How the Stabilizer with Disconnection Mechanism (SDM) Works on the 2025 4Runner

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Increase Suspension Articulation for Off-Road Performance

The Stabilizer with Disconnection Mechanism (SDM) is an off-road feature available on certain 2025 4Runner models that enhances suspension flexibility by electronically unlocking the front stabilizer bar. This improves comfort and control in rugged terrain while maintaining on-road stability. It allows drivers to disconnect the front sway bar to improve wheel articulation and ground contact during off-road driving, then automatically reconnect it for on-road stability. It's similar to Toyota's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) on the 5th Gen 4Runner, but it only disconnects the front sway bar.

(Reference: 2025 Owner’s Manual, pg. 436–437)
Link to Owners Manual: https://trail4runner.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2025-4runner-owners-manual.pdf

SDM Purpose and Function​

When driving on paved roads, the stabilizer is locked to limit suspension movement, which improves cornering and handling.
When activated for off-road use, SDM unlocks the stabilizer to allow greater suspension travel, which helps each wheel maintain contact with uneven surfaces and reduces body vibration.

How to Use SDM​

1. Make sure the vehicle is traveling under approximately 18 mph
2. Press the SDM switch located on the dash
3. The SDM indicator light will turn on
4. To cancel, press the switch again (indicator turns off)

While the system is shifting between locked and unlocked states, the SDM indicator will flash.

SDM will re-lock automatically once the vehicle exceeds approximately 18 mph. You’ll hear a mechanical sound when the stabilizer bar is engaging or disengaging—this is normal and not a malfunction.

Operating Conditions​

• Engine switch must be in the ON position
• Vehicle speed must be at or below 18 mph
• SDM state is retained even if the engine is turned off; to change it, restart the engine and press the SDM switch again
• On uneven surfaces, there may be a delay in switching states depending on suspension movement

Limitations​

• The system may not function properly if the outside temperature is below -22°F (-30°C)
• If the SDM indicator does not match actual stabilizer status, drive the vehicle briefly to allow the suspension to adjust
• When SDM is active, some Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 features may be temporarily disabled

2025 4Runner Stabilizer with Disconnection Mechanism Diagram​

Refer to the Owner’s Manual (pages 436–437) for a diagram of the SDM switch and system behavior under different conditions.