Toyota Sequoia 4x4 System/Center Diff Lock Explained (4Runner, GX470, Land Cruiser)

I made a simple and straightforward video about the 4x4 system and center diff lock that Toyota and Lexus vehicles often have. Many people seem to not understand how it works and how it's different from other vehicles.
This mainly applies to 2003-2007 Toyota Sequoias (2001 and 02) are slightly different, but is very similar to other vehicles such as the Lexus GX470, LX470, some 4Runners, and some Land Cruisers.
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[@its-andrew-y]

hey man i know you’re not really putting out videos anymore but i wanted to say thanks for putting these out. i’ve had a number of 4wd/awd vehicles over the years but the sequoia has a very unique system sort of a hybrid between awd/4wd. for most people this is probably the best of both worlds

[@foxxmufasa]

I was so confused with the center diff lock. this explained it perfectly

[@timgarner9714]

I enjoyed your video on Toyota Sequoia 4x4 system it’s refreshing to listen to not just Data but information from experience or knowledge . Thank you my man

[@timgarner9714]

How did you gain your experience with this topic ? Do you wrench ? 4x4 nerd like me I can’t stand when I see videos where there is incorrect info . Which in this case is clearly not one of them seems everyone has learned the system in the correct way dang man this pumped me up I love Toyota 4 wheel drives

[@popsthemachine247]

I’m completely satisfied with my all wheel drive Lexus GX470 especially since I can take it into smaller areas that my my Sequoia is to big for. The V8 engine is all I need to also pull my small trailer when camping as well. Great informative video very much appreciated.

[@TheFraziers]

The GX is a great choice! We shopped around for them too.

[@phild2313]

Clear, exact, and noiseless! Keep uploading great stuff about the One and Only Sequoia 1st Gen.

[@MinerGeeks]

Hey man this is a great video and I love all your content. I want this comment to serve as some motivation to keep going even though your audience is too big yet. I honestly thought you had over 100k subs at least when I saw the video quality so I’m shocked that you’re not over that. Truly amazing content and quality videos.

[@saulgarcia3255]

Love the videos he and his sister put out.

[@levihernandez5085]

Thanks for this! Trying to figure out my 4runner SR5's functions. Its part time 4WD with center diff and I really couldn't find anywhere explaining what the heck was going on and when its locked and when its unlocked. So thank you!!

[@StallionDuck07]

Your b-roll showed it when you locked the diff, but according to my manual the center diff lock also disengages some of the electronic nannies. I’m assuming this allows for some more wheel spin as there are certain situations where you don’t want traction control robbing your engine of power. Great video as always!

[@TheFraziers]

Yup. Exactly. I plan to make a video explaining how the traction control and stability control systems work.

[@norrrizchuck]

My 4Lo light and sometimes 4Hi flash together at the same time, but most of the time is the 4 Lo light that keeps on flashing I am able to drive the truck just fine (07 sequoia). What might be the issue? I took it to my local dealership and they wanted 12k in total repairs. They wanted to replace the transfer case and both the diffs

[@RobinIsStupid]

Love your videos! I’m moving towards a Sequoia (the AWD Sienna isn’t cutting it) and your videos have been really helpful.

[@wesleyantinetti4427]

Thanks for the good info! I have an 03 sequioa and it’s been able to do a lot.

[@MrEroupe]

Thanks for this, just bought one, ive always had full aize truck or jeeps and have never seen this button. Pretty neat feature for driving here in Alaska!

[@vkhiev]

Thanks for best explanation of our sequoia 4wd system

[@Being_Joe]

Good info. Almost got a Gen1 partially because of you videos but found a nice LX470 and well she was prettier.

[@warren3665]

Good info! I just bought a 07 with 150k and am soaking up all the info I can.

[@markmd695]

Great info. Toyota has a great, tried and true system

[@RussUlmer]

Very informative. I appreciate your in depth analysis of this because I am about to buy a Sequoia from a mechanic I've known for years and he says it is a great vehicle, I've also never owned a 4WD so this is interesting. It would be my first Toyota so I am learning as much as I can. Keep up the good work!

[@phpjeff]

Nice explanation. Thanks! My 2002 has a locking center diff, but doesn't have a button to engage it. It automatically gets selected when in 4x4 low and the transmission is set to 1st gear.

[@TheFraziers]

Yes, I forgot to mention that 01-02 models function a little differently. Thanks for watching!

