 miata was like that.

 

[desertred]

Your 08 Miata was like that? Surely you didn't dispense with it? The Cascades are Miata road heaven. Waiting for the ND?

 

[cbreze]

Your 08 Miata was like that? Surely you didn't dispense with it? The Cascades are Miata road heaven. Waiting for the ND?

(Off topic)Coming from AZ I had my fun driving on those "Cascade highways" prior to moving here. I'm not affluent enough to support two vehicles nor have the space either so "Mia" had to go. She was fun while she lasted
Might get another down the road at some point.