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The Toyota 4Runner is a great looking SUV from the factory. Sharp lines, conservative amount of badges, and a stylish interior. What if you want to be a little different? What if you’re tired of chrome? If you want to be different and not break the bank, you might want to consider “blacking out” your 4Runner either partially or all the way. Here is your ultimate guide to do just that!

First off, what is “blacking out” something?  If you’re unfamiliar, blacking something out means you take a part or parts of the truck that are painted or chrome, and make them black: matte, gloss, or semi. This, as you will see, can be achieved by a number of methods depending on the part.

Here are some of the main methods of blacking parts out. I am not going to go into much detail about specific parts just yet. 

METHODS OF BLACKING OUT YOUR 4RUNNER

Replacement Parts

Sometimes the easiest and most effective way to black out a part is to simply replace it with a new one that is blacked out or tinted.

Covers and Overlays

If you don’t want to go about replacing parts there are tinted or blacked out covers that could be placed over some exterior and interior parts.

Sprays, Dips, and Paints

Products such a Plasti Dip are a favorite product for blacking parts out on a budget. Products like Plasti Dip come in a spray can that apply a rubber coating to the part in question. The best part is that it is durable, but also easily removed. You can also go the more permanent route and use paint!

Let’s get to the main event… Parts you can black out on your Toyota 4Runner!

EXTERIOR BLACK OUT

Window Tint

One of the first things many people choose to do is black out their windows. It’s cheap, and it can be done at a local shop near you. If you’re feeling crafty enough, you can also do it yourself. Tint comes with some great benefits: it really dresses up your ride, it protects you from the sun and keeps the interior of your truck lower, and it blocks people from easily seeing who is driving the best 4Runner in town! Make sure you follow all local and federal laws regarding the amount of tint. You don’t want your investment to lead to tickets and you having to remove it!

Smoked Headlights, Taillights, and Third Brake Light

Toyota’s sleek and somewhat squinty approach for the new 4Runner’s headlights and chiseled tail lights compliment the overall look of the SUV well, but the overall chrome flair might be too much for some. Thankfully, that’s easy to change. When talking about blacking out your lights, it is generally referred to as them being “smoked.” Smoking your lights will give you that tinted look to compliment your style.

With the blessing of interchangeable parts, you can easily swap out your factory lights for aftermarket ones that come smoked out of the box! Taillights are anywhere from $300-$600 for a complete set, and headlights are around $600-$1000. Some of these do indeed come with tinted/smoked lenses, but since many are utilizing modern LED technology that doesn’t need reflective surfaces, it’s not uncommon to find these aftermarket kits with clear lenses but blacked out housings. This will achieve the same effect, but it will also allow the usually impressive design of the LEDs to be seen even with them off.

You can go for a much cheaper approach, but be aware that it may look cheaper, not last as long, and could cost you a lot in tickets if you do it the wrong way (I’ll get to that in a second.) There is film/vinyl available for around $60 that simply sticks over the plastic and spray coatings for around $20.

Film or vinyl covers can either come pre-cut to size, or you can use a large sheet of it, and form it to your lights yourself, and cut as needed.

While I generally encourage people to try something new and take a risk, I would suggest a complete swap of pre-tinted/smoked lights. A big reason is time. A good set of smoked lights will last the length of the truck. Film and spray coatings will shrink and become brittle with age. UV rays and incandescent bulbs will expedite the problem. When it gets that dry, it’s not the easiest or most fun thing to get off.

Remember the ticket thing I mentioned? Headlights and taillights are designed to help you see what’s around you, and for other drivers to be able to see you. The US Department of Transportation (or your country’s equivalent) takes that very seriously, and they regulate what is and what is not allowed. Local police will enforce that. If you tint something yourself, you could run the risk of doing too much, and you could have to pay for it. If you get a kit out of the box, they are generally (DOT) approved and safe for use. Of course, please check before buying.

Front and Rear “Toyota” Emblems

Thankfully Toyota was nice enough to ditch fender mounted emblems, but we still have the front and rear ones. However if you don’t like seeing a giant chrome “T,” there are ways to change that. You can find overlay kits, like this 4Runner emblem overlay kit on Amazon, that will allow you to place a blacked out version over the emblem. Another popular option would to be to break out a can of Plasti Dip or paint.

