Newbie: CobaltKen

Hi! I've had more new Corollas than I can count without forgetting any. I once had a used Tacoma 2wd, and while I loved the dependability, I determined to get a 4x4 next time. Here in Ohio, we do get snow. Now that I feel I can finally afford it, I'm the proud owner of a '20 Taco 4x4 utility package ($26k+). Finding good ideas for mods here, I installed OEM-look Autowiki yellow fog lights with bezels. Wanting to simplify, I tapped into the markers for the relay signal wire and discarded the switch. Limited budget, so only looking to do modest mods, but this seems to be the place to get good info!
[Btw, cobalt's my favorite color & I had to come up with a username...]

 

Welcome to The Forum!

 

Welcome Ken

 

Welcome to TW

 

Welcome aboard Ken
Show us your Taco

 

Thanks for the warm welcome! I'll wait till daylight, take a picture & post it.

 

I noticed in the owner's manual that you're supposed to drive 10 miles/month in 4wd to keep it lubed. The nearest gravel roads are atleast an hour away, so I haven't been doing this in warm weather months. Is the requirement worth a 2 hour commute? Or is it ok to only use 4wd in the snow?

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Welcome!

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Welcome!

 

Thanks!

 

Welcome to TW Ken. I'm Justin, my favorite color is Red. But I'll probably never have a red car or truck unless it's an old hotrod.

 

Welcome to The Forum!

 

Hey Ken,

I am a first genner, 2004, but I can say I’ve never followed this rule. I’ve probably went all year without putting it in 4wd, and it still works fine. At 186,000, the only thing that failed me was an oxygen sensor, and I probably drove it a year with the check engine light on for it.

I can understand your concern though. I’ve only learned of this suggestion recently. If I where you, I’d put it into 4wd on hard surfaces, just drive straight for as long as you can, and if you do turn, just don’t make a tight 90 degree turn. I’ve driven on asphalt in 4wd (patchy snow) and even turned tight where my wheels bind, and nothing bad happened.

Hope this helps, and is correct.