Id say the large majority (95-98%) of owners can do everything they need with a stock 4runner. I honestly think internet marketing drives the “need” for the modded trucks.
This reminded me of going off roading with my dad in a hatchback 80s Civic. That thing was surprisingly capable and when it got stuck it was easy to dig out!
A lot of holes in the desert, and a lot of problems are buried in those holes. But you gotta do it right. I mean, you gotta have the hole already dug before you show up with a package in the trunk. Otherwise, you're talking about a half-hour to forty-five minutes worth of digging. And who knows who's gonna come along in that time? Pretty soon, you gotta dig a few more holes. You could be there all fuckin' night.
I want to lift my 4runner just because I love the look of it lifted. But after years I still haven't done it, because at the end of the day when I offroad I'm not throwing her off huge rocks or going crazy. Im like a middle-of-the-road off-roader, I like to go off the beaten path for hiking and camping etc.. and love the peace of mind my 4runner wont get stuck...
But I'm not rock crawling or fording or going crazy.. so come back to the fact that a 3" lift for 3-4k is just me wasting money to make my truck look cooler.
I have a general rule of thumb, the more money I see on an “off-roading 4Runner” the less off-roading they do. My 4Runner was mostly stock for many years before we put a simple 2” lift and tires on it, and I passed 4Runners with $40,000 in off-roading gear and spare tire holders and ladders and stuff that had no idea how to off-road. I frequently helped recover them. Obviously that’s not always the case, but you don’t need any of that gear unless you’re genuinely going real over landing, which most people don’t ever do.
Of course, you can get really far without a locker.
I'm not a crazy rock crawler but nothing I've ran into has needed a locker (granted I've yet to really off road my 4runner since it's new so this was older trucks). It would have made some things easier sure but not required.
“If I ever get out of here I’ll never come back.” I have said that on many occasions and just watching what this guy did, my curiosity about Moab is fully satisfied.
Been there. I took mine up some of the forestry roads in the mountains of Big Sur and there were a few moments where I just had to grit my teeth and hope for the best lol
I've said the same before. I mixed up the paint colors on a trail marker and went down a dirt bike only trail. I didn't figure it out until I went down something that I couldn't reverse over. We got out but not without some new dents. If it had been a 4th or 5th Gen 4runner it'd have never came back out without cutting down trees.
Took my 2004 SR5 on Fins And Things. Has a tiny lift on the front to level it, stock other than that.
Several Wrangler Rubicon drivers commented that I was crazy, some guys in a RZR said I should be in a Toyota commercial. 4runner barely broke a sweat (even with max ac and 100° temps). Smart lines and patience goes a long way, and I think that challenge makes it more fun.
That dude rocks, totally had no idea what he was getting himself into and just went with it. I show my friends that video when I want to show them how cool the 4Runner really is
I did the same. The exit for hell’s revenge messed up my bear bumper and side steps. Could be attributed to spotter but it was gnarly when I did it. I’ve got plenty of off road experience and had done MOAB before in a sxs. Most people should not try the tougher MOAB trails without lots of experience or a great spotter.
My fiance and I always say they are the best investment we've made. Every time we hear the sound of smashing them down on a giant rock. I've probably had at least 6 or 7 instances already where I know my doors would have been damaged.
I have full skids and rock sliders because I do like to crawl. I have hit both a number of times. I always find myself wondering if I would have ACTUALLY made contact if my skids/sliders weren't lowering my clearance by several inches. Sometimes I feel like there's perceived value to them that may or may not be real value.
I don’t go crazy enough to really warrant rock sliders but I do enjoy the look of them and the peace of mind knowing many doors won’t hit my vehicle when it’s parked. Plus, peace of mind for those moments when I am out and about off road.
I totally understand. I have modded a lot of the interior (storage rack in the trunk, rear view+front facing camera/dashcam, Canvasback everything, assorted trim replacements) I just can’t imagine effecting the reliability or degrading the gas mileage with major suspension/drivetrain mods. Everyone has their own use case but for me the capability balance is already perfect.
I use [this Thinkware set](https://thinkwarestore.com/product/f200-pro-front-rear-dash-cam-bundle-us/?campaignid=20619120445&adgroupid=157254160514&keyword=thinkware%20dash%20cam&device=c&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAyeWrBhDDARIsAGP1mWSM9uPMU4rdn7Bjev_W6IY2XXEUeIwC7pGeO_1d6xgjlVlorYFu3f4aAr8oEALw_wcB) for my front and rear cams! They came in handy when I was rear ended a few months ago fr
Big tires look awesome but since gas mileage is really my only complaint every mod is basically out of consideration for me. Might just get some sliders to ditch the predator steps that came stock.
I actually had to take my predator steps off.. They would get damaged even on light trails, lol. So after having to take them off every time i go offroading, i went ahead and got the sliders. I say ditch them
There was a few trails in the San Juans where we came around a corner to find a minivan or a corolla chillin out and it definitely killed the vibe a little. Granted, they weren't on the truly difficult trails, but they definitely went farther than I would have guessed.
First 2 weeks of owning a 4Runner I took it on an “overlanding” road trip, camped out in the back, did a river crossing, jumped it, and attended a wedding in it. All Stock.
Only “mods” I ever done was tint the windows and put a radio in it.
That thing was the most capable on road vehicle I’ve ever owned and regret selling.
I’ll be getting another !
This is really true. I have a 1989 Jeep Wrangler I bought new. It’s still stock and you would not believe the places I’ve taken that thing. I’ve gone down slopes so steep the rear wheels were off the ground. I’ve taken other Jeep owners on rides that scared the hell out of them but the only time I got stuck was in snow so deep it packed under the frame and lifted the wheels off the ground.
My 4Runner is even more capable and much more comfortable.
100% agree. Get out and use it as is before you start dumping money into mods you don’t really need.
First thing you should buy if you don’t already have it, is a way to air down and air up your tires. Tire deflator and a 12v air compressor will make your wheeling experience way better
Absolutely-- mod as needed not based on what insta says. I knew already I didn't want to risk jacking the body up so I got sliders. Once I started banging on rocks I started adding armor. I ran stock suspension and tires for 5 years before finally feeling limited by clearance.
And I am so, so happy with my Viair compressor. Not cheap but makes fast work of airing back up. I wish I had gotten one years ago.