If you have “TOYOTA” across the front, your best bet is going to be to attack it with a can of Plasti Dip or spray paint, or to replace the letters with black letters.

Tailgate 4RUNNER

The raised 4RUNNER emblem on the back sticks out well, and for some, that might not be desirable. Thankfully you can deal with the number and letters the same way as you did the Toyota emblems: spray them, overlay them or directly replace them! Lucky for you, with a little heat, they will pull right off and you can replace them with the letters that we sell here. It's super fast and super clean. They are $21.99 and you can buy them here.

Wheels

This is where things can get a little pricey. However, it is one of the first things people see when looking at your SUV. They stand out! It could be worth some investment, but let’s talk about some options.

Some of the less expensive options would be “dipping” or “wrapping.” When you “dip” your wheels, you’re referring to spraying them with something such as Plasti Dip. Matte black Plasti Dip is very popular on wheels, and there are lots of pictures and videos online of people doing it. You’ll need more than one can, but you’ll also want to have some backups for when they chip and peel over time. It’s easy to reapply!

“Wrapping” refers to covering the wheels in vinyl. While usually better looking than dipping, it’s not as easy to repair if you get curb rash or other dings. You can also get overlays for some models. They are basically form fitting “hubcaps” that will snap over your existing wheel, turning them into black wheels!

Whatever you do, avoid spray paint at all costs. You will hate your wheels.

While it is your most expensive option, it will be your longest lasting and best looking option: new wheels. This can get very expensive. For example, you can get a set of 4Runner TRD Pro wheels off Amazon, but it will cost $1200. If you have the cash, they are fantastic options. Used wheels are a great option and can be far cheaper, but make sure you inspect them first.

Bumpers

Certain trim models for the 2022 lineup get a bit of chrome up front. Well, it’s actually quite a lot of chrome: the middle section of the bumper, the fog light bezels, and some extra trim. For the time being, your best bet will be Plasti Dip, or something like that. The Nightshade edition has that same trim, but it’s black. You might be able to order that trim in black, and replace your chrome parts with it. However, I cannot confirm that fitment, so order with caution.

INTERIOR BLACK OUT

While the outside is great for showing off (and looking over your shoulder with admiration when you park), the interior is what you see the most of. Might as well make it what you want, right?

Climate Knobs

If you’re not a fan of the bright and flashy A/C control knobs, AJT Design has you covered! For $45 - $65, pop on these covers, and transform the interior. They have a rugged look and come in many different colors (though we know you want black). You can also grab a kit that will black out your radio knobs as well.

Steering Wheel Logo

To keep the shape of the logo, Plasti Dip or paint can lead to good results. If you want something fast and easy, we sell an overlay that you can buy here for $19.99. 

Start Button

Last but not least is the start button. This overlay from AJT Design not only changes the look of one of the first and last things you touch, but it will only set you back $23!

All Trim Vinyl Wrap

If you want to go all out and cover everything, wrapping all non black trim in black vinyl is a very cost effective solution. You could grab a large sheet and do it yourself, but Rvinyl offers a pre-cut kit for your 4Runner.

NIGHTSHADE EDITION

If you want to get everything black from the factory, you do have that option if you order the 2022 Nightshade edition! The wheels are black, trim is black, emblems are black, and you get a black exhaust tip. The interior gets the dark treatment as well! While you will still find some brighter knobs and trims in the interior, it still fits the build. While it will cost you just over $47,000, if you want to start new and warrantied, call up your local Toyota dealer today!

The blacked out look is popular and looks good. The best part is that there are so many different cost options to get the look you want. Just make sure to follow all of your local and federal laws, and have at it!

Image Credits

• Blacked Out 4Runner: Courtesy of VIP Auto Accessories Blog
• Interior Trim: Courtesy of AJT Design
• TRD Pro Wheels: Olathe Toyota

Insert dramatic music because it is finally here! The 2022 Toyota Tundra information was just released on September 19, 2021 at 9pm. It’s been 15 years since a whole new design for the Tundra has happened. If you have been around here for a while, you know that we love the Tacoma and its bigger brother, the Tundra! They made a lot of changes, so let's get to it.

The first thing that everyone will see is the outside. Toyota has done its job to maintain the Tundra look, but bring it into the modern age. The new facia is bold, and unmistakable. Between the two sharp LED headlights sits a new large grille, while the rear remains sleek and classy. TUNDRA is across the center of the tailgate, and new elongated, sweeping tail lights dominate the flanks.

