5 Ways You Could Be Ruining Your Toyota 4Runner, Tacoma, or FJ Cruiser

[@T4Rgarage]

Please Note: My explanation of locking in 4wd and damaging/stressing the differential/driveline could be explained a bit better. For the limited models the differentiation between wheel speeds, outside being the front & inside being rear, can put stress on the locking diff (limited models) and transfer case/driveline components (all other models).

[@br31woodlands69]

Took to dealer for 10K service, and asked for Prop shaft fittings lubrication as specified in warranty guide. Both service advisors said it is a generic statement and they come lubricated from factory and don’t need any lubrication. Go figure.

[@wolfeadventures]

@@br31woodlands69wow.

[@kandaharenglish2595]

@@T4Rgarage How fast can we go in 4HI ? Ok on the freeway or no

[@michaelstarmer3497]

@@br31woodlands69 I hit em every 5k with Mystik JT-6 Hi-Temp and call it a day. The prop shafts specify moly OR regular so it makes sense to just have one gun and hit them all at the same time. I'm guessing the majority of 4R's are hitting impressive mileage without any lubing of any kind, so if you just grease them once a year you're probably way above average.

[@michaelcho1106]

@@kandaharenglish2595 I have the same question. Can I drive on 4HI on rainy, cold, Vancouver Dec-Feb road condition (mine is SR5 so no full-time AWD)? will exiting highway (not a straight line) damage the transfer case? What kind of turns are generally acceptable? For example, would it be okay to drive sea-to-sky highway on 4HI at around 80 km/hr?

[@Stevespecs]

My 21 year old 4Runner has been maintained like clockwork since new. She still drives and looks like new, and has never let me down. Maintenance is key.

[@MVRWC]

Other than seat wear my 2006 runs and looks like new in and out. The standard.

[@whocares4464]

Great to hear my 99 4runner has 147k on it! Just did the timing belt, water pump and others. New tires and fixing to rebuild the front end! I love my 4runner

[@bigcityaerials]

Great video-straightforward, no fluff, no grandstanding, and no fake smiles. Just solid, well-done content about the 4Runner. Really appreciate the honest and professional approach!

[@RichGallant]

Not a Toyota owner but this is largely good advice for any vehicle owner, and I hate to say it used to be pretty basic knowledge. Well done clear presentation.

[@michaelstarmer3497]

Came here to say don't forget to lube the u-joints and prop shafts. The dealer will not do these items regardless of what the manual says. I hit em with a pump when I change my oil, every 5K. If I'm not mistaken Quaker State Ultimate Protection has a super high moly content if someone is looking for that. Mobil 1 Extended Performance is also a great choice. Great video!

[@kimbuck-2]

I'm still unclear about the possibility of over greasing the shaft. The old grease never comes out.

[@michaelstarmer3497]

@@kimbuck-2 U-joints get pumped until new grease is past all the seals, the slip yokes only require a couple of pumps, grease does not go past the seal. I do (2) pumps, plus I clean the shiny part off and lightly coat with grease by hand to limit rusting.

[@kimbuck-2]

@@michaelstarmer3497 I just put a couple of pumps in as well for the slip yolks. I don't want to accumulate too much in there over time.

[@REDNECKROOTS]

Literally the worst oil you could choose. Valvoline advanced synthetic, pennsoil ultra platinum are the top tier of off the shelf oils you can buy readily.

[@kimbuck-2]

@@REDNECKROOTS Which is the worst oil?

[@APlagueOfButterflies]

My Mom's 1999 Corolla outlived her and is being driven by a family friend now. Literally $20 to fix 2 very minor issues. Always maintained. My 4Runner will be 11 years old soon. Not a rattle, no problems. I changed the oil at 500 miles and I broke it in properly and always used Toyotas maintenance schedule. Amazing cars and trucks. I hope they keep their quality up with the 6th Gen.

[@FINEST-uk8nc]

Literally just picked up a used 2024 4 Runner with 15k miles… I rather pick up this last gen of 4 runner on the tail end of a 15 yr run than jump into a totally re done 2025 starting its run !

[@VivaianFlorez]

At 75 I bought my first 5th Generation Toyota 4 runner limited it fits like my boots on my feet. Just like every thing about this truck especially visibility and I feel safe driving it. Thank you for heads up on the up keep.

[@bohan9957]

Just to add, people who own 4Runner Limited with full time 4WD should still exercise the actuators once a month. Put the vehicle in Neutral, put it in 4LO, lock the diff, then back to 4HI, and unlock the diff. There is no need to drive in 4LO because the transfer case gets exercised all the time when you're in 4HI.