[@someidiot1984]

That was an awesome and informative video. Thank you.

[@jamespostle6894]

my only gripe is that some crossover systems are gonna be more similar to the sequoia's system then others. For example a honda crv will be purely fwd until slip is detected then send a limited amount of power back whereas in an audi or subaru all 4 wheels will always be powered. In modern subaru's case it's both similar and different in multiple ways. The standard split is 60 front 40 rear power split that changes via the viscous clutch depending on conditions. It'll then send power side to side via vdc and tc. There is also no transfer case so instead the vdc decides when to lock up the clutch pack and when to let it slip.

[@mikeypotts4732]

Perfect explanation, thank you!

[@yogistrail9723]

Excellent explanation thanks man

[@JarradShaw]

That helped a lot.

[@KevinTiwana]

Perfect Explanation

[@Peripatetic_bum]

This is really good. Thank you

[@lylevalentine5902]

Good video and explanation!

[@TommyNitro]

So let's say I'm not able to go off road with great frequency. Should I periodically use 4wd anyway for the health of the system?

[@TheFraziers]

Yup! That’s always a good thing to do occasionally. I’ve heard cycling through the different modes at least once a month is good.

[@Gatorojo863]

Gracias muchacho 🐜

[@OutdoorWood]

4Hi is also good in torrential downpours with standing water.

[@aquaman6376]

How do I know if it's working ..mine flashes a few times then shuts off.. just bought and 06 110k on it.trying to figure out how it works

[@lakerkid8]

I think you can only lock the center diff in 4lo. Try shifting into 4lo and press the button while moving at under 5 mph

[@marcissobadass]

Thanks this was great!

[@ericksantiago6287]

Hello everyone.. help me please anybody can tell me what is se position the handle shitt L and H for mormal drive I moved to H and I don't remember what position it's before moved...I see L,N and L where need stay the handle for normal drive

[@youarerightboss]

Thank You. Good job.👍

[@bellman4336]

Is the diff lock standard on all sequoias, or is it an option?

[@alberg5525]

So, with 4WD unlock dif can drive as fast as you want and 4WD locked dif can only be driven 60mph or less?

[@TheFraziers]

No, you can drive in both modes as fast you would in 2wd. You simply can’t shift from one to the other above a specific speed, which i believe is about 60

[@WillKenyon]

I recognized you said you have to be in neutral to shift to 4Lo, and you can shift to 4HI at speeds of under 20 MPH, what are the speeds for which you should shift into the center differential? Should it be in neutral? Park? Thanks :)

[@ImSick0]

You can press it at any speed while driving. No need to stop or put in neutral.

[@jgpjgp2169]

Finally I understand this thing. Now I need to know why my 4wd is not engaging and light is blinking + I hear something clicking behind the dash. Could it be a bad actuator?? How to tell if its the front or rear actuator

[@adamscastle6222]

Check the vacuum line that attaches to the 4 wheel drive actuator. My sequoia had the same symptoms and it was because the vacuum line fell off. If the vacuum line is dry rotted and cracked like mine was just cut a half inch off the end. I reconnected my vacuum line to the actuator and now my 4 wheel drive engages perfectly. Here is a detailed video of the repair : kzbin.info/www/bejne/gmHEdoCco5hgrNE

[@aquaman6376]

I had to put mine in neutral to get it to work

[@MrFuchew]

Big thanks man

[@sandovalpaul]

Great video .. thank you

[@egtallday]

I have a 2002. It doesn't have that button. I have my vsc/trac light on due to unplugging it since it's lifted. Will it interfere with alltrac? I tried and I don't think so but I am not sure

[@ScooterJGarage]

The 01-02 Sequoia do not have a center diff lock button, but share the same parts as 03-04. For some reason Toyota only allowed the center diff to lock in 4LO L gear, nothing else, not even reverse. The good news is, you can add a switch, I know there are a few write-ups on how to do this. A-trac will not work without the vsc/trac enabled and calibrated.

[@isaacspoon]

For what it is worth, pre facelift sequoia gen1 models have an open diff, whereas post facelift gen1 sequoias use a torsen diff

[@TheFraziers]

Thanks for that addition!

[@ericsnyder1859]

i was wondering this throughout most of the video lol. so is open diff + 4wd mode effectively the same as what's commonly known as awd (one wheel in front and one wheel in back has power)? whereas torsen (lsd) diff + 4wd basically that all four wheels have power?

