Magnuson Supercharger – 5th Gen 4Runner

5th Generation 4Runner Magnuson Supercharger

5th Generation Toyota 4Runner Magnuson Supercharger – No more TRD

We recently wrote some verbiage on the 4Runner Supercharger. This page included some information about talks on the TRD and the Magnuson SC. We also covered the SC status for the 5th Generation 4Runner. Many things have changed since we wrote the post and now we are strictly talking about the Magnuson SC.

The Magnuson SC is hands-down, the best (to date) mod for 4Runner performance you can get. Boasting about 30% of performance gains, this is literally 10 times better than any gains you will see from a Catback Exhaust, a Cold Air Intake, Headers or a Chip. Headers for your 4Runner might come close coming in at about 20hp but you will never experience the 4Runner’s true potential without Magnuson.

As we all know, our 4Runner is not fast. But, with the help of the Magnuson, you will absolutely feel a difference and thoroughly enjoy slamming the pedal on the freeway. We have covered a few performance mods for the 4Runner in the blog, but nothing like the supercharger.

Recommended Installation Shops for Superchargers: 

  1. Northern California: Stellar Built
  2. Southern California: SD Truck Shop

Ships Ready to Perform

Magnuson Supercharger - 5th Gen 4Runner

The unit ships tuned and ready to install out of the box as a complete bolt-on system. The Magnuson SC comes with a plug-in component, like a tuner that tells your 4Runner computer what is being changed.

With the addition of an SC, your 4Runners fuel injection ratio and air compression will change. The computer needs to account for all of this so your engine won’t throw check engine lights or just shut off randomly.

If you are looking for a performance increase, look no further. This is the mod you want if you are looking for a 4Runner with power. We took a trip down to Ventura, Ca to visit with Magnuson SC to get all of the questions answered.

We may be missing a few here and there but hopefully, we covered the SC in-depth enough for most owner out there.

So, what is a supercharger?

4Runner Supercharger - Magnuson 4Runner Supercharger

A supercharger compresses more air into the cylinders of your 4Runner. By compressing more air, the engine allows for more air and more fuel into the cylinders resulting in more power during combustion.

Magnuson History?

Located in Ventura, CA, Magnuson Superchargers started when Jerry Magnuson built an SC for his Harley. After Jerry Magnuson built this kit, he started producing this kit for others. Soon after, Jerry Magnuson branched out and started building kits for cars, trucks, and SUVs. Jerry Magnuson sold the business to the current CEO who runs the company to this day. Today, Magnuson builds and offers products for a wide variety of automotive applications.

Timeline on Release

Work actually began on the 5th Gen 4Runner SC back in 2009. Magnuson and TRD (Toyota Racing Development) were working on the kit together and it was intended to be released as a TRD branded SC. Eventually, TRD shut the program down in 2012 and Magnuson was left with a beautiful product that would never be released as a TRD SC. Instead, Magnuson continued R&D on the build and it will be released on December 1st, 2017.

Official Numbers

It is important to keep in mind that every dyno test will be different. To answer the question; 330hp at the wheels. Tested and tuned for a bone stock 4Runner, the Magnuson SC will reach 330hp – 336hp at the wheels. One of the biggest factors in exact horsepower numbers will be the size of your tires.

If you are running 34″ tires, you will see less horsepower as opposed to the stock 31″ tires that come stock on our 4Runner. With running 33″ tires or 34″ tires, you are going to be down anywhere from 10-15hp.

HP Numbers at the Wheels Vs. the Crank

So we mentioned a 30% increase in power. Let’s get into more detail on what this actually breaks down to. It is actually more like 80-100.

The 5th gen 4R is 270hp at the crank, Magnuson tested theirs at 250hp at the wheels (probably generous as drivetrain loss is normally 15-25%). The Magnuson SC tested 336hp (But, expect to see 330 on yours) at the wheels, 86rwhp (Rear Wheel Horse Power) increase from pre-install values.

336rwhp would be more like 386hp at the crank (vs 270hp listed stock). Basically, at the wheels, you are looking at 250hp stock compared to 336hp supercharged. At the crank (estimated) 270hp stock to 370-390hp supercharged (if you multiply 336 by 1.15 to account for drivetrain loss).

We stayed conservative with the latter given the high RWHP pretest by Magnuson. 

Adding a Catback Exhaust, Intake, and Headers?

If you are throwing a Catback Exhaust, Intake or Headers, you will absolutely increase your power. But, it is important to note that if you are throwing on additional performance parts, you will void your Magnuson SC warranty.

