Nice summary. The performance in snow is the most challenging. As you mentioned, so much depends on the snow's condition. You mentioned that in sand, part of the control's function when repeatedly starting/stopping was to backfill a divot. Another purpose is that giving the sand (or snow) just a second to be still enables the material to settle, compact and conform to the tire's tread and profile. This incrementally aids traction. The analogy is stiction (friction/traction is greater prior to slippage than it is once slippage occurs) en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stiction
@@OverlandPNW Thanks for the compliment. I doubt it's worth a sustained pin. The pin should migrate as other comments arise. I ride a lot in the snow, and have a pretty good understanding of that particular media. I occasionally assist others getting unstuck. As you showed, momentum counts for a LOT. One other tip for sand that I learned from a video posted by a Saudi citizen (they have plenty of sand!) is to constantly steer left/right/left/right, while slowly spinning the tires. While he did not provide a reason, he demonstrated its effectiveness. I think that by doing so, the front tires find more 'nearby' sand to grab and backfill the divot. Give it a try!
Crawl control saved my butt this weekend. Trying to get home, iced narrow steep uphill road. Halfway up the hill, I started sliding backwards, toward a creek and narrow bridge I had just crossed. Stopped, went 4L, set cc to low speed, and it literally climbed the windblown ice hill..Absolutely incredible..
By far one of the best videos I have seen that demonstrated how the CrawlControl is used. It would have been amazing if similarly or identically equipped vehicles to try the same obstacle without the CrawlControl to truly reveal its effectiveness.
I would have benefitted even more from this video a few days ago. I attempted a descent on a steep sand dune over the weekend, entrusting my crawl control. The 4Runner accelerated quickly. I reacted slowly. We both struck the base of the dune hard, damaging the grill and bumper. 😑 I could have studied the manual again before my failed attempt, but your videos are more interesting. Besides, nothing lasts longer than than a hard lesson learned. Great video.
Hope the damage was not too bad. So true that nothing lasts longer than than a hard lesson learned. I've had my fair share of those kind of lessons ha ha!
got cocky in Winter #3 this year, buried in a snow drift just turning around where my dog likes to poop...... luckily my buddy was up the road plowing snow, by the time he got there had the strap ready and he didn't think he ever tightened the strap, it popped out so smooth..... I was real close! heh heh heh first ever need for help
I'm only 27 seconds into the video and already I want to say THANK YOU! I'm considering a 4Runner and it's hard to find anything other than people who know how to get into trouble but not out, and people who just want to see what they can do with cool feature A or cool feature B. I'm not a top shelf off roader and don't have a desire to be one, but some of my activities do take me off road in order to get the the place. THIS is the kind of video I need.
You produce the best videos! As an overland newbie with a 4Runner, I learn so much from your videos - thank you! I have been puzzled with when to use what, crawl control, ATrac, lock rear diff, etc. Whew! Really appreciate your work and updates :)
Just recently got a 4runner. It's my first car that I've purchased and first vehicle with 4wd/any offroad capabilities so I'm trying to learn what I can. Thank you for this video, what a stellar summary.
Excellent video. Actually used the crawl control at Lake Powell while stuck in the sand. Pulled me up and out. Great feature....have had 4 wheel drive trucks for decades and this feature once practiced should be a great aid. Thanks for the information.
Revisiting this video now that I have a 2023 4Runner TRD Offroad. I have had limited opportunities to test it, but I used crawl control first during the ice storm at the end of December in the Portland area. The ice was thick, but a little nobbly, providing some traction. Worked well getting out of my driveway. Have used crawl control in mud when I couldn't get out in regular 4WD. I was at Silver Star Mountain on the weekend. Didn't need any special traction features, despite it being a terrible road, with very deep ruts. Toward the top, there was a corridor of deep snow. I turned on A-Trac and got right up it. I think I would have gotten stuck without it, because I was facing a combination of deep ruts beneath deep snow. I could feel the drive going to different wheels.
Congrats on the 2023 TRD Offroad! Crawl Control is pretty impressive. In our testing, we only really had problems on very steep inclines and very slippery surfaces. Other than those two, Crawl Control tackled everything we threw at it.
I have to say. This is by far the best channel on TH-cam that has to do with off roading in a Toyota!! I've learn so many things about my 4Runner through watching you guys. Thank you for all the time and dedication you put into your channel. Also, maybe I'll get a chance to go out with you guys some day. 😀
Samuel, thank you very much for the channel support and kind words, both are greatly appreciated. My brother does a crazy amount of research and puts in tremendous effort on the backend editing, so again, thank you.
@@aired-downoverland9239 as someone who records lots of videos myself and edits them for family and personal viewing, I know how much time can go into it. Not an easy task by far. This channel is awesome. Anytime I see a video of your brother's, I get the urge to jump into my 4Runner and go somewhere. My lady and kids love going out too so that's helps as well. Keep up the fun and informational videos. I look forward to seeing more!!
I've been driving my 4Runner since 2017, ALL OVER TARNATION...and I'm ashamed to say that I never even tried out the crawl control! But I'm going camping on the beach next week, so I'll try it out. Thanks for this!
crawl control impressed me coming down some icy hills this past winter. The Multi Terrain Select system also demonstrated to my why Toyota does not have a front locker. Went up a steep, icy, rutted hill, 4L, Rock and Sand mode. I almost crested the hill and heard the right front hit an icy tree root and spin. I kept on the gas, suddenly the right front tire stopped spinning and I heard the left front start to spin, and up and over the truck went. I was super impressed. No need for a front locker when the truck will do that on it's own!
Sunk in pea gravel up to the hubs in our 4Runner. Pass side rear quarter a foot from large tree, slight uphill. Any skinny peddle just moved us closer to the tree. Long story short, crawl control got us out, unassisted. Fantastic bit of engineering by Toyota!