[@TheFraziers]

@@ericsnyder1859 essentially the non torsen diff is completely open so that when the primary drive wheels in the rear are spinning, no power will be sent to the front at all. The torsen diffs in the 05-07 are limited slips, so when the rear is slipping, the diff will still convert a portion of the power to the front axle. Or something like that.

[@ericsnyder1859]

@@TheFraziers ahh I was thinking front/rear diffs and not the center diff!

[@TheFraziers]

@@ericsnyder1859 ATRAC handles power distribution left to right like front and rear diff locks would.

[@billwhite7614]

Thanks for the vid. I just traded in an older Sequoia for a new one. Took it up into the mountains and used 4HI. Transitioning from 4HI to 2WD I got bind/shutter in a right turn, on pavement. I took it to the dealer and they said this is normal. I said that it had an open front diff and shouldn't do that . They really didn't seem to understand the system like you. Any idea why that might have happened? I guess just don't turn until the transition is complete. The owners manual doesn't mention it.

[@TheFraziers]

Did the light on the dash indicate the diff being locked? If not, there might an issue inside the driveline.

[@billwhite7614]

@@TheFraziers I never locked the diff. They say it is normal and to keep the wheels straight when changing. The diff must somehow lock during transition.

[@justinparker7795]

toraly confuzed now!1

[@SalvadorHernandez-uu5cm]

I will continue to ask these unnecessary questions. Thank you.

[@chinoandinorivera6113]

Toyota Highlander aswell lol 😆

[@thomasbrogan9102]

🚙🚙🚙

[@ronthor5621]

Grew video

[@canyonoverland5003]

Now add locking front and rear differentials to the Sequoia and you have an unstoppable mountain goat!

[@TheFraziers]

That’s an expensive upgrade but would be sweet.

[@solarforfuture]

my first gen tree has rear locker only in 4x4 low... helps a lot!

[@hutt359]

And a tacobox from marlin crawler!

[@chunkybuttz844]

While I absolutely love my 2nd gen sequoia I would hesitate to call it a goat. She is VERY capable but nimble?

[@loganmiller2371]

@@chunkybuttz844 he said first Gen , not the lumpy larger second gen lol

[@jrsnow94]

Other may have added that on newer model years (on the GX470, all years) A-Trac functions as a kind of front and rear locker via the ABS system, since the center locker only locks front and rear axles, not left-right differentials, like, say, a Toyota Tacoma with a rear locker would do. So, a GX470/Sequoia/4Runner isn't quite mechanically as stout off-road as a Jeep or Toyota with a rear locker, but it adds back a kind of locking ability through A-Trac. My GX has done wonderfully off-road, and A-trac is a lifesaver.

[@theARcritter]

Same incredible engine, cheaper maintenance, more cargo capacity. Good enough for me. My ‘02 Sequoia is still chugging along with 203k miles

[@padrebod]

Just picked up am 04 with 245k miles. Best value in the game currently

[@WillKenyon]

Great explanation!

[@nobodyschild967]

Anyone watched "I LOVE YOU BETH COOPER"???? 😕

[@archivegarage7638]

2005-2007 Seq center diff is awesome, as it has a Torsen-brand limited slip center diff (LSD) that also locks, (it's not an "open" diff), and its behind the 5-speed trans. But 2001-2004 Seq center diff is either true open or locked, no Torsen limited slip, but 2001-2004 has the sweet manual lever for Hi and Lo range. 1G Sequoia has the best and most flexible 4x4 system Toyota offers, Toyota pickups are boring part time system, no "AWD" option

[@bajasoobnut]

On a side note, and I can message you over on Instagram with a pic of how mine is sat up, on the phase 1's (01-04) there is no selection for 2wd, you're basically awd/ft4wd until you hit the 4wd button which is the center diff lock, or if you shift it into 4lo which automatically locks the center diff. I learned with my 02 is for to engage the center diff lock is to hit it and then let off the throttle so it coasts and unloads the system a lil and it will fully engage. Also for 4lo you have to be stopped and in neutral to physically move the lever up to engage 4lo.