So, adding an Intake, Headers, and an Exhaust is up to you but if something goes wrong with your SC, Engine, Fuel Injectors, or anything else, you are on your own. But, with this being said, you should be fine to add a catback, intake and headers if you want.

Exact PSI Injection into Cylinders?

The Magnuson SC is running 6psi of boost, however, this will change depending on your altitude. If you are in Colorado where the air is thinner you can expect to see 4-5psi. In any case, this is quite a bit of difference coming from a stock 4Runner set-up.

Long-Term Effects?

As long as you are driving your 4Runner like a normal person, you will have no adverse effects on your 4Runner engine. If however, you are running a catback exhaust, an intake, headers, and a straight pipe/ mid pipe section, then it’s hard telling not knowing. Again, this SC has been tested with all stock 4Runner parts and has not been tested with any aftermarket parts. If you are throwing something on your 4Runner to jump from 330hp to 400hp, enter at your own risk.

The 4Runner engine was not built to hit 400hp, but the Magnuson blower can probably handle anything you throw at it. In my opinion and after talking with Magnuson, you are probably safe to run a Catback exhaust, an intake, and maybe headers. Anything else is just silly. With that being said, even headers are pushing it.

Installation

About 10-14 hours. To install a Magnuson SC, you will need to be somewhat mechanically handy. If you have installed an intake, exhaust or other 4Runner mods, you should be fine. You just need the right tools and some experience in taking things apart.

If you have the Magnuson SC installed by an ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certified mechanic, you will get a 3 year / 36,000-mile warranty. And, you can opt for an additional warranty for another $500 and that is a 5 year / 60,000.

Bolt-on System?

The Magnuson SC is a complete bolt-on system. There is no welding needed. Again, if you are somewhat handy, you will be able to drop this supercharger on your 4Runner in a day. If you want to go from 270hp to 330hp overnight, then buy a SC.

Fitting mods like a winch?

The only problem you may run into is your aftermarket front bumper and winch. The SC has an electric intercooler pump for independent cooling of the supercharger. This pump sits in front of the Magnuson intercooler screen.

This intercooler pump is mounted directly in front of the radiator but you can move this around and mount it wherever you need to as long as you keep it low. The intercooler pump is designed to be mounted just in front of your first radiator but you can move it to the far passenger side or far driver side. Also, you can mount the intercooler pump horizontally and vertically to fit your specific application.

MGPS Increased?

You can expect to see the same mpg on the freeway but about 1-2 reduced in the city. Also, you can guess what happens if you love to dump the pedal because you love the sound. You might be burning through quite a bit of premium fuel with the Magnuson SC installed. But, if you can afford the price tag, you can afford to burn through some fuel and drive your 4Runner the way it is supposed to be driven with a supercharger, hard and fast.

Premium Fuel Only?

You will need to run premium fuel in your 4Runner if you install the Magnuson SC. This will add to the overall cost of your 4Runnner in the long term but premium fuel is much better for your engine overall. This is not really a problem for us, though. I personally have been running premium fuel in the 4Runner since I installed the TRD Intake and the MagnaFlow Catback Exhaust. Not that it was needed, but running premium fuel is obviously just better on your 4Runner.

Warranty?

All Magnuson SCs come with a 3 year / 36,000-mile warranty if you have it installed by a dealer or an ASE certified technician. There is also an optional $500 5 year / 60,000-mile warranty available for purchase. As long as you keep everything stock on your 4Runner, your warranty will cover replacement of your engine and a new supercharger.

How Much?

Update: Current cost is around $7000.00

If you are making the jump to a Magnuson SC it will set you back quite a few dollars. Making the decision to add a $5695 is a big choice so you better be sure you want the extra power.

Contact

If you are looking to purchase the Magnuson SC, the best way to do so is by calling Magunson sales directly. At the moment, the Magnuson SC is not readily available on Amazon or any other eCommerce marketplace. You can also call Magnuson Authorized Dealers. You can find approved Magnuson Authorized Dealers on their website.

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Lon Briscoe
Lon Briscoe
10 months ago

My old super charged 2004 4.7L with Borla duals.
So fun!

1
Ochir
Ochir
2 years ago

Where you guys located?

Scott K.
Scott K.
2 years ago

Everyday, I love driving my 4Runner with Magnuson S/C installed! My 4Runner is fun to drive now. Well, worth the expense. I’ve had mine for 14,000+ miles with no issues. S/C is maintenance-free. Go for it!