Looks are not everything though. Toyota claims that with its “new high-strength boxed, steel-ladder frame, and aluminum-reinforced composite bed,” it is one of the toughest Tundras made to date. The newly designed box frame leads to more structural rigidity. Toyota took the frame a step further and widened it in the rear to improve stability and towing capacity.  All this leads to greater handling and comfort, especially in higher trimmed models that have hydraulic cab mounts.

Speaking of trims, Tundra will leave the normal trim levels allowing you to choose from SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, 1794, and TRD Pro trims. TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road trims can be added to select models. In TRD fashion, they come with different wheels, grilles, suspensions, and so on, depending on which trim you select.

As far as bed sizes, you can have either a 6.5 foot or 8 foot bed with the Double Cab, but only a 5.5 foot or 6.5-foot bed with the CrewMax. The beds are no normal beds. Toyota’s “Sheet-Molded Compound” allows high dent and rust resistance.

While all this mention of steel seems great for strength, Toyota makes heavy use of aluminum and advanced engineering to keep weight down. One tangible example is the tailgate, which is 20% lighter compared to the previous model. And of course, that tailgate can be popped on your FOB, which is now standard on all models.

The interior is all new and a major departure from the past.  Sleek, stylish, and technology forward. While an 8 inch touch screen is standard, there is an optional 14 inch screen available, and yes… There is a physical volume knob! If that is not enough screen for you, there is an available 12.3 inch gauge cluster that you can configure to your liking. Of course, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Voice commands and user profiles allow you to get the most out of the entertainment system, especially when paired with the two onboard microphones and available 4G mobile hotspot that your Tundra can be turned into.

It’s not all about entertainment though. There are a host of creature comforts such as an optional panoramic roof, heated and ventilated front seats, rear sunshade, heated steering wheel, and more. However, not all old things that stick around are bad like the power rear window.

Okay… We need to talk about the power and performance. The V8 is gone. While many have come to love the rumble of a good V8, modern technology and current eco minded trends are killing off the powerhouses of the past, and replacing them with better performing, and more efficient smaller engines. The Tundra is no different.

What you get is a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 with a hybrid option. The standard i-Force V6 delivers a substantial 389 horsepower and 479 foot pounds of torque, but the hybrid i-Force Max pushes out 437 horsepower and 583 foot pounds of torque. Both engine options come with a 10 speed automatic. Just as a reminder, the 2021 model with a 5.7L V8 made only 381 horsepower and 401 foot pounds of torque. Unfortunately, the kind of MPGs you can get have not been released yet.

The hybrid option allows you to drive at low speed at full electric, which is great for that city driving. However, if you’re not a city dweller and still need to get work done, you’ll now have a max of 12,000 pounds of towing capacity. That’s about 2,000 more over the best options for the 2021 model. Payload capacity is also higher at 1,940 pounds.

Toyota finally decided to get rid of the rear leaf springs in favor of a multi-link rear suspension to improve comfort, stability, and overall handling. An adaptive air suspension in the rear is also available which changes based on the condition of the road you’re driving on, and can adjust the height to make loading and unloading easier.

Up front, the Tundra features a double wishbone front suspension to improve high speed driving. You’ll find twin-tube shocks at the front and back, but the TRD Pro will feature 2.5-inch diameter FOX internal bypass shocks in addition to a front stabilizer bar and red painted suspension parts.

There are cameras and sensors everywhere to make driving, hauling, and parking easier than ever. Beyond all of that making things easier for you actively, Safety Sense 2.5 passively aids you in a multitude of ways such as:

• Pre-collision braking
• Pedestrian detection
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane assist and lane-departure warning
• Automatic high beams
• Rear-cross traffic alert
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Road sign assist

Safety Sense 2.5 is standard on all 2022 Tundras!

Let’s face it… The Tundra has fallen a bit behind with other full size truck manufacturers in the US recently. However, this gave Toyota time to see what the people wanted, and they came out swinging with the all new 2022 Toyota Tundra. Expect more from Empyre Off-Road in the future as we learn more about how these trucks fare both on-road and off.

Image Source: https://pressroom.toyota.com/absolute-powerhouse-next-generation-2022-toyota-tundra/

If you need a big truck that can do anything, Toyota has always had you covered with the Tundra. From the factory, it has almost everything you need: options, performance, durability, and reliability. I say “almost” because I do feel it is lacking in one key location: lighting.