[@bajasoobnut]

And further note after watching the last part of the video lol, and now an edit, I have learned that the phase 1's run without diff lock on in 4lo unless you shift it into 1st gear, otherwise you basically run around in awd low pretty much lol but there is a workaround for it that adds a switch inline with the 4wd controller box so you can engage the lock in any gear while in 4lo

[@gabe7321]

Hey bro so the lever for the 2001 Toyota sequío should be on H right for “2wd”? For Normal driving right ?

[@thesilentobserver93]

Thanks for this in depth, yet simple, explanation! I was wondering what that button was for, and why the 4WD seemed to under perform in some situations. This pretty much answers that for me. Next time I'm in really deep snow, I'll keep that center diff lock button in mind. That being said, it's been snowing here in Oregon and I get off work at 1:30 to 2 AM. I've been loving the 4 Hi in our '04. Where my RWD '01 Tundra would probably have trouble, this Sequoia just handles it with ease. Probably the absolute best vehicle we've owned thus far.

[@malcolmlagares8245]

Excellent video. I really appreciate this. I learned a lot. 😊

[@jonmccann1324]

Great information. Just picked up a ‘07 Sequoia and am enjoying your content. 🍻

[@BucurStelian]

Does the second gen sequoia operates the same awd/ 4wd system ? Thanks

[@ScooterJGarage]

Yes it does

[@bradlee9834]

Thanks for the information. Heading out this weekend to fish and have to drive through deep sand. Can't wait to try 4lo with differential locked. Wasn't sure how to use the buttons or when to use what. Awesome video. Helped a ton.

[@TheFraziers]

If you have a way to reinflate your tires, decreasing the tire pressure helps a ton for sand.

[@MrScubajsb]

I have a 2004. It has the 4x4 button but the shift knob down under it for 4hi, lo and N. If I have 4x4 turned off, should that shifter be in the neutral position? Or does it matter? Also if you have it in four-wheel drive and you have the differential locked, What is the process of turning everything off? That's what I'm confused about. Do you put it in neutral? Do you put it in park?

[@RaleighSmoke]

I’ve enjoyed your easy to follow info on the sequoia. I recently picked up an ‘07 and hope to make it a nice overlander soon. Could you do a video on how you run the 4WD through its paces for those who don’t generally use it. I’ve been told if you don’t use it, you lose it. Thnx again!

[@essentialdeparture9999]

Always great videos. 👍🏻 I have an '05 Tundra (4.7 4x4) which I'd planned a manual conversion build for, but have been leaning towards a Sequoia lately. A loaded question I know, but to your knowledge, would there be anything about the Sequoia's 4x4 system that would further hinder that conversion?

[@von_rva9907]

My vsc trac lights are on. No check engine light though . Any trouble shooting tips. ? I have changed the gas cap lol

[@mimemaster9757]

So when the light on the dash is on what that mean that it’s locked or unlocked?

[@jonrobbins907]

Thank you! A no nonsense simplistic explanation.

[@Thornton733]

Fantastic explanation. Thank you.

[@disasterduck13]

Thanks for the video

[@HmongGuitarPlayer]

Is it me or is your nose crooked.

[@nickmccain6598]

Right. 4x4 knowledge is good. But what is on the floor behind you. I think its a fancy mini fish aquarium thats empty

[@TheFraziers]

It’s actually just an air humidifier. The dry Utah air is hard on one’s skin overtime 😂

[@nickmccain6598]

@@TheFraziers thats funny. That was my first guess. But i figured u r adventurous so i went with a outdoor answer. Hahaha. Too funny

[@FoxiKittyPayday]

Too bad my 2001 doesn't have this. Edit: it has the 4WD and 4lo but i dont think this

[@tymoteuszkopanski5017]

When it says power split, it really means shafts rotary speed split. Horsepower is torque multiplied by speed. Torque depending on traction on the wheel. Each wheel can have different traction and absorb different power at the same speed of all wheels. The full time 4WD diagram is wrong, it only creates confusion. Full time 4WD - central differential is actually located in the transfer case and power is always transmitted through the central differential, whether locked or unlocked. (English is not my language.)

[@sandovalpaul]

Hey bro, just picked a 2006 toyota tundra 4x4 double cab SR5 V8. I sold my 2003 tacoma double cab V6 prerunner TRD off road to buy the Tundra ...no regrets, love the space, love the power, sliding rear window and gotta love that 4x4 ..

[@ambienteterrazas]

My 02 Sequoia only has the center diff lock option on 4Lo , if its already in true 4x4 50/50 split in 4lo why add the center diff lock option, does the center diff lock option add any advantage off road?