Damnifido
Damnifido
2 years ago
Reply to  Scott K.

I’m seriously considering this upgrade. Did it void factory warranty? My 2022 has lifetime drive train.

Rmn
Rmn
2 years ago

I have about 6k on my sc, driven this summer from socal to Montana and back, freaking love this thing!!!!!! It’s as fast as the new v6 defender. Makes long drives a hoot! Longo Toyota did the installation for 1200ish. Get it get it get it!

RaimieB
RaimieB
2 years ago
Reply to  Rmn

Was that Longo Toyota of Prosper? We love near them and been thinking about the Magnuson.

Dan
Dan
2 years ago
Reply to  Rmn

How much was the SC if you don’t mind me asking? Looks like they’ve gone up in price quite a bit.

erik lange
erik lange
3 years ago

how many worry free miles can i expect to get from the charger?

Scott
Scott
3 years ago

Well worth the money! Gives the 4Runner the power it always needed. There is very little s/c noise. Tip to reduce cash of pocket for Supercharger: Refinance your vehicle loan balance plus Supercharger cost. I did and monthly pmts went up by $100/monthly. I paid out of pocket for install cost.

Dan
Dan
2 years ago
Reply to  Scott

Did the dealer sell you the SC?

Canuck North
Canuck North
3 years ago

Have an’11 limited and am just starting down this path. First stop will be the SC. Any advice would be helpful. Thx

Big Ross
Big Ross
4 years ago

Is there a problem with the s/c-ers being especially loud for the passengers? Thought I saw somebody mentioning that.

Andrew
Andrew
4 years ago

Quick question:

I’ve seen what it adds to HP and Torque, and also what it potentially takes away in Fuel. However I haven’t seen any info for numbers regarding hauling/towing effects. Anyone have that info? Is there a positive or negative impact?

Steve C
Steve C
4 years ago
Reply to  Andrew

Positive – it can provide more power especially lower in the power band which is helpful when towing. You will get worse mileage due to the boost, cant’ be helped I suppose.

Ronald L. Fellows
Ronald L. Fellows
4 years ago
Reply to  Steve C

Yes it can ! Got at ’16 Tundra Non flex with a Magnason S/C getz 24 MPG HWY. You gotta keep Yer foot outa it. R. F.

Bob
Bob
4 years ago
Reply to  Andrew

Towing more so depends on your chassis

Trice Webb
Trice Webb
4 years ago

So, does Magnuson encourage ANY other performance parts? CAI or anything other than bone stock? I saw where cat backs will void the warranty so I am guessing not. I have a ’14 S5 with nothing done to it as far as the engine goes. Would I need to upgrade to TRD stuff or just go bone stock?

steve
steve
4 years ago

I’m driving a 2011 URD Supercharged 4Runner this week while my 2016 is in the shop for upgrades. It has a 2″ lift and 33″ KM2 MTs…..the power different between the URD blower 4Runner and my Magnuson supercharged 2016 is very noticeable. Frustratingly noticeable if I’m honest.

Leggie
Leggie
4 years ago
Reply to  steve

Does this mean the URD Supercharger system is better or worse, in terms of performance, that the Magnuson?

Andy
Andy
5 years ago

Will having an ARB snorkel effect any gains?

john davis
john davis
5 years ago

added it to my 2018 4runner, then added ethanol and water injection and a dyno tune and I am soooo happy with it, I can run off from tundras at the light and cruise at 75 with zero effort no down-shifts anymore. works super fine off road and rocks and mud.

john davis
john davis
5 years ago
Reply to  Brenan Greene

well you can do it as well

Scott
Scott
5 years ago

Bought mine during the Fall Sale, saved about $400. Install is on Tuesday. Can’t wait to go for a rip.

Blown
Blown
6 years ago

Has anyone provided feedback related to adding an aftermarket intake to their blower setup? I’m happy with the additional power from the blower, but I would imagine an aftermarket intake might flow a little more air.

Scott K.
Scott K.
6 years ago

Toyota of Dallas charges $1500 for SC install.

Derek
Derek
6 years ago

Does anyone have intel on Stephen W’s comment about fitment with the C4Fab Low Pro bumper ? This is a good question for those wanting to know, DerekC

steve
steve
6 years ago
Reply to  Derek

Hey Derek, I just had this Magnuson SC installed and my local shop and they went ahead and put in a new radiator hose and I think moved something (dont recall which part was moved) during the Magnuson install (since fluids were already drained and the bumper was off)…. so that IF I wanted a C4 Low Pro in the future, my front end is already set up to take it and wouldn’t require the drain and new hose down the road. Hope that helps!