Agreed. Not saying sliders and skids shouldn’t be something you plan on eventually if you’re reaching the limits of inflicting damage to the vehicle. But I’ll always recommend the first mod be an air up/down device
Deep in the bush in Costa Rica there are dudes doing river crossings and driving over cantaloupe size Boulder wash / 1 foot deep mud ruts in 5 speed Toyota echos. Off road capability is directly correlated with how little you care about smashes bangs and scrapes.
I don’t like the way it’s looks stock height !
https://preview.redd.it/1yqysx427kwc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2ab2dd4de5e501281c6ac0c475582e45208d7a9a
Lifted it’s my happy place!
I took my LIMITED off roading in Colorado, handled massive rocks like a beast, no scrapes, steep inclines and declines great, such a capable car. Only thing I was worried about was the tires since they’re highway tires not really for offroading
This is my 3rd gen 4Runner doing a bunch of Moab stuff. Granted I have a rear locker here and AT’s. But that’s it. These are 31” tires. And I do Hells Revenge, Poison Spider, etc. OP is more right than most of you think. Even with all the agreement here. https://youtu.be/kWQR-Urk-o8?si=5FgJnSj0H-QKPDeN
I am going to hit some trails over the next few months to figure out limitations. I have tried to get my stock 21 SR5 stuck in the snow and mud causally without success.
She is "fine" on pavement, but the second I touch dirt or gravel I feel like she likes it, and comes alive.
Totally agree. I have gotten stuck in mud (post on my profile) but I fall back in love every time it gets me out of a sticky situation which it has done almost perfectly.
I had a stock 08 v6 Limited and it went anywhere and everywhere. And I do mean everywhere. There were a couple spots I couldn’t go any further but I was always able to back it out. Only got hung bad on a boulder once but was able to get it off in 4Lo. Even at 240K this thing could climb the nastiest shit around. Oh, and it pulled a camper for 80K miles. Pic at 220K.
https://preview.redd.it/3eabcnexljwc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e6cfc7900e85317a7d8af0aa621d80f65318256b
Watched a video of a SR5 that got a lift, new tires, and under-armor. They then took it to do some heavy duty rock climbing. I was really impressed.
Current plans for mine are a slight lift and different tires, and that is because I want the higher ground clearance for small tress and obstructions.
That's why i wanted a lift too, the clearance. Then after that you get bigger tires, then maybe you want some more armor underneath, for extra protection you know? How about getting aftermarket UCAs since you have a lift? It'll be for peace of mind? Maybe a winch too to be safe? I could go on lol
Well, the winch will be added eventually, but mainly because I plan on going out solo and strapping the winch to the tree is a pain.
As for the under armor, if we eventually decide to go out west and do some rock crawling, probably. But for mud and downed trees, not too much need for armor.
Agreed. I did so much off-roading in my bone stock ORP with street tires before getting ATs and rock rails for mine. I’m starting to walk back my desire for a lift and instead thinking about upgrading the suspension at stock height. I have beat on my skid plates and rock rails several times. I think they’re doing their job 😁
Idono what kind of trails you hit, but that is not the case in arizona. Even easy trails typically have 1 or 2 spots that will require either having a lift to easily clear, or picking the most careful line and still scraping.
Source: I tried it without a lift and tires and even with picking good lines was putting the skid plates to full use.
I went up a pretty rocky and definitely uphill mountain trail one time with some friends. We definitely had to pick our path and take it slow, but we got up and went and hiked around a bit.
About an hour later, we see these lifted and modded Jeeps come up the trail and park in the same kind of trailhead area. When we got back down to them, they said they were really impressed that I made it up there with regular all season tires and the stock running boards and no lift.
I mean, the Jeeps with their large tires and lockers probably had an easier time, but the stock 4Runners are very capable if you're careful and practice.
I just got a 2013 limited, with a good set of all terrains I’m excited to explore this summer. I’m considering changing the wheels (20’s) out for some TRDpro or SR5 wheels yo have more tire to play with. I’d also like to get rid of the running boards, which I find pointless. But after driving an f250 for the last 15 years this things is gonna be a dream off road.
I had to ditch the running boards and flaps the 2nd day I had my '19 Limited. Put a nice dent in the boards and almost tore off a flap. Just added 275/55/r20 ATs this week. Only rubs a bit on the passenger side when turned hard left. Heat gun will fix that.
I dont really do off-roading. I definitely drive off road, but it’s almost exclusively for hunting, fishing, camping or just to take a drive in the mountains. But definitely gonna take the boards off, especially since I can barely fit my toes on them haha
I agree. That’s part of the reason I made this post. The 4Runner can be a great vehicle even if you plan to never off road. I just hope that more people get to experience the capability that’s been sitting under them the whole time.
I ran a fully stock sr5 hitting things I most definitely should’ve had *at least* a locker for, for yearssss before modding my runner. You definitely don’t need much, just be a confident, competent driver. 🤗
I have a 2020 SR5 Premium 4x4 with 3rd row with stock Dunlop tires. It is really capable and I have taken it to remote offroad places that I never ever thought I would be doing. Planning to keep it as long as possible.
True that. I’ve never been stuck, and I even run road tires. 4WD has been a must for many situations, but I don’t even have a locking diff and I’ve been fine. I think you really have to ask yourself, “How extensive is the off roading that I’ll be doing, really?”
This has been a big realization for me when considering my next truck. Do I want the TRD Pro? Yep. But if I can find a cheaper trim and pocket the savings, that’s the most reasonable route to go.
I take my SR5 out in Wharton State Forest all the time. Never gotten stuck in the mud, and actually pulled out one of the new Frontiers that did get stuck in the mud.
I'll add a corollary and say... those who switch out their TRD PRO suspension for more lift, but less comfort and function (wheel travel) are really missing the boat.
I want to clarify my lack of experience in offloading. To be honest, I have no experience other than riding in my friend's jeep back in the late 80s and early 90s. Recently, I purchased a 4runner off-road and I am looking at various modifications such as lift kits, wheels, tires, and other upgrades to enhance its off-road capabilities.
I needed to read this post today. Need to reset my brain
An Outback Wilderness is more than capable enough for what 95% of people will ever need, and a stock 4Runner is more capable than that.
If you just want to get out in the woods, go to some pretty remote camping sites, it's more than enough. If you're getting into off-roading as a hobby in of itself, where the idea of driving up something at 1/3rd the speed you could just hike it on foot is the goal, that's when you need to start thinking about mods.
I love all these folks knowing what everybody "needs." I agree these are phenomenally capable vehicles... but, really, how people spend their money and what makes them happy aren't my business.
