Cost of turning 2WD to 4WD

I recently purchased a 2009 Tacoma 2WD with only 23,000 miles on it (I found a gem).

Come to find out, they sold it to me without realizing that the frame hadn't been replaced from the recall yet. Additionally, several other parts needed to be replaced. These parts include shocks, struts, control arms, sway bar links, and brake lines. The dealership is sending all the cost to Toyota and whatever Toyota won't pay for, the dealership will.

Here's my question: since they're already pulling apart the frame and everything, how difficult and how much would it cost to just upgrade it from a 2WD to a 4WD?

 

Too much, have them buy it back and buy a 4wd. It's the electronics and wiring that are the issue and complexity, if it was simply parts swapping it would be no big deal.

 

I can't have them "buy it back". And I can't afford a 4WD. The only 4WDs I could afford were ones with 150k+ miles on them. I got a great deal on this. I just wondered if while they're already taking all of that apart and paying for it themselves, how much it would be to just change it over when it's already apart. Would that additional cost be $1000? $2000?

 

Frame is also different on 4wd's due to the cross member for the tcase/different trans

 

Saying "have them buy it back and buy a 4WD" is silly because if I could have bought a 4WD in the first place, I would have. that would be like someone telling abused car owner to fix their problem by buying a brand new truck

 

Oh okay, thanks. That's helpful

 

A few folks here have actually done this. It is best achieved by someone with good mechanical skills, a donor vehicle (not required, but very helpful), space, tools and time.

You don't even want to think about having a dealer do it.





Sounds like your gem was a 'diamond in the rough'. You are quite fortunate that the needed repairs are being made.

Let them get it all squared up, and use the truck. You bought 2wd for a reason (you didn't need 4wd I assume), so why not?

If you've got to have 4wd now for some reason, wait till it's fixed, sell it on your own (it will be desirable with all the new stuff) and buy a 4wd.

But please, examine it well before you sign. Taking their word that it's a fine vehicle is what put you in this pickle.

 

Dealer wouldn’t even do that for you. Ur looking at all 4wd components electrical and metal. Then not doing it yourself, typically if you have to pay someone you would of been better off sacking up and buying a 4wd. A few people have done it but they did the work.

 

The cost of anything is offset by the value to the buyer.

 

Okay, thanks guys. I'm not very mechanical and didn't know how involved it was if all of that stuff was going to be taken off of it anyway. No, I don't NEED a 4WD, but obviously it'd be nice in these harsh New England winters. Guess I just have to rely on my superior snow driving.

 

Did you really get such a great deal if it isnt what you want? Penny wise pound foolish.

Bummer man, you live in a snowy part of the country and didnt get a 4wd, I see a trade-in in your future.

 

If it was me, id just add some weight over the rear axle like some sand bags or if you like camper shells/caps, a heavy fiberglass topper would also help the contact patch for the rear wheels, and it would keep the snow out of the bed!

 

Limited Slip Differentials work great in the snow too and anything is good with snow tires.

 

buys a Gem. needs frame replaced...... doesnt sound like much of a gem to me.

Those that have done the 2wd to 4wd conversion and made it worthwhile $$$ wise (very few) have good mechanical and fabrication skills. Both of which the dealer and no offense you do not have (given the fact you bought a truck without looking underneath at the frame)


Like stated, let the dealer replace all that shit. then if you want sell it and get a 4wd.

 

The 2009 should have the "Auto LSD" button which, while not a mechanical limited slip, usually works well enough to get you out of the ditch.

But yes if you really want 4wd, save your $$, sell the truck and look for a 4x4.

 

You could get this

$150 ShurTrax CLW0048 LW-0048 All Weather Traction Aid for Compact Pickup Trucks/SUVs, Black

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0...d+traction&dpPl=1&dpID=51M0G8AX71L&ref=plSrch

Or add a Detroit truetrac

 

So, I have a real mechanical LSD in my Subaru, and that whole Auto LSD thing is useless and I doubt would do anything to help in snow.

 

I love my 2wd taco, give it some time and it'll grow on you.

 

^ What he said.
I feel like if you needed 4x4 you wouldn't have bought 2wd. Give it some time and take it offroad. Learn its limitations, add a locker, then see if you still want 4wd.

 

I would bet a nickel you haven't even engaged it.