A Review Of The PedalBox+ Throttle Controller by DTE Systems: A 5th Gen 4Runner Throttle Response Controller
If you drive a Toyota 4Runner or Tacoma, I presume you are well aware of the Toyota 4Runner’s mushy pedal syndrome. If not, perhaps the cliche “What you don’t know can’t hurt you” may apply. If you read on, you may become a little more aware of the mushy pedal problem when pressing the skinny pedal next time you hop in your 4Runner.
Although it’s subjective, the 5th Gen 4Runner is widely considered under-powered at stock curb weight and even more so after increasing weight and drag with modifications such as a lift kit, oversized tires, armor, roof rack and accessories.
There’s really not a whole lot you can do to gain power other than supercharging your 4Runner for HP gains and/or re-gear your 4Runner for Torque gains.
Today we’re not going to talk through those mechanical upgrades, but we are going to talk about a throttle response unit that will make your 4Runner more fun to drive!
What’s a Throttle Response Controller?
The PedalBox is a plug-and-play unit that plugs into your gas pedal assembly inside the cabin. It is electronically pre-programmed to improve the mushy pedal syndrome by providing more instantaneous response to your engine when you press the gas pedal.
After installation, the combination of your gas pedal and engine response is adjustable and better controlled to your preferences.
With the ability to adjust throttle response, one could also reduce throttle response to dial in better fuel economy.
Find it online
- PedalBox+ Throttle Response Controller: Check Price
- Alternative Option
- Pedal Commander Throttle Response Controller: Check Price
PedalBox.com offers two models: the PedalBox and the PedalBox+. Make sure that you purchase the correct unit for your make & model. vehicle. The link above is for the 5th Gen 4Runner.
The only difference between the stock unit and the “+” unit is that the “+” unit comes with Bluetooth and is controllable by an App.
PedalBox includes:
- 4 Programs (Sport, Sport+, City, Stock)
- Up To 7 Fine-Tunings (per program)
- Throttle Pedal Optimization
- More Dynamic Throttle Response
- 10% Better Acceleration
- “PerfecTune” (automatic unique tuning suited to your car’s driving characteristics)
- Soft-Touch Keypad (w/ top quality look, feel & design)
- More Precision (thanks to the latest DSP technology)
PedalBox+ includes all the above and the following extras:
- Connection Ability To Smartphone or Tablet
- Customization of Each Pre-Set Program on App
- Selection of Driving Modes (City, Sport, Sport+ and Series)
- Updating Tuning Software Using App
How Does it Work?
After the simple install (approximately 10-15 minutes), the PedalBox allows you to control your throttle response by pushing buttons on the unit’s keypad or by using the app on your smartphone or tablet. Throttle response is akin to how quickly your engine responds to pushing the gas pedals.
What the PedalBox actually does electronically is it gives you (the driver) the ability to change the response ratios between your throttle and engine. Even though your horsepower and torque remain unchanged, the “felt” effect is faster acceleration…and yes it’s fun!
In Sport or Sport+ Mode, your engine will be more responsive to your gas pedal. In Stock Mode, there are no changes.
What’s in the box?
Straightforward, no-frills; the box includes the PedalBox keypad unit and wiring harness, keypad mount and 3m adhesive for the mount.
Let’s install the PedalBox!
Installation is quick, easy and requires no tools.
Step 1. Unclip Gas Pedal Harness
Locate clip/harness at the top of the gas pedal assembly and unclip it.
Step 2. Install PedalBox
Grab your PedalBox wiring harness and insert the PedalBox between your gas pedal and the OEM clip harness you removed from your gas pedal in Step 1. There’s only one way the clips can connect, so it’s basically impossible to connect the PedalBox backward or incorrectly.
Step 3. Use 3m Tape To Affix Mounting Plate (Optional)
Once the PedalBox is connected, you can use the 3M adhesive to affix the mounting plate where you prefer.
For a stealth look, I personally choose to stuff the pedal box keypad behind the plastic trim just to the right of the gas pedal as I do not plan on often changing the settings on the keypad. If I do need to change settings, I can either use the App or pop the keypad out from behind the plastic trim.
Step 4. Calibrate Your PedalBox
Calibrate the PedalBox by following the simple instructions in the manual. This calibration process is critical for the PedalBox to “learn” the stroke of your gas pedal from 0-100% so that once you engage one of the PedalBox’s modes, it applies the correct response ratios.
Step 5. Download & Connect To App (Optional; PedalBox+ Required)
Download and set up the app (for iPhone and Andriod) for your phone which allows you to control the PedalBox from your phone!
Step 6. Reinstall Everything & You’re Done!
Button it all up and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
PedalBox is a pretty fun accessory that doesn’t create actual power but makes your car feel like it’s more responsive when in Sport or Sport+ mode. It’s a fun feeling accelerating from a stop when in Sport+ mode. Again, full disclaimer, this product does not add any actual power but it has no shortage of delivering smiles while driving!
Hi, will installing a pedal box void my factory warranty?
I’m not sure, it’s very easy to remove if you have to go to a dealer for service. The ECU itself is not altered by this product.
It looks like it’s a little bit extra coin to get the plus model with phone app integration capabilities?
How truly useful is it to be able to get into this on one’s phone?
I’ve been just fine using it manually. I only change settings if I’m going off road (put it to stock) and going back on road (put it to Sport+ mode)