The advancements in 4x4 over the last 15 to 20 years is quite amazing. I love my 05 Tundra double cab, especially now that I changed the diff gear ratio from 3.91 to 4.88 and installed a Torsen limited slip in the rear end, but it will never be able to do what these new 4runners can do.
The advancements really are amazing but I also like some of the earlier versions. I once owned a 1967 Nissan Patrol. It had manual locking hubs, a hand crank start (no kidding), a manual transmission, and a clutch so hard to depress, I'd swear it came from an old tractor. Not a single modern "traction control" device of any kind. I really miss that rig!
Fantastic. Now I can send the nay sayers here to this link when they need demonstrations of how CC works as advertised. As opposed to showing them my content I have made for the sole purpose of proving they don't know what they are talking about. lol I like how you emphasize the fact people need to give it time to do its job. All to often I see people give up too quick and say "I'm stuck". A little resistance and it is amazing how many people will quit and seek other options they did not have to, to move them out of a challenging spot.
Wow! Super thorough and informative video. Now I've got FOMO....because my 100 series doesn't have any of those fun buttons and knobs to play with. It's all just up to the knob (me) behind the wheel. Keep up the great work!
Superb explanation and analysis of Crawl Control. I have a new 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail and now I'm going to dig into the manual to see what differences I discover, and see how eKDSS might change the Lexus recommendations. Thanks again for making such an informative video.
I am a Toyota guy. All started with a new FJ40 in 1972. Still have a 85 Toy. truck to hunt and call coyotes. Just bought a new 2023 Tacoma TRD off road. Was wondering what the crawl control is all about..now I know...thanks for the excellent video. Can't wait to get the Tacoma out and see how it performs..
great video. last year I was going up a hill in about 4" of fresh powder snow. I went sideways off the road into the grass and got stuck. I couldn't back down due to a tree. I put it in 4lo with the locker and crawl control got us out. it would have been another story if I didn't have that...
Thank you!! I’m so tired of sorting through videos that just show the car getting unstuck and NOT showing how to make that happen with the Off Road controls.
Short, sweet, and to the point. Best video on the subject that I have found! I just found your channel a few days ago and really enjoyed that too. Today I was actually looking for this information and was glad that I saw your channel's name. It did not disappoint, to be sure. Thank you for making these instructional videos. Liked and subscribed!
Glad I found your videos. Just watch the new MTS video you did and answered so many questions I had. Questions like hmm what about crawl mode. Well here is that video. Definitely helps me and my wife who just got a new g5 trd off road and has never been around 4x4 vehicles and wants to go places like you show and camp in places like this. ThanK you.
Definitely ran into those challenges with the late winter snow BBs this year - WA, Cascades. Glad I carried your advice with me. Those north-facing slopes with that hard pack that warms up by mid afternoon turns into a trap. Once the tires broke through, the truck was essentially just sitting on the skid plates. That crust protects the BBs underneath. But the sun makes the crust weak. The BBs provide zero traction. I describe it as bean bag filler. For those describing snow and sand as the same...it's not. At all. You really have to pay attention when you go snow-wheeling. Type of snow (fresh pow or late season pack), ambi temperature, time of day, thickness of hard pack...It's all fun, but sometimes you get to put more hours on the extrication gear. ⚙
Bean bag filler is a great way to describe it. Great comment because it is so true that you do need to learn a lot about snow when you start to go snow-wheeling. And there is a lot more to the subject of snow than you'd first expect!
Thanks for sharing that was all REALLY HELPFUL information!! I have not used my traction control very much so really enjoyed your detailed information. Thanks
This series of “Finally” videos is excellent! Can you tell me what suspension and tires/size you have on your 4Runners? Thanks again for sharing your knowledge!
Thanks! My current tire (white 4Runner) is BF Goodrich T/A K02 315/70R17. When this video was filmed I believe I was on a smaller BF Goodrich T/A K02. It would have been 285/70R17. My lift is about a 3" Icon Stage II. My brother's (silver 4Runner) tires are BF Goodrich T/A K02 in size 285/75R17. He has an Ironman lift. Also 3". Cheers!
This along with the atrack video were so useful! Thanks so much. Have never off roaded before but looking into what some of the 4runner buttons did as I'm looking into getting one in the coming years. Thanks again!
Excellent video!!! The title holds true haha Also, I believe CRAWL Control also works with your factory rear locker locked. Now I wonder what would happen if you used CRAWL Control with the rear AND front locked 😬 On top of that, Toyota's new generation of trucks no longer make the machine gun sound when you activate CRAWL Control!
This was a very comprehensive and interesting overview with great examples of the Crawl Control. Like your video title states... The only Crawl Control Video You Need to Watch!! Well done!
I have had my FJ Cruiser since I was 16 (I'm 29 now) and have now owned two 5th gen 4Runners in the past 11 years. My current 2019 TRD Offroad has the Magnuson supercharger. I sold it to a friend, awhile back. He had to return to Asia, so I bought it back lol, and was VERY happy, because I missed it lol. I'll never sell it again! It will stay with me, just like my FJ Cruiser has been with me for nearly half of my life😊. I drove a brand new Tacoma TRD Pro at Toyota's recent press event, on an offroad course, so I'm confident the offroad performance of the 6th gen 4Runner is going to surprise 5th gen 4.0 4Runner loyalists, as it did me. It is an upgrade, in every way! Just the price is expensive, so I reserved a GX 550, to get a bit more capabilities and comfort. Do not dismiss it because of the 4 cylinder engine. I promise 4Runner loyalists will love it! Invaluable information in your video! Thanks!😊
@@OverlandPNW The Mag honestly makes the 5th gen feel like an SUV her size always should have, but nothing crazy, plus that great supercharger sound😊. It adds about 30% power and torque, so as well as enhance the already great offroad performance, it allowed me to FINALLY overtake other vehicles on the freeway lol, like a proper V8. I hate putting my foot down for nothing lol
Thank you for the amazing detailed real world testing. This will definitely keep me away from a lot of now unnecessary trial and error. I’ll probably still get stuck on something dumb somewhere and cry like a baby😂
Thanks! Crawl control worked really well for me going down huge rocks and drops on Cadillac hill at the rubicon trail. Just gave that nice control. However, it wasn’t useful going back up that hill (crawling up rocks the height of tires), that’s where lockers and a-trac did the magic. Most people with me on the trail had dual transfer cases and that beat crawl control both uphill and downhill…so after all, these new tech gizmos are only semi effective. Plus since the 4runner is having PCS / VSC malfunction half the time after being lifted, crawl control is simply disabled when those electrical systems go nuts.
