Can your 4Runner handle the snow?

The Toyota 4Runner is great for off-roading, but how well can it navigate in the snow?

FYI:  Every 4Runner comes with off-roading features that help with handling the snow such as: 

• 4 Wheel Drive

4wd is the most basic feature for an SUV to perform well in snowy weather. In a four-wheel drive vehicle, the engine sends power to all 4 wheels, giving optimal traction and control, especially on rough terrain. Furthermore, this traction comes in handy if you're driving uphill, over rocky terrain, and through the snow.

• Low gear 

Low gear is used when you want the engine power high and the vehicle speed low. This limits stress on your brakes while allowing you to take advantage of your car's full power in situations like towing and plowing through snow.

• High ground clearance 

Along with an approach angle of 33 degrees and a departure angle of 26 degrees, the TRD Off-Road model has a substantial 9.6 inches of ground clearance. This means that you'll always be prepared for whatever obstacle stands in your way – including snow!

Traction Control delivers assistance when wheel slippage is detected, helping you accelerate safely and efficiently under icy conditions.

Large windows permit plenty of visibility while you’re maneuvering a big snowplow. For your further convenience, the power rear window will slide up and down with the touch of a button.

LED low beams, high beams, and fog lamps keep the road ahead bright at night.

Equipping your 4Runner for winter weather: SR5 Premium

The SR5 Premium trim level begins with the standard features of the SR5 but also includes heated front seats and heated outside mirrors along with keyless entry, keyless ignition, and power-adjustable front passenger seat.

Cost of five 4Runner trim packages (prices are US retail)

• SR5 = $39,500
• SR5 Premium = $40,100
• TRD Off-Road = $42,600
• Limited = $49,300
• TRD Pro = $54,600 

What about snow plowing with the Toyota 4Runner?

Yes! The 4Runner is rated to tow up to 4700 pounds, the kind of power you want when you're out there plowing snow. 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque will ensure that you and your Toyota 4Runner get the job done.

Wondering about installation? An 88” plow blade is recommended. Snowplows come with vehicle mounting gear for easy installation and removal.

But here’s the thing: A snowplow blade can weigh as much as 800 pounds. When it’s in the air, your front end is going to squat. To prevent wear and tear on your 4Runner’s suspension - not to mention your plow blade -  you’re going to need suspension upgrade to help support the plow.

There are plenty of products to choose from, but the two most popular are Air Lift and Timbren SES. A brief comparison will shine some light on the subject.

Air Lift is an airbag system designed to help keep your 4Runner riding level and smooth. Compared to Timbren SES, there are many working parts to an Air Lift airbag system:

• Air springs (airbags)
• Air lines
• Air compressor 
• Air reservoir 
• Pressure sensor Temperature sensor 
• Pneumatic solenoid valves 
• Electronic control unit
• Height sensors

If money is no object, and you enjoy the extra maintenance required to keep an eye on possible air leaks, then Air Lift might be an option for you. Professional installation is recommended.

Timbren SES:  If you want the biggest bang for your buck - a reliable system that’s bulletproof and gives good ride quality at a reasonable price - Timbren SES would be the smart alternative.

Timbren’s easy-to-install suspension helper system requires zero maintenance and remains absolutely bulletproof for the life of your vehicle. This DIY product has very few components:

*These components represent SES part # TORSEQ

• 2 Mounting Brackets
• 2 Aeon Rubber springs
• All Necessary Hardware

Timbren SES provides easy-to-install front and rear suspension upgrades for Toyota 4Runner to keep the suspensions level and stable during snow removal: part # TOFTAC4A for the front and TORSEQ for the rear.

All Timbren SES products come with a Lifetime Warranty and a 100-day Money-back Guarantee. For more information on Timbren SES upgrades, visit Timbren.com