Stephen
Stephen
6 years ago
Reply to  steve

Thanks guys, I almost, almost pulled trigger and got one for my 4Runner, but I ended up trading it for a 2018′ Taco. Now I’m waiting for Magnuson to finish there work on the new SC for the Taco. Was informed it might be out in 2019 sometime. So I will keeping watching this site, a lot of good ideas that still might work for the Taco or give ideas to do it another way. Thanks,

Gideon
Gideon
6 years ago

Upon further investigation and correspondence with Jesse Iwuji (Director of Marketing & Sales at Magnuson) installing a cat back exhaust will NOT void the warranty and it is considered an approved modification. See page 3 of the warranty, valid from June 5, 2017.
I apologize for the misinformation, hopefully, no consternation occurred therefrom.

Gideon
Gideon
6 years ago

Just corresponded with Magnuson. 5 year/60,000 mile warranty upgrade no longer available. Confirmed Catback exhaust WILL void your warranty.

Rob
Rob
6 years ago

Any thoughts on the URD supercharger? Seems like more output.

Stephen W
Stephen W
6 years ago

You mentioned above about issues with after market bumpers, what about the C4 Fabrication low pro bumper (I think that is what it is called), since it’s not a full aftermarket bumper do you think it would cause a issue? Or void the warranty? Thinking of having one installed on my 2018 4R.

steve
steve
6 years ago
Reply to  Stephen W

see my comment reply below to Derek. hope that helps! for certainty, maybe give C4 a buzz or DM to make sure.

Bob
Bob
6 years ago

It is definitely worth it. Like “you gotta be kidding me” torque and acceleration. I do have a concern with the 91 or better gas. I am in rural areas with my rig all of the time and its just not possible to keep 91 or better in the tank or accessory cans. Is it really going to mess up the engine if I ran a tank of 85 or 87 through the supercharger a few times a year, in a pinch? That is the only deal breaker on this for me. I test drove a 2016 with one and I just was blown away. Octane boost bottles are snake oil, so is there any other solve for the octane mandate?

Joel Card
Joel Card
4 years ago
Reply to  Bob

You will burn your valves if you run anything lower than premium fuel with a supercharger.
2004 2.7 liter trd supercharged taco here! Best mod ever!

Steve C
Steve C
4 years ago
Reply to  Joel Card

You aren’t gonna burn valves – you get into boost you’ll start knocking and possibly end up driving over the shiny parts of your engine that are costly. That’s what happens when you get into boost without the octane to cover that added timing…

Pavel
Pavel
6 years ago

How much torque does it add? Can you share the hp and torque numbers at different RPMS?
Also, can you still run on E87 or must only use E91?
Thanks

Joel Card
Joel Card
4 years ago
Reply to  Pavel

You need 91 octane. As far as hp. Minimum 4lbs boost, from stock 160hp to 220hp. Approx!
As far as torque and stuff, your asking for manufacturers specs. Ask magnusson what questions fit that parameter.

KEN A. SANCHEZ
6 years ago

Is Magnuson SC CARB approved?

ERIN HELM
6 years ago
Reply to  Brenan Greene

Hello all!
Just wanted to clarify that this kit is NOT yet CARB approved. Our Magnuson 4Runner will be going in for testing shortly and once approved, we will be able to sell into California.

D-488-40 applies for the following applications:
01-90-40-011-BL 2003 – 2009 4RUNNER
01-90-40-007-BL 2005 – 2015 TACOMA
01-90-40-009-BL 2007 – 2009 FJ CRUISER

William
William
6 years ago

I saw the SC in a video and it is fast! I can’t believe the car accelerating is a 4runner.

The price is quite a bit more than the old factory SC from TRD. Seems like it will run at least $7k after installation. If you car is still under factory warranty, I would definitely get this installed at the dealership so it doesn’t void any warranty you have.

Scott
Scott
5 years ago
Reply to  Brenan Greene

I did a 2K/6K review on my S/C including all costs associated with buying and installing the blower here: https://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/263815-magnuson-supercharger-2k-mile-review-6k-mile-review.html

Long story short….Zero regrets.

Anthony
Anthony
6 years ago

I wonder if you can just use the TRD filter with the Magnuson cai that it comes with and be fine? 🤔

Anthony
Anthony
6 years ago
Reply to  Brenan Greene

Cool… gotta persuade the wife on buying my own Christmas gift lol 😂

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