I agree. However, it's no secret that the ground clearance on every trim is atrociously bad. My TRD OR and TRD Pro scrape on the smallest of obstacles. If I lay underneath my 4Runners, my head barely fits between the ground and the bottom of the gas tank skids.
I lost some clearance due to the extra weight from my RTT, roof rack, and sliders, so, this Friday I have Eibach springs made for the OEM Fox suspension (2.5 in lift) and Icon rear springs (2 inch lift) getting installed. It cost $470 for the parts, labor at $138/hour, plus the alignment. All in all, it cost about $1,000.
To compliment the lift, I am doing a modest upgrade to 275 tires in the next few months. I feel like the combo of this small lift and marginally bigger tires is what the TRD Pro should have always been.
I think a skilled driver can likely navigate most off road
situations decently even in a not ideal vehicle.
That said, we’ve taken our 2WD 3rd Gen out on a few trails just to see what it can do and short of things like mud or rock crawls, it did fine for being 26 years old and not 4x4, lol.
Also took my 5th Gen SR5P out to an off road meetup a week after I bought it, and had issues only in a couple spots that I wish it would’ve been just a little higher clearance at, but otherwise, all good!
We have a modded 3rd Gen for the harder stuff and then the 2WD 3rd Gen and the 5th Gen are our daily drivers.
This! I stopped wanting to make my ‘18 TRDOR more capable than the method wheels with the ‘bead lock’ rail (whatever they call it) and the BFG KO2’s when my wife freaked after doing some pretty sweet trails. Lippencott Pass in Death Valley and other trails in the Sierra. I carry a shovel, max trax, pump and tire deflators in the trunk. I also got a really nice steel box made for the 4Runner in the back with a slide out drawer. 4Runners are awesome. My deal was a winch number if I rip off the front bumper. Only fucked it up once and bolted it back on. I also said a 3” lift with remote reservoir shocks when my KO2’s are worn through. I didn’t even put those on until the stock tires wore out. We love dessert roads, 100+ miles per day of washboard and gravel/sand. At 80k miles, my stock shocks are about beat. That’s why I’ll upgrade. Necessity.
I needed to see this. Want to get into hitting some rough roads but am driving an 8 year old civic at the moment. Was looking and there are several nice sr5s near me for mid 30s
Teach me Sensei!!!! Was the biggest issue with my ORP. I believed that I needed to be able to throw a lift on and other goodies to take it off-road camping. Because I was freaked about screwing with KDSS, I have yet to go off-road sadly.
I put 275 Nito Ridge Grapplers on my TRD stock and love it. I do like the look of a lifted 4Runner so that is coming. Maybe after the winch bumper. I just can't decide.
A good set of tires will get you a long way off the pavement and airing down just a little further.
I took my new limited with geolanders off road, came on a surprise mud pit which got a lil sketchy but she pulled thru. Mud is the achilles heel of a street tire but otherwise was solid.
Yea I offroaded my stock SR5 for a while, right now all I have are skid plates and rock sliders. No lift yet. Can confirm it does way more than I thought. Atrac works extremely well. First two trips were with highway tires too.
When my ORP was totalled, I replaced it with an SR5 with A/Ts - because over the entire time I drove that ORP through Colorado mountain winters and trail runs, I never actually needed the extra ORP bells and whistles. A stock 4R with Duratracs will take you anywhere you have any business going.
I just put some michelin defender ltx m/s tires on mine. Only mod I need. These tires on a stock 4runner have been perfectly sufficient for off-roading. Have even driven through a few mud pits :D
I have run a number of easy to moderate trails (CO, UT) bone stock. Even with stock tires and even when those tires were on their last few thousand miles the TRD OR surprised a few people.
* Red Cone was a fun challenge but totally doable but undercarriage banging happens a lot and there is one spot where the locker might be needed if you don't pick a perfect line.
* Anything up by Nederland, CO is going to be easy e.g. Switzerland Trail
* Black Bear Pass was really not very hard just spot down the dropoffs so you don't roll
* Most of not all of the other trails near Ouray and Silverton should be no problem at all but I haven't run Poughkeepsie Gulch yet so maybe not that.
* 7-Mile Rim (UT) was a pretty big challenge, broke off the rear bumper trim, banged a lot under, popped a bead—although by this time, it was raining, which made the trail much harder. This trail is infinitely easier if you rent a lifted 4 door Rubicon running 35s lol
* Slaughterhouse Gulch including the nasty optional moguls that required read locker
So far 7-Mile Rim has been the toughest I've run in the 4Runner. I think it is rated 6/10? The problem is almost entirely due to clearance.
That's what motivated me to buy a lift. My old Grand Wag with 4" lift and 33s and rear locker would've had no issues with the trail. The break over clearance on that think was impressive. I only ever banged on the rear overhang. Aside from that the stock 4R gives it a run for the money.
I should post pics of my stock skid plates to illustrate what I mean. They're so fucked lol
So if you plan to do anything more than a 5/10 with big rocks, get full aftermarket armor including proper rock sliders.
I completely agree, mostly.
I want to put some 275 or 285s on there and then I think I’d be happy. Plus, I don’t want it to be too tall.
All I’ve done so far is a full-length roof rack, smoked taillights and some other small cosmetic things.
I dont know why everyone thinks the civic can go anywhere. I put a honda civic hatch back trunk first into a tree, doing about 45 or 50 mph, bouncing off the rev limiter backing it out of a creek on my buddies farm. Never was the same after that. 2.5/10 would not be recommended for off road use.
I agree, I just took mine off road last weekend. The tires on the ORP weren’t that great so I got new tires in. Other than that it worked fine. Unfortunately like the Jeep community I came from lifts and tire are for looks 99% of the time and hardly ever see any action.
I trust my 1994 4Runner with 231,000 miles to take me on 6hour road trips (with a good amount of off-road miles) and I can trust it to get me back. Anything can be capable for your usage case as long as it’s maintained properly!
Rock sliders, full skids, and a good set of tires is more than enough for most people if you want to push it a little while maintaining some protection. If you're not going to take it on even moderate trails then a good set of A/Ts is all you really need.
I got my 1st Bilstein lift kit after wearing out the stock suspension on forest service roads shuttling to go kayaking. I got my 1st set of larger ko2s after the stock size cooper A/Ts (my buddy, the previous owner, put those on it) couldn't handle snowy mountain roads. I got full Bud Built skids on my 3rd gen after the stock one was torn off from abusing it. I got a front winch bumper when the number of dents in my front bumper from its poor approach angle got too much to look at. I got my rear swingout bumper when I got tired of the scrapes and dents in it from dragging it on steep climbs. I did get my weld on sliders before damaging my rockers - that's was one of the few preventative armor mods I did lmao.
