Below the 4runner emblem right behind the cab there are vents. What are they for? Do they feed anything?

 

I don't think they do anything functional.

 

Prob just let water in my cab

 

LOL!

I've always wondered too....

I need to fix my topper- it leaks like mad in heavy rain.

 

Why, yes...they are functional. They act kind of like a pressure regulator for your heating and air conditioning. They are little vents that let air escape from the cab of the truck to prevent it from building up too much "back pressure" (for lack of a better term), which helps the entire system cool and heat more efficiently. I'm sure someone will fill in the details, but that is what it basically is...

 

helps to relieve over pressure when closing door with windows closed. just makes it easier to close the door

 

So then technicaly(horrible spelling) water can get in right? Not saying I drive through rivers or anything

 

I suppose, but personally I have never had water leak in through there.

The biggest problem with the first gen 4runners was that they leak like a siv from water draining down off of the front window.

 

Also makes a good drain when doing big water crossings.

 

Makes sense. Learn something new every day.

 

The crappy part about those vents are getting the covered popped back on. Both of mine are flapping around.

 

they are a money making ploy from toyota, see when you want to paint your vehicle or in volcom's case when the tabs break, you have to buy those stupid snaps from the stealership for like 2.50 each and there is ten, so there is a nice 25.00 for toyota

 

Supposed to be some rubber flaps covering the opening in the vent, mine were gone:


And I replaced them:

 

Haha man some of the answers crack me up!

The vents allow the cab to "exhale". They're completely useless with the blower motor on and the wondows down, because then the air is exhausted through those openings instead.

If the cab were completely sealed and you turned your air on, little to no "new" air will enter because a little 12 volt blower motor is not strong enough to shove air inside and increase the air pressure.

Try this... it's fun!

Start the truck. Turn the blower motor on and select your air intake to "FRESH". Stand outside and close all doors and windows and put the palm of your hand about 1 inch from the exterior vent. OR, if you are a customer of "herbal medecine", try hotboxing your 4Runner with that feature on and watch all the smoke pour out of the vents.

Not that I've ever tried it.