[@Foreverfront]

thanks i will

[@The_Algorithm_]

The Limited models don't have a diff lock though. Thats reserved for the Trail/TRD Offroad models.

[@Nadirthebottomrock]

Mine does. It's a 2011 Limited model. It has a L4L setting on the dial. I've rarely had to use it though. ​@@The_Algorithm_

[@kathryncooper5841]

​@@The_Algorithm_ ummmm. Mine does 🤷‍♀️

[@ianquintos4694]

Also for FJ Cruisers with manual transmissions !

[@breeze787]

The stealerships are charging over $100 to change the oil and filter. It takes me over 30 min to commute back and forth and usually an hour and a half wait or longer. I've decided that I'm going to change oil every 3,000 miles which will cost me a third of what the stealerships charge and only 30 minutes to do it myself. Thanks for pointing out that cold starts could hurt I'll keep that in mind.

[@brentwhipple7578]

I would have a spray under coating (woolwax, fluildfilm, etc) in the top three for sure. If driving on salty roads rust is thr biggest threat to your 4R

[@scottgleason4511]

Good video for young people nowadays as an old man this was the way we broke in all cars and I still change my oil at 3000miles because oil is cheap engines are expensive.

[@justahumbledude]

Those times are coming back, as turbo engine oil change intervals decrease to 3k miles.

[@scottgleason4511]

@@justahumbledude yes and these young people don’t understand turbos are not new and it requires engine oil to cool which in turn cooks your oil.

[@davebrucher2283]

What would you say to replacing the oil filter every other oil change, in light of the 3000 interval vs. 5K to 10K that is in the guide?

[@scottgleason4511]

@@davebrucher2283 well it’s your vehicle but for me it’s a couple of bucks for a filter so I’m gonna change it.

[@FINEST-uk8nc]

Great video as I literally just picked up a 2024 4 Runner with 15k miles on it. The used 2024 are going fast I got a good deal. Looking forward to yrs with this vehicle .

[@RemyStahl]

I did same exact thing! Tried to find a new one, no luck. Found a dealer loaner with 14, 500 miles. Love it! The 2016 Silverado I traded in didn’t last 130k. Hope this truck lasts at least 200k

[@hoosierdude7102]

Nice video, thank you! I have a 2015 Trail Premium I bought in Dec. 2022 w/ 150k miles. Absolutely nothing seeping or leaking- it’s perfect other than rust on the rad support where the skid plate had trapped water. It’s our road trip vehicle; now has 178k with about 15k of those being road trips! She’s taken us to an Atlantic 4x4 beach and had all four wheels in the ocean, to the N and S borders and as far W as Moab. We hope to hit the W coast/ beach and way into Canada this summer. Best vehicle I’ve ever owned! The 4 liter doesn’t care, it just goes: on road, off road, mountains, hot, cold, towing, loaded, whatever. Preventative maintenance $ is better than payments!

[@MVRWC]

2006, 210,000 milea. Always 5000 mile changes, synthetic oil (used Castrol Synthetic for most of the life of the truck now using Mobile 1) , 10,000 mile filter.

[@Jeepgirlcj7]

Just purchased a 2019 4runner with low miles. While I know a ton about my cj-7 this is helpful to get aquainted with my new rig. I am a maintenance junkie so this is very helpful. Thanks for the info!

[@aaronchandler2380]

I sure do appreciate your awesome 4runner videos! I'm at about 94 K on my 2018 and i'm going to replace my antifreeze soon. I'm sure the 6th gen. 4runners will be just as reliable as our 5th's. I'm keeping my 4runner for at least 350k miles. My 07 Camry Had 240K on it when I sold it. I did all my own maintenance on it since new. Thanks!

[@eartha911]

Dang! I didn't know that about driving every month in 4WD. I bought a 2106 Trail Premium new, and I never drove more than a few miles a year in 4WD. I've only driven lightly off road a couple of times. I'm retired, and I need her to outlast me. She only has a bit over eleven k miles on her. Thanks for the advice! Hope it's not too late. She does get oil changes every 6 months.

[@justinandout]

It's nice to know that they still make 4Runners in 2106 !! Hello time traveler !

[@eartha911]

@@justinandout Haha... I'm sure they will. Pardon my dyslexia.