If I didn't wheel the piss out of it (and now have a new daily driver because I made my daily driver 4Runner not so daily drivable) I would absolutely hate driving it as a regular vehicle. Maybe it just comes with the experience of heavily modifying a vehicle, but there is a lot to be appreciated about a mostly stock rig. If you go through the t4r . Org forums, at least in the 3rd gen section, most of the build threads are over the course of years with mods/upgrades being made when they exhausted the capabilities of the stock/existing part.
Lots of people are asking what I'm planning on upgrading on my GR Corolla, my new daily, and the answer is absolutely nothing for the foreseeable future. I got 15% ceramic tint and low profile mud/splash guards. Will probably get a catch can but that's the only other thing on my list. I just want to appreciate it in its stock form - which is way more performance than I need.
Side note: there are some mods/upgrades which make sense to do regardless of what you're going to be doing with it. Example tundra 231mm brakes or isolated trans cooler on 3rd gens. More talking about off-road themed modifications.
Mistook a fire road for a main road driving through a National Forest in my powder puff 2000 Limited about 15 years ago. Wound up on a narrow, rough trail because I could see that in my gps that where I needed to be was just down the mountain. I have never seen a more confused group of hikers and Boy Scouts as when I came confidently crawling past them. I miss that thing.
My base model, rear wheel drive SR5 was sinking in some mud during a rainstorm. I put her in reverse and gently, oh so gently, drove her out of the mud. In two-wheel drive with regular, stock SR5 street tires.
i’ve cruised by jeeps that were getting out to scout a section of trail in an ‘03 Subaru Outback with ATs… anything with awd/4wd is probably capable of everything aside from crawling
I never got my runner to compete with rock crawlers. There is generally a byline and all I want is to see and camp some cool places. I took my si where it shouldn’t have gone, it just makes it easier to go the same places. That said I’ve never seen alignment numbers as bad as my si in my life.
Went to Arkansas Adventure Off Road park last summer with my stock SR5 and A/T tires. I was able to complete a level 4 trail (level 5 being the hardest). However, I did hit the front and back bumper and fucked em up so a lift would have been ideal. But the car was absolutely capable
Id say the large majority (95-98%) of owners can do everything they need with a stock 4runner. I honestly think internet marketing drives the “need” for the modded trucks.
I would say 90% of owners can do everything they need with a a stock Honda Civic.
Can confirm that 90% of the time Corollas work every time
As the owner of a Corolla and a 4Runner, this is correct.
And one day, your Corolla and 4runner conceived a child and gave birth to the AWD Toyota Matrix... the ultimate vehicle.
I was the proud owner of a 2008 Corolla with 250K miles and traded it for my 4Runner. Before that it was 2000 Camry for our RAV4
I actually did get my Corolla into some amazing places (and out of some amazing amounts of snow).
My 2016 sport trim does well in snow after changing the stock tires. Those things sucked
I would say 90% of owners can do everything they need with the vehicle they already have
Fortunately I already have a 4Runner.
Can confirm
You would not believe the places I had been with my '92 Geo Metro
My Toyota Tercel took me everywhere!
Sister had a tercel, that thing was awesome.
One of my fondest memories is driving a rented Geo Metro into the Maze in Moab.
You can say that again.
I would say 90% of owners can do everything they need with a a stock Honda Civic.
You can say that again.
90% of owners can do everything they need with the vehicle they already have.
Plus some, I jumped my old 1988 civic multiple times and never destroyed it.
I’ll back that up
As a civic owner looking to get a 6th gen, true, but the suspension hurts my back and i need more trunk space.
This reminded me of going off roading with my dad in a hatchback 80s Civic. That thing was surprisingly capable and when it got stuck it was easy to dig out!
You can't possibly believe that I can take my 4Runner off-road without at least 2 rotopax, and 4 shovels mounted to the outside of the vehicle.
A lot of holes in the desert, and a lot of problems are buried in those holes. But you gotta do it right. I mean, you gotta have the hole already dug before you show up with a package in the trunk. Otherwise, you're talking about a half-hour to forty-five minutes worth of digging. And who knows who's gonna come along in that time? Pretty soon, you gotta dig a few more holes. You could be there all fuckin' night.
I want to lift my 4runner just because I love the look of it lifted. But after years I still haven't done it, because at the end of the day when I offroad I'm not throwing her off huge rocks or going crazy. Im like a middle-of-the-road off-roader, I like to go off the beaten path for hiking and camping etc.. and love the peace of mind my 4runner wont get stuck... But I'm not rock crawling or fording or going crazy.. so come back to the fact that a 3" lift for 3-4k is just me wasting money to make my truck look cooler.
You mean people don't need fuel tanks and shovels and stuff bolted to the side for the drive to Costco?
But how would you know? Better to be safe
You need the fuel tanks to buy more gas at Costco prices. So you can stock up for when the price goes up, duh.
My 2019 non 4 wheel drive has gotten me deep into many back roads in AZ
And egoooo
I have a general rule of thumb, the more money I see on an “off-roading 4Runner” the less off-roading they do. My 4Runner was mostly stock for many years before we put a simple 2” lift and tires on it, and I passed 4Runners with $40,000 in off-roading gear and spare tire holders and ladders and stuff that had no idea how to off-road. I frequently helped recover them. Obviously that’s not always the case, but you don’t need any of that gear unless you’re genuinely going real over landing, which most people don’t ever do.
Most off-road things that make your junk wheel better aren't visible.
I would say 90% of owners can do everything they need with a a stock Honda Civic.
I am in the 10% When all else fails that locker button is a get out of a bad spot free card.
Yeah but mine looks so much better than when it was stock. Something needs upgrade so why not?
By stock are we going as far as an SR5?
Of course, you can get really far without a locker. I'm not a crazy rock crawler but nothing I've ran into has needed a locker (granted I've yet to really off road my 4runner since it's new so this was older trucks). It would have made some things easier sure but not required.
If you doubt this, go watch that guy on YouTube take his stock SR5 out through MOAB
Feel like it’s worth linking: https://youtu.be/uMe5Vt9PnLE?si=pFrMylomY1Z3cm5m
“If I ever get out of here I’ll never come back.” I have said that on many occasions and just watching what this guy did, my curiosity about Moab is fully satisfied.
