How to Use the Backup Camera Washer on the 2025+ (6th Gen) Toyota 4Runner

[Trail4R]

Reference: 2025 4Runner Multimedia Manual (Navigate to pages 363 and 399)
Link to Multi-Media Guide: 2025 Toyota 4Runner Multimedia Owner’s Manual

Toyota quietly added a new quality-of-life upgrade for the 6th Gen 4Runner: a rear camera washer system that cleans your backup camera lens with a blast of washer fluid. Here’s how it works, what triggers it, and what you need to know before using it.

How the Rear Camera Washer Works​

When in reverse, a washer icon may appear on the multimedia screen
Tapping the icon activates a short spray to clean the backup camera lens
Pressing and holding the icon triggers a longer spray for more stubborn debris

It Also Cleans the Rear Window​

Here’s something not clearly spelled out in the manual: when you use the camera washer, it often triggers the rear window washer at the same time
This is expected behavior—Toyota designed the system to clean both the rear camera and the rear glass with a single spray cycle. It uses the same washer reservoir and spray system

When to Use It​

After off-roading (mud/dust on the camera)
During or after snow and rain
If your reverse camera looks blurry or streaked

Things to Know​

You can activate it via the touchscreen, or in some trims, by pushing the rear washer stalk forward
The washer system pulls from your main windshield washer fluid reservoir
This feature is not user-customizable—you can't unlink the camera and window spray if they’re wired together
There’s no mention of this behavior in the manual, but it’s been confirmed on multiple trims

Should You Use It?​

Yes—with a disclaimer. The backup camera washer is effective, but it sprays a high-pressure blast of washer fluid directly across the rear liftgate. If your 4Runner was just washed, expect the rear hatch to get soaked and streaked with fluid. It’s not subtle—it’s messy.

• For trail use, snow, or dust? Absolutely worth it.
• For driveway use after a fresh wash? Skip it unless the camera is actually dirty.