Great points and I agree with them all. The gizmos are only semi effective. In certain circumstance, they are great but you cannot rely on them to be great in all conditions. I watched your Devil's Staircase video. That was a legit downhill!
Appreciate the post. Great summary on crawl control and here in Colorado, we don't have sand but I have used it on slow crawl for mogul uphill and downhill and find it effective. Was it needed, not really but I find that it's more consistent in maintaining speed and control. I most situations, low 4 works fine. With the popularity of 4Runners/Tacomas, I have seen just way too many vehicles that just looks unnecessarily weighted down with accessories and metal bumpers, racks, and body armor. I did see a 4runner in the video which appear to be less modded. I often wonder how the added weight affects crawl control and just off-loading capabilities in general.
Thanks! Stop and say Hi if you see us on the beach! Your comment includes the magic word: "GearAmerica!" So, you will be automatically included in the GearAmerica GiveAway and you are eligible to win! The winner will be randomly selected March 31. Good luck and cheers!
Fantastic video. The analysis was thorough and practical-and the scenery was amazing. Central Oregon? Anyway, very useful as I consider getting a 4Runner with Crawl Control. One pedantic quibble having nothing to do with the technical analysis: a "divot" is the turf that comes out of a hole (as when you hit a golf ball), not the hole itself.
Thanks for the comment! I am a fan of polite pedantic quibbles. So, yours is most welcome. I was not aware a divot is the displaced turf and not the hole. But, you are 100% correct. Thanks for pointing it out!
@@OverlandPNW Thanks for the reply! Again, great video, super thorough on the topic, and amazing scenery. I moved from the Northeast to the Pacific Northwest because of the magnificence of the landscape. Well, that and the fact that my wife is from Oregon!
Thanks for making this video! I bought a 4R TRD Pro back in 2018, and never really understood when and how to use this feature. I did find that one video you showed in the beginning of your video and it was cool but thin on content.
I think every new 4 runner and Tacoma owner the dealership should show these videos!! They don’t show you shit on the 4 wheel drive system of these awesome vehicles. Excellent work
Excellent video with a very clear explanation of crawl control. I haven’t really used mine yet but could you tell me if you can use CC with the rear diff locked or does it have to be off?
Thanks! My 4Runner manual states that A-TRAC will work (on the front axle) with the rear locker engaged but only at speeds below 4 mph. However, the manual is silent on whether Crawl Control will work (on the front axle) with the rear locker engaged. I've never tested CC with a locked differential. So, unfortunately I do not have an answer to your question. I'll have to test it on one of my next trips. Cheers!
Thank you so much for checking that out! I am just starting a mild build on mine with a focus on overlanding and I plan to reference your channel quite a bit. I am going with a few basics first and will add things as the need presents itself. Great content! Keep it up!
Great information about crawl control. I have a 2019 4Runner and have never needed to use crawl control , but had always wondered how to use. Thank. Also what video camera did you use, excellent video quality? Thanks for sharing
Can you please compare the downhill assist control (DAC) with the downhill on the crawl control. Alot of us GX460 folks have added crawl control and MTS which gets rid of the DAC. Second. Do you have to go into MTS to select the condition before you initiate crawl or are MTS and crawl are totally independent system. My understanding has been that you have to select the terrain via MTS and then crawl control works as a cruise for the terrain selection through MTS.
My 4Runner does not have DAC. So, I have never used it but my limited understanding of DAC is that it functions essentially the same as Crawl Control. The main difference being that Crawl Control has adjustable speed settings and DAC does not. Crawl Control and MTS are independent systems. They use the same sensors and at first pass may seem redundant but the main differentiators are that with Crawl Control (1) the throttle/acceleration is fully automated and, (2) Crawl Control seeks to maintain a constant speed. Cheers!
Yes, the silver 4Runner has about a 3" lift on Ironman foamcell pro stage 3 suspension. His tires are BF Goodrich T/A K02 285/75R17. His front bumper/fenders are modified for clearance. He has the Southern Style Offroad front bumper with the High Clearance Side Protection Option. Cheers!
what are dual lockers? I have a rav 4 limited on lease and was considering a 4 runner TRD Pro so I was looking up what Crawl control is , this is all new to me but I''ve been taking peeks into the overlanding community for a couple of years now and I think ti makes more sense to get a 4 runner for longevity and scalability of my family although its just me for now
The term '"locker" refers to locking differentials. On four wheel drive vehicles, they increase traction by forcing both tires on an axle to turn in tandem. Some four wheel drive vehicles do not have any locking differentials. You can get a locker on the front axle, the rear axle or on both axles. If you have lockers on both axles, it is called "dual lockers." The 4Runner TRD Pro comes stock with a locker on the rear axle. If you are new to off roading, the 4Runner TRD Pro is a great family vehicle and is very capable off road.
I have a SR5 P. I am guessing I should get a winch and max tracks to be ready for these conditions and maintain momentum? Your information is awesome. Subscribed!
Big thanks for the sub! The SR5 is very off-road capable right off the showroom floor. Wish I had the premium package! With a winch and MaxTrax, you'd definitely be in good shape. This is probably already on your list but everything comes down to traction and that means having a great set of tires that match your style of driving and the terrain you off road in the most (rocks, mud, sand, etc.).