If you do any type of off-roading, live in a place where street lights are forigen, or maybe you just want better or unique looks, there are options for you! With this ultimate lighting guide for Toyota Tundras, we aim to answer the questions you have about aftermarket lighting for your Tundra.

What are LED Lights & How Are They Different Than Halogen?

Let’s first get some basics out of the way. What exactly makes these two types of lights different, what are the benefits, and so on… First off, a “light-emitting diode” (or LED) is a semiconductor in an enclosure that emits light when electricity passes through it. Sounds fancy, but in most basic terms, power passes through a small chip or electronic material, and it lights up when it does.

Sounds great, but what’s the difference? Basically we are talking about analog and digital forms of light, so to speak. A halogen is an updated version of the classic incandescent bulb first designed in 1879. While halogen bulbs are using much higher grade material compared to their historic counterparts, the operation is the same: electricity heats up a filament that interacts with the gas in the bulb, and you have light.

In the case of a halogen, we’re talking about a heated tungsten filament interacting with halogen gas. This will make a much brighter light compared to the bulb in your grandpa’s attic, but all analog mediums have a shelf light. The filaments can degrade over time, they can physically break, and the heat emitted can cause premature failure if the glass of the bulb was contaminated by something such as oily fingers during installation. This will have them fail before LEDs will. Since we’re talking about one type of metal and one type of gas interacting, you’re going to get one color and brightness of light.

While the invention of the LED is a bit dated too coming into light in 1962, when we think of it in terms of a “digital” device, we can definitely imagine how much it has improved since then! An LED light is going to give you an instant on/off light stream, better control of the color, and different brightness levels that halogens simply cannot do.

One easy way to imagine this is to think about buying a phone. Every phone these days is going to do the same thing. Some just do them better, and that usually depends on the cost. LED lights are the same: they all light up, but the amount of technology in them will allow them to be different.

Here’s a quick chart to explain some differences:

What Kind of LED Lights Are Available For Tundras

Now that you should be convinced that LED lighting for your Tundra is the way to go, what is actually available for your Tundra? Thankfully since LEDs and Toyotas are both so popular, the short answer is everything!

Headlights

Headlights are easy to get in either replacement bulbs, and entire housing assemblies. Bulbs are easy plug and play replacements that simply take the place of your factory bulb. Replacing the entire housing with a completely built aftermarket headlight assembly will be more costly, but are still pretty straightforward to install, and don't require any modification. A complete assembly will generally give you a complete style overhaul with new features (such as sequential turn signals) over a standalone bulb.

Tail Lights

Tail lights are what most other drivers are going to see since your Tundra will be taking the lead in all truck related activities, so you want to make sure that they look good. Light headlights, you can get LED bulb replacements. Unlike headlights though, these bulbs can be much cheaper. However, if you do want to best in looks and LED functionality, you’ll want to get a full replacement assembly. They are generally even easier to replace compared to your headlights, and dress up your rear end quite nicely.

Fog Lights

Fog lights generally get overlooked, but are easy and inexpensive to replace. In most cases, to get the best performance from your fog lights, you’ll want to replace the whole factory pod with an aftermarket LED one. While it sounds like a daunting task, it’s easy! 

Ditch Lights

Ditch lights are not something you get from the factory, so these would have to be aftermarket. These lights mount behind your hood on either side, and when installed properly, cast extra lighting off to the sides of where your headlight’s field of view stops. These are great when you’re off on the trails or off-roading at night as they will generally light up the sides of the road you can’t normally see. They will keep you safe in the dark, and don’t require any permanent modification.

Light Bars

For the ultimate in off-road looks and low lighting performance, you can’t go wrong with an LED light bar. These generally mount either on your roof, in, on, or behind your front grille, or on your bumper (but for that last one, generally only if you have your bumper modified or replaced). They are simply a robust row (or two) of bright LEDs designed to make sure you see everything in front of you. There are different types, so let’s get into them!

What are Light Bars Used For?

In short, light bars are used for extra illumination. While high-beams can offer better light in darkness, light bars allow for a more customizable line of sight in the dark from the different size and mounting abilities. Light bars are mainly for off-road use and most are generally not allowed to be used on public roads. So keep that in mind when you think about getting one.

What Are The Different Light Bar Sizes?