[@ProCrawlerAdventures]

I am good for all except 1….I purchased my 2024 TRD ORP 4Runner in Colorado but I live in Texas…… It was really difficult not to drive at high speed or at a constant speed the entire 1200 miles home!😮. I got to say, There was some really upset drivers at me! Not going over 60 on the interstate is not very popular! I am not sure I completely followed this guideline but I did my best… I took as many back roads, stopped at every rest stop and town I could and did not use cruise control. I also drove behind every big rig I could because they go slower than usual. But, all of the others I do. Especially the oil changes.. 1st one @1k and every 5k after that.

[@johnmack4470]

Best to do the 1st oil change at 500 miles

[@richboutin4044]

Changed mine at 900 miles and the oil and filter looked brand new with no shiny flecks in it at all. Didn’t expect that but glad it was so clean.

[@stevenlefebvre2991]

@@richboutin4044 Shine a bright LED light at the oil believe me you will see the shiny flakes. Depending on the quality oil filter you are using the oil filter housing oil will be the worst in the majority of the oil that you drain out of the oil pan will be less. The differential between the two will tell you how good your oil filter is working. I found the Toyota oil filters are not very efficient. If you care about your vehicle there are better oil filters out there that do a much better job.

[@justahumbledude]

I was just thinking about #1 today. My vehicle is "new" and I haven't worked my transfer case much, so took the time today to learn it and use it. I also have just over 1.3k miles, and just did my 1k oil change. I think CCN just explained the wash down situation recently as well and since I drive shorter trips often I'm making sure I sit there for 2min before driving and 2min after parking. Also, to keep the air system from accumulating moisture, it's recommended to NOT recirculate unless necessary and to turn off the A/C a few minutes before you shut off the vehicle and get outside air to dry it out. Will help with air quality.

[@angrysheepdog9744]

The first oil change is to remove fine metal particulate from the initial break in. Microscopic machining peaks and valleys get smoothed out. More like 500 / 1500 / 5000 when new. Change filter each time since most only filter down to 20-40nm and use a drain plug with a strong rare earth magnet for life the amount of metal residue attached will warn you of accelerated wear.

[@girth13]

I would add a quality undercoating to avoid frame rot if you live in an area that uses road salt.

[@ur_asian_milfoil]

Does not work 😂 it makes it worse because you can't see the start of rust and by the time you notice it's already rotten through 😂

[@jbond8355]

I have used fluid film through 4 winters in the Midwest and undercarriage looks great. Would highly recommend fluid film or similar product.

[@555atU]

Lanoline oil coatings only. Don't Ziebart and the like.

[@carllyth3815]

Corrosion Free is a great product too

[@dingdongdaddy589]

Cosmoline RP-342.

[@lulubell2222]

Thank you for the great information. I have a 2007 Lexus GX 470 that I’ve owned since New I have just under 100,000 miles on it and keep the garage kept and yes it cost me more but I have only Lexus Service the problems have been very few thankfully I did have to change the timing belt back at 77,000 miles in the water pump at the same time also the airbag so whatever they’re called in the back suspension bags I just had to have changed that cost me 1600 bucks probably paid more I’m sure I did but at least the reliability of the dealer it’s the simplest way for me to go the reason I bring up the GX is because of the similarity between the GX your vehicle which is a great vehicle if I ever get rid of the GX which I don’t think I will I would definitely go with the forerunner it’s a no brainer. I would definitely do that so thank you for all your good info again. I wanna keep my baby running as long as I possibly can and since I’m 78 years old I’d like it to see me out without having toreplace it thank you again peter

[@nickb1690]

Good video but you forgot about the models with rear lockers . The locker needs to be engaged every month also .

[@T4Rgarage]

@@nickb1690 Ah good call!

[@kimbuck-2]

Just push the button?

[@ricksativa6849]

I bought a 2011 Tacoma V6 with 36k on it in 2013ish.. I now have 293k... I change the oil every 5k.. I have a good friend who is our Mech. He is Toyota certified.. That helps.. He is a wealth of knowledge with Tacoma's and Tundra's.. We also have a 2008 sienna with 264k !!! Love Toyota's!!! Take care of them and they will take care of you!!!

[@CryingOrc1]

Great informative video! Owner of 2021 4Runner SR5 and 2010 FJ Cruiser

[@T4Rgarage]

@@CryingOrc1 You have good taste in vehicles!

[@2AToday]

Great video and all excellent points. The new/future models are absolutely not reliable. I’ve never seen a company do a 180 in a bad direction the way Toyota has with terrible design, poor quality control, and absolutely criminal price gouging.

[@justahumbledude]

It's sad isn't it?