@@MrJanglooos That's the million dollar question! There are a lot of different opinions on this. For me, it starts with what kind of build you want. Is it going to be more of a dedicated off-road vehicle or will it be a daily driver? Mine is not a daily driver and I am currently running BF Goodrich T/A K02 315/70R17 which is a 34 inch tire (34.4"). My brother runs KO2s as well. His are 285/75R17 which is also a 34 inch tire (33.8"). Both required a body mount chop, a 2 1/2 - 3 inch lift, fender modifications, etc. to fit. For me, the geometry changes going above 34" tires just are not worth it for my style of off roading. The tire I had immediately before this one was a 285/70R17 which is a 33 inch tire (32.71") and it was pretty easy to fit. This was a nice step above the stock 265/70R17 32 inch tire (31.61") and still had very nice street manners. If you plan to do a minor lift and want to have a nice daily driver that will handle some fun stuff off road, then a 33 is not a bad choice. If you are going to do a bigger lift, cut plastic fenders, install bumpers and build something that will handle more serious obstacles, then I'd consider 34s. Tires are definitely one of the toughest decisions!
@@OverlandPNW thank you so much for this detailed response. I will have to really think this over as you suggested to make sure I get the right ones. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge.
Nice summary. The performance in snow is the most challenging. As you mentioned, so much depends on the snow's condition.
You mentioned that in sand, part of the control's function when repeatedly starting/stopping was to backfill a divot. Another purpose is that giving the sand (or snow) just a second to be still enables the material to settle, compact and conform to the tire's tread and profile. This incrementally aids traction. The analogy is stiction (friction/traction is greater prior to slippage than it is once slippage occurs) en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stiction
Great point! Thanks for leaving comment! I'm going to pin it so it will appear at the top of the comments. Cheers!
@@OverlandPNW Thanks for the compliment. I doubt it's worth a sustained pin. The pin should migrate as other comments arise. I ride a lot in the snow, and have a pretty good understanding of that particular media. I occasionally assist others getting unstuck. As you showed, momentum counts for a LOT.
One other tip for sand that I learned from a video posted by a Saudi citizen (they have plenty of sand!) is to constantly steer left/right/left/right, while slowly spinning the tires. While he did not provide a reason, he demonstrated its effectiveness. I think that by doing so, the front tires find more 'nearby' sand to grab and backfill the divot. Give it a try!
Crawl control saved my butt this weekend. Trying to get home, iced narrow steep uphill road. Halfway up the hill, I started sliding backwards, toward a creek and narrow bridge I had just crossed. Stopped, went 4L, set cc to low speed, and it literally climbed the windblown ice hill..Absolutely incredible..
Awesome story! It is a great system. Thanks for sharing that!
Which year 4runner and was it stock ?
@vietphan916 2024 TRD ORP. Stock except for Wildpeak at4 tires.
As an engineer, this is the level of detail I want to see in a video to learn something about the topic I'm researching
As a hamburger flipper and part time pimp, I feel the same way.
@@Beef5 As an unemployed person with too many cats, I agree.
Your time spent producing and sharing is appreciated. thanks!
Big thanks for the nice comment!
By far one of the best videos I have seen that demonstrated how the CrawlControl is used. It would have been amazing if similarly or identically equipped vehicles to try the same obstacle without the CrawlControl to truly reveal its effectiveness.
Crawl control and A-trac are both great features that make the 4Runner a stellar off-road performer. Thanks for the comprehensive video
So true!
I would have benefitted even more from this video a few days ago. I attempted a descent on a steep sand dune over the weekend, entrusting my crawl control. The 4Runner accelerated quickly. I reacted slowly. We both struck the base of the dune hard, damaging the grill and bumper. 😑 I could have studied the manual again before my failed attempt, but your videos are more interesting. Besides, nothing lasts longer than than a hard lesson learned. Great video.
Hope the damage was not too bad. So true that nothing lasts longer than than a hard lesson learned. I've had my fair share of those kind of lessons ha ha!
Time for a heritage grille and a new steel bumper! :D
got cocky in Winter #3 this year, buried in a snow drift just turning around where my dog likes to poop...... luckily my buddy was up the road plowing snow, by the time he got there had the strap ready and he didn't think he ever tightened the strap, it popped out so smooth..... I was real close! heh heh heh first ever need for help
What kinda dumbass goes off road in a 40k+ car without knowing how to use it's features..
There is NO technology better than driving experience.
I'm only 27 seconds into the video and already I want to say THANK YOU! I'm considering a 4Runner and it's hard to find anything other than people who know how to get into trouble but not out, and people who just want to see what they can do with cool feature A or cool feature B. I'm not a top shelf off roader and don't have a desire to be one, but some of my activities do take me off road in order to get the the place. THIS is the kind of video I need.
Big thanks for this comment! It is comments like this that make all the hard work worth it! Cheers!
You produce the best videos! As an overland newbie with a 4Runner, I learn so much from your videos - thank you! I have been puzzled with when to use what, crawl control, ATrac, lock rear diff, etc. Whew! Really appreciate your work and updates :)
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave that comment! Comments like this make all the work worth it! Cheers!
Just recently got a 4runner. It's my first car that I've purchased and first vehicle with 4wd/any offroad capabilities so I'm trying to learn what I can. Thank you for this video, what a stellar summary.
Congrats on the 4Runner!
@@OverlandPNW thanks! Loving it so far.
I've watches alot of crawl control videos to get familiar with the system and this is by far one of the best! Good job 👏 👍
Big thanks for that comment!
Excellent video. Actually used the crawl control at Lake Powell while stuck in the sand. Pulled me up and out. Great feature....have had 4 wheel drive trucks for decades and this feature once practiced should be a great aid. Thanks for the information.
