2021 Tacoma SR 4x4 utility model rear differential lock

My 2021 Tacoma SR utility model has no button or switch to lock differential, just the 4wd high/low. If my rear differential locks, which it did by mistake when I thought I was turning my AC fan up as the 4wd button is right next to it, I couldn't get it unlocked. What's the process? Thanks.

 

The SR Tacoma does not have a rear differential lock. It does have an Auto LSD, but that is not the same thing, it uses the brakes to slow the spinning wheel.

 

Correct, you don't have a factory locking rear differential, that knob by the fan speed knob is to put transfer case in 4wd High or Low. Not being snarky, but I'd read up on it's operation in your owner's manual. It is not an AWD all wheel drive system that is meant to be driven on pavement.

 

You were in either 4hi or 4lo, and the Tacoma has no center differential. Therefore it will bind on in 4hi or 4lo on high traction surfaces (especially if you turn sharply)...

Furthermore, if the system has a large bind, it will not shift back out of 4hi or 4lo easily.

If this happens, you will want to first drive enough in a straight line or slightly turning to un-bind the drivetrain before shifting back to 2hi.

 

The console showed an icon that was a rear differential lock. I drove to the dealer and the service advisor drove it slightly forward then reversed slowly and put it back in 2wd and it turned off the differential lock according to him. We heard an audible click from the differential and it seemed to work. I've never had a 4wd like that so it's new too me. Thanks for the input.

 

We're you driving around in 4WD?

 

Most likely the front ADD for regular 4wd

 

No I wasn't driving around in 4wd, while reaching for the a.c. fan switch I inadvertently turned the 4wd on, the controls are side by side, this locked the differential.

 

Stop and listen to what other members have already told you. Not trying to be an ass, but the SR does not have a factory locking diff. Only the TRD off-road and TRD pro have it. On older generations you could get the locking diff on SR5 and limited with the optional TRD off-road package which now it's a trim in itself.

 

I assume you are referring to the 4wd icon. You do not have a locking differential. You have what is called part-time 4wd. Under normal operation the truck is 2wd, but the switch you are referring gives you the option to switch it to 4wd. Only do this when you are on low traction surfaces. I suggest you read your manual.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four-wheel_drive
https://www.wilsonvilletoyota.com/b...ence-between-part-time-4wd-and-full-time-awd/

 

I fully appreciate what everyone is saying, I'm just telling you what happened and what the Toyota service advisor said. He said the icon that was flashing on the console was for the rear differential lock. I'm sure you all know more than they do about it. Don't get your panties in a wad. I was trying to get some perspective. I will read up on owners manual. Thanks for all the advice?

 

I think what you are missing is that there is a difference between operating the transfer case to put the truck in 4WD and locking a diff. These are two different things. Your truck can have one feature without the other.

Activating 4WD supplies power to the front wheels (front joined to back). A diff lock prevent wheel spin on the back axle left-to-right.

The dial activates 4WD. A diff lock, which you don’t have, comes on via a button on the ceiling.

 

I was sincerely trying to help you. Driving your truck around town in 4wd could lead to catastrophic failure of your 4wd system or at the very least wear out your tires prematurely.

BTW, the models with rear locking differentials (like mine) have a button on the cab ceiling for it.

 

I truly appreciate all the advice. I was near the dealer when it happened, I was told one thing by him and obviously something different on this thread. Thanks to everyone.

 

We all start at the beginning. You’ll be an expert soon enough.

 

FYI, most dealers and service advisors are clueless to their own products. You will finds people on this forum that have a better idea of the function and options of your truck because here the people are passionate about them. At the dealer they get paid to work on or sell them... it's just another vehicle.

And welcome to the forum

 

No one else thinks the dumb dealer said diff lock when he meant ADD? I mean it's in the middle word.

 

get under your truck and tap the rear end with a small hammer, They tend to get jammed from time to time

 

I’ll just add that locking the diff is a bit of a process. You have to shift into 4wd, shift to neutral then shift to 4lo then you have to press the locker button then you sometimes have to roll the truck for the locker to engage. That all didn’t happen because you accidentally flipped a knob

 

Welcome to TW!!