[@thebeast9606]

​@sheepdog3828 Wait, you're complaining about DEI, yet bought (if you own one) a vehicle made in Japan..😂😂😂 WTF does "DEI" have to do with vehicle quality--are you saying more white people have been hired in Japan, so now Toyota reliability and quality has gone down?

[@2AToday]

@@sheepdog3828 That is a factor in business being run worse and having worse products. I think a bigger factor with the Toyota engines and build quality is the woke/progressive/globalist push for fuel economy + emissions, their holy war against cLiMaTe ChAnGe

[@elijahthebomb]

Big screen and more computers 😂 Are they even Toyota’s?

[@justinrank8662]

I think some of it has to do with government emission standards with the EPA. Vote accordingly

[@Buhlayzik]

To avoid the issues mentioned with #1, ($3000 repairs) if you haven’t put it in 4wd in years, what are you to do to prep for 4wd and what’s the costs for us non-mechanic types?

[@rebelops]

thank you! i read manual multiple times and still there is a lot of info. I definitely missed the info about the 4wheel drive part.

[@onenikkione]

Owner's manual is a thick book, I always take notes including page numbers and make my own quick-reference-guide.

[@rebelops]

@@onenikkione i started using pdf version for quick reference: assets.sia.toyota.com/publications/en/om-s/OM04042U/pdf/OM04042U.pdf assets.sia.toyota.com/publications/en/om-s/OM24N1QRG/pdf/OM24N1QRG.pdf

[@eriknash8783]

2006 Tacoma TRD Sport 4X4 350,000 miles. Left it stock and it never dies. I've never changed the coolant, never replaced hoses, never flushed brake fluid, never changed trans fluid. Drive it in the snow every year for skiing. Leave everything stock and drive the shit out of it... Oh, and I never let it warm up. I have changed oil and filter using conventional 5w-30 (cheapest oil I can find), but wix filter every 5K.

[@CAN43715]

I am surprised the frame hasn't rusted off it.

[@GXMAN16]

Toyota reliability doesn't mean neglecting maintenance which you clearly have done

[@larrynester4713]

Ugh, I have a 2013 FJ Cruiser that I have had for a year and have put 10,000 miles on it. I have never put it in 4 wheel drive. Going to do this today and hopefully I will be fine.

[@bobcoats2708]

Oh damn. Almost all of my trips are under 5000 miles! Most of those tips apply to all vehicles of course. Perhaps we’re more invested than some, however, for the fact that we do want our tried and true 5 Gens to last forever. I guess I’d add 60k mile/100k KM transmission drain and fills too. Sorry had to tease you about your blooper 😂

[@T4Rgarage]

@@bobcoats2708 Hahaha did I say 5000? 🤦🏻‍♂️ good catch. Yeah I probably could have made this a “10 Ways….” 🤔

[@otter63]

“repeated trips of less than 5,000 miles in temperatures below freezing”

[@leonotthelion]

Valvoline, Castrol and Quaker State full synthetic are good oils. Never had issues with any of these

[@paulk6077]

I have been looking for a 2019 - 2020 4runner. Most people are only doing one oil change per year. I am still looking.

[@bugatti314159]

I never go over 5k miles on oil changes, regardless of driving conditions. Oil is cheap compared to a new engine. On older vehicles I do 3k and always synthetic.

[@LostandFoundTravel]

Yup. My '97 loves freshy fresh at 3k.

[@mauriciocampos6577]

Same. Every 3k-3.5k full synthetic

[@LostandFoundTravel]

@@mauriciocampos6577 It's like 3k is the alarm and I snooze till 3.5K. Safe travels

[@cascaderiverflows]

Great video but please be specific such: 1. what miles/hr is considered extremely high speed for the 4Runner? 2. “Avoid sudden acceleration” I’m guessing you meant warming up before accelerating and if so for how long should we warm it up for before driving. 3. “Do not drive at constant speed for extended periods” Does that mean driving in highway for a 6 hour road trip is bad?

