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How much weight can you put in a Toyota 4Runner?


The Toyota 4Runner is a popular SUV known for its rugged design, off-road capabilities, and spacious interior. Whether you're planning a road trip, hauling equipment, or simply curious about its load capacity, understanding how much weight your 4Runner can handle is crucial for safety and performance. In this article, we’ll break down the key factors that determine the weight capacity of a Toyota 4Runner and provide tips for safe loading.


Understanding the Toyota 4Runner's Payload Capacity


The payload capacity of a vehicle refers to the maximum weight it can safely carry, including passengers, cargo, and any additional equipment. For most Toyota 4Runner models, the payload capacity typically ranges between 1,500 and 1,700 pounds. However, this number can vary depending on the specific model year, trim level, and any modifications made to the vehicle.


Factors That Affect Payload Capacity


Several factors can influence how much weight your Toyota 4Runner can safely carry. Here are the key considerations:



  • Model Year and Trim: Different model years and trims may have varying payload capacities due to differences in design, materials, and features.

  • Aftermarket Modifications: Adding accessories like roof racks, lift kits, or larger tires can impact the vehicle's weight distribution and overall capacity.

  • Passenger Weight: Remember that the payload capacity includes the combined weight of all passengers in the vehicle.

  • Additional Equipment: Items like tow hitches, winches, or camping gear also count toward the total payload.


Tips for Safe Loading


To ensure your Toyota 4Runner performs optimally and remains safe to drive, follow these tips when loading your vehicle:



  • Distribute Weight Evenly: Place heavier items closer to the center of the vehicle and distribute the load evenly to maintain balance.

  • Secure Your Cargo: Use straps or nets to secure items and prevent them from shifting during transit.

  • Check Tire Pressure: Ensure your tires are properly inflated to handle the additional weight.

  • Stay Within Limits: Never exceed the manufacturer’s recommended payload capacity, as this can strain the suspension, brakes, and other components.


Where to Find Your 4Runner's Payload Information


The exact payload capacity for your Toyota 4Runner can be found in the owner’s manual or on the vehicle’s door jamb sticker. This information is specific to your vehicle and should always be referenced before loading.


Conclusion


Understanding and respecting the payload capacity of your Toyota 4Runner is essential for safe and efficient driving. By staying within the recommended limits and following proper loading practices, you can enjoy all the versatility and reliability this SUV has to offer. If you have any questions about your vehicle’s capacity or need assistance with maintenance, feel free to contact us at Kevin’s Autos for expert advice and service!


Frequently Asked Questions

How much weight can a 5th gen 4Runner carry?


The towing capacity of the 4Runner hasn't changed much over the years. The current 5th generation can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. That's the same number that the 4th and 3rd generations are rated for.



How much can you fit in a 4Runner?


Toyota 4Runner Cargo Space
Cargo Space (Up to 1st Row): 89.7 cubic feet. Cargo Space (Up to 2nd Row): Second Row: 47.2 cubic feet.



How do I know how much weight I can put in my car?


To calculate your car's payload, you need to subtract the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) from the kerbweight. GVWR refers to the maximum weight you can safely add to your vehicle. It is unsafe to exceed this limit, as certain components such as the brakes and shock absorbers are not designed to handle such loads.



How much weight can I put on top of my 4Runner?


As all Front Runner roof racks, this 5th Gen 4Runner roof rack with sunroof has a 660 lbs weight capacity, meaning you can literally mount anything you can think of over it.



What is the payload of a Toyota 4Runner?


Payload = 895 lbs (2025 4Runner Trailhunter)



What is the max cargo weight?


Federal law controls the interstate system's maximum gross vehicle weights and axle loads. Federal limits are 80,000 pounds gross vehicle weight, 20,000 pounds on a single axle and 34,000 pounds on a tandem axle group.



How much weight can a Toyota pickup hold?


2024 Toyota Tundra Payload and Towing Capacity
Leading its class, the Toyota Tundra offers a Toyota pickup truck towing capacity of up to 12,000 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 1,940 pounds.



What is the cargo weight limit for a 4Runner?


Looking back at the 2021 Owner's Manual (bear in mind, this vehicle is essentially the same since 2010 model year), the Vehicle Capacity Weight is 880 lbs for vehicles equipped with the rear locking differential (TRD Off Road & Pro) and 1,165 for the models without the rear locking diff.



How much weight can a Toyota 4Runner hold?


While it would previously vary by trim, all 2024 Toyota 4Runner models get the ability to tow 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. That means the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro towing capacity is the same as the Toyota 4Runner SR5 towing capacity and all the other trim levels offered in the 2024 lineup.



What is the maximum cargo space for a 4Runner?


The 4Runner is available as either a two-row SUV with seating for five or a three-row SUV with optional third-row seats that can seat up to seven people. Maximum cargo space for the two-row model is 89.7 cubic feet while the peak cargo capacity for the three-row 4Runner is 88.8 cubic feet.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.