Revisiting this video now that I have a 2023 4Runner TRD Offroad. I have had limited opportunities to test it, but I used crawl control first during the ice storm at the end of December in the Portland area. The ice was thick, but a little nobbly, providing some traction. Worked well getting out of my driveway. Have used crawl control in mud when I couldn't get out in regular 4WD. I was at Silver Star Mountain on the weekend. Didn't need any special traction features, despite it being a terrible road, with very deep ruts. Toward the top, there was a corridor of deep snow. I turned on A-Trac and got right up it. I think I would have gotten stuck without it, because I was facing a combination of deep ruts beneath deep snow. I could feel the drive going to different wheels.
Congrats on the 2023 TRD Offroad! Crawl Control is pretty impressive. In our testing, we only really had problems on very steep inclines and very slippery surfaces. Other than those two, Crawl Control tackled everything we threw at it.
I have to say. This is by far the best channel on TH-cam that has to do with off roading in a Toyota!! I've learn so many things about my 4Runner through watching you guys. Thank you for all the time and dedication you put into your channel. Also, maybe I'll get a chance to go out with you guys some day. 😀
Best comment ever! Thanks man!
Samuel, thank you very much for the channel support and kind words, both are greatly appreciated. My brother does a crazy amount of research and puts in tremendous effort on the backend editing, so again, thank you.
@@aired-downoverland9239 as someone who records lots of videos myself and edits them for family and personal viewing, I know how much time can go into it. Not an easy task by far. This channel is awesome. Anytime I see a video of your brother's, I get the urge to jump into my 4Runner and go somewhere. My lady and kids love going out too so that's helps as well. Keep up the fun and informational videos. I look forward to seeing more!!
I second this comment!!!
I've been driving my 4Runner since 2017, ALL OVER TARNATION...and I'm ashamed to say that I never even tried out the crawl control! But I'm going camping on the beach next week, so I'll try it out. Thanks for this!
Hope the beach trip is a ton of fun and that the crawl control works well!
Offroading isn't just about the destination; it's the journey, the camaraderie, and the love of the great outdoors.
Well said!
Wish I could buy a 4Runner .. these things just look awesome and seem to perform very well for a very long time. Thanks for sharing, OPN!
crawl control impressed me coming down some icy hills this past winter. The Multi Terrain Select system also demonstrated to my why Toyota does not have a front locker. Went up a steep, icy, rutted hill, 4L, Rock and Sand mode. I almost crested the hill and heard the right front hit an icy tree root and spin. I kept on the gas, suddenly the right front tire stopped spinning and I heard the left front start to spin, and up and over the truck went. I was super impressed. No need for a front locker when the truck will do that on it's own!
Awesome story! It is an impressive system!
Sunk in pea gravel up to the hubs in our 4Runner. Pass side rear quarter a foot from large tree, slight uphill. Any skinny peddle just moved us closer to the tree. Long story short, crawl control got us out, unassisted. Fantastic bit of engineering by Toyota!
Great story! I've had my bacon saved by Crawl Control a few times as well!
Love to hear stories like this.
The advancements in 4x4 over the last 15 to 20 years is quite amazing. I love my 05 Tundra double cab, especially now that I changed the diff gear ratio from 3.91 to 4.88 and installed a Torsen limited slip in the rear end, but it will never be able to do what these new 4runners can do.
The advancements really are amazing but I also like some of the earlier versions. I once owned a 1967 Nissan Patrol. It had manual locking hubs, a hand crank start (no kidding), a manual transmission, and a clutch so hard to depress, I'd swear it came from an old tractor. Not a single modern "traction control" device of any kind. I really miss that rig!
Or better yet.. it'll last half a century!!
Fantastic. Now I can send the nay sayers here to this link when they need demonstrations of how CC works as advertised. As opposed to showing them my content I have made for the sole purpose of proving they don't know what they are talking about. lol I like how you emphasize the fact people need to give it time to do its job. All to often I see people give up too quick and say "I'm stuck". A little resistance and it is amazing how many people will quit and seek other options they did not have to, to move them out of a challenging spot.
Great points! Thanks for the comment!
Wow! Super thorough and informative video. Now I've got FOMO....because my 100 series doesn't have any of those fun buttons and knobs to play with. It's all just up to the knob (me) behind the wheel. Keep up the great work!
Your 100 series doesn’t need this fanciful stuff to crush any terrain; 100 series envy
@@aired-downoverland9239 Hahaha, that's a fair point. Maybe I should just install some dummy knobs and buttons to make my inner 8 year old happy.
Thanks! Loved your Avoid These 5 Mistakes video!
Of all the crawl control videos I have seen for Toyota vehicles..this seems to be the best/most comprehensive one of them all! Very good..!
Big thanks for that comment!
Superb explanation and analysis of Crawl Control. I have a new 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail and now I'm going to dig into the manual to see what differences I discover, and see how eKDSS might change the Lexus recommendations. Thanks again for making such an informative video.
Damn bro, Toyota better hire you, best explanation videos on TH-cam. The dealership couldn’t even explain this stuff to me
Big thanks for that comment!
I am a Toyota guy. All started with a new FJ40 in 1972. Still have a 85 Toy. truck to hunt and call coyotes. Just bought a new 2023 Tacoma TRD off road. Was wondering what the crawl control is all about..now I know...thanks for the excellent video. Can't wait to get the Tacoma out and see how it performs..
Wow crawl control is awesome!!!
Great video on how to use it properly!!!
Big thanks for the comment!
great video. last year I was going up a hill in about 4" of fresh powder snow. I went sideways off the road into the grass and got stuck. I couldn't back down due to a tree. I put it in 4lo with the locker and crawl control got us out. it would have been another story if I didn't have that...
All terrain tires ARE NOT for ice, snow, icy tarmac Bridgestone blizzak DM-V2 YEah! friction is the key in winter..... Super nice info video thanks
Thank you!! I’m so tired of sorting through videos that just show the car getting unstuck and NOT showing how to make that happen with the Off Road controls.
Amazing instruction on the crawl control feature. Not a Toyota owner but had to see what it was all about. That’s a pretty sweet feature
Thanks for taking the time to watch!