[@GXMAN16]

If you're asking about the break-in period, its very vague and same for ALL Toyota and Lexus 4x4s. So don't worry too much about it, if there was anything critical they would have specified it. 1. Car Care Nut, a Toyota master tech said extremely high speeds is above 65mph, the some manuals state not exceeding posted highway limits, since we have HWYs with 75mph. I would avoid going 80+ during brake in. 2. Sudden acceleration means don't stomp on a gas pedal, drive it smooth and gingerly during this period. Good rule of thumb is to never let RPM climb over 4k and smooth acceleration if you're trying to race ahead you're wrong. For warming up no more than a minute, 30 seconds is enough on a cold start, good rule of thumb is to wait until the rpms climb down, which takes 20-30 seconds. Most important is to drive slow, not race the engine, avoid aggressive driving, it can take up to 20 minutes for some of your powertrain components like transmission to reach operating temps. Remember sitting and waiting on a cold start does nothing for your transmission, differenetials and other moving parts outside the engine. 3. Yes 6 hours road trip on a new engine is not good. Will it blow anything up? No, as plenty people buy out of state and drive their cars hundreds of miles home. Just avoid this until brake in period is over. Cruise control especially, even on shorter trips, as it locks your engine into a constant speed. Short trips are fine, as you rpm varies as you pass, slow, go through curves. Main takeaway is just don't beat up on the car first 1000 miles, drive it like an old lady and avoid long highway trips.

[@mhudsonc.2625]

Excellent video, thank you. First time 4Runner owner, Gen 5 and love it.

[@mazepa-slavaukrayini932]

Very clearly articulated and informative video! Much appreciated!!

[@CAN43715]

Fluid film inside frame and Blaster Surface Shield on outside underbody every fall in snow belt. Pennzoil synthetic oil every 5000 miles.

[@onenikkione]

drive a "beater" in the winter, keep your nice SUV/Truck twice as long

[@CAN43715]

@@onenikkione Or don't drive it at all. It will last a lifetime.

[@Meatpopsicle2050]

6:31 do you have any references for the amount in oem oil?

[@lovethomassowell]

Thank you. Excellent video. Your content was very helpful when deciding to buy a 5th gen 4Runner ORP (along with Automotive Press and the Car Care Nut). You have also recommended several modification products (LED lighting, tires, etc.) and will check back on your videos and see if you are still happy with those recommendations. I just set up a monthly reminder to engage the 4-wheel drive system and also to stick with Toyota OEM oil.

[@PittiesAndMore]

You should add the Lexus GX and LX in the title as well.

[@kellymiller3136]

I use Amsoil because the oil my Toyota dealer makes my engine sound like a diesel. When I use Amsoil it’s way quieter and smoother. Just what I found and love my 2021 manual TRD Tacoma! Trying to make it last as long as possible.

[@jonesjones7057]

I second that. Same thing was going on with my '19 Tundra. Couldn't believe how bad it sounded on start and warm up. Switched to Amsoil, much better.

[@richboutin4044]

I love the lopey sound of this engine. Sounds like a cammed muscle car.

[@kellymiller3136]

All my fluids in my Tacoma are Amsoil. My dealer was going to give me some gear oil for the transmission and I read the label and said that this is not GL5 approved and didn’t have the correct additives that is required so I don’t mess up my transmission. Thanks to the Toyota Car Care man it’s not the same be careful.

[@D_F_L_]

Yeah changing suspension lifts when the world’s top engineers has dialed in the exact suspension for durability. Anytime you lift it with after market parts for a higher lift, the truck now has a weak point.

[@mysteriousoklahoma777]

But it looks cooler and can go places where lifted vehicles are required

[@The_Algorithm_]

​@@mysteriousoklahoma77799 percent of people never go anywhere a lifted vehicle is needed.

[@D_F_L_]

@@mysteriousoklahoma777 yeah in still getting a suspension lift like Dobinson IMS ..LOL.

[@gsmacka96]

Lol my #5 first break in was driving from Indiana to TN and back a few days after getting it because of a planned trip. Oh well. #2 i cant avoid short 3 minute trips without warming up the engine when taking Vol fire calls. I wait about 30 seconds in winter before driving and slowly accelerate.

[@jeannerayman7392]

What if you have a limited that is all time 4 WD. Do we need to engage the other modes?

[@sbumpus4513]

As much as I nightmare as it is, I change my oil every 5K, and yes, I will attest, after back and forth twice between Castrol and Toyota that their is a definite sound idling and running difference btw them. I am now convinced and will only use the extra moly Toyota brand. It’s under 50k and I indeed want to be buried in it! Gotta now figure best way to get driveshaft points lubed/another challenge….

[@Brandon_osborn]

Oops… I’ve done oil changes every 10k for the first 100k miles, and had no idea about the cold start/stop thing! We do that more than we should because of the way our garage is set up. Great to know 😂

[@rodjones812]

Don’t worry, 10k is ok if you’re putting highway miles on it. The folks that are saying 3k have too much time on their hands😅

[@TheBeatenPaths]

Why does no one ever talk about transmission, differential, and transfer case fluid changes? Good grief, they're just as important as your motor oil. And undercoat your vehicle!!!

