TRD-Pro Grille Install & Review On 2014-2024 5th Gen 4Runner (TSS Compatible)
The TRD-Pro Grille is a super popular mod and for good reason. It contributes to the clean, aggressive lines of the 4Runner. This style grille is reserved for the TRD pro trims from the factory. However, it can be purchased as an OEM part if you have a lower trim, or often from an aftermarket manufacturer.
This option is made from high-quality ABS plastic and requires minimal tools for install. Their packaging is top-notch to ensure it arrives unscathed, and customer service has been super responsive! This grille is also compatible with optional raptor lights, however, these will not be covered in this article. If you are interested in these, they can easily be added as a bundle when placing your order.
In most cases, 5th gen 4Runner parts are either for the ’10-’13 models or the ’14+ models. There is a slight variance in this grille for 2014-2019 4Runners and 2020+ (as indicated on their website). So, be sure to select the proper year when ordering.
Find It Online
- TRD-Pro Grille (plus optional raptor lights): Check Price
Installation
This install was done on a 2021 TRD Off-Road but the process will be the same on all model years 2020, 2021, and 2022. This grille is TSS compatible as well.
Tools Needed
- 10mm socket & wrench
- Philips head screwdriver
- Flat-head screwdriver
Step 1. Remove Front Engine Cover
There will be thirteen (13) retention clips that can be removed by just pressing the center down, and then pulling the entire clip out.
Once removed, push the clip back up so it’s ready to re-install later.
Step 2. Remove Upper Grille
There will be two (2) retention clips and one (1) 10mm bolt in the center. These clips are slightly different and will require a flathead to pop up and remove.
To remove the upper grille, you’ll want to hold one hand against the middle bar section and pull the upper section laterally towards your body. This may require a moderate amount of force and you will hear a few loud pops. This is the sound of four (4) retention tabs on the backside that will disengage themselves.
The hardest part is now done. Set the upper grille section aside where it can be kept clear from potential damage.
Step 3. Clean Center Grille Section
This step is often overlooked. The TRD-pro grille overlay attaches with adhesive, so you’ll want a clean surface for that.
Step 4. Assemble TRD-PRO Overlay
The letters and center black overlay will come packaged separately. The letters install via adhesive backing and are keyed with corresponding indents on the overlay for alignment.
Step 5. Assemble New Upper Grille
Going back to the upper grille section, flip it over, preferably on a soft surface to avoid damage. There are eight (8) Philips head screws that will need to be removed.
There are four (4) retention tabs located on the outside edges and center. These need to be depressed to remove the upper grille insert from the painted section.
Gently line up all of the retention clips of the paint portion with the new grille insert and firmly press to re-engage the four (4) tabs. Next, re-install the eight (8) Philips screws.
Step 6. Install TRD-pro Grille Overlay
Only peel off the outermost part of red tape for the top section adhesive, this will help immensely with installation. You can completely remove the red tape from the center, outside-facing adhesive strips.
Firmly press the black overlay onto the center grille bar to install, keeping the partially peeled red tape exposed. Leaving the upper adhesive mostly covered will allow you to easily slide the grille overlay into place.
Once the grille overlay is in its final position, gently remove the red tape by pulling the overlay edge up and the tape away from you.
Step 7. Install New Upper Grille Section
Position the new upper grille section by making sure the four (4) retention tabs are aligned with their corresponding slots. Once that is done, you can firmly press the entire upper grille section in until you hear the pops of the retention clips re-engaging.
Re-install all retention clips in reverse order from the beginning steps. You’ll also notice that the center 10mm bolt is no longer required.
Final Thoughts
BEFORE
AFTER
Personally, I love the look of the TRD-Pro-style grilles. The OEM upper grille was okay in my opinion, but I wasn’t a total fan of the giant Toyota emblem in the center. Also, with mine being a 2021 model, I had the unsightly chrome bar accents on either side of the emblem that needed to be painted black ASAP. Now, both of those gripes have been resolved and I’m left with a clean, aggressive look!
I’d love to hear where you stand on this look – is it too common nowadays? Do you have a different look from both this and the stock look? Let me know!
Do they make a TRD pro grill conversion for – limited yet? I have a 2021 4 runner limited I’d love to do this on.
Hey Mike, I’m not aware of any “easy” Limited to Pro grille conversions yet, unfortunately.
Ryan, thank you for the review. I have been questioning the TSS compatibility with this mod. This make me at ease. However, the before and after picture you have, your front bumper is black…. I have an SR5 because I’m trying to pinch a penny, but I’d love to know how you made the bumper black to go with this new grill!
Glad I could help! So all TRD trims (I have a TRD offroad) have silver valances that attach over the lower bumper. The TRD pros come with a black one. I had taken mine off and wrapped it with black vinyl. There are guides online on how to add these valances to an SR5 bumper, however, which will involve some cutting.