Single Row Light Bars

For the most part, a single row light bar is going to have a single row of LED lights that produce a more focused beam of light. Think in terms of a spotlight. Generally this is best if you want to light up a longer distance.

Double Row Light Bars

A double row light bar is best for more of a floodlight, containing two rows of bright LED lights. If you want to light up a large area, a double could be better. This is just a basic principle, but things could change depending on which LEDs you use, the length of the row, placement, and so on.

What Are The Different Types of Light Bar Beams?

While the size portion above talked about what types of beams the number of rows generally produces, there are specific beams of light that you can look for: spot, flood, and combo. What you should get depends on where you plan on using them, and what you plan on using them for.

Spot Beam Light Bars

Spot beams focus a narrow beam of light in a specific area. These are best for distance and a specific line of sight. If you are faced with long open roads without much vegetation, this could be an option for you. On a road like that, you could be going at faster speeds then you would be if you were in the woods. You will want a beam of light that can see obstacles in the road far before you reach them.

Flood Beam Light Bars

Flood beams spread out light over a wider and taller surface area, but not as far as a spot beam. Something like this would be better in thicker vegetation where you need to see more around you, and light can’t travel that far of a distance in that type of an environment anyway (with all the trees). If you use the lights on your truck to light up a work site or something along those lines, this could be a better option too.

Combo Beam Light Bars

What if you need both? Enter the combo light. This has the narrow throw of the spot beam, with a wide spread of a flood beam. This is generally accomplished with two light sources in the same fixture. Keep in mind that some combos may not shoot as far as a standalone spot fixture, but they are very versatile. Can you switch between modes on combo lights? Some bars allow that function, and that could make them the best between all three worlds.

What Are The Different Light Bar Colors?

While there are technically many colors of LEDs you can get, there are laws about what color lighting you are allowed to use on public roads. The safest two options would be white or amber. Basically it comes down to preference. Amber lights have the same patterns as white lights, but are not as bright due to the filtered light. Some LED bars and bulbs offer both options. Shop around and find what’s best for you! Keep in mind your federal and state laws before you get too carried away with other colors.

Standard Light Bar Mounting Options

While money and creativity can make almost anything happen, there are two main ways that people mount their light bars on their Tundra: the roof and behind the grille. Both have their own set of benefits, so let’s learn a bit more about them!

Roof Mount Light Bars

Roof mounts offer good function and style. If you want that off-roading look as well as serious illumination power, roof mounts are the way to go. While you may not be able to see directly in front of your front tires with the bar on the roof, you get a good line of sight, depending on the beam (spot, flood, or combo) that you choose. These types of mounts are not too popular for Tundras, but they are still out there.

Behind The Grille Mount Light Bars

There is quite a large grille on the Tundra, and an even better placed lower grille as well. This makes a great mounting location for a light bar. The advantage of having them here is that your off-road appearance is more subdued. If having extra lighting is important from time to time, but you don’t always want to see a light bar on your roof, this conservative approach could be the option for you. 

To Sum It All Up…

LED lighting is generally the way to go. They last longer, they are brighter, they are more versatile, and they just look so much better. With LED technology being so inexpensive now, the sky is the limit! Light up the night sky, or simply be the best looking Tundra in the parking lot. Either way, I hope this guide has answered all of your questions regarding LED lighting for your Toyota Tundra.

Image Credits

Roof Light Bar: Courtesy of Tundras.com user JohnnyGarr

Toyota did an incredible job designing the 4Runner. It’s durable, reliable, and full of options from the factory. If we have to be picky, there is a big part that the 4Runner is lacking in from the factory, and that is lighting.

If you do any type of off-roading, live in a place where street lights are forigen, or maybe you just want better or unique looks, there are options for you! With this ultimate lighting guide for Toyota 4Runners, hopefully we can shine some light on your lighting needs and questions! Hopefully you were bright enough to catch that pun. Okay… I’ll dim the puns down.

What are LED Lights & How Are They Different Than Halogen?

Let’s first get some basics out of the way. What exactly makes these two types of lights different, what are the benefits, and so on… First off, a “light-emitting diode” (or LED) is a semiconductor in an enclosure that emits light when electricity passes through it. Sounds fancy, but in most basic terms, power passes through a small chip or electronic material, and it lights up when it does.