[@jfweimar]

I recently purchased a 2019 T4R w/29k. I have not engaged the 4-wheel (low/high) yet. What is the best method to start this? Replace oil there first?

[@bparsons711]

Change oil on brand new vehicle between 50-200 miles. There will always be shavings and microscopic metal debris from the initial start up so just flush it immediately and avoid the risk of premature wear.

[@JeremyHoodDaniel]

Living in Jamaica, my driving is up and down mountains every day, 90%on bad roads

[@jeffojibway9284]

Words of wisdom well done.

[@shaji6481]

Assuming this all applies to the 4th gen v6 4Runner as well right?

[@antman7431]

I've always engaged 4wd when stopped, I didn't know you can go that fast when switching

[@KZ-np8fz]

2016 4runner 14,000 miles. Yes, that's correct. Original owner. Female. Just got service done today. Transmission fluid flush/ fill, Front & Rear differential, transfer case, oil change, tire rotation today.... took it back to shop after it was done because it was making sounds and doing things its never done before... A quiet high pitched sound when around 2000rpm +/-, you need good hearing and or young ears... service advisor and tech drove it and didn't hear... had the windows down... how did they think they would hear a quiet noise with air and traffic sounds??? Its always made sounds of acceration when accelerating. But this is different. Sort of vibrational, sort of whistle like... very quiet... but different than it previously sounded. Was also having a feeling of it slipping when making its first shift, but i think it was the traction control... it had activated after stopping on a steep hill on way home from service completion... and then would periodically kind of jolt when accelerating mostly from a stop after that activation. Seems to have stopped... I had a different vehicle do that as well when the traction stability control activated... It's extremely disconcerting for it to do the jolt when you are on straight flat road. I was very concerned as transmission fluid was just changed. Maybe a bubble or something. There is also a little woosh to woosh whistle (not loud) like sound sometimes when i turn now... granted previously it was squeaking a little when turning. I don't know if any of these sounds are serious issues... but I know they are different than it sounded before. Anyone with same issues and the answer, and solution if a problem would be most appreciated!!! I'm taking it back on Monday if it persists for service manager to ride along. I hope he has good hearing. Posted to a previous video regardinf 3 sounds, shoyld you be worried.

[@joey1957]

Possibly the transmission fluid exchange is the issue. Especially since you’re stating different shifts after the service. Most likely not enough fluid was replaced. I had a similar issue after a service @100k on my 2012. Had the service redone and the “whistle/squish” noise went away.

[@2WheelShenanigans]

Awesome content as always !

[@lucasgonzalez6783]

Very good but didn’t mention transmission oil change and that’s super important

[@aryamoshrefi417]

what was that fuel wash? basically every time we start the car we have to wait until it warms up before we turn it off? this sounds like a bologna to me!

[@At7577-t3g]

I turn the air conditioner on when it's 30 below and run the heater when it's 90 and humid use all systems for a bit otherwise like people they break down.

[@txrunroutdoors]

Great video!!! Quick, concise, and solid points for people to consider.

[@barryscott990]

Don’t forget to engage your rear locker occasionally too, if you have one

[@g.fortin3228]

Seems like you hit everthing just perfect.. I think i'll do the blackstone labs testing just for the knowledge of it as i did everything by the book for the most part even the 1k oil change. also did the rear end gear oil at 10k and it WAS pretty dirty.. gears break in is a thing. after i did that one, i opted to also do the transfer gear oil about a week later so also around 10k. I hope to keep it a long time so it matters to me and the extra cost not an issue when you spend on a 4runner what's an extra fluid change LoL. great vid.. i'm subbing.

[@canoeshoe]

Special condition is driving in the city or 90% mix driving so i would change at 5k miles or less.

[@nickpark9587]

if u have 4runner limited with full time awd, then u don't need to engage 4H 4L frequently, correct?

[@uprebel5150]

What are the knobs on the front bumper for❓

[@T4Rgarage]

@@uprebel5150 high lift jack mounts

[@danh8113]

So what do you do when going on a long trip? I know about not driving at a constant speed with a new engine, it doesn’t apply to an engine with thousands of miles though does it?

[@jakubgruszczynski4069]

No, it does not. Only brand new engine, up to like 500-1000 miles. And no towing in that period either.

[@danh8113]

@ Thanks!

[@Nicool333]

2023 orp here. This was helpful. Thank you!!

