How do you shift a 4WD 4Runner?

Shifting a 4WD (four-wheel drive) Toyota 4Runner involves a few key steps to ensure proper operation and maintain the vehicle's performance. This article will provide a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to shift a 4WD 4Runner.

Preparing to Shift the 4WD

Before shifting the 4WD, it's important to ensure the vehicle is in the appropriate gear and the transfer case is in the correct mode. Here are the steps to prepare the 4Runner for shifting the 4WD:

• Bring the vehicle to a complete stop on a level surface.


• Ensure the transmission is in neutral.


• Engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from moving.


• Locate the 4WD transfer case shift lever, typically located on the center console or floor.

With the vehicle properly prepared, you can now shift the 4WD system.

Shifting the 4WD System

To shift the 4WD system on a Toyota 4Runner, follow these steps:

• Identify the different 4WD modes available, which may include 2WD (two-wheel drive), 4H (four-wheel high), and 4L (four-wheel low).


• Move the transfer case shift lever to the desired 4WD mode, ensuring it clicks into place.


• Release the parking brake and slowly accelerate to engage the 4WD system.


• Monitor the 4WD indicator light on the dashboard to ensure the system is engaged properly.

It's important to note that shifting between 2WD and 4WD should only be done at low speeds, typically below 55 mph (88 km/h). Shifting to 4L (four-wheel low) should be done at a complete stop or at very low speeds, as this mode is designed for off-road use or when additional torque is required.

Tips for Optimal 4WD Performance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your 4WD 4Runner, consider the following tips:

• Regularly maintain the transfer case fluid and inspect the system for any leaks or damage.


• Avoid engaging the 4WD system on dry, paved roads, as this can cause premature wear on the drivetrain components.


• When driving in off-road conditions, use the 4L (four-wheel low) mode for maximum traction and control.


• Be aware of the vehicle's ground clearance and approach/departure angles when navigating challenging terrain.

By following these steps and tips, you can confidently and safely shift the 4WD system on your Toyota 4Runner, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle's off-road capabilities.

How to shift 4Runner out of 4WD?

To take a 4Runner out of 4WD, stop the vehicle, put it in Neutral, shift the transfer case to 2WD (H2), then put the vehicle back into Drive and pull forward slowly to fully disengage. 
This video demonstrates how to switch between different four-wheel drive modes: 59sDanny DrivesYouTube · Jan 23, 2022
Step-by-step instructions

1. Stop completely: Bring the vehicle to a complete stop. 
2. Shift to Neutral: Move the transmission into the Neutral (N) position. 
3. Shift to 2WD: Move the transfer case lever from the 4WD position (H4 or L4) to the 2WD (H2) position. 
   • If you are in 4-Low (L4), you must first shift to 4-High (H4) by moving the lever back, and then shift to 2-High (H2). 
4. Engage Drive: Put the transmission back into Drive (D). 
5. Disengage: Gently pull forward a short distance. You may hear a click or see the 4WD indicator light turn off on the dashboard. 

You can watch this video to see how to disengage from four-wheel drive low to four-wheel drive high and then to two-wheel drive: 57sSteven HermansenYouTube · Feb 22, 2018
Tips for smooth shifting

• Use a loose surface: If the transfer case is difficult to shift, try doing so on a loose surface like dirt or gravel. 
• Straighten wheels: Ensure your front wheels are pointed straight to avoid resistance. 
• Consider a small roll: For older vehicles or stubborn shifts, a gentle roll forward or backward can sometimes help the gears align correctly. 

How does 4Runner 4WD work?

The 4Runner's 4WD system works by transferring power to all four wheels to improve traction, with different settings for different conditions. To use it, you typically engage 4-High (4H) for slippery surfaces like dirt, sand, or snow by turning a dial or pulling a lever, which locks the front and rear axles together and sends power to all wheels. For extreme, low-speed situations requiring maximum torque, you can switch to 4-Low (4L) by shifting to neutral, pressing the lock button, and turning the dial or pulling the lever. The Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) system uses the brakes to help regain grip, while a full-time 4WD system on some models allows for on-road use in 4H and the option to lock the center differential for off-road conditions.
 
How to use 4WD
This video explains how to use the 4WD system in a Toyota 4Runner: 1mSteven HermansenYouTube · Feb 22, 2018

• 2WD (2H): This is the standard setting for everyday driving on dry pavement, with power sent only to the rear wheels. 
• 4-High (4H):
  • What it does: Locks the front and rear axles together, sending 50% of the power to the front and 50% to the rear. This is for slippery conditions like mud, dirt, or snow. 
  • How to engage: You can usually do this while driving under 50 mph by twisting the selector knob or pulling the lever down. 
• 4-Low (4L):
  • What it does: Provides maximum torque for very low-speed, difficult situations like climbing steep hills or rock crawling. It should not be used for speeds above 25 mph. 
  • How to engage:
    1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop. 
    2. Shift the transmission to Neutral (N). 
    3. Press the lock button and turn the dial or pull the lever to the 4L position. 
• Active Traction Control (A-TRAC):
  • What it does: This feature is especially helpful when one or more wheels have lost traction. It automatically applies the brakes to the spinning wheels, forcing power to be sent to the wheels with grip. 
  • How to use: Engage it by pressing the A-TRAC button, which is often on the center console, even if you are in 4L. 
• Center Differential Lock (for Limited models): 
  • What it does: When engaged, the center differential is locked, resulting in a 50/50 torque split, which is the same as a locked part-time system. This allows you to drive on pavement in 4H on the Limited model because the center differential can accommodate different speeds between the front and rear axles. 
  • How to use: Press the lock button on the dial. If you need to go to 4L, shift to neutral first, then press the lock button and turn the knob to 4L. 
• Important reminders:
  • Do not drive on dry pavement in 4WD (4H or 4L), as it can cause damage. 
  • Always disengage 4WD and switch back to 2WD once you are back on normal roads. 
  • Follow the specific instructions for your model year, as some 4Runners may have a dial and others a lever. 

How to shift into 4 wheel drive 4Runner?

Four. This you can engage. As long as the car is in drive hopefully under 50 miles per hour and what you have to do is take your foot off the gas. So you're on coast. And then you switch. Down.

How to use 4Runner 4WD knob?

Your next choice is L4L. This is your low four-wheel. Drive. So remember put the truck into neutral to put it into low four-wheel. Drive then turn the knob to L4L.