Great job. You travelled all over the World just to show us different kinds of terrain
The best CrawlControl specific video yet.
Great video! Thank you I just bought my first Toyota, a 24 TRD OR. The systems are a little confusing. That cleared it all up!
Once again too the point well researched clearly stated facts and information. Thanks again for all the time and effort you out into your videos
Big thanks for the kind comment!
Short, sweet, and to the point. Best video on the subject that I have found!
I just found your channel a few days ago and really enjoyed that too.
Today I was actually looking for this information and was glad that I saw your channel's name.
It did not disappoint, to be sure. Thank you for making these instructional videos.
Liked and subscribed!
Big thanks for that comment and the sub! Can't tell you how much we appreciate it!
Glad I found your videos. Just watch the new MTS video you did and answered so many questions I had. Questions like hmm what about crawl mode. Well here is that video. Definitely helps me and my wife who just got a new g5 trd off road and has never been around 4x4 vehicles and wants to go places like you show and camp in places like this. ThanK you.
Congrats on your new 4Runner! Thanks for watching and glad some of it was useful. Cheers!
Definitely ran into those challenges with the late winter snow BBs this year - WA, Cascades. Glad I carried your advice with me. Those north-facing slopes with that hard pack that warms up by mid afternoon turns into a trap. Once the tires broke through, the truck was essentially just sitting on the skid plates. That crust protects the BBs underneath. But the sun makes the crust weak. The BBs provide zero traction. I describe it as bean bag filler. For those describing snow and sand as the same...it's not. At all. You really have to pay attention when you go snow-wheeling. Type of snow (fresh pow or late season pack), ambi temperature, time of day, thickness of hard pack...It's all fun, but sometimes you get to put more hours on the extrication gear. ⚙
Bean bag filler is a great way to describe it. Great comment because it is so true that you do need to learn a lot about snow when you start to go snow-wheeling. And there is a lot more to the subject of snow than you'd first expect!
Incredibly thorough video, thank you! This really helped me grasp the technology and its uses. I'm saving this video!
Big thanks for that comment!
Best understanding of how this works I've seen.
This is THE BEST VIDEO in regards to CC System hands down...
Thanks man!!
Thanks for sharing that was all REALLY HELPFUL information!! I have not used my traction control very much so really enjoyed your detailed information.
Thanks
Thanks so much for the comment! Like you, I do not use crawl control that often but I like knowing how it works!
Fantastic video! Great explanation of all various features on differing terrain.
Many thanks!
This series of “Finally” videos is excellent! Can you tell me what suspension and tires/size you have on your 4Runners? Thanks again for sharing your knowledge!
Thanks! My current tire (white 4Runner) is BF Goodrich T/A K02 315/70R17. When this video was filmed I believe I was on a smaller BF Goodrich T/A K02. It would have been 285/70R17. My lift is about a 3" Icon Stage II. My brother's (silver 4Runner) tires are BF Goodrich T/A K02 in size 285/75R17. He has an Ironman lift. Also 3". Cheers!
Wow..!! This is amazing. Thank you for taking time and effort and explaining very clearly. .🔥
Thanks! Your HomeLink video was great!
@@OverlandPNW Thank you for your kind words..😀
This along with the atrack video were so useful! Thanks so much. Have never off roaded before but looking into what some of the 4runner buttons did as I'm looking into getting one in the coming years. Thanks again!
Thanks! So glad the video was helpful!
AWESOME MY FRIEND! THANKS ALOT!! ............one less book i have to read
Big thanks for the awesome comment!
Excellent video!!! The title holds true haha
Also, I believe CRAWL Control also works with your factory rear locker locked. Now I wonder what would happen if you used CRAWL Control with the rear AND front locked 😬
On top of that, Toyota's new generation of trucks no longer make the machine gun sound when you activate CRAWL Control!
Awesome! Thanks for the additional info. I have some friends with older rigs that don't make the machine gun sound either.
Awesome video and great content, thanks and greetings from Down Under,, Tony.
Thanks and loved your last fishing video!
i use it every time I go off road on a hill decent ( steep hills ), great video 👍
Nice! Crawl Control is pretty amazing!
my 4runner sr5 doesn't have crawl control but it does have a-trac can i use a-trac instead of crawl control 🤷🏽♂️
@@JohnRivers-ol5tv It works a little differently but, yes you can use A-TRAC. I have another video that talks all about A-TRAC.
@@OverlandPNW thanks
This was a very comprehensive and interesting overview with great examples of the Crawl Control. Like your video title states... The only Crawl Control Video You Need to Watch!! Well done!
Thank you very much!
Very interesting video, helped me understand the features better than reading the OM. I like to see the actual real world test.
Thanks for this very informative video guys, you sure do know a lot about this stuff and I always enjoy watching!
Big thanks for the comment!
Great video. Summed up every video on crawl control in one info packed 15 minutes. Thx.
Thanks and awesome shooting videos on your channel. I used to shoot 3 gun matches for fun.
Sooo informative! Wow, thank you for this content. Can't wait to try some of these new learnings.
Big thanks for that comment!
I have had my FJ Cruiser since I was 16 (I'm 29 now) and have now owned two 5th gen 4Runners in the past 11 years. My current 2019 TRD Offroad has the Magnuson supercharger. I sold it to a friend, awhile back. He had to return to Asia, so I bought it back lol, and was VERY happy, because I missed it lol. I'll never sell it again! It will stay with me, just like my FJ Cruiser has been with me for nearly half of my life😊.
I drove a brand new Tacoma TRD Pro at Toyota's recent press event, on an offroad course, so I'm confident the offroad performance of the 6th gen 4Runner is going to surprise 5th gen 4.0 4Runner loyalists, as it did me. It is an upgrade, in every way! Just the price is expensive, so I reserved a GX 550, to get a bit more capabilities and comfort. Do not dismiss it because of the 4 cylinder engine. I promise 4Runner loyalists will love it!