Sounds great, but what’s the difference? Basically we are talking about analog and digital forms of light, so to speak. A halogen is an updated version of the classic incandescent bulb first designed in 1879. While halogen bulbs are using much higher grade material compared to their historic counterparts, the operation is the same: electricity heats up a filament that interacts with the gas in the bulb, and you have light.

In the case of a halogen, we’re talking about a heated tungsten filament interacting with halogen gas. This will make a much brighter light compared to the bulb in your grandpa’s attic, but all analog mediums have a shelf light. The filaments can degrade over time, they can physically break, and the heat emitted can cause premature failure if the glass of the bulb was contaminated by something such as oily fingers during installation. This will have them fail before LEDs will. Since we’re talking about one type of metal and one type of gas interacting, you’re going to get one color and brightness of light.

While the invention of the LED is a bit dated too coming into light in 1962, when we think of it in terms of a “digital” device, we can definitely imagine how much it has improved since then! An LED light is going to give you an instant on/off light stream, better control of the color, and different brightness levels that halogens simply cannot do.

One easy way to imagine this is to think about buying a phone. Every phone these days is going to do the same thing. Some just do them better, and that usually depends on the cost. LED lights are the same: they all light up, but the amount of technology in them will allow them to be different.

Here’s a quick chart to explain some differences:

What Kind of LED Lights Are Available For 4Runners?

I hope you didn’t forget why you’re here: 4Runners! Now that you should be convinced that LED lighting for your 4Runner is the way to go, what is actually available? Thankfully since LEDs and Toyotas are both so popular, the short answer is everything!

4Runner Headlights

4Runner headlights are easy to get in either replacement bulbs, and entire housing assemblies. Bulbs are easy plug and play replacements that simply take the place of your factory bulb. Replacing the entire housing with a completely built aftermarket headlight assembly will be more costly, but are still pretty straightforward to install, and don't require any modification. A complete assembly will generally give you a complete style overhaul with new features (such as sequential turn signals) over a standalone bulb.

4Runner Fog Lights

Fog lights generally get overlooked, but are easy and inexpensive to replace. In most cases, to get the best performance from your fog lights, you’ll want to replace the whole factory pod with an aftermarket LED one. While it sounds like a daunting task, it’s easy!

4Runner Ditch Lights

Ditch lights are not something you get from the factory, so these would have to be aftermarket. These lights mount behind your hood on either side, and when installed properly, cast extra lighting off to the sides of where your headlight’s field of view stops. These are great when you’re off on the trails or off-roading at night as they will generally light up the sides of the road you can’t normally see. They will keep you safe in the dark, and don’t require any permanent modification.

4Runner Light Bars

Light bars for the ultimate in off-road looks and low lighting performance, you can’t go wrong with an LED light bar. These generally mount either on your roof, in, on, or behind your front grille, or on your bumper (but for that last one, generally only if you have your bumper modified or replaced). They are simply a robust row (or two) of bright LEDs designed to make sure you see everything in front of you. There are different types, so let’s get into them!

What are Light Bars Used For?

In short, light bars are used for extra illumination. While high-beams can offer better light in darkness, light bars allow for a more customizable line of sight in the dark from the different size and mounting abilities. Light bars are mainly for off-road use and most are generally not allowed to be used on public roads. So keep that in mind when you think about getting one.

What Are The Different Light Bar Sizes?

Single Row Light Bars

For the most part, a single row light bar is going to have a single row of LED lights that produce a more focused beam of light. Think in terms of a spotlight. Generally this is best if you want to light up a longer distance.

Double Row Light Bars

A double row light bar is best for more of a floodlight, containing two rows of bright LED lights. If you want to light up a large area, a double could be better. This is just a basic principle, but things could change depending on which LEDs you use, the length of the row, placement, and so on.

What Are The Different Types of Light Bar Beams?

While the size portion above talked about what types of beams the number of rows generally produces, there are specific beams of light that you can look for: spot, flood, and combo. What you should get depends on where you plan on using them, and what you plan on using them for.

Spot Beam

Spot beams focus a narrow beam of light in a specific area. These are best for distance and a specific line of sight. If you are faced with long open roads without much vegetation, this could be an option for you. On a road like that, you could be going at faster speeds then you would be if you were in the woods. You will want a beam of light that can see obstacles in the road far before you reach them.

