How To Use Multi-Terrain Select: Mud, Sand, Rock, and More

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2025+ (6th Gen) Toyota 4Runner Multi-Terrain Select: Owners Manual Guide for Different Modes for Mud, Sand, Rock, and More​

(Reference: 2025 Owner’s Manual, pg. 425)
Link to Owner’s Manual: 2025 4Runner Owner’s Manual

The Multi-Terrain Select system in the 2025 4Runner provides advanced off-road capabilities by offering multiple driving modes tailored to specific terrains, including mud, sand, rock, and more. This system is designed to help you navigate a variety of challenging off-road conditions with ease, adjusting the vehicle's throttle response, traction control, and other systems to optimize performance.

Multi-Terrain Select Modes​

The 2025 4Runner's Multi-Terrain Select system provides five distinct driving modes, each optimized for specific off-road conditions. Here’s a breakdown of each mode:

1. MUD & SAND Mode
   • Purpose: Designed for driving in soft terrain such as deep mud or loose sand.
   • Functionality: In this mode, the vehicle adjusts throttle response to prevent wheel spin, optimizing traction on slippery surfaces. The system minimizes the likelihood of the tires getting stuck and helps the vehicle move forward more effectively in mud or sand.
   • When to Use: Engage Mud & Sand Mode when driving through deep mud, wet sand, or other loose surfaces that require extra power to keep the vehicle moving.
2. ROCK & DIRT Mode
   • Purpose: Ideal for driving on rocky or uneven terrain.
   • Functionality: Rock & Dirt Mode adjusts throttle response and traction control to help the vehicle crawl over rocks and uneven ground with minimal wheel slip. The system ensures that power is delivered evenly to the wheels, providing optimal control over rough surfaces.
   • When to Use: Use Rock & Dirt Mode when navigating over rocky paths, uneven dirt roads, or any terrain that requires careful control and maximum traction.
3. SNOW Mode
   • Purpose: This mode is optimized for driving in snowy or icy conditions.
   • Functionality: Snow Mode reduces throttle sensitivity and adjusts traction control to prevent wheel spin, making it easier to drive on slippery surfaces like ice or snow. It helps improve stability and control while maintaining forward momentum.
   • When to Use: Use Snow Mode when driving on snowy or icy roads, or during winter weather conditions.
4. SAND Mode
   • Purpose: This mode is designed for soft, sandy terrain.
   • Functionality: Sand Mode optimizes throttle control to allow the vehicle to glide smoothly over sand dunes and loose sand. It helps the vehicle maintain forward momentum without getting bogged down or stuck in the sand.
   • When to Use: Engage Sand Mode when driving on desert trails, beaches, or loose sand where you need to keep the vehicle moving with minimal resistance.
5. AUTO Mode
   • Purpose: Auto Mode is designed to automatically select the most appropriate terrain mode based on the driving conditions.
   • Functionality: This mode allows the vehicle’s system to detect the terrain and adjust automatically to provide the best possible performance.
   • When to Use: Use Auto Mode for general off-road driving where the terrain may change frequently or when you are unsure of the conditions ahead.

How to Use Multi-Terrain Select​

1. Activating Multi-Terrain Select:
   • Turn the Multi-Terrain Select dial or press the appropriate Multi-Terrain Select button on the center console or dashboard (depending on your vehicle’s trim level).
   • Select the desired mode based on the terrain you are navigating. The selected mode will be displayed on the multi-information display.
2. Switching Between Modes:
   • You can change between modes while the vehicle is in motion. However, it’s best to shift the vehicle to Neutral (N) when switching to 4WD Low for optimal results in more extreme off-road conditions.
3. Deactivating Multi-Terrain Select:
   • To exit the Multi-Terrain Select system, switch the vehicle to 2WD or a different driving mode, or simply turn off the system by selecting Auto Mode.

2025+ (6th Gen) Toyota 4Runner Multi-Terrain Select Diagram​

Refer to page 425 of the Owner’s Manual for detailed diagrams showing the Multi-Terrain Select switch, controls, and how to properly engage the different driving modes.