5 Popular Throttle Controllers For The 5th Gen 4Runner – Improve Throttle Response & Dead Spots When Accelerating + Improve Drivability & MPGs
If you’ve been driving around in your 4Runner and wished the gas pedal had a more responsive feel, plug-and-play throttle controllers may be just the solution for you. Whether you want your 4Runner to feel faster or you want to save a little money at the pump, these devices suit a wide range of driving styles. They install in under 15 minutes and require no mechanical knowledge.
Since throttle controllers are plug-and-play, they also retain your factory warranty. If you aren’t a fan of the results, simply unplug the throttle controller to revert back to factory settings. It’s genuinely a no-risk mod that you should consider if you’re unhappy with the way your gas pedal feels.
4Runner Throttle Response Controllers
What Are Throttle Response Controllers?
Throttle controllers are popular among 4Runners for two main reasons.
The first is that the 4Runner only has five gears, which with factory tuning, leaves much to be desired. Coupled with the additional weight of mods, you’ve got pretty sluggish acceleration, to say the least.
The second reason is that only some people want to potentially avoid voiding their factory warranty (or possibly run into complications at the least) or fork over the cash for a true vehicle tune (which can run $400+ depending on where you live).
An engine tune may offer actual performance gains but are more difficult to revert back in comparison to a controller. If you try and take your rig with a custom engine tune to a dealer for any technical work, they might turn you away. Some people take the position that the dealers can’t identify if a tune is being run, but your 4Runner will operate differently, and a good technician will be able to tell.
Throttle controllers differ from an actual engine tune in their simplicity. Essentially, an engine tune overwrites your vehicle’s programming regarding throttle response, fuel input, etc.
A throttle controller, however, simply controls the electronic timing delay between your gas pedal and its position sensor. Reducing that input lag leads to a more responsive-feeling gas pedal when you step on it. This is all a massively over-simplified explanation, but you get the basic idea, hopefully.
All of the popular throttle controllers listed below have a few things in common. They have anti-theft modes and vehicle-specific programming and are plug-and-play. From there, it’s really a preference on the feature set and price point.
1. Pedal Commander
Find It Online
- Pedal Commander Throttle Controller ($300): Check Price
Specs:
- One of the most popular, you know exactly what you’re getting
- 36 modes (4 programs, 9 fine tunes)
- Physical buttons + app control
- 2-year warranty
Pedal Commander is probably one of the most well-known brands on this list. Coming in at $300, they’re priced at the higher end as far as throttle controllers go, but you know exactly what you’re getting. Pedal Commander is tried and true, and many swear by it.
Similar to Fukin Tuned, it also offers four main programs with nine adjustments within each, for a total of 36 modes. There is no wordplay on the modes with Pedal Commander, and it instead has standard naming conventions such as Eco and Sport modes. Controls are both via physical buttons for quick adjustments and through the Pedal Commander mobile app.
The app itself is designed to be more visually appealing. It has motion graphics and switches colors and car icons depending on the mode you choose. Appropriately, the City mode, which is one of the most popular modes for 4Runner owners, has a truck icon. It also displays current speed (GPS estimated), temperature, and location. Pedal Commander spent a little more money on developing their mobile app and it shows.
2. PedalBox+
Find It Online
- PedalBox+ Throttle Controller ($320): Check Price
Specs:
- Made in Germany
- Auto custom tune
- Wired controller + mobile app for mode control
- 21 settings (3 programs, 7 fine tune in each), memory function
- 5-year warranty
PedalBox+ is unique on this list in that it’s made in Germany – if that matters to you. Aside from that, they also offer an automatic tune mode, similar to Throttle Grenade. Design-wise, their wired controller looks like a remote rather than a rectangular box. The faux-brushed metal does give it a higher-end look, however.
There are two models of PedalBox, a non-plus and a plus model. The former lacks Bluetooth and mobile app controls. With the PedalBox+, you also get updates via the app, and for $20 extra, seems like a no-brainer over the more basic sibling.
It features 21 total modes in the form of three main programs and seven fine-tune adjustments. PedalBox offers a 5-year warranty on the device. Some of the reviews are a bit mixed, so make sure to do your research here.
3. Fukin Tuned
Find It Online
- Fukin Tuned Throttle Controller ($180): Check Price
Specs:
- No physical buttons, app-controlled via Bluetooth
- 36 settings (4 programs, 9 fine tunes)
- Anti-theft mode
- Unique throttle maps for each vehicle
- Free software updates/app
- 2-year warranty
A newer option to the market, Fukin Tuned targets the more budget-focused with their throttle controller that comes in at $180. While their controller undercuts some of the competition, that doesn’t come at the cost of quality. Where Fukin Tuned decided to save money was with the physical design.
The controller still offers four programs with 9 fine-tuning adjustments in each; however, all controls are done through their free mobile app. If you prefer to quickly adjust settings via physical buttons, this may not be the best option for you. If you’re the set-it-and-forget-it type, this may be all you need.