Flood Beam

Flood beams spread out light over a wider and taller surface area, but not as far as a spot beam. Something like this would be better in thicker vegetation where you need to see more around you, and light can’t travel that far of a distance in that type of an environment anyway (with all the trees). If you use the lights on your truck to light up a work site or something along those lines, this could be a better option too.

Combo Beam

What if you need both? Enter the combo light. This has the narrow throw of the spot beam, with a wide spread of a flood beam. This is generally accomplished with two light sources in the same fixture. Keep in mind that some combos may not shoot as far as a standalone spot fixture, but they are very versatile. Can you switch between modes on combo lights? Some bars allow that function, and that could make them the best between all three worlds.

Here's a nice little graphic to help you visualize the difference.

What Are The Different Light Bar Colors?

While there are technically many colors of LEDs you can get, there are laws about what color lighting you are allowed to use on public roads. The safest two options would be white or amber. Basically it comes down to preference. Amber lights have the same patterns as white lights, but are not as bright due to the filtered light. Some LED bars and bulbs offer both options. Shop around and find what’s best for you! Keep in mind your federal and state laws before you get too carried away with other colors.

Standard Light Bar Mounting Options

Thanks to the aftermarket world (and the large lower front grille of the 4Runner from Toyota), there are two popular ways to mount LED light bars on your 4Runner. Let’s assume you want them facing forward. While money and creativity can make almost any mounting location a reality, let’s take a look at the two main ways.

Roof Mounts

Roof mounts offer good function and style. If you want that off-roading look as well as serious illumination power, roof mounts are the way to go. While you may not be able to see directly in front of your front tires with the bar on the roof, you get a good line of sight, depending on the beam (spot, flood, or combo) that you choose.

Behind The Grille Mounts

Have you ever noticed how large the lower front grille on the newer 4Runners are? That allows for a lot of real estate to mount multiple light bars! The advantage of having them here is that your off-road appearance is more subdued. If having extra lighting is important from time to time, but you don’t always want to see a light bar on your roof, this conservative approach could be the option for you.

To Sum It All Up…

LED lighting is generally the way to go. They last longer, they are brighter, they are more versatile, and they just look so much better. With LED technology being so inexpensive now, the sky is the limit! Light up the night sky, or simply be the best looking 4Runner in the parking lot. Either way, I hope this guide has answered all of your questions regarding LED lighting for your Toyota 4Runner.

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Beam Types

When driving around town or on the highway at night, headlights will do just fine, but if you’re doing any kind of driving off-road at night, LED light bars are a must. They will illuminate far more and in multiple directions. They are easy to install, can be inexpensive, and the options for size, intensity, and installation location are almost endless. Here is your guide for Toyota Tacoma LED light bars.

What are Light Bars Used for?

In short, light bars are used for extra illumination. While high-beams can offer better light in darkness, light bars allow for a more customizable line of sight in the dark from the different size and mounting abilities. Light bars are mainly for off-road use and most are generally not allowed to be used on public roads. So keep that in mind when you think about getting one.

Light Bar Sizes

Like many off-road upgrades, there are different options depending on what you need. The two most common “sizes” are double or single bars. A single row, as it sounds, has one horizontal row of LEDs, while a double has two. They both light up what they are pointing at, but go about it differently.

Single Row: For the most part, a single row light bar is going to have a more focused beam of light. Think in terms of a spot light. Generally this is best if you want to light up a longer distance.

Double Row: A double row light bar is best for more of a floodlight. If you want to light up a large area, a double could be better. This is just a basic principle, but things could change depending on which LEDs you use, the length of the row, placement, and so on.

Types of Light Bar Beams

While the size portion above talked about what types of beams the number of rows generally produces, there are specific beams of light that you can look for: spot, flood, and combo. What you should get depends on where you plan on using them, and what you plan on using them for.

Spot Beam: Spot beams focus a narrow beam of light in a specific area. These are best for distance and a specific line of sight. If you are faced with long open roads without much vegetation, this could be an option for you. On a road like that, you could be going at faster speeds then you would be if you were in the woods. You will want a beam of light that can see obstacles in the road far before you reach them.

Flood Beam: Flood beams spread out light over a wider and taller surface area, but not as far as a spot beam. Something like this would be better in thicker vegetation where you need to see more around you, and light can’t travel that far of a distance in that type of an environment anyway (with all the trees). If you use the lights on your truck to light up a work sight or something along those lines, this could be a better option too.