[@allenzillmer1917]

Great video! Thank you sir. Just picked up a TRD ORP and plan to pamper it

[@elijahthebomb]

What are your qualifications?

[@JoeBuck-uc3bl]

I might sell my 4Runner specifically because I don’t have areas to go to that have off road terrain (in order to exercise all settings)

[@Spineler0]

@ 5:15 I don't think you meant to say "repeated trips of less than 5,000 miles" No one drives 5k miles in a trip

[@onenikkione]

My trip to work is 4.7 miles, but I take the long way and drive 10 miles at average speed of 50mph hoping it gets engine & oil hot enough.

[@mattgamble5422]

Great video; actually helpful content!

[@Baebon6259]

Did everything except proper break-in (didn't know any better back then)

[@IGJSarasota]

Great Video!! What grade gasoline do you use?

[@SoCal_rnr]

Oh thank goodness. My OCD habits has helped my 5th Gen coincidentally 😊

[@davebrucher2283]

Toyota, and other manufactures , could easily add electric oil pumps that would produce oil pressure to lubricate in the first few seconds before starting. Of course, this would mean engines would last longer with fewer repairs to make $$ off repairs or replacements.

[@CAN43715]

The trucking company I worked for did this many years ago and installed a prelub pump on the engines to bring oil pressure up before engine is cranked. They found that it did not pro long the life of the vehicle. The only benefit of a prelub system would be if the engine has sat for a prolong length of time and oil is completely drained off of bearings and cylinder walls. In addition, mechanical oil pumps are arguably more reliable than electrical oil pumps.

[@bluesky0762]

I think you meant 5 miles, not 5,000 at the 5:17 mark.

[@T4Rgarage]

@@bluesky0762 correct 👍🏼

[@J.Young808]

5:17 I have never driven one trip >5,000 miles. I’m thinking 5 or 50 miles, which is the majority of trips here on O’ahu

[@T4Rgarage]

@@J.Young808 hahahaha! I’m surprised I didn’t catch that one while editing 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@jlucguerrier]

Watching this while getting my oil changed. I do it every 6 months or like 3000 miles since I don't drive a lot.

[@Yoyomanmanholla]

Adding raptor light ruin them

[@scottgorman7166]

Great video....the wash down was a very good point. Also moving the vehicle back and forth like you mentioned will eventually kill your battery.

[@williamward7801]

Don't forget the PCV..Replace every 30k. 12 dollar part. Easy to replace.

[@fiftycallibers]

Great video sir thank you 🎉

[@wiscowalleye7954]

Toyota changed their oil formula to align with the new boosted engines and pre ignition concerns with additives like Molly. I didn’t believe it so I sent a sample off to Blackstone and sure enough there’s only about a quarter of the Molly that it used to contain. A good option for motor oil that still contains high Molly is Valvoline extended protection high mileage. Like I said, I used to believe Toyota motor oil had high Molly and it did but they have changed it and the proof is in the numbers sadly. I also tried an expensive boutique oil redline. It was supposed to have high Molly content, but it had actually less than the Toyota motor oil in its current form and cost almost twice as much! This too was proven by a black stone report.

[@kimbuck-2]

I want Molly? Do you know anything about Coscto/Kirkland OW-20 in this regard?

[@wiscowalleye7954]

@@kimbuck-2 🤣 I mean moly. And I’m not sure about Costco oil. Only way to know is send in a sample I guess.

[@Foreverfront]

i got the all time all wheel drive 4runner drinks but mint

[@omegasupremez2832]

Me too but what do you mean?

[@T4Rgarage]

@@Foreverfront Tell me about it, I have the limited with lift, tires, extra weight. You can almost watch the gas gauge go down in real time lol 😂

[@onenikkione]

drinks fuel but in mint condition?

[@willienillie6337]

I’m at 35K should I do differential service?

[@jake27schannel]

Nah ur good. Maybe every 100k

[@TheCaperfish]

@@jake27schannel your being sarcastic correct ? lol

[@Pccpy]

I don't care what people say. DO NOT wait until 10k miles to change your oil. Don't matter if you drive on city roads or dirt roads, your oil will be very dirty after 5k miles.

[@axios76]

rust proof the frame with petrolium based, non dry products.

[@pcoc8694]

I use the Toyota synthetic, 0-20, the FJ says you can go 10K. Regardless, I change it every 5K period.

[@GeraldineBrats]

Which is a total waste of time.

[@pcoc8694]

@GeraldineBrats huh?