[@tynado1173]

How does the 2002 differ? Looking to pick one up. Love the content!

[@karthikv1212]

Wait a min, if you don’t have true lockers for all 3 front, rear and center, then its not a true 4WD. That aside, Older gen sequoia only has Center lock. But the newer gen sequoia has Rear Locker. Does that mean, they are better?

[@sqeekms6186]

Wish you would have came out with this video 3 years ago it took me a year to figure it out and it was by accident LOL there was nothing in the manual about it I know it's a lot of people were unplugging anti track you just have to hold the button in a little longer

[@HikerFromVA]

My ‘06 Sequoia is flashing both the 4lo button and the center diff button? It will not go into 2wd. Any suggestions?

[@trgarcia0311]

Thanks for making the sequoia more popular so in turn I will have to spend twice as much just to get one….😒. Seriously, keep up the great content. Be safe

[@joshgraham1465]

Ok, so if you get stuck will the diff transfer more power to the wheel with less traction? Is there a limited slip or posi to combat this situation

[@olabashanda]

are you in Albuquerque? Is this video?

[@TheFraziers]

Ogden, Ut

[@CookingbyCampsite]

Thank you for this video, it is very helpful!

[@mavzolej]

What other vehicles have the same kind of functionality? AWD + diff lock.

[@johnsmith-ce2tq]

what about a beach like rainbow beach or Feaser Island if it is a bit soft

[@chrisanthony579]

I love my Gen 1 Sequoia (2006) and know pretty much how everything works and have to say how you explained the 4 WD system was spot on. Well done sir. Going to check out some of your other material.

[@OXFOOT]

I wish my 4Runner had the option to lock and unlock the center diff. I love the rear diff in mine but I'd pay extra to be double or triple locked.

[@TheFraziers]

I guess that means that 5th gens simply have a basic part time transfer case? But you also have a manual lever for engaging it right?

[@OXFOOT]

@@TheFraziers TBH I have no clue whats going on. We can either have a lever or a button to change to 4Hi and Lo and then a button to engage locking rear if you have the higher trim levels like my TRD offroad or the TRD Pro.

[@jordanbird9270]

Great explanation man! Thank you!

[@mr.c493]

I have a 2018 sequoia, is this the same system?

[@ratbagley]

Well done

[@Ace-44]

Thanks for the knowledge

[@bigtreesfall]

I'm still gonna go on FB and ask. 😝

[@JaysonBurke]

Do all 4WD sequoias have a center locking diff??

[@TheFraziers]

Yes, but 01-02 models don’t have manual control of like this from the factory. Instead they automatically lock in 4Lo and first gear. Otherwise, they’re always unlocked.

[@JosephSal901]

Thank you! That answered a lot of questions I had. What would be your opinion on manual transfer case models vs full electronic like you have?

[@TheFraziers]

A manual engagement would be nice just because it would be faster and more reliable in my opinion. The electronic ones, like what we have, are sometimes finicky and take time to engage. They don't like being on slopes for instance.

[@asoabduladhim8689]

Thanks for the information

[@jmstavola]

Great explanation - I have a new to me 2nd Gen Sequoia with this button and didn't know what it did - coming from an older "standard 4x4 system" 4runner. However, I wish you would have taken it one step further and explained how a center diff lock is not the same as LOCKING differentials. I see this confusion so many times - especially on people trying to sell Toyotas.

[@TheFraziers]

You're totally right. I see that confusion a lot too. I'd like to make a video explaining ATRAC and traction control at some point. Maybe I'll try to add that information into that video.

[@IF9]

Nicely explained

[@WestCoastFloridaFishing]

Dude you are the bomb!!! This is EXACTLY what I needed! Very informative and to the point! Love this video!

[@davemalone8784]

Thank you. Very informative.

[@Dovey14]

good stuff!

[@10ring66]

Great information. Thanks !

[@born2truck]

Hello, how many times did you find yourself locking the center diff while off-roading and when? I am wondering if a 01 sequoia with locked diff only in 4L 1st gear is good enough for me.

[@TheFraziers]

I lock it pretty regularly but that's mainly just to exercise the mechanism and keep it from sticking over time. The actual number of times I really needed it is relatively small.

[@solarforfuture]

have this rig. rear dif locks automatically in 4x4 low only.. good to go(at)