Combo Beam: What if need both? Enter the combo light. This has the narrow throw of the spot beam, with a wide spread of a flood beam. This is generally accomplished with two light sources in the same fixture. Keep in mind that some combos may not shoot as far as a standalone spot fixture, but they are very versatile. Can you switch between modes on combo lights? Some bars allow that function, and that could make them the best between all three worlds.

Standard Light Bar Mounting Options

There are different ways to mount your light bars. Each has a different advantage or disadvantage. For this section, let’s assume that you want them to point forward and illuminate what’s in front of your Tacoma.

Bumper Mounts: Bumper mounts are a popular option. They do a great job at illuminating what is directly in front of you, including the immediate road. They have a more flush and streamline look over other options, especially with our Tacos. The lower grill is practically designed at allow a bar to fit snuggly in the bumper with little to no protrusions. One bigger downfall could be that they could get damaged or misaligned if you are doing some serious off-roading or rock crawling where the front of your truck is subject to scraping against the environment.

Roof Mounts: Roof mounts offer good function and style. If you want that off-roading look as well as serious illumination power, roof mounts are the way to go. While you may not be able to see directly in front of your front tires with the bar on the roof, you get a good line of sight, depending on the beam (spot, flood, or combo) that you choose.

Behind The Grille Mounts: If you want a more subtle option, you can look into mounting a bar behind your grill. Most generations of the Tacoma have a large grill, so there is room for a bigger light bar. They keep the look of your truck more “professional”, as the lights are not as easily visible. The throw and intensity of the light are generally not heavily affected by the grill.

Other Types of LED Lights

Headlights: While the factory headlights are good, you’ll be surprised just how big of a difference a good aftermarket set of headlights can make. Not only can you drastically improve the visual styling of your Tacoma, but the amount of light that can come from them is unbeatable. The best part? They are generally plug and play. No need for drilling, no messy wiring, and no hassle.

Take for example the Nova Series LED Projector Headlights for 2016 to 2021 Toyota Tacomas. The quad project design will instantly turn heads compared to the (now obviously) boring stock ones, but you can see the difference for the extra amount of lumens pumped into the night. Aftermarket headlights give you more “cool” features too, such as the sequential turn signals, and a lighting sequence for when you lock and unlock your doors you get with the ones linked above.

Tail Lights: Since most people will be cowering in fear behind your mighty Tacoma when you are tackling the trails, you want to make sure you give them something good to look at. Tail lights, much like headlights, not only do they improve the visual styling of your truck dramatically, but they are even easier to install!

Toyota did a decent job on the factory ones, but options like the Pro-Series LED Tail Lights offer better looks paired with a brighter and cleaner lighting profile. While looks may be subjective, the multi-tube LED lights featured on these units that will outlast the stock incandescent bulbs by a long shot, all while bringing your truck into the modern world are not.

Ditch Lights: LED ditch/pillar lights are options for those of you that want an even wider spread of light beyond what a flood beam on a bar can do. Ditch lights are mounted on or near the A pillars, and are generally pointed outward at a 45 degree angle. They add a wider range of light to help you see things like ditches, hence the name.

Fog Lights: LED fog lights are good options as well. While Tacomas have good fog lights from the factory, it’s never a bad idea to upgrade to LEDs. Some companies offer complete kits that change the entire housing, and some offer just a new bulb. LEDs generally offer a brighter and longer lasting light over conventional incandescent bulbs.

Bed Lights: So many people upgrade all the lighting up front, but trucks are designed to haul. If you’re in the middle of nowhere, you may need your bed illuminated. There are plenty of inexpensive bed lighting options as well. I covered this in a previous post about the top 25 inexpensive mods for Tacomas.

LED Light Bar Colors

While there are technically many colors of LEDs you can get, there are laws about what color lighting you are allowed to us on public roads. The safest two options would be white or amber. Basically it comes down to preference. Amber lights have the same patterns as white lights, but are not as bright due to the filtered light. Some LED bars and bulbs offer both options. Shop around and find what’s best for you! Keep in mind your federal and state laws before you get too carried away with other colors.

Conclusion

If you drive off-road at night, you might need extra lighting. There are tons of options depending on your needs. It all ends up coming down to what you want, where you will be using it, and how much you want to spend. Keep it lit. 

Image Credits

Roof Light Bar – PureTacoma

Beams – Maintain Your Ride