[@jeffgreen4903]

Sick headlights!

[@Nicool333]

Ceramic coating. 4Runner paint is soft.

[@lucky1867]

Great video! Wish I’d seen it 1500 miles ago. I just hit 2000. ;)

[@xPhen]

I enjoy my 4Runner, I like the idea here. Lets use info not in the manual and I'd put a like on it.

[@rickyarmstrong9267]

Fj look nice but it looks like it would really suck the gas

[@fritty9927]

I own a Tacoma (23”) and FJ (14), both average 18 mpg.

[@trippletraders]

3k mile oil changes are definitely smarter than 5k and especially 10k…thats just asking for trouble.

[@kennyg-o6h]

How often should the coolant be flushed and replaced on a 4Runner?

[@thecount1001]

every 2 weeks.

[@kennyg-o6h]

@@thecount1001 I heard it was every other day…hahaha!

[@kimbuck-2]

​@@kennyg-o6hYes but only with your headlights on.

[@timalan7406]

At 30,000 miles and every 10,000 miles afterward, drain as much as you can from the radiator (about 3.5 quarts) and replace with fresh Toyota (pink) coolant. A complete flush is unnecessary. This will prevent the coolant from becoming acidified, which is the problem with old coolant.

[@kandaharenglish2595]

What if mine is full time 4x4 do I still need to put it in 4 low every month

[@T4Rgarage]

@@kandaharenglish2595 yeah you’ll still have actuators for 4lo and the locking diff

[@kandaharenglish2595]

@@T4Rgarage I drive on payment , I just put it in 4low once a month and drive for 10 miles? At what speed?

[@T4Rgarage]

@@kandaharenglish2595 It’s hard to explain all the info here, I would suggest checking out the owners manual. Use 4lo when going slow. 4Hi can be used at higher speeds. Running 4hi for 10 miles and 4lo for at least a little bit each months to ensure the actuators move freely and engage correctly

[@kandaharenglish2595]

@@T4Rgarage bro I really liked the video where you swapped the front bumper to TRD pro, I am thinking about doing that to my limited but I am afraid I might ruin it since I don’t fix cars at all or work or any.

[@wolfeadventures]

I find a dirt road, put it in each of the drive modes for half a mile. H4L and L4L.

[@saintarmstrong8790]

I have a 96' FZJ73 4.5L soft top. I live in the Colombian jungle. I wash it and get normal maintenance. They don't make them like this beast anymore

[@T4Rgarage]

@@saintarmstrong8790 No they don’t my man! Nice rig. I’m in Nicaragua right now

[@T4Rgarage]

Soo many awesome old Land Cruisers here. They run forever

[@jimmybonifacio6734]

Great on point !

[@verlaryder]

Misses some key points. 1) 0W-20 is just a best fuel economy viscosity. But worldwide, Toyota truck and SUV owners manuals say 5W-30 is best for engine protection, even if the vehicle was factory filled with 0W-20. 2) Japan's top engine engineers recommend 2000-4000 mile oil changes for longest engine life. 3) Wearable components of the ignition & emission system need to be replaced before they are totally worn out. 4) The transmission is the most failure prone drivetrain component so needs fluid changes every 30,000.

[@T4Rgarage]

@@verlaryder Great points. Also important to note that most engine wear occurs during cold starts. As per Toyota “0W20 is the best choice for fuel economy and good starting in cold weather” “The 0W in 0W-20 indicates the characteristics of the oil which allows cold stability. Oils with a lower value before the W allow for easier starting of the engine in cold weather” (This is what they provide to us in North America) It is said to reach critical engine components within 1-2 seconds on cold starts to reduce engine wear. The use of 5W-30 is only suggested by Toyota in warmer climates such as Puerto Rico. I’m all about the maintenance on the transmission, so good call. Reports of transmission failures for 5th gen 4runners and 3rd gen tacomas seems quite rare, or at least that’s what I’ve heard. Can you provide any articles or service bulletins which indicate that these transmissions are a weak point? Ive heard plenty of people report they’ve gone hundreds of thousands of miles without changing the fluid, not that I would ever recommend that

[@verlaryder]

@@T4Rgarage toyota manuals outside the USA and Canada say 5W-30 is among the RECOMMENDED viscosities for year round use. Indisputable fact. Even in 2025 Camrys and Corollas that came factory filled with 0W-8.

[@T4Rgarage]

@@verlaryder Ah gotcha. 82% of my viewers are in North America so this video is geared more towards that demographic. 73.5% U.S. and 8.5% Canada