Does anyone have opinions or first hand knowledge of the reliability of the push button 4wd engagement system (button, actuator, wiring, etc) on 3rd generation 4runners? I just bought a 2002 4runner with this system and would like to get some opinions or knowledge on this before spending money modifying the vehicle only to have this be a weak or unreliable component. I don't plan on doing rock crawling or similar activities but more long distance, remote expedition trips.

Thanks in advance for any and all opinions and information on this.

 

I really like mine I have a 2001, and I love the AWD feature, used it today in some pretty bad snow.

 

The 4wd feature is as durable as any of the other 4wd systems that Toyota has.

The only thing to look out for on the 01-02 3rd gens is the OD planetary gear.
They seem to be weaker on these transmission then on earlier 3rd gens.
(Speak from experience, step dads 02' sport lost it's transmission at 124K, not a good thing for Toyota IMHO)

 

First off, welcome to YT!

Mine's been working well for 11 years.