To compensate for this, Fukin Tuned has made their app completely free, along with continuous updates. The device itself carries a 2-year warranty for peace of mind.
Their mobile app takes its design after a motherboard BIOS UI and looks technical. It makes you feel like you’re really tweaking electronics (which you technically are). It may not appear to be the most polished app, but IT users may appreciate it.
4. EVC iDRIVE
Find It Online
- iDRIVE Throttle Controller ($210): Check Price
Specs:
- 22 modes
- Comes in multiple colors
- Physical button control
- Lifetime warranty
iDRIVE offers a modest 22 modes compared to its competition, but don’t count them out. If aesthetics are important to you, the iDRIVE controller is offered in multiple color options. This is a no-frills throttle controller that focuses on its primary function without extra features, hence its lower price tag.
Despite its price, the iDRIVE still carries a lifetime warranty, and while you are limited to physical buttons for control (no mobile app), the $210 price tag and warranty make it a compelling option.
5. Sprint Booster
Find It Online
- Sprint Booster ($290): Check Price
Specs:
- Compatible with both manual & automatic transmissions
- Plug-and-play
- Extra compact, low-profile design
- 18 modes (2 programs, 9 fine tunes)
- Extra simple operation
The Sprint Booster controller is a super simple option and the most compact device on this list. If you’re looking for the most unobtrusive throttle controller, this may be your best bet.
The controls are extremely basic, with a single LED that is either illuminated red (Race Mode), green (Sport Mode), or off (Factory Mode). Upon pressing selecting one of the two modes, there are simple left and right arrows to adjust through nine fine-tune settings.
This may also be the safest option if you frequently adjust throttle response settings on the fly. While not recommended, only having only two buttons gives you the best chance of keeping your eyes on the road.
Final Thoughts
Some people buy throttle controllers to make their rig feel a little peppier. Others, especially in the recent trend of rising gas prices, get them for the Eco modes and potential fuel savings. Whatever your reason, they’re a great way to customize the driving feel of your rig while retaining its warranty. If you’re unimpressed with the results, then simply unplug the controller, and your rig is back to factory spec the next time you turn the engine over.
I was skeptical at first; however, now I can see the appeal. While they don’t make a night and day difference, it allows me to switch things up every now and then. When I’m feeling more spirited, I can kick on Sport mode (or the like). When I’m hauling the family around, I can throw on Eco mode to help fight against the effects of running oversized M/T tires (or at least hope to).
I’d definitely recommend at least trying out a throttle controller; you might be surprised at how much the driving characteristics of your 4Runner can change. If you don’t like it, reverting back to factory settings is plain and simple.
I recently installed the Ultimate9 throttle controller in my car, and I couldn’t be happier with the results! This little device has made a world of difference in the way my vehicle responds to throttle input. It’s like my car has a whole new level of power and control.
One of the things I love most about the Ultimate9 throttle controller is its ease of use. Installation was a breeze, and the user interface is intuitive and user-friendly. I was able to customize my throttle response to suit my driving preferences, whether I wanted a sportier feel or a more fuel-efficient mode for long highway drives.
It seems to me that the plug-and-play versions must all operate by tweaking the pedal position-sensor output to trick the ECM into more immediate responses, and then back off so its output matches its input. But its output is still just pedal position-sensor.
Do any of them, or any others not in this list, also have a mode to monitor system voltage and bump up the output when system voltage drops below a set point (e.g. 13.8V)? So that when we run winches and high power inverters, the engine will automatically keep up with the demand? (Up to a point, of course.)
Non-plug-and-play versions can obviously have more inputs for safety–e.g., must be in park or neutral, E-brake on, etc.
Pedal Commander and F’n tuned are same company. I prefer complete transparency
I purchased the Pedal Commander and was shocked when it caused some problems with my engine stopping suddenly. I recently changed to the Banks Pedal Monster and am very impressed with it. I am acutally suprised that your review did not even include it.
I strongly suggest doing thorough research before making a mod like that. Despite the statement that it’s a “genuinely a no-risk mod”, I argue that it’s not. I had a Pedal Commander installed for a couple of years, and have removed it and have not used it for about a year. Good riddance. The reason being that it caused permanent fault codes while towing my camper trailer. It happened three times, and every single time, I was going up a pretty steep hill. The trailer weighs about 2,400 lbs fully loaded, and it wasn’t even fully loaded at the time. I.e. waaaaaaaaaaaay below the GVWR for the vehicle. If I’m not mistaken, the permanent fault codes can be cleared, but not erased. I.e. you can turn the CEL off, but the codes will be recorded nonetheless. This means that if you at some point decide to sell your vehicle, they can probably be retrieved by a professional OBD device and may deter the potential buyer from buying your car.
This is a thread that every 5th gen 4Runner owner interested in the PC should read. It’s a well known problem. Mine never caused any issues when not towing, but threw codes three times while towing.
https://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/261271-p2121-code-pedal-commander.html
And for those who think they’ll get better gas mileage with the PC installed, think again. You don’t buy it for the eco mode, you buy it for the more responsive settings. You will absolutely NOT get better gas mileage by revving more aggressively.
Annnnnd, you missed the GiddyUp controller from Thrashed Off Road, which at $99, is just as capable as any you reviewed.
I had a Giddy up installed for two weeks and my engine shooting up over 3K rpm’s at a stop for no reason no matter what mode i was in. Contacted thrashed off-road and was told it must be faulty. Won’t be going with another one of those, but realize you can have a bad apple with any product. Just know that usually you get what you pay for.
I’ve had a sprint booster installed on my 2021 since purchasing it and no issues. My cousin has had his on his 2016 for 5+ years no issue. Noticeable improvement in throttle response, especially as you add more weight to your rig. Easy to adjust on the fly
https://youtu.be/8u7lIJfWc6U
In my opinion you either go with the turbo or nothing at all – if you need a machine to help you accelerate well, I will leave it at that – as stated above and below by the author several times “no noticeable difference”
I got the Pedal Commander from another owner and it has been a game changer. The MPG is going to suck regardless, but at least this fixed the terrible throttle response. Now when I step on the gas the truck moves. I’ve had it over a year with zero issues and zero errors.
How much do any of these things actually offer in terms of MPG increases? That’s really the only reason I’d buy one.
I honestly haven’t seen much of a difference, even on the max Eco mode. My 4Runner, however, does have a fairly significant amount of added weight. I’m sure a stock 4Runner would see better results.
Long term does anyone know how these last? Or have the products not been around long enough. Looking into purchasing one of them. Recommendations welcome.
PC has been around for a while I believe. I’ve read that when some people get CELs, they unplug the device and the vehicle’s battery to reset everything back to factory. So far, so good though with the PC.
From what I’ve heard, the CEL comes on when you are changing settings while driving. Always change settings from a complete stop.
Pedal Commander is an excellent choice but (3) times I experienced NO gas pedal response “while driving” which could have been disastrous. Too dangerous.
I have discontinued use of Pedal Commander. Please be cautious using Pedal Commander.
Wow, thanks for the heads-up! I’ll definitely report back if something like that happens to me.
The Idrive EVC actually has an EVC X that does have an app and bluetooth. Plus it actually has a disable mode that locks the throttle out. The box is hooked up with a usb cable so it’s super simple to lock and remove the controller for safety and security.
Thanks! I actually found that out as well shortly after reviewing these, haha.
I have the PC and stopped using it because it cause my CEL to come on which seemed to be a common issue with their product on the forums. I wonder with the rebranding/packaging under Fukin Tuned if they’re trying to avoid that and move on that issue.
I’m hoping for the best but will report back if that happens to me as well. Thanks for the heads-up!
I’ve had Hikeit XS for a couple months and Love that. Also a price under cutter. I see pictures but no review. No product pusher here. But if you want to save money and have all the same features this is the way to go.
I tried the hikeit. Hated it. The unit threw a check engine and crawl control lights after a few weeks. I reached out to their support and got some other company that worked with them that tried to get me sorted with a new unit. They said they would have someone from Hikeit call me or email me back… nothing. I waited for a couple months… nothing. F those guys. Moved over to a sprint booster since then and haven’t had one problem.
I once had hope for this place. Instead, it’s just an influencer pushing product.
Sorry to disappoint, I’ll try to do better.
Once had hope for what? Trail or the author?
Had no problems with the pedal commander for roughly 2 years and then all of a sudden it quit working and set a light on the dash. Contacted the company and they stated it was out of warranty – Oh well –
Reset the light, removed the commander and went back to stock – BTW I never used more than 1 setting – worked great while it was working
Thanks for the feedback, hopefully, we won’t run into any issues!
Fukin Tuned and Pedal Commander appear to be the same company
https://pedalcommander.com/pages/contact-us
https://www.fntuned.com/pages/contact-us
Now it’s no surprise why the specs are nearly identical with similar packaging too. I wonder why they opted to create a new “brand” versus just a new model under the PC name.
That’s confusing to me too, seems like the logical thing to do. Maybe they’re trying to appeal to a different audience with more “hip” marketing.
I’ve been running the pedal commander at the same setting since the day I got it. I’ve never felt the need to adjust my throttle response around town vs. freeway or on the trail. It just stays at the one setting. The Fukin Tuned sounds like the same thing but cheaper. I like the “set it and forget” as you say it. Love my PC but if I had to choose again, I would opt for the Fukin Tuned… it’s also got a really Fukin cool name.
I’m with you, I don’t find myself changing mode often, if ever. If you’re strapped for cash, the Fukin Tuned seems like a solid contender.