Invaluable information in your video! Thanks!😊
I’d love to have a Magnuson supercharger! The GX 550 is an amazing vehicle. I like the way you think!
@@OverlandPNW The Mag honestly makes the 5th gen feel like an SUV her size always should have, but nothing crazy, plus that great supercharger sound😊. It adds about 30% power and torque, so as well as enhance the already great offroad performance, it allowed me to FINALLY overtake other vehicles on the freeway lol, like a proper V8. I hate putting my foot down for nothing lol
Thank you for the amazing detailed real world testing. This will definitely keep me away from a lot of now unnecessary trial and error. I’ll probably still get stuck on something dumb somewhere and cry like a baby😂
Big thanks for the very nice comment! Your Puncture video was cool !
@@OverlandPNW thank you
Carry a shovel.
Well done, appreciate the details for your tests!!
Accurate, detailed and complete information. 100% Awesome! Thank you!
Big thanks for that comment!
Such a great experiences sharing which useful to me. Thanks ❤❤
So nice of you
That sound was really scary.. lol. Lot of good info. Thanks for sharing 😊🤙👍
Thanks for watching!
Thanks! Crawl control worked really well for me going down huge rocks and drops on Cadillac hill at the rubicon trail. Just gave that nice control. However, it wasn’t useful going back up that hill (crawling up rocks the height of tires), that’s where lockers and a-trac did the magic. Most people with me on the trail had dual transfer cases and that beat crawl control both uphill and downhill…so after all, these new tech gizmos are only semi effective. Plus since the 4runner is having PCS / VSC malfunction half the time after being lifted, crawl control is simply disabled when those electrical systems go nuts.
Great points and I agree with them all. The gizmos are only semi effective. In certain circumstance, they are great but you cannot rely on them to be great in all conditions. I watched your Devil's Staircase video. That was a legit downhill!
@@OverlandPNW thanks. It was fun because of muddy tires that felt like skis
Keep up the great work! Love your videos!!!!
Thanks so much!
Appreciate the post. Great summary on crawl control and here in Colorado, we don't have sand but I have used it on slow crawl for mogul uphill and downhill and find it effective. Was it needed, not really but I find that it's more consistent in maintaining speed and control. I most situations, low 4 works fine. With the popularity of 4Runners/Tacomas, I have seen just way too many vehicles that just looks unnecessarily weighted down with accessories and metal bumpers, racks, and body armor. I did see a 4runner in the video which appear to be less modded. I often wonder how the added weight affects crawl control and just off-loading capabilities in general.
Agree that in most situations, low 4 works just fine. CC really isn't an option that experienced off roaders will use as a go-to.
Interesting .. lots of great information.
Thanks for the video
Thanks man!
Great video. Hope to see you around this spring/summer! I've got a 19 in voodoo blue and spend lots of time on the WA beaches
Thanks! Stop and say Hi if you see us on the beach! Your comment includes the magic word: "GearAmerica!" So, you will be automatically included in the GearAmerica GiveAway and you are eligible to win! The winner will be randomly selected March 31. Good luck and cheers!
Fantastic video. The analysis was thorough and practical-and the scenery was amazing. Central Oregon? Anyway, very useful as I consider getting a 4Runner with Crawl Control. One pedantic quibble having nothing to do with the technical analysis: a "divot" is the turf that comes out of a hole (as when you hit a golf ball), not the hole itself.
Thanks for the comment! I am a fan of polite pedantic quibbles. So, yours is most welcome. I was not aware a divot is the displaced turf and not the hole. But, you are 100% correct. Thanks for pointing it out!
@@OverlandPNW Thanks for the reply! Again, great video, super thorough on the topic, and amazing scenery. I moved from the Northeast to the Pacific Northwest because of the magnificence of the landscape. Well, that and the fact that my wife is from Oregon!
Thank you the information you all provided helped
Thanks for making this video! I bought a 4R TRD Pro back in 2018, and never really understood when and how to use this feature. I did find that one video you showed in the beginning of your video and it was cool but thin on content.
Glad it was helpful and big thanks for the comment!
Very informative video, great work.
I think every new 4 runner and Tacoma owner the dealership should show these videos!! They don’t show you shit on the 4 wheel drive system of these awesome vehicles. Excellent work
Thank you for that comment!
Thanks for that great comment! Yeah, it is a lot trying to figure it out from scratch.
@@OverlandPNW
You got that right! 😂
Especially if you’re new to Toyotas like me coming from Fords my last 20 plus years.
Great video! I don't have crawl control but this video is very informative! Nice job with the production and putting together all of the footage!
Thanks for taking the time to watch! You've got some great PNW videos on your channel!
Excellent crawl control video, thank you!
Big thanks for leaving that comment!
Awesome truck you got there mate 👌🏻 nice video as well with proper examples
Thanks 👍. Your Solo Camping Cooking by The River video was great!
Great video, thanks for putting it together! Very helpful!
Thanks for the comment! It's good to know that people find it useful. Cheers!
Exceptional- thank you very much!!
Awesome Review and information thanks for sharing Good Stuff Happy wheeling guys
The Vermonter
Thanks! And happy wheeling to you as well!
Great video! Been interested in learning about crawl control 👍🏽
Thanks! Loved your ToughTrail to Fossil Beach video!
@@OverlandPNW Thanks sir. Appreciate it 🙏🏽
Very informative, even though I drive a gladiator. Well thought out!
Thanks! Your Gladiator is very nicely set up.
My husband calls crawl control the breakdown button because it makes such a racket 😂
I Don't even have crawl control but I still enjoyed the video!! Seems like crawl control is the modern version of granny gear. 😂
Totally agree!
Nice! Need to borrow a new jeep and compare it to Jeeps off road cruse button. (Same thing, less options of terrain)
I don't know much about he Jeep system but I bet it is rock solid!
Excellent video with a very clear explanation of crawl control. I haven’t really used mine yet but could you tell me if you can use CC with the rear diff locked or does it have to be off?
