@@ms1406 thanks I love it. However I traded in my Cherokee Trailhawk and I feel less confident now than I did with my Jeep which I hate that feeling. I wanted the FX4 but price was the reason.
Hi Chloe and thank you so much for your video. I live in D.R.Congo. I have a 2008 double cab Tacoma RWD. What I do for more traction on my rear wheels is I make sure I have at least 150kg of anything in my bed. Usually I have a big bag of sand or 3 or more 50kg cement bags. I also added a modified truck hanger blade that allows me to carry over a tone on my rear axle, and I also had to add stronger shocks to handle the bouncing better. With this trick, I never had any traction problems or rear wheels digging in deep sand, always came through with no problems. Hope this helps those who like me only have RWD. Have fun. Merci!
I just go simple trail riding with my friends in Utah. We usually just hit up some decent trails with a bit of mud here and there and then camp out under the stars. My 2019 SR5 Taco is only a 2WD but does pretty good. I never plan on doing extreme trails or anything like that so I don’t have any regrets really. Just tired of the 4x4 d-bags thinking they’re the shit when someone with 2WD could care less.
For real man. My friends teasing me cause I got a two wheel drive. It’s a 2013 trd sport Tacoma. I’m a country boy but I don’t do no crazy stuff with it. I don’t understand bruh
You'll be surprised. Those with 4x4 almost NEVER hit a dirt trail, yet they talk crap on those with only 2WD. Just do you and that's cool to hear a 2WD does enough.
It doesnt end if you have 4wd either. Then they bug you that you should have lockers, offroad bumpers, regear, bigger tires, etc. And when you totally kill your mpg they just tell you to get a beater Civic or something, as if paying two payments of registration and insurance is no big deal. That's why I dont even hang out with offroaders anymore.
New viewer 🤙🏻 This was VERY useful to me as I have a 2016 2WD off-road and struggle with idea of “upgrading “ to 4x4 and this all but ices that notion, my 2 WD will be just fine and I love it Thanks 🙂
TBH i always thought getting a 2WD on a truck was wack.. but no way would I need 4WD with what I do lol. I just bought a 2WD Sport premium package with upgraded tires and I cannot wait to just have this thing forever. Thank you for the video girl!!
I’ve never met a truck owner with 4wd who wishes it was 2wd but I meet guys with 2wd who regret their purchase all the time. Also very cool removing the valve stem. Just about the best way to air down IMO.
I have a 2wd only 07 4runner. I don't regret it doesn't have 4x4. Less overall maintenance needed, I'm not trying to rock crawl shit, and it's not a necessity to have where I live. I have a 2wd version of A-trac in mine. Also, Toyota makes some of the best pre-runners in the world. So 4x4 isn't always an end all. Also no one builds a better 4x4 system than Toyota. So....¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Yes, they buy Pre Runners, and then spend thousand's of dollars putting a lift, big tires and wheels, and all the nick nats for a 4WD! News flash, it's still a 2WD! Spend a 1/4 of those extra's and wallah, you could have brought a 4WD!
@@simba9725 it’s because 4wd is heavier and if ur doing something like Baja or u just like going fast in sand or dirt then 4wd is a waste of money and weight
Just because you got 4wd. Doesn't mean your invincible Offroading. You'll get stuck to a point. Tires play a big role, all terrain tires are not all that. You want mud tires, good ground clearance helps too. I don't own a true SUV or pick up. My 1st Gen lifted fwd Highlander with 9.5 inches of ground clearance wrapped 265/70/16 bfg km3 mts can takle the trails. I only have traction control. I'm doing good so far. Its better not going alone Offroading. Tag along with friends or a off-road group like Gambler 500. bring recovery boards and tow straps and spare parts, tires, and air compressor. That's the real solution for Offroading...
That is why my 2002 Tacoma TRD 2wd with the Factory lockers is all you really need to offroad effectively. I also own a FJ40 and with 4Wd its great but I still like using a Rear locker. It makes for a more graceful approach for very hard difficult terrains. Lockers are the key folks
With the right tires and good weight on the back tires I think 2wd is a good choice. Obviously its not going to ever be 4x4 good but its good for what it is.
So I always use 4WD off road, regardless of the difficulty. 1, really good to work the front diff often. 2, we have a ton of wash boards which tend to kick my back end out so having the front engaged does a good job of pulling the truck out of the slide
cars that are AWD are that way for a reason - they're better at everything but mpg and tire wear. if used as a recovery device it might be too late, kind of a "rather have it and not need it" kinda deal. i go a step further and use 4LO everywhere all the time for tens of hours and days on end. i enjoy the view and never have a problem crawling around totally controlled, plus trucks just feel better in 4LO, makes it feel boss. while we're here this is also a huge misnomer- PEOPLE: 4LO isn't some nuclear button only for when you're seconds away from death. it usually works out to be like if you had 2-3 lower gears. that's it. it's nothing, all the same rules apply, all the gears still work etc. don't be redlining it and there's seriously no difference and your vehicle is designed to use it- shit they've even included a knob right there next to the radio! in most cases people are doing more harm to their engine and trans lugging their overloaded trucks starving at altitude up stairs in 4HI or killing the suspension and drivetrain by hitting it too fast to keep the R's up. now that i've watched the video: being in 2WD or 4WD absolutely matters when going downhill since 4 wheel engine braking is adding traction and generally more controlled. now back to my 4LO paragraph, this would be slowing you down even further, being even more controlled (less jerky and bouncy) and possibly not coming off that stair too fast and bashing the skid plate.
Yeah Tacoma’s are so light they benefit from 4wd high on flat straight gravel roads lol then on trails I switch to 2wd for better steering. 4x4 low for what 2wd cant do. Goes up steep hills like its not even there in 4x4 low, also seems to lock all 4 wheels vs 4x4 high. My step dad who sold me his tacoma drove it in 4wd all the time. The front differential oil was black, sludgy and slight metal shavings on the drain magnet. Rear differential was the same as front, transfer case oil was close to looking normal but cloudy caramel colour. That was probably first differential oil change, did it at 238 000km/148 000 miles.
Ive always found that 4wd only makes a big difference over 2wd in 3 conditions....Deep, gumbo type mud, Heavy, wet, deep snow, and going uphill on wet grass lol. Besides that 2wds can be damn capable if you know what youre doing and arnt afraid of the throttle
I’ve do this trail w/my 2wd Tacoma all the time and i always have fun. Although I haven’t done all the off shoots, I feel pretty good knowing yours did great on 2wd mode.
Going down a steep hill in 4wd makes a big difference on slowing you down. I leave it in 2nd gear most of the time and 1st gear if I need to go slower. its important to have more control.
I have a 2oo4 and 2011 Pre Runners With All Terrain tires it is possible to drive on the soft tilled farmland (2 wd) Looking to purchase a 2006, 4x4 4Runner for about $8ooo with 240,000 miles to drive on the farm w/o getting stuck on the soft, soft, soft dirt. Task: Pull a chain link fence and post with fencing to up-root weeds Qu: Is a 4 x 4 necessary? We also have big waves and flooding. In fact, my house lot is in the Tsunami and flood zone. Rylie
I may be wrong here and someone please correct me if I am wrong, but since she is driving the TRD Off Road version her truck comes with a rear locker that only works in 4L. This means when she drives in 2WD she does not have the Auto LSD (Limited Slip Differential) option. However, many true 2WD Tacomas and in my case 4WD Limited Tacoma (No rear locker) have the Auto LSD option when you disable the traction control. This helps when you drive in 2WD for situations when you only have 1 rear tire with traction.
It always baffled me as the 4runner. At least 4th gens like my own 07 (which is a 2wd model) are similar to a tacoma in a lot of ways. But didn't come with factory rear locker or 4x4 suspension setup like the tacoma prerunner's did. Nor a manual either. (which FJ cruiser got and is pretty much a 4th gen 4runner with different body style). Only the 09 trail came with the factory rear locker. But it was a 4x4 and only offered in v6 (my gen 4runner came with the 4.7 v8 as an option too) as it was a part time system. Not that my 2wd isn't capable. Just it would of been even more bad ass, if at least the 2wd 4runners came with the rear locker like the prerunner Tacomas of similar years did.
Cool video, 4wd really does make a difference, there are places a 2wd can’t go no matter how good of a driver you are. Some trails even have signs that say you have to have 4wd.
I have a 2WD RAV4 and have pushed it to its limits on fire roads. Never gotten it stuck anywhere, but those deep ruts on hills are from people like me trying to send it with wheels spinning, failing, and then trying it 3 more times before struggling thru. Just because a 2WD *can* do it doesn’t mean you should... I feel a lot less guilty rolling trails with my 3rd gen 4runner since I’m not ruining the trails for others.
I think your choice should be based off what you do. I live in LA and 90% of my drives are on streets. So I call my taco a street taco. It’s a trd 2WD sport. The last 10% is spent driving in the sierras and even then, the lakes and trail heads I fish are cement or gravel so the 2WD is capable for my life style. If I were to do crawling and harder trails then a 4X4 would make me more comfortable. But it’s nice to see how capable a 2WD is for my life style. Awesomeeee vid
@@e.l.9589 having a suv means having weight over the rear wheels giving me more traction. Getting a 4runner with a V8 was well worth the cost. One caveat is changing out the timing belt every 90k. Oh well.
@@e.l.9589 totally understood. It wont do that, but i really like this truck. The used market is going ape shit. I could probably flip my 4runner especially since it has a V8.
Will back up the comment about 2wd with rear locker - recently our 1999 4Runner guide rig was only 2WD (awaiting new gusseted spindles after a freak incident, spare spindles were 2WD version) and we had to lead guests all over Otay Mountain (our usual route). In 2WD with the rear locker enabled we made easy work of all accessible trails in Otay, including Mocogo Slide and Extra Credit. So yes, obviously 4WD is preferred, but with the right driver and generous use of the skinny pedal, one can get by on some pretty decent trails in 2WD.
Depends how you use it, 2wd can be better in some cases. The truck is lighter, brakes better, faster , more efficient, hauls more weight, less maintenance but isn’t as good in the snow and def not ideal on a trail
Depends on the trail really. My 2WD SR5 Tacoma has handles some muddy and even snowy terrain pretty good. Up in Utah me and my friends go off-roading every weekend and I haven’t had any issues yet. It also just depends on tires and weight as well. But of course a 4x4 will always be better when it comes to more intense trailing.
Retired a few years ago and thinking of buying a new 4Runner TRD Off-Road for backcountry fishing and hunting. The locking rear differential sounds great.
I have one, and while it's a little slow on the highway, it's a great all-around vehicle and if you want something for fishing and whatnot, you can't go wrong with one.
My channel is all about the 2WD and see how far I can push it. It will surprise me sometime how far auto LSD and good tires will get me. Seen so many beautiful places with this Tacoma, it's all about exploration and not conquering a trail. Unless you want to do rock crawling...then get a 4WD haha
Idk why but I've always felt a truck should be a 4wd vehicle. So much so, I bought a 4x4 truck even though I can count on my right hand how many times i've used the off road features. I feel it be like a buying an inefficient hybrid car or a slow sports car. That being said this was neat, and I'm by in large impressed with the capabilities of these 2wd trucks. Very cool video.
@@searchforthetruth1 I think that's besides the point. I'm sure the right driver can do more in a 2wd then me in my 4wd.. still, It's just my opinion that a truck should be able to tow, have a decent size bed, have a certain ride height, and be a 4wd vehicle.. maybe that's over simplistic, but that's what comes to my mind at least
Thanks for sharing I always wanted to see a side by side comparison 4x4 vs. 2wd. I've had my 2003 Taco TRD 2wd w/ rear dif lock for 18 years and never had any problems with 4x4 roads.
Lol all good. Just messing with you. I have a friend with a 2wd Tacoma who said the same thing. I took him wheelin in our Florida muck and he made it as far as the length of his truck in the first hole. It was a good laugh. And he ate crow. At least you’re out there
I live in the high country of Colorado. We have 2WD out here, usually seen on the side of the road with caution tape wrapped around them after the latest storm they couldn't navigate through.
@@MyCrippledWings I have a fleet of around 30 vehicles, prob half are Taco's which are 2017 and 2018. I've had guys get stuck in parking lots, with 2wd. We try studded tires and chains but nothing as good as 4wd. That said 4wd is not some magic wand, I've slid around in my Tundra on particularly snowing / slick /icy roads.
My 07 prerunner doublecab was surprisingly agile with a bit of weight over the rear axle. I crunched my trailer wiring pigtail on a rock by accident, shorting it, and discovered its on the same circuit as the transmission parking brake lock. I couldnt get the truck out of park. That was the day I discovered the little red release button that is hidden under the transmission tunnel cover.
Looking to get the 2025 TRD Sport. I will never go off roading and live in Texas so don’t get snow. Seems I’ll be fine with just the 2WD since I’ll just be driving around casual ????
May I ask you a question....Did you lifted your Tacoma truck? If you lifted your truck like that, Do the insurance REFUSE to sell insurance for you??? I hear someone said if you lifted your truck then insurance not give you any cover?? Is that true???? Thank you..With Love from Tempe,Arizona
One of the lead guys at Icon suspension uses a 2WD. I have a Titan and used the 4x4 twice...and I do a lot of trails. All those years if mountain biking has me constantly picking lines.
Love your videos! Finally able to get my first Taco TRD Sport 2wd and I love it. Not looking to overland it out. Just basic camping and commuter truck. It gets the job done. I was not expecting the negativity towards 2wd.
I know some people who do this, most of them have jeeps 4WD so, I don't go. Figured I can't really enjoy with 2wbbut now I'm gonna go. So, the Toyota here has a tires for life thing so I never ask what tires they put on except I know they are Toyota tires. What tires do I need?
This video pops up on my feed and I always end up leaving it for another time. Glad I finally watched it, good info! I’ve got a 2021 off road 4x4, you should do a video in the sand. Maybe try out crawl control.
Otay mountain? Doesn't look all that much different than when I was stationed down there in the 80's. I went down that very trail using my 1975 Jeep J-10 Pickup. Drove that for 29 years until gas hit $4.00 / gallon. There was no way I was going to feed that de tuned, over smogged AMC 360 V-8 at those prices! Also rode that very trail with my 1988 BMW R 100 GS. My Jeep was kept so long and patched up so many times it was nicknamed ":FrankenJeep" Or simply "Frankie" For short. Replaced it with a 4 cylinder 1999 Tacoma SR-15. Drove it for 17 years and 376,000 miles! It earned the nickname "4 Cylinder Frankie" Or as my daughter would call it "Little Frankie". I now have a 2021 Base Model Tacoma 4X4 double cab. Look forward to your recomendations
Nice vid... We don't have trails like that where I live, Now do a vid showing the difference between 2wd and 4wd in the snow. You do get snow right? No? Well... It's fun! My newest taco I opted for the Off Road, this is a must in the winter here in Erie, PA, I find excuses to leave the house when we're getting dumped on just to play.
I have got three toyota 1. My mom 4Runner limited 2022 awd 2. My dad land cruiser 200 2019 full time 4wd v8 3. My daily driver 2006 Toyota Tundra double cab sr5 v8 4wd
I do more of an over landing and I have a ‘19 Tacoma SR5. I have been doing fine and I did do a 2 inch lift. I only have 25k miles on it. No major issues. I took a hit on MPG but wasn’t horrible either.
Hi Chloe and thanks for posting this video! I have been thinking about getting a Tacoma myself. Do you think 2WD would do well in very loose gravel or sand in the desert? How about snow? If I do get one, I would like to try driving the truck in Otay Lakes. I live close by :)
I found it and the instant MPG thingy. That really helped me get a feel for the fuel consumption and to drive accordingly. Kinda wish I could get that on the infotainment screen instead of the average because I like the digital speedometer
Hi Have you done any paint protection film/wrap and undercarriage coating on the truck? Do you recommend it for a new truck?. (Mostly on city/highway) Nice video..thanks.
@@sultan10ful Ov tune is old school, CVC tune and the KD tune are just modified improvement over the OV tune. KD is designed more for people living out East on flat roads while CVC is much better for hills and roads more towards people out west.
Awesome vid Chloe! Def a big fan of your content! I got a 2019 4x2 Off Road about a month ago and I was wondering how it would fair out on the dirt trails. This gives me a little more confidence--I hope to try some of my local trails soon. One question, what brand TPMS did you get for your tires, how were they installed, and how is the read out added to your dash computer? Thanks!
I didn't even know that a two-wheel drive Off-Road even existed. Did that come with a locking rear differential? I live in New England, I think you would have to special order a two-wheel drive Tacoma around here,
@@trailrunnah8886 haha yea, I think that 4x2's are more commonly found in areas that don't have as much "off road" terrain as others. I live out in Los Angeles. It does come with rear wheel locking diff/ECT/traction control off but thats really about it (no crawl control). Also came with the standard bilstein shocks and I added the TRD skid. I was reading on a couple of forums that 4x4s are only really needed for people who really, really like to rock climb or have a ton of experience on intense "expert" level trails so I was happy with a 4x2 purchase and the added benefit of a lower price tag.
@@FLIRT73 that's pretty cool when you get the locking diff with the two-wheel drive. Like I said, I don't even think that's available here in New England. Where I live we actually don't even have any legal off-roading, but we typically get snow so everybody wants four-wheel drives.
Traction control helps the wheels not slip as much. However it cuts power to the slipping wheel. Sometimes it’s better to allow the wheel to slip & not lose power! Because even a slipping wheel is helping some off-road. As long as the slipping wheel keeps producing fraction. Traction control should be on on a 2 Wheel drive. Until you start slipping. Then it’s better to disengage. Rocking side to side and symptoms going backwards & then forward again can help. First gear & second gear can I help you increase torque and decrease slippage at low speed. Is it slips in first gear. You may need second or even third gear to slightly reduce or increase power when slipping. First gear gives the most power. Second gear reduces the torque so you don’t slip as much. First and second gear can provide you with more torque form a situation like mud. Where are you need more power at a slower speed. Mini automatics have first and second gear at least.
I think a lot of that will depend on your tires, but the only "big" thing that the sport doesn't have is the rear locker. But it still sounds like it can get the job done!
Wow I had no idea that you couldn't use Locker in two-wheel drive. It makes me feel better that I don't have it in my sport because I can just use four-by-four anytime
Lol I own a 2020 ranger but the Tacoma is just drop dead gorgeous
Toyota guy forever, but the ranger is gorgeous as well.
The Ranger and Tacoma is dead even in the exterior looks in my opinion. I too own 2020 Ranger FX2
@@vhockada nice good value on the fx2
@@ms1406 thanks I love it. However I traded in my Cherokee Trailhawk and I feel less confident now than I did with my Jeep which I hate that feeling. I wanted the FX4 but price was the reason.
@@vhockadabro don't feel that way it's very capable if you have a rear locker mines is just a 2wd sport but I don't go offroad
I use to take my 06 TRD Sport all around Otay. It’s a 2wd with LSD. The biggest upgrade is good tires and air down when needed.
No aftermarket rlocker? 16/15' wheels is also a good upgrade too nothing higher.
Hi Chloe and thank you so much for your video. I live in D.R.Congo. I have a 2008 double cab Tacoma RWD. What I do for more traction on my rear wheels is I make sure I have at least 150kg of anything in my bed. Usually I have a big bag of sand or 3 or more 50kg cement bags. I also added a modified truck hanger blade that allows me to carry over a tone on my rear axle, and I also had to add stronger shocks to handle the bouncing better. With this trick, I never had any traction problems or rear wheels digging in deep sand, always came through with no problems. Hope this helps those who like me only have RWD. Have fun. Merci!
I just go simple trail riding with my friends in Utah. We usually just hit up some decent trails with a bit of mud here and there and then camp out under the stars. My 2019 SR5 Taco is only a 2WD but does pretty good. I never plan on doing extreme trails or anything like that so I don’t have any regrets really. Just tired of the 4x4 d-bags thinking they’re the shit when someone with 2WD could care less.
For real man. My friends teasing me cause I got a two wheel drive. It’s a 2013 trd sport Tacoma. I’m a country boy but I don’t do no crazy stuff with it. I don’t understand bruh
You'll be surprised. Those with 4x4 almost NEVER hit a dirt trail, yet they talk crap on those with only 2WD. Just do you and that's cool to hear a 2WD does enough.
fair enough, however in places that get snow 2wd pickups are not really viable.
It doesnt end if you have 4wd either. Then they bug you that you should have lockers, offroad bumpers, regear, bigger tires, etc. And when you totally kill your mpg they just tell you to get a beater Civic or something, as if paying two payments of registration and insurance is no big deal. That's why I dont even hang out with offroaders anymore.
@@SonsOfDeForest With some good snow tires,chains & a locker. With low tire pressure you will be fine.
New viewer 🤙🏻
This was VERY useful to me as I have a 2016 2WD off-road and struggle with idea of “upgrading “ to 4x4 and this all but ices that notion, my 2 WD will be just fine and I love it
Thanks 🙂
TBH i always thought getting a 2WD on a truck was wack.. but no way would I need 4WD with what I do lol. I just bought a 2WD Sport premium package with upgraded tires and I cannot wait to just have this thing forever. Thank you for the video girl!!
Do a harder trail in 2wd 🤙🏽
I’ve never met a truck owner with 4wd who wishes it was 2wd but I meet guys with 2wd who regret their purchase all the time.
Also very cool removing the valve stem. Just about the best way to air down IMO.
I have a 2wd only 07 4runner. I don't regret it doesn't have 4x4. Less overall maintenance needed, I'm not trying to rock crawl shit, and it's not a necessity to have where I live. I have a 2wd version of A-trac in mine. Also, Toyota makes some of the best pre-runners in the world. So 4x4 isn't always an end all.
Also no one builds a better 4x4 system than Toyota. So....¯\_(ツ)_/¯
pulled out a newer PreRunner with my 1999 SR-5 4X4. Having to chain up made him regret not getting a real 4X4
Yes, they buy Pre Runners, and then spend thousand's of dollars putting a lift, big tires and wheels, and all the nick nats for a 4WD! News flash, it's still a 2WD! Spend a 1/4 of those extra's and wallah, you could have brought a 4WD!
@@simba9725 it’s because 4wd is heavier and if ur doing something like Baja or u just like going fast in sand or dirt then 4wd is a waste of money and weight
Just because you got 4wd. Doesn't mean your invincible Offroading. You'll get stuck to a point. Tires play a big role, all terrain tires are not all that. You want mud tires, good ground clearance helps too. I don't own a true SUV or pick up. My 1st Gen lifted fwd Highlander with 9.5 inches of ground clearance wrapped 265/70/16 bfg km3 mts can takle the trails. I only have traction control. I'm doing good so far. Its better not going alone Offroading. Tag along with friends or a off-road group like Gambler 500. bring recovery boards and tow straps and spare parts, tires, and air compressor. That's the real solution for Offroading...
That is why my 2002 Tacoma TRD 2wd with the Factory lockers is all you really need to offroad effectively. I also own a FJ40 and with 4Wd its great but I still like using a Rear locker. It makes for a more graceful approach for very hard difficult terrains. Lockers are the key folks
Great video. This goes to tell everyone that having the right tires and airing down plus a good driver is key for a fun day off-roading .
Big advantage of true 4wd is 4lo. Being able to descend under control matters.
With the right tires and good weight on the back tires I think 2wd is a good choice. Obviously its not going to ever be 4x4 good but its good for what it is.
So I always use 4WD off road, regardless of the difficulty. 1, really good to work the front diff often. 2, we have a ton of wash boards which tend to kick my back end out so having the front engaged does a good job of pulling the truck out of the slide
Finally someone with some common sense.
cars that are AWD are that way for a reason - they're better at everything but mpg and tire wear. if used as a recovery device it might be too late, kind of a "rather have it and not need it" kinda deal. i go a step further and use 4LO everywhere all the time for tens of hours and days on end. i enjoy the view and never have a problem crawling around totally controlled, plus trucks just feel better in 4LO, makes it feel boss.
while we're here this is also a huge misnomer- PEOPLE: 4LO isn't some nuclear button only for when you're seconds away from death. it usually works out to be like if you had 2-3 lower gears. that's it. it's nothing, all the same rules apply, all the gears still work etc. don't be redlining it and there's seriously no difference and your vehicle is designed to use it- shit they've even included a knob right there next to the radio! in most cases people are doing more harm to their engine and trans lugging their overloaded trucks starving at altitude up stairs in 4HI or killing the suspension and drivetrain by hitting it too fast to keep the R's up.
now that i've watched the video: being in 2WD or 4WD absolutely matters when going downhill since 4 wheel engine braking is adding traction and generally more controlled. now back to my 4LO paragraph, this would be slowing you down even further, being even more controlled (less jerky and bouncy) and possibly not coming off that stair too fast and bashing the skid plate.
Yeah Tacoma’s are so light they benefit from 4wd high on flat straight gravel roads lol then on trails I switch to 2wd for better steering. 4x4 low for what 2wd cant do. Goes up steep hills like its not even there in 4x4 low, also seems to lock all 4 wheels vs 4x4 high.
My step dad who sold me his tacoma drove it in 4wd all the time. The front differential oil was black, sludgy and slight metal shavings on the drain magnet. Rear differential was the same as front, transfer case oil was close to looking normal but cloudy caramel colour. That was probably first differential oil change, did it at 238 000km/148 000 miles.
Looks like you have a rear differential carrier leak. I see all the dust settling on the oil residue.
2WD is still super capable with the right tires and air pressure like you said! Get an Air Locker for it and it's even better!
Ive always found that 4wd only makes a big difference over 2wd in 3 conditions....Deep, gumbo type mud, Heavy, wet, deep snow, and going uphill on wet grass lol. Besides that 2wds can be damn capable if you know what youre doing and arnt afraid of the throttle
I’ve do this trail w/my 2wd Tacoma all the time and i always have fun. Although I haven’t done all the off shoots, I feel pretty good knowing yours did great on 2wd mode.
Going down a steep hill in 4wd makes a big difference on slowing you down. I leave it in 2nd gear most of the time and 1st gear if I need to go slower. its important to have more control.
2wd with locker works for me. I don't rock crawl only off roading I do is to camp fish and hunt. So it fits my needs.
I have a 2013 2wd off-road trim. I’m glad to see I’ll be able to do a little off-roading
As long as you're not going thru lots of mud or steep hills you'll probably be fine
@@brandonwilson7231 excellent to hear. I only do light stuff anyway. Mostly just flat trails
So serious Question 🙋♂️Wich one would be the best option to Buy.. TRD Sport 4x2 or regular 4x4 v6. Both 2021.
4WD all the way. 2016 4runner SR5 4WD
I have a 2oo4 and 2011 Pre Runners
With All Terrain tires it is possible to drive on the soft tilled farmland (2 wd)
Looking to purchase a 2006, 4x4 4Runner for about $8ooo with 240,000 miles
to drive on the farm w/o getting stuck on the soft, soft, soft dirt.
Task: Pull a chain link fence and post with fencing to up-root weeds
Qu: Is a 4 x 4 necessary?
We also have big waves and flooding. In fact, my house lot is in the Tsunami and flood zone.
Rylie
In 2wd TRD OR’s you get to use locker in 2wd
I may be wrong here and someone please correct me if I am wrong, but since she is driving the TRD Off Road version her truck comes with a rear locker that only works in 4L. This means when she drives in 2WD she does not have the Auto LSD (Limited Slip Differential) option. However, many true 2WD Tacomas and in my case 4WD Limited Tacoma (No rear locker) have the Auto LSD option when you disable the traction control. This helps when you drive in 2WD for situations when you only have 1 rear tire with traction.
I'm glad I have a prerunner. Their 2WD have the diff locks.
It always baffled me as the 4runner. At least 4th gens like my own 07 (which is a 2wd model) are similar to a tacoma in a lot of ways. But didn't come with factory rear locker or 4x4 suspension setup like the tacoma prerunner's did. Nor a manual either. (which FJ cruiser got and is pretty much a 4th gen 4runner with different body style).
Only the 09 trail came with the factory rear locker. But it was a 4x4 and only offered in v6 (my gen 4runner came with the 4.7 v8 as an option too) as it was a part time system.
Not that my 2wd isn't capable. Just it would of been even more bad ass, if at least the 2wd 4runners came with the rear locker like the prerunner Tacomas of similar years did.
Cool video, 4wd really does make a difference, there are places a 2wd can’t go no matter how good of a driver you are. Some trails even have signs that say you have to have 4wd.
So jealous of the trails you have out there haha great video!!
I have a 2WD RAV4 and have pushed it to its limits on fire roads. Never gotten it stuck anywhere, but those deep ruts on hills are from people like me trying to send it with wheels spinning, failing, and then trying it 3 more times before struggling thru. Just because a 2WD *can* do it doesn’t mean you should... I feel a lot less guilty rolling trails with my 3rd gen 4runner since I’m not ruining the trails for others.
Definitely makes me feel better about getting my ‘21 TRD OffRoad 2WD. Has a rear dif lock!
still will never have the capability of a 4wd, why spend the money on a brand new new TRD Offroad and not get 4wd?
@@phillipberk5767 Because I've lived with a base model single cab 4cyl tacoma for 17 years and haven't needed 4x4 yet...
And I like the way it looks.
I think your choice should be based off what you do. I live in LA and 90% of my drives are on streets. So I call my taco a street taco. It’s a trd 2WD sport. The last 10% is spent driving in the sierras and even then, the lakes and trail heads I fish are cement or gravel so the 2WD is capable for my life style. If I were to do crawling and harder trails then a 4X4 would make me more comfortable. But it’s nice to see how capable a 2WD is for my life style. Awesomeeee vid
this makes me feel good about getting a 4runner with a V8 in 2wd!
I do it on my 2wd 2017 RAM 2500 V8, with 60F /80R psi. I don't air down, I just feather the throttle.
@@e.l.9589 having a suv means having weight over the rear wheels giving me more traction. Getting a 4runner with a V8 was well worth the cost. One caveat is changing out the timing belt every 90k. Oh well.
@@jameskocks4734 I thought you were going to get one, but you have one. I wanted the same, I just needed to pull over 10k LBS often.
@@e.l.9589 totally understood. It wont do that, but i really like this truck. The used market is going ape shit. I could probably flip my 4runner especially since it has a V8.
...is it just me or the under chassis of your tacoma is so clean....
Will back up the comment about 2wd with rear locker - recently our 1999 4Runner guide rig was only 2WD (awaiting new gusseted spindles after a freak incident, spare spindles were 2WD version) and we had to lead guests all over Otay Mountain (our usual route). In 2WD with the rear locker enabled we made easy work of all accessible trails in Otay, including Mocogo Slide and Extra Credit. So yes, obviously 4WD is preferred, but with the right driver and generous use of the skinny pedal, one can get by on some pretty decent trails in 2WD.
I always wanted a four-wheel drive truck but living here in Cali I don't think it's necessary by the way what trail is that
I have a 2011 tacoma 2wd with some custom parts and its a beast
Depends how you use it, 2wd can be better in some cases. The truck is lighter, brakes better, faster , more efficient, hauls more weight, less maintenance but isn’t as good in the snow and def not ideal on a trail
Depends on the trail really. My 2WD SR5 Tacoma has handles some muddy and even snowy terrain pretty good. Up in Utah me and my friends go off-roading every weekend and I haven’t had any issues yet. It also just depends on tires and weight as well. But of course a 4x4 will always be better when it comes to more intense trailing.
I like my four low range for extended downhill crawls, saves the brakes. All runs aren’t just uphill.
Love ❤️ the “Off road therapy” comment! Off roading with Cody!!! ❤️ 🐕 🐶😃!!! I hope Cody wasn’t getting to nervous 😬. Great content again Chloe 👍 😀
Yes great to see Cody having fun on the trails. Stay hydrated. Be safe have fun .
Retired a few years ago and thinking of buying a new 4Runner TRD Off-Road for backcountry fishing and hunting. The locking rear differential sounds great.
I have one, and while it's a little slow on the highway, it's a great all-around vehicle and if you want something for fishing and whatnot, you can't go wrong with one.
Notice any difference in cleaning the taco with the ceramic coating?
My channel is all about the 2WD and see how far I can push it. It will surprise me sometime how far auto LSD and good tires will get me. Seen so many beautiful places with this Tacoma, it's all about exploration and not conquering a trail. Unless you want to do rock crawling...then get a 4WD haha
@@natewynn344 Couldn't said better myself, im actually working on a detailed version of a video regarding 2wd off roading.
@@Michael_Tran Watching your vids bro gives me faith in my 2WD SR5 🥵
@@JV24573 Haha...thanks bro. Tons of area to explore with 2WD, go for it, just bring a few recovery gear just in case haha
Idk why but I've always felt a truck should be a 4wd vehicle. So much so, I bought a 4x4 truck even though I can count on my right hand how many times i've used the off road features. I feel it be like a buying an inefficient hybrid car or a slow sports car. That being said this was neat, and I'm by in large impressed with the capabilities of these 2wd trucks. Very cool video.
Never heard of pre running huh lol
@@searchforthetruth1 I think that's besides the point. I'm sure the right driver can do more in a 2wd then me in my 4wd.. still, It's just my opinion that a truck should be able to tow, have a decent size bed, have a certain ride height, and be a 4wd vehicle.. maybe that's over simplistic, but that's what comes to my mind at least
@@andyvaldez212 yea and the 2wd Tacoma can tow and load more than the 4wd what’s your point?
Thanks for sharing I always wanted to see a side by side comparison 4x4 vs. 2wd. I've had my 2003 Taco TRD 2wd w/ rear dif lock for 18 years and never had any problems with 4x4 roads.
That’s because you haven’t been on any rear 4x4 roads. 😂 keep the skinny pedal down
@@thomasmartucci3590 thanks bro. I wish we could hang out. You seem really cool. 👎🏼
Lol all good. Just messing with you. I have a friend with a 2wd Tacoma who said the same thing. I took him wheelin in our Florida muck and he made it as far as the length of his truck in the first hole. It was a good laugh. And he ate crow. At least you’re out there
@@thomasmartucci3590 right on my brother, keep the good times coming. Peace out. ✌🏼
another great video! I'm just amazed how clean it is underneath your truck!
Yes, let's see some hard challenges in 2wd!
So helpful with the side by side comparisons. Its between Tacoma 4WD and Chevy ZR2 for me right now of what I've been looking at.
Really useful information for the newer Prerunner crowd. Thank you! And yes we are waiting on a complete trial in 2wd. TKS
My 2003 tacoma is a 2 wheel drive and it does GREAT on dirt roads.
How did you train Cody to film all this good footage? Lol
Lol! Anything is paw-sible! 🐶
@@ChloeKuo 😂
2020 Colorado zr2. I don't even think about it
Great video. Did I understand you correctly?... in 2WD, on this truck, you do NOT have a locking rear diff?
I live in the high country of Colorado. We have 2WD out here, usually seen on the side of the road with caution tape wrapped around them after the latest storm they couldn't navigate through.
But are any of them toyota's though? Cuz toyota's 2wd trucks and truck based suvs, aren't your typical 2wd's.
@@MyCrippledWings I have a fleet of around 30 vehicles, prob half are Taco's which are 2017 and 2018. I've had guys get stuck in parking lots, with 2wd. We try studded tires and chains but nothing as good as 4wd. That said 4wd is not some magic wand, I've slid around in my Tundra on particularly snowing / slick /icy roads.
@@MotoBeemer the nice thing about 2wd in the snow is it can significantly decrease your turn radius xD
jc a tacoma owner would be the one that needs to watch a 2wd vs a 4wd video
I do wish Toyota would let us engage the locker in 2wd.
I have one and love mine but unfortunately Toyota’s are idiot proof and I assume it’s to prevent people from doing burnouts with both wheels.
My 07 prerunner doublecab was surprisingly agile with a bit of weight over the rear axle. I crunched my trailer wiring pigtail on a rock by accident, shorting it, and discovered its on the same circuit as the transmission parking brake lock. I couldnt get the truck out of park. That was the day I discovered the little red release button that is hidden under the transmission tunnel cover.
I got the off road 2020 tacoma and im always going back and forth whether to trade it back and get the 4x4 can someone help with some opinions
Looking to get the 2025 TRD Sport. I will never go off roading and live in Texas so don’t get snow. Seems I’ll be fine with just the 2WD since I’ll just be driving around casual ????
Props to the dog holding the camera. He did a great job!
May I ask you a question....Did you lifted your Tacoma truck? If you lifted your truck like that, Do the insurance REFUSE to sell insurance for you??? I hear someone said if you lifted your truck then insurance not give you any cover?? Is that true???? Thank you..With Love from Tempe,Arizona
One of the lead guys at Icon suspension uses a 2WD. I have a Titan and used the 4x4 twice...and I do a lot of trails. All those years if mountain biking has me constantly picking lines.
Love your videos!
Finally able to get my first Taco TRD Sport 2wd and I love it. Not looking to overland it out. Just basic camping and commuter truck. It gets the job done. I was not expecting the negativity towards 2wd.
I know some people who do this, most of them have jeeps 4WD so, I don't go. Figured I can't really enjoy with 2wbbut now I'm gonna go.
So, the Toyota here has a tires for life thing so I never ask what tires they put on except I know they are Toyota tires. What tires do I need?
Oh. And also, you should do the 2LO mod so you can lock your rear in 2WD.
Thank you for this video! Just got a 2011 2WD 4Runner. We plan on hitting colorado from Texas and I hope it does well!
What about 4 wheel drive open diff vs 2 wheel drive locked diff
This video pops up on my feed and I always end up leaving it for another time. Glad I finally watched it, good info! I’ve got a 2021 off road 4x4, you should do a video in the sand. Maybe try out crawl control.
2wd is 9nlygood for momentum type off roading. No crawling in a 2wd.
Do you ever use the auto LSD when off roading in TWD? If so what situations is it best used?
Otay mountain? Doesn't look all that much different than when I was stationed down there in the 80's. I went down that very trail using my 1975 Jeep J-10 Pickup. Drove that for 29 years until gas hit $4.00 / gallon. There was no way I was going to feed that de tuned, over smogged AMC 360 V-8 at those prices! Also rode that very trail with my 1988 BMW R 100 GS. My Jeep was kept so long and patched up so many times it was nicknamed ":FrankenJeep" Or simply "Frankie" For short. Replaced it with a 4 cylinder 1999 Tacoma SR-15. Drove it for 17 years and 376,000 miles! It earned the nickname "4 Cylinder Frankie" Or as my daughter would call it "Little Frankie". I now have a 2021 Base Model Tacoma 4X4 double cab. Look forward to your recomendations
One of the best videos ive seen for this
Hi Chloe, is it possible to install air diff lock on 2WD single cab toyota hilux in order to enhance its off road capability ?
All these are way too easy. This is how my ranch looks that I drive in a Honda CR-V
Nice vid... We don't have trails like that where I live, Now do a vid showing the difference between 2wd and 4wd in the snow. You do get snow right? No? Well... It's fun! My newest taco I opted for the Off Road, this is a must in the winter here in Erie, PA, I find excuses to leave the house when we're getting dumped on just to play.
I have got three toyota
1. My mom 4Runner limited 2022 awd
2. My dad land cruiser 200 2019 full time 4wd v8
3. My daily driver 2006 Toyota Tundra double cab sr5 v8 4wd
I do more of an over landing and I have a ‘19 Tacoma SR5. I have been doing fine and I did do a 2 inch lift. I only have 25k miles on it. No major issues. I took a hit on MPG but wasn’t horrible either.
You may be able to do the trail in 2wd, but engaging the 4wd will be a lot easier on you rig.
Robmotive currently watching saying he thought a 2nd 2024 Tacoma TRD sport 😂
My parents gave me used 2014 toyota tacoma crew cab in red and I love my first truck/car as a teenager
Very informative and nice shots! Thanks!
Hi Chloe and thanks for posting this video! I have been thinking about getting a Tacoma myself. Do you think 2WD would do well in very loose gravel or sand in the desert? How about snow? If I do get one, I would like to try driving the truck in Otay Lakes. I live close by :)
2wd will get you in trouble in the sand. Quick.
What do you do when you get stuck ?? Where is your winch ?? And ground-anchors ??
You won’t get stuck in otay truck trails, promise
Nice to know I could take my pavement queen 05 4Runner 2WD. Even though I do have an 03 GX470 myself now.
Try using tires a two wheel drive would normally have, more of a highway tire.
What is the purpose/reason for Toyota (or any mfg) to have a locking differential that will only engage in 4 low? Do Wranglers only engage in 4 low?
Two wheel drives go more places than most people think.
I didn't know I could read the tire pressure on that dashboard screen.
Where do I find it?
I really have to start looking at that stuff.
I think it's three clicks to the right on the right button (with arrows) on the steering wheel
I found it and the instant MPG thingy.
That really helped me get a feel for the fuel consumption and to drive accordingly.
Kinda wish I could get that on the infotainment screen instead of the average because I like the digital speedometer
Wow you’re a good driver
Nice work
Just wanted to confirm you’re still on KO2 tires?
2wd! Lol..... Good to know that I can take me truck there. Thanks! Much Love! Daygo all day!
Argh matey!
got a 86 toyota extra cab 4 wheel drive what psi for tires in deep dirt do you use?
What’s the company name for the air comp and seat jackers ?
Thank you for the great vid. 😁
It is Desert Does It 😊
Hi Have you done any paint protection film/wrap and undercarriage coating on the truck? Do you recommend it for a new truck?. (Mostly on city/highway) Nice video..thanks.
No I haven't. I would recommend it if you live in a state that snows
Thanks for this video. I have a 2020 2 wheel drive, silver sky
and was wondering what I can do locally. I also live in San Diego.
I’m still waiting for a Tacoma Prime or when it gets a new engine
Exactly, I’ll buy a Tacoma when they update it and give it more power with Better mpg. Just like every other manufacturer has.
ill stick with the cast iron block 4cyl thats been trucking around for years. :) reliability is my only concern
If you haven’t yet, you should get a tune “CVC tune” from Chan Chan. He does tunes for those in Cali :)
Where can I find this Chan Chan?
@@jsaeteun hit him up on his Insta @Chanvchau he’ll set you up and treat you right!
What’s different from a OVTUNE and a CVC tune?
@@sultan10ful Ov tune is old school, CVC tune and the KD tune are just modified improvement over the OV tune. KD is designed more for people living out East on flat roads while CVC is much better for hills and roads more towards people out west.
Can u send the link and video of ur air compressor install I missed that video and can’t find it.
ruclips.net/video/DyN8cezu00o/видео.html
Awesome vid Chloe! Def a big fan of your content! I got a 2019 4x2 Off Road about a month ago and I was wondering how it would fair out on the dirt trails. This gives me a little more confidence--I hope to try some of my local trails soon. One question, what brand TPMS did you get for your tires, how were they installed, and how is the read out added to your dash computer? Thanks!
I didn't even know that a two-wheel drive Off-Road even existed. Did that come with a locking rear differential? I live in New England, I think you would have to special order a two-wheel drive Tacoma around here,
@@trailrunnah8886 haha yea, I think that 4x2's are more commonly found in areas that don't have as much "off road" terrain as others. I live out in Los Angeles. It does come with rear wheel locking diff/ECT/traction control off but thats really about it (no crawl control). Also came with the standard bilstein shocks and I added the TRD skid. I was reading on a couple of forums that 4x4s are only really needed for people who really, really like to rock climb or have a ton of experience on intense "expert" level trails so I was happy with a 4x2 purchase and the added benefit of a lower price tag.
@@FLIRT73 that's pretty cool when you get the locking diff with the two-wheel drive. Like I said, I don't even think that's available here in New England. Where I live we actually don't even have any legal off-roading, but we typically get snow so everybody wants four-wheel drives.
Hi! I have the stock TPMSs installed
Quick question, when off-roading do you turn off traction control off or do the 3 second hold to turn off VSC and traction control
Traction control helps the wheels not slip as much. However it cuts power to the slipping wheel.
Sometimes it’s better to allow the wheel to slip & not lose power! Because even a slipping wheel is helping some off-road. As long as the slipping wheel keeps producing fraction.
Traction control should be on on a 2 Wheel drive. Until you start slipping.
Then it’s better to disengage. Rocking side to side and symptoms going backwards & then forward again can help. First gear & second gear can I help you increase torque and decrease slippage at low speed.
Is it slips in first gear. You may need second or even third gear to slightly reduce or increase power when slipping. First gear gives the most power. Second gear reduces the torque so you don’t slip as much. First and second gear can provide you with more torque form a situation like mud. Where are you need more power at a slower speed. Mini automatics have first and second gear at least.
I got a trd sport and I just need it to go to hunting so all I’m wondering if it’ll get through some muddy dirt roads ?
I think a lot of that will depend on your tires, but the only "big" thing that the sport doesn't have is the rear locker. But it still sounds like it can get the job done!
Wow I had no idea that you couldn't use Locker in two-wheel drive. It makes me feel better that I don't have it in my sport because I can just use four-by-four anytime