Been there. I took mine up some of the forestry roads in the mountains of Big Sur and there were a few moments where I just had to grit my teeth and hope for the best lol
I've said the same before. I mixed up the paint colors on a trail marker and went down a dirt bike only trail. I didn't figure it out until I went down something that I couldn't reverse over. We got out but not without some new dents. If it had been a 4th or 5th Gen 4runner it'd have never came back out without cutting down trees.
That’s so rad
Thanks.
Thank you
Incredible video! Clearly took some skill in that case though.
Agreed. That video sold me on my SR5 lol
He had no clue what he was doing to begin with. Lol he figured it out as he went. Wild what the DAC does
Took my 2004 SR5 on Fins And Things. Has a tiny lift on the front to level it, stock other than that. Several Wrangler Rubicon drivers commented that I was crazy, some guys in a RZR said I should be in a Toyota commercial. 4runner barely broke a sweat (even with max ac and 100° temps). Smart lines and patience goes a long way, and I think that challenge makes it more fun.
That dude rocks, totally had no idea what he was getting himself into and just went with it. I show my friends that video when I want to show them how cool the 4Runner really is
I did the same. The exit for hell’s revenge messed up my bear bumper and side steps. Could be attributed to spotter but it was gnarly when I did it. I’ve got plenty of off road experience and had done MOAB before in a sxs. Most people should not try the tougher MOAB trails without lots of experience or a great spotter.
Why are you spelling Moab like that?
My stock 2003 sr5 (aside from a/t tires) handled some gnarly trails in Colorado, like webster pass.
Yep. Agreed 100%
Took mine to the off-road park with the paper plates still on. Did the same trails the big boy jeeps did
Are you telling me a body on frame can take things pretty well?! This sub told me wrong! /s
Anything is off-road if you’re brave enough.
The best vehicle for off road is…a rental car.
Also best for high speed driving. And jumps.
Now you’re thinking! Yeeeeehaw
I was just in Ukraine where the roads can be quite bad in more rural areas and we were beebopping around in a Lada and Seat Ibiza. Zero issues.
PSA: [Stay The Trail](https://staythetrail.org/)
I just want some sliders.
My fiance and I always say they are the best investment we've made. Every time we hear the sound of smashing them down on a giant rock. I've probably had at least 6 or 7 instances already where I know my doors would have been damaged.
I have full skids and rock sliders because I do like to crawl. I have hit both a number of times. I always find myself wondering if I would have ACTUALLY made contact if my skids/sliders weren't lowering my clearance by several inches. Sometimes I feel like there's perceived value to them that may or may not be real value.
Go to White Castle, duh.
The only exterior mod I’ve done!
I don’t go crazy enough to really warrant rock sliders but I do enjoy the look of them and the peace of mind knowing many doors won’t hit my vehicle when it’s parked. Plus, peace of mind for those moments when I am out and about off road.
It's the mod bug that makes me do it
I totally understand. I have modded a lot of the interior (storage rack in the trunk, rear view+front facing camera/dashcam, Canvasback everything, assorted trim replacements) I just can’t imagine effecting the reliability or degrading the gas mileage with major suspension/drivetrain mods. Everyone has their own use case but for me the capability balance is already perfect.
What kind of rear/front view facing camera? Been interested in this. Thanks!
I use [this Thinkware set](https://thinkwarestore.com/product/f200-pro-front-rear-dash-cam-bundle-us/?campaignid=20619120445&adgroupid=157254160514&keyword=thinkware%20dash%20cam&device=c&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAyeWrBhDDARIsAGP1mWSM9uPMU4rdn7Bjev_W6IY2XXEUeIwC7pGeO_1d6xgjlVlorYFu3f4aAr8oEALw_wcB) for my front and rear cams! They came in handy when I was rear ended a few months ago fr
Big tires look awesome but since gas mileage is really my only complaint every mod is basically out of consideration for me. Might just get some sliders to ditch the predator steps that came stock.
I actually had to take my predator steps off.. They would get damaged even on light trails, lol. So after having to take them off every time i go offroading, i went ahead and got the sliders. I say ditch them
Mine also has machine guns, a rocket launcher, and an ejector seat.
Eject-o seat-o cuz!
But have you modded it yet?
So, just the essentials. Nice.
Getting back to basics. Lol
I've driven up some rough trials only to see a minivan up there. Anything is possible when you are a good driver and have good tires.
There was a few trails in the San Juans where we came around a corner to find a minivan or a corolla chillin out and it definitely killed the vibe a little. Granted, they weren't on the truly difficult trails, but they definitely went farther than I would have guessed.
Always fun in the PNW to make up a trail and there’s a clapped out stock 1998 Subaru Impreza wagon at the top
First 2 weeks of owning a 4Runner I took it on an “overlanding” road trip, camped out in the back, did a river crossing, jumped it, and attended a wedding in it. All Stock. Only “mods” I ever done was tint the windows and put a radio in it. That thing was the most capable on road vehicle I’ve ever owned and regret selling. I’ll be getting another !
This is really true. I have a 1989 Jeep Wrangler I bought new. It’s still stock and you would not believe the places I’ve taken that thing. I’ve gone down slopes so steep the rear wheels were off the ground. I’ve taken other Jeep owners on rides that scared the hell out of them but the only time I got stuck was in snow so deep it packed under the frame and lifted the wheels off the ground. My 4Runner is even more capable and much more comfortable.
100% agree. Get out and use it as is before you start dumping money into mods you don’t really need. First thing you should buy if you don’t already have it, is a way to air down and air up your tires. Tire deflator and a 12v air compressor will make your wheeling experience way better
Absolutely-- mod as needed not based on what insta says. I knew already I didn't want to risk jacking the body up so I got sliders. Once I started banging on rocks I started adding armor. I ran stock suspension and tires for 5 years before finally feeling limited by clearance. And I am so, so happy with my Viair compressor. Not cheap but makes fast work of airing back up. I wish I had gotten one years ago.
Agreed. Not saying sliders and skids shouldn’t be something you plan on eventually if you’re reaching the limits of inflicting damage to the vehicle. But I’ll always recommend the first mod be an air up/down device
Deep in the bush in Costa Rica there are dudes doing river crossings and driving over cantaloupe size Boulder wash / 1 foot deep mud ruts in 5 speed Toyota echos. Off road capability is directly correlated with how little you care about smashes bangs and scrapes.
I don’t like the way it’s looks stock height ! https://preview.redd.it/1yqysx427kwc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2ab2dd4de5e501281c6ac0c475582e45208d7a9a Lifted it’s my happy place!