Thanks! My 4Runner manual states that A-TRAC will work (on the front axle) with the rear locker engaged but only at speeds below 4 mph. However, the manual is silent on whether Crawl Control will work (on the front axle) with the rear locker engaged. I've never tested CC with a locked differential. So, unfortunately I do not have an answer to your question. I'll have to test it on one of my next trips. Cheers!
I tested this yesterday on my 4Runner. Crawl Control worked (on the front axle) with my rear diff locked.
Thank you so much for checking that out! I am just starting a mild build on mine with a focus on overlanding and I plan to reference your channel quite a bit. I am going with a few basics first and will add things as the need presents itself. Great content! Keep it up!
One other reason crawl control cancels is if you push the gas pedal or brake inadvertently. This could be a problem on steep inclines or declines.
You are correct...good points!
Great information about crawl control. I have a 2019 4Runner and have never needed to use crawl control , but had always wondered how to use. Thank. Also what video camera did you use, excellent video quality? Thanks for sharing
Thanks! We shot the entire video in 4k with GoPros.
@@OverlandPNW thank you.
Very well explained, great content.👍 What size tires on the 4Runner’s?
Thanks! We both run 34s. Mine (white 4Runner) are BF Goodrich T/A K02 315/70R17
My brother's are K02s as well 285/75R17. Cheers!
Can you please compare the downhill assist control (DAC) with the downhill on the crawl control. Alot of us GX460 folks have added crawl control and MTS which gets rid of the DAC. Second. Do you have to go into MTS to select the condition before you initiate crawl or are MTS and crawl are totally independent system.
My understanding has been that you have to select the terrain via MTS and then crawl control works as a cruise for the terrain selection through MTS.
My 4Runner does not have DAC. So, I have never used it but my limited understanding of DAC is that it functions essentially the same as Crawl Control. The main difference being that Crawl Control has adjustable speed settings and DAC does not. Crawl Control and MTS are independent systems. They use the same sensors and at first pass may seem redundant but the main differentiators are that with Crawl Control (1) the throttle/acceleration is fully automated and, (2) Crawl Control seeks to maintain a constant speed. Cheers!
You're a wise man. Thanks for the tips.
I appreciate that!
Careful NasTime, I’ve gotta wheel with my brother, we don’t need his head getting big 😄
Thanks for testing guys!!
I dig these technical videos. My Taco is a manual so I don't even have Crawl Control :)
Big thanks for the comment! Sometimes I miss having a manual!
Manual = awesomeness! 👍🏻👍🏻
Great job on this guy's! 👏
Thanks so much! Loved your Honda Africa Twin video!
Any chance you know the suspension and tire setup on the silver 4Runner at 9:00
Yes, the silver 4Runner has about a 3" lift on Ironman foamcell pro stage 3 suspension. His tires are BF Goodrich T/A K02 285/75R17. His front bumper/fenders are modified for clearance. He has the Southern Style Offroad front bumper with the High Clearance Side Protection Option. Cheers!
Great video, very informative. THANKS!
Thanks for the nice comment!
So what about using rear locker with crawl control? I would think it hinders as it doesn't allow individual differences in rear.
You are correct that you can use the rear locker with crawl control. It would be a situational choice. Cheers!
Knocked this one outta the park guys. Top drawer 👍👊
Awesome video! Much appreciated.
Thanks so much for the kind words!
Yea that was a great video - thanks!
Thanks for taking the time to say so!
this is really epic love watching the video.
Thanks!!
what are dual lockers? I have a rav 4 limited on lease and was considering a 4 runner TRD Pro so I was looking up what Crawl control is , this is all new to me but I''ve been taking peeks into the overlanding community for a couple of years now and I think ti makes more sense to get a 4 runner for longevity and scalability of my family although its just me for now
The term '"locker" refers to locking differentials. On four wheel drive vehicles, they increase traction by forcing both tires on an axle to turn in tandem. Some four wheel drive vehicles do not have any locking differentials. You can get a locker on the front axle, the rear axle or on both axles. If you have lockers on both axles, it is called "dual lockers." The 4Runner TRD Pro comes stock with a locker on the rear axle. If you are new to off roading, the 4Runner TRD Pro is a great family vehicle and is very capable off road.
I have a SR5 P. I am guessing I should get a winch and max tracks to be ready for these conditions and maintain momentum? Your information is awesome. Subscribed!
Big thanks for the sub! The SR5 is very off-road capable right off the showroom floor. Wish I had the premium package! With a winch and MaxTrax, you'd definitely be in good shape. This is probably already on your list but everything comes down to traction and that means having a great set of tires that match your style of driving and the terrain you off road in the most (rocks, mud, sand, etc.).
@@OverlandPNW can I ask you what size tires would you recommend?
@@MrJanglooos That's the million dollar question! There are a lot of different opinions on this. For me, it starts with what kind of build you want. Is it going to be more of a dedicated off-road vehicle or will it be a daily driver? Mine is not a daily driver and I am currently running BF Goodrich T/A K02 315/70R17 which is a 34 inch tire (34.4"). My brother runs KO2s as well. His are 285/75R17 which is also a 34 inch tire (33.8"). Both required a body mount chop, a 2 1/2 - 3 inch lift, fender modifications, etc. to fit. For me, the geometry changes going above 34" tires just are not worth it for my style of off roading. The tire I had immediately before this one was a 285/70R17 which is a 33 inch tire (32.71") and it was pretty easy to fit. This was a nice step above the stock 265/70R17 32 inch tire (31.61") and still had very nice street manners. If you plan to do a minor lift and want to have a nice daily driver that will handle some fun stuff off road, then a 33 is not a bad choice. If you are going to do a bigger lift, cut plastic fenders, install bumpers and build something that will handle more serious obstacles, then I'd consider 34s. Tires are definitely one of the toughest decisions!
@@OverlandPNW thank you so much for this detailed response. I will have to really think this over as you suggested to make sure I get the right ones. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge.