Couple questions on 2007 4Runner

My mom just bought a 2007 Toyota 4runner 4WD Sport. I had created a thread prior to this with issues regarding the rear hatch not opening, but I have a few other questions about it.

1) It has a button next to the RSCA button (Left of it) that has a small 4-wheel diagram, is this the differential button? When I press it, nothing happens??

2) When I engage it into 4WD, it goes into place, however, the "VSC OFF" stays on the dash...is this normal????

3)Probably most importantly, there is a rear-end noise coming from the back. Almost sounds as if you were turning rotors in a shop, perhaps maybe a growling noise (wheel bearing, maybe?). Hoping that it is something simple.

Thanks in advance!

 

4th gens have AWD(torsen diff) , so you can be in 4hi or 4low with center diff open.

 

So is that the diff button then, is that what you mean lol?

 

Yup, center diff lock.

 

gotcha. not very familiar with it. can it only be engaged when in 4wd?

 

Correct, both hi and lo.

 

It basically makes the system like a "normal" 4wd system, ie don't lock it on pavement, 50/50 power split. 4wd without the center diff locked you can drive on pavement all day, you could even leave it in 4 hi for the test of the vehicles existence if so desired.

 

great info! thanks! any reason the VSC OFF light would be coming on when I engage the 4wd.

 

That should only happen when you lock the center diff. Are you saying it comes on when switching the dial from 2wd>4wd?

 

yes, when i switch from 2wd to 4hi, the vsc off light appears...maybe because the center diff button was already pressed? ill have to upload a picture of it when i get a chance.