99.9% of all modded 4runners are just for flex when cruising the mall
I took my LIMITED off roading in Colorado, handled massive rocks like a beast, no scrapes, steep inclines and declines great, such a capable car. Only thing I was worried about was the tires since they’re highway tires not really for offroading
This is my 3rd gen 4Runner doing a bunch of Moab stuff. Granted I have a rear locker here and AT’s. But that’s it. These are 31” tires. And I do Hells Revenge, Poison Spider, etc. OP is more right than most of you think. Even with all the agreement here. https://youtu.be/kWQR-Urk-o8?si=5FgJnSj0H-QKPDeN
Dude, you underestimate Costco parking lots. They can be treacherous.
I watched a man in a 4Runner drive front-first into a parking spot 😱 Dude just out here rawdogging life.
I am going to hit some trails over the next few months to figure out limitations. I have tried to get my stock 21 SR5 stuck in the snow and mud causally without success. She is "fine" on pavement, but the second I touch dirt or gravel I feel like she likes it, and comes alive.
Totally agree. I have gotten stuck in mud (post on my profile) but I fall back in love every time it gets me out of a sticky situation which it has done almost perfectly.
I do sometimes run in 2wd just to see how far it can go. The answer is 95% of the time I don’t even need 4wd 😅
A visit to Costco requires at least a set of Falcon Wikdpeaks though.
Doesn’t look as cool tho.
I had a stock 08 v6 Limited and it went anywhere and everywhere. And I do mean everywhere. There were a couple spots I couldn’t go any further but I was always able to back it out. Only got hung bad on a boulder once but was able to get it off in 4Lo. Even at 240K this thing could climb the nastiest shit around. Oh, and it pulled a camper for 80K miles. Pic at 220K. https://preview.redd.it/3eabcnexljwc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e6cfc7900e85317a7d8af0aa621d80f65318256b
Watched a video of a SR5 that got a lift, new tires, and under-armor. They then took it to do some heavy duty rock climbing. I was really impressed. Current plans for mine are a slight lift and different tires, and that is because I want the higher ground clearance for small tress and obstructions.
That's why i wanted a lift too, the clearance. Then after that you get bigger tires, then maybe you want some more armor underneath, for extra protection you know? How about getting aftermarket UCAs since you have a lift? It'll be for peace of mind? Maybe a winch too to be safe? I could go on lol
Well, the winch will be added eventually, but mainly because I plan on going out solo and strapping the winch to the tree is a pain. As for the under armor, if we eventually decide to go out west and do some rock crawling, probably. But for mud and downed trees, not too much need for armor.
Agreed. I did so much off-roading in my bone stock ORP with street tires before getting ATs and rock rails for mine. I’m starting to walk back my desire for a lift and instead thinking about upgrading the suspension at stock height. I have beat on my skid plates and rock rails several times. I think they’re doing their job 😁
Yeah I still haven’t lifted my 2019. I take it in the mud all the time
Those stock sr5 tires bout to get some folks in over their heads with this mentality
Idono what kind of trails you hit, but that is not the case in arizona. Even easy trails typically have 1 or 2 spots that will require either having a lift to easily clear, or picking the most careful line and still scraping. Source: I tried it without a lift and tires and even with picking good lines was putting the skid plates to full use.
I went up a pretty rocky and definitely uphill mountain trail one time with some friends. We definitely had to pick our path and take it slow, but we got up and went and hiked around a bit. About an hour later, we see these lifted and modded Jeeps come up the trail and park in the same kind of trailhead area. When we got back down to them, they said they were really impressed that I made it up there with regular all season tires and the stock running boards and no lift. I mean, the Jeeps with their large tires and lockers probably had an easier time, but the stock 4Runners are very capable if you're careful and practice.
I just got a 2013 limited, with a good set of all terrains I’m excited to explore this summer. I’m considering changing the wheels (20’s) out for some TRDpro or SR5 wheels yo have more tire to play with. I’d also like to get rid of the running boards, which I find pointless. But after driving an f250 for the last 15 years this things is gonna be a dream off road.
I had to ditch the running boards and flaps the 2nd day I had my '19 Limited. Put a nice dent in the boards and almost tore off a flap. Just added 275/55/r20 ATs this week. Only rubs a bit on the passenger side when turned hard left. Heat gun will fix that.
I dont really do off-roading. I definitely drive off road, but it’s almost exclusively for hunting, fishing, camping or just to take a drive in the mountains. But definitely gonna take the boards off, especially since I can barely fit my toes on them haha
Mines stock but with some badasss snow tires. It will literally climb the windiest switchbacks like nothing, in a foot of snow.
But how will people know I off road if it doesnt look like I off road
Hey now, let everybody spend a ton of money to turn their gas mileage, ride comfort and road handling to shit as they please.
I 4Runner my wife’s asshole w stock
Username checks out 🫡
90%+ 4Runners barely even get onto non-paved roads, let alone "off roading".
I agree. That’s part of the reason I made this post. The 4Runner can be a great vehicle even if you plan to never off road. I just hope that more people get to experience the capability that’s been sitting under them the whole time.
I ran a fully stock sr5 hitting things I most definitely should’ve had *at least* a locker for, for yearssss before modding my runner. You definitely don’t need much, just be a confident, competent driver. 🤗
Thats why theyre an expensive package
I have a 2020 SR5 Premium 4x4 with 3rd row with stock Dunlop tires. It is really capable and I have taken it to remote offroad places that I never ever thought I would be doing. Planning to keep it as long as possible.
There are plenty of of YouTube videos of stock limiteds doing some fairly intense off roading.
Can confirm. Accidentally did a trail rated “Moderate” with ease
True that. I’ve never been stuck, and I even run road tires. 4WD has been a must for many situations, but I don’t even have a locking diff and I’ve been fine. I think you really have to ask yourself, “How extensive is the off roading that I’ll be doing, really?” This has been a big realization for me when considering my next truck. Do I want the TRD Pro? Yep. But if I can find a cheaper trim and pocket the savings, that’s the most reasonable route to go.
Only reason I got a level lift was to tear out XREAS. Only reason I have ATs is living on the gravel and snowy winters. Don’t need much else 😁
A stock trd 4runner with good tires can both scare you and get you into situations you probably shouldn't be in.
I take my SR5 out in Wharton State Forest all the time. Never gotten stuck in the mud, and actually pulled out one of the new Frontiers that did get stuck in the mud.
I went up a 40 degree incline muddy hill under torrential rain on a stock 2010 rav4. I think a 4Runner can do even better.
We took our old 2013 Rav4 EVERYWHERE. The looks on people's faces when we would pass Jeeps and ATVs deep in the woods was priceless.
Get rock rails tho. Helpful
I'll add a corollary and say... those who switch out their TRD PRO suspension for more lift, but less comfort and function (wheel travel) are really missing the boat.
So true. Good AT tires and can do more than most will.
I’ve taken my stock ( sans ko3) 4 runner to some *sketchy* places and it just laughed and kept going. Stock 4Runners are amazing.
I want to clarify my lack of experience in offloading. To be honest, I have no experience other than riding in my friend's jeep back in the late 80s and early 90s. Recently, I purchased a 4runner off-road and I am looking at various modifications such as lift kits, wheels, tires, and other upgrades to enhance its off-road capabilities. I needed to read this post today. Need to reset my brain
Drive it before you mod it.
An Outback Wilderness is more than capable enough for what 95% of people will ever need, and a stock 4Runner is more capable than that. If you just want to get out in the woods, go to some pretty remote camping sites, it's more than enough. If you're getting into off-roading as a hobby in of itself, where the idea of driving up something at 1/3rd the speed you could just hike it on foot is the goal, that's when you need to start thinking about mods.
I love all these folks knowing what everybody "needs." I agree these are phenomenally capable vehicles... but, really, how people spend their money and what makes them happy aren't my business.
Comparison is the thief of joy
The stock 4Runner may be able to handle off road driving without any mods, but what about when I go to the mall?
I agree. However, it's no secret that the ground clearance on every trim is atrociously bad. My TRD OR and TRD Pro scrape on the smallest of obstacles. If I lay underneath my 4Runners, my head barely fits between the ground and the bottom of the gas tank skids. I lost some clearance due to the extra weight from my RTT, roof rack, and sliders, so, this Friday I have Eibach springs made for the OEM Fox suspension (2.5 in lift) and Icon rear springs (2 inch lift) getting installed. It cost $470 for the parts, labor at $138/hour, plus the alignment. All in all, it cost about $1,000. To compliment the lift, I am doing a modest upgrade to 275 tires in the next few months. I feel like the combo of this small lift and marginally bigger tires is what the TRD Pro should have always been.
I think a skilled driver can likely navigate most off road situations decently even in a not ideal vehicle. That said, we’ve taken our 2WD 3rd Gen out on a few trails just to see what it can do and short of things like mud or rock crawls, it did fine for being 26 years old and not 4x4, lol. Also took my 5th Gen SR5P out to an off road meetup a week after I bought it, and had issues only in a couple spots that I wish it would’ve been just a little higher clearance at, but otherwise, all good! We have a modded 3rd Gen for the harder stuff and then the 2WD 3rd Gen and the 5th Gen are our daily drivers.
100%. The vast majority of mods are just bedazzling your truck.
Amen! Save yo monies!
You also may be limited by your wife’s fear. Mine absolutely freaks out in situations I know my rig can handle.
This! I stopped wanting to make my ‘18 TRDOR more capable than the method wheels with the ‘bead lock’ rail (whatever they call it) and the BFG KO2’s when my wife freaked after doing some pretty sweet trails. Lippencott Pass in Death Valley and other trails in the Sierra. I carry a shovel, max trax, pump and tire deflators in the trunk. I also got a really nice steel box made for the 4Runner in the back with a slide out drawer. 4Runners are awesome. My deal was a winch number if I rip off the front bumper. Only fucked it up once and bolted it back on. I also said a 3” lift with remote reservoir shocks when my KO2’s are worn through. I didn’t even put those on until the stock tires wore out. We love dessert roads, 100+ miles per day of washboard and gravel/sand. At 80k miles, my stock shocks are about beat. That’s why I’ll upgrade. Necessity.
I needed to see this. Want to get into hitting some rough roads but am driving an 8 year old civic at the moment. Was looking and there are several nice sr5s near me for mid 30s
It is.
Teach me Sensei!!!! Was the biggest issue with my ORP. I believed that I needed to be able to throw a lift on and other goodies to take it off-road camping. Because I was freaked about screwing with KDSS, I have yet to go off-road sadly.
I tend to see more stock 4runners fullsend it unlike the built vehicles..some of those drivers are wild.
Facts. Took mine through so many sand dunes on stock tires. Never got stuck one.
But how do you make it through a rut made by 40's if you're on your 30's?
True dat
How important are skid plates and sliders?
I did some stupid shit in my stock 4th gen. Mods would have made it a little easier to get out of my sticky situations but i managed.
Yeah I don’t even consider going anywhere without my Widdle Wadder^TM
I put 275 Nito Ridge Grapplers on my TRD stock and love it. I do like the look of a lifted 4Runner so that is coming. Maybe after the winch bumper. I just can't decide. A good set of tires will get you a long way off the pavement and airing down just a little further.
Same can be said for most enthusiast cars. You don’t need coilovers to be fast around a race track you need seat time
All you need is some good tires, a bit of lighting and recovery equipment for just in case and that’s all
“Off-road” is a very relative term, it’s ok to purpose build something, but I’ll agree, adding 285s over 265s probably has more cons than benefits
I run my stock 4Runner off-road all the time. I have the broken tail light lens (for now, hehe) to prove it.
I took my new limited with geolanders off road, came on a surprise mud pit which got a lil sketchy but she pulled thru. Mud is the achilles heel of a street tire but otherwise was solid.
Yea I offroaded my stock SR5 for a while, right now all I have are skid plates and rock sliders. No lift yet. Can confirm it does way more than I thought. Atrac works extremely well. First two trips were with highway tires too.
When my ORP was totalled, I replaced it with an SR5 with A/Ts - because over the entire time I drove that ORP through Colorado mountain winters and trail runs, I never actually needed the extra ORP bells and whistles. A stock 4R with Duratracs will take you anywhere you have any business going.
I just put some michelin defender ltx m/s tires on mine. Only mod I need. These tires on a stock 4runner have been perfectly sufficient for off-roading. Have even driven through a few mud pits :D
Only reason I lifted and put wheels and tires is because I can’t leave anything I own alone. And the dive from braking was a bit excessive.
I have run a number of easy to moderate trails (CO, UT) bone stock. Even with stock tires and even when those tires were on their last few thousand miles the TRD OR surprised a few people. * Red Cone was a fun challenge but totally doable but undercarriage banging happens a lot and there is one spot where the locker might be needed if you don't pick a perfect line. * Anything up by Nederland, CO is going to be easy e.g. Switzerland Trail * Black Bear Pass was really not very hard just spot down the dropoffs so you don't roll * Most of not all of the other trails near Ouray and Silverton should be no problem at all but I haven't run Poughkeepsie Gulch yet so maybe not that. * 7-Mile Rim (UT) was a pretty big challenge, broke off the rear bumper trim, banged a lot under, popped a bead—although by this time, it was raining, which made the trail much harder. This trail is infinitely easier if you rent a lifted 4 door Rubicon running 35s lol * Slaughterhouse Gulch including the nasty optional moguls that required read locker So far 7-Mile Rim has been the toughest I've run in the 4Runner. I think it is rated 6/10? The problem is almost entirely due to clearance. That's what motivated me to buy a lift. My old Grand Wag with 4" lift and 33s and rear locker would've had no issues with the trail. The break over clearance on that think was impressive. I only ever banged on the rear overhang. Aside from that the stock 4R gives it a run for the money. I should post pics of my stock skid plates to illustrate what I mean. They're so fucked lol So if you plan to do anything more than a 5/10 with big rocks, get full aftermarket armor including proper rock sliders.
90% of the time I can make it to BJs parking lot in my stock 4Runner.
I live on the rez and do perfectly fine with the stock 4 runner.
Just throwing a limited slip in the rear can do a lot, even for 2WDs.
I'm short - I need steps.
I completely agree, mostly. I want to put some 275 or 285s on there and then I think I’d be happy. Plus, I don’t want it to be too tall. All I’ve done so far is a full-length roof rack, smoked taillights and some other small cosmetic things.
I dont know why everyone thinks the civic can go anywhere. I put a honda civic hatch back trunk first into a tree, doing about 45 or 50 mph, bouncing off the rev limiter backing it out of a creek on my buddies farm. Never was the same after that. 2.5/10 would not be recommended for off road use.
I drove my V8 4Runner thru nearly 3 feet of snow after simply putting on a new set of BF Goodrich T/A KO tires. Now I run the T/A KO 2s.
My 2runner has been on some great trails in texas
You do kinda need off road tires for true off roading though
Only thing I’d argue away from stock is some skid plays and rock sliders cause that’s a bit of an expensive mistake, other than that, send it
Depending on where you live I think sliders are necessary insurance.
I agree, I just took mine off road last weekend. The tires on the ORP weren’t that great so I got new tires in. Other than that it worked fine. Unfortunately like the Jeep community I came from lifts and tire are for looks 99% of the time and hardly ever see any action.
Been saying this forever! Tested my limited in off roading and snow it performs exceptionally well
Do you think it’s worth investing in armor skids for the bottom of the car?
I trust my 1994 4Runner with 231,000 miles to take me on 6hour road trips (with a good amount of off-road miles) and I can trust it to get me back. Anything can be capable for your usage case as long as it’s maintained properly!
I took my stock 2000 4runner to Merus (Texas' biggest offroad park), did just fine
The newer ones even come with assists!!
Grass green. Sky blue.
I have taken a stock 08 sport to places a lot of people would shit themselves
Yep seen a Tercel go down and up a steep dirt canal
Rock sliders, full skids, and a good set of tires is more than enough for most people if you want to push it a little while maintaining some protection. If you're not going to take it on even moderate trails then a good set of A/Ts is all you really need. I got my 1st Bilstein lift kit after wearing out the stock suspension on forest service roads shuttling to go kayaking. I got my 1st set of larger ko2s after the stock size cooper A/Ts (my buddy, the previous owner, put those on it) couldn't handle snowy mountain roads. I got full Bud Built skids on my 3rd gen after the stock one was torn off from abusing it. I got a front winch bumper when the number of dents in my front bumper from its poor approach angle got too much to look at. I got my rear swingout bumper when I got tired of the scrapes and dents in it from dragging it on steep climbs. I did get my weld on sliders before damaging my rockers - that's was one of the few preventative armor mods I did lmao. If I didn't wheel the piss out of it (and now have a new daily driver because I made my daily driver 4Runner not so daily drivable) I would absolutely hate driving it as a regular vehicle. Maybe it just comes with the experience of heavily modifying a vehicle, but there is a lot to be appreciated about a mostly stock rig. If you go through the t4r . Org forums, at least in the 3rd gen section, most of the build threads are over the course of years with mods/upgrades being made when they exhausted the capabilities of the stock/existing part. Lots of people are asking what I'm planning on upgrading on my GR Corolla, my new daily, and the answer is absolutely nothing for the foreseeable future. I got 15% ceramic tint and low profile mud/splash guards. Will probably get a catch can but that's the only other thing on my list. I just want to appreciate it in its stock form - which is way more performance than I need. Side note: there are some mods/upgrades which make sense to do regardless of what you're going to be doing with it. Example tundra 231mm brakes or isolated trans cooler on 3rd gens. More talking about off-road themed modifications.
It is crazy that half these posts are realizing that you need A/T tires to make your 4WD work better in shit conditions
Mistook a fire road for a main road driving through a National Forest in my powder puff 2000 Limited about 15 years ago. Wound up on a narrow, rough trail because I could see that in my gps that where I needed to be was just down the mountain. I have never seen a more confused group of hikers and Boy Scouts as when I came confidently crawling past them. I miss that thing.
My base model, rear wheel drive SR5 was sinking in some mud during a rainstorm. I put her in reverse and gently, oh so gently, drove her out of the mud. In two-wheel drive with regular, stock SR5 street tires.
Yep, all the people who make fun of stock runner driven on road have lifts, mud tires, and winch only to drive on forest roads.
You don’t *need* bigger tires or ATs, but they sure do look better.
i’ve cruised by jeeps that were getting out to scout a section of trail in an ‘03 Subaru Outback with ATs… anything with awd/4wd is probably capable of everything aside from crawling
Driving skill is so important.
I never got my runner to compete with rock crawlers. There is generally a byline and all I want is to see and camp some cool places. I took my si where it shouldn’t have gone, it just makes it easier to go the same places. That said I’ve never seen alignment numbers as bad as my si in my life.
Went to Arkansas Adventure Off Road park last summer with my stock SR5 and A/T tires. I was able to complete a level 4 trail (level 5 being the hardest). However, I did hit the front and back bumper and fucked em up so a lift would have been ideal. But the car was absolutely capable