Feature Friday: Top 5 Interior Mods For The 5th Gen 4Runner

We Asked Seven Toyota Owners What Their Top 5 4Runner Interior Modifications Are – Here’s What They Said!

This Week’s Topic: 4Runner Interior Modifications

Hey guys, welcome back to another Feature Friday! If you missed last week’s FF, we looked at some pretty awesome 4Runners that were rocking the super popular raptor light mod.

This week, we are looking at the top 5 interior modifications that seven 5th Gen 4Runner owners highly recommend.

Everyone’s 4Runner build is different when it comes to essential mods. Additionally, everyone has their own definition of essential. Whether it’s modifications to the exterior, performance, or interior, every owner has their preference when it comes to their Top 5.

With this week’s submissions, we see interior mods that range from MOLLE cargo panels to throttle controllers. There are tons of interior modifications that owners do to their 4Runner to customize them for their needs.

Let’s see what these seven owners chose for their top 5 interior modifications!

Enjoy guys!

1. Dillon W. (@4runnerwanted) – 2015 SR5

Top 5 Interior Mods

1. 2nd-Row Seat Hidden MOLLE Panel
   
2. DIY Cargo Area Low-Profile Storage System
3. Console & Glove Box Organizers
4. MESO Customs Dual Color Dome & Map Lights
5. Expedition Essentials T4RPAM

What Do You Like About Your Interior Mods?

Over time, I’ve decided to keep more gear, tools, and everyday items inside my 4Runner. Ease of access, organization, and keeping these things out of the site are all equally important to me. The MOLLE panel hidden under my second-row seat is a great place for all of my recovery gear. The DIY low-profile storage in the cargo area also keeps fewer necessary items out of site and flattens the area when the back seats are folded down for better car camping!

With car camping, the MESO Customs red dual-color lights help when getting out in the middle of the night and not being blinded by typical LED replacements. For getting to those campsites, the T4RPAM makes for an easy time of holding my phone, iPad, and Garmin. It keeps things held tight to the dash while my co-pilot looks for spots on Gaia maps.

2. Troy Pigneri (@dustyovrlnd) – 2019 TRD Off-Road Premium

Top 5 Interior Mods

1. Rago Dashboard Mount
2. Meso Custom Map & Dome Lights
3. Fridge Slide
4. Drawer System Built By @ohtrevor
5. Midland MXT 275

What Do You Like About Your Interior Mods?

I love the Rago Dashboard Mount as it keeps my dash organized. I’ve mounted my Pro Clip USA charging phone mount, Midland radio, RAM Mounts iPad holder, and anything else I need easy access to.

As we all know, the 5th Gen 4Runner is still rocking the same bulbs in every interior light fixture as the ‘07 model, so being able to add impressive LEDs for map and dome lights is clutch. Also, we opted for the red versions so we can light up the whole rig at camp with minimal bug annoyance.

The drawer system built by @ohtrevor is awesome. To have a pull-out cutting board below my fridge slide and a giant 36” long drawer in the back of the truck has been awesome. This allows me to easily run to the back and make a sandwich or snack without having to bring out a bunch of gear and get unorganized.

The Midland MXT 275 is a must-have. While handhelds are useful when spotting other drivers, it’s nice to always have a system mounted in the rig to talk to my driver or passengers if I’m outside of the truck. Or, to easily communicate with my trail buddies without any static. Also, having the weather channel on it during road trips is an added bonus. 

3. Nagol Yenair (@trdnotpro) – 2018 TRD Off-Road Premium

Top 5 Interior Mods

1. iOttie Easy One Touch 5 Air Vent Mount
2. Magpul DAKA Utility Pouch
3. WeatherTech Lasercut Floor Mats
4. Microtech Ultratech Rescue Tool
5. MESO Customs 4Runner Flip Fob

What Do You Like About Your Interior Mods?

The iOttie phone mount is a quick install and affordable way to have my phone always in view. I did a 1200-mile drive two days after buying my 4Runner and the mount was awesome. It’s not trail-ready, but that’s not really what it’s for.

The Magpul DAKA Utility Pouch is my organizer for my center console right now. It houses a pocket knife, field notes book, space pen, various charging accessories, first aid, and snacks. I will be adding a multi-tool, pew-pew stuff, and a tire pressure gauge in the future.

The WeatherTech floor mats keep your carpets crispy and clean. They have more coverage than the factory 4Runner rubber mats and make dirt or mud less likely to get into the carpet. Plus, they’re super easy to clean.

While I keep a simple pocket knife in my utility pouch, I also take a Microtech Ultratech with me when I drive my 4Runner. It has an OTF blade and a carbide glass breaker. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

As for the MESO Customs flip fob, I technically haven’t done this mod yet, but it’s happening ASAP. The factory key is pointy and looks just like the one from my sister’s Corolla, haha.

4. Trent Strickland (@trentlee333) – 2018 TRD Off-Road

Top 5 Interior Mods

1. 1.25” Seat Lift
2. Pedal Commander
   
3. Rear Window MOLLE Panels w/ Shelf
4. WeatherTech Floor Mats
5. Slide Out Kitchen

What Do You Like About Your Interior Mods?

I’m still in the beginning process of building out my 4Runner. These mods are just small things that help make the ride a little more enjoyable.

The seat lift is perfect for people like me with lower back problems and the MOLLE panel and shelf were added for aesthetic purposes. They do store some things but honestly, it just gets in the way. The Pedal Commander makes a night and day difference in throttle response. Lastly, for those that cook on the tail, the slide-out kitchen is a perfect addition! I’m content with my setup, for now. The next step is removing the back seats.

5. Erickson Aurelio (@r_u_realyo) – 2020 TRD Off-Road

Top 5 Interior Mods

1. DIY Drawer System / Sleeping Platform / Rear Table
2. Auxbeam 8 Gang Switch Panel
3. Pedal Commander
4. Orange Boxx Rear Window MOLLE Panels
5. MOB Armor Phone Mount

What Do You Like About Your Interior Mods?

The main reason why I made this drawer system was to create more room for storage and also to be able to sleep in the back of the 4Runner. Without this system, sleeping in the 4Runner would be uncomfortable due to the uneven surfaces when the back seats are folded down.

This system also gives me extra counter space or an area to cook whenever we go on an overlanding/camping trip. The top surface of this drawer system is lined with a toolbox liner to prevent gear from sliding around.

The reason why I added the Auxbeam switch panel on my 4Runner is that I wanted to have one main system to control the lights around my truck. This system prevents me from running more the one wire through the firewall. It also allows all of the lights to be synchronized whether I want them all to be on or off. This switch system has made the engine bay much more organized with all the wires from the extra lights added.

The main reason why I bought the Pedal Commander for my vehicle was to eliminate the gas pedal lag. Without it, I felt that my 4Runner was a bit sluggish. Even though this doesn’t add any horsepower, it makes my 4Runner feel alive whenever I accelerate and helps when I tow a trailer.

Orange Boxx MOLLE Panels give me the ability to hang extra gear. With the tow strap, fire extinguisher, air down/up lines, etc., on this MOLLE panel, it frees up space inside my drawer system. It’s also easier to grab gear without opening the rear hatch. Being able to roll down the rear window and grab gear off the MOLLE panel is very convenient. A future mod to these MOLLE panels will be a shelf for even more organization.

The big reason why I bought a phone magnet mount is that it is manufactured near my hometown. I’m a big supporter of local companies. Another reason why I chose this mod is that this magnet mount is super strong! The force that is needed to detach your phone is 90 lbs! There are also additional accessories that can be used with the mount, so it’s pretty versatile.

6. Knox Mannino (@theknoxmann) – 2021 TRD Off-Road Premium w/ KDSS

Top 5 Interior Mods

1. WeatherTech HP Liners
2. Ellis Precision Shifter Knobs
3. Carlinkit 3.0 Wireless Apple CarPlay
4. VLEDs 5000K Interior Lights
5. Canvasback Cargo Liners

What Do You Like About Your Interior Mods?

My first “mod” was a set of floor liners. Quality floor liners are a must for all adventurers and honestly, commuters as well. They help protect against mud, snow, rain, dirt, sand, or even soda and coffee! The obvious choice for me was the WeatherTech HP Liners. They are the deepest in their class holding the most liquid. They also have a better blend of rubber for added grip, no warping compared to the original models, and a larger overlap on the door sill.

WeatherTech has excellent customer service with a no questions asked lifetime guarantee. That means 10 years from now, you can get a new set if you become unsatisfied with your mats.

Speaking of things that I didn’t like; the factory shifter knobs. The OEM transmission shift knob was bulky and awkward. This was a problem for me because I spend a lot of time in the mountains and am constantly using it. The Ellis Precision shifter knobs are something I appreciate every single time I get in my 4Runner.

The shape and finish are perfect and while the factory transfer case knob wasn’t that bad, this set looks awesome. They’re anodized aluminum and available in a few color options and custom laser markings. They do become cold to the touch in cold weather and hot in the opposite. However, I think it absolutely adds to the experience.

My driving experience is what I’m always looking to improve. With a fully loaded 2021 4Runner, I was annoyed with having to plug my phone in to enjoy Apple CarPlay. If I need to charge that’s one thing, but more often than not, I have plenty of battery life for general driving. I went with the CarlinKit 3.0 which fits perfectly in that useless spot next to the front USB port. While it can be finicky on occasion if I start my 4Runner with my iPhone out of range, it generally works like a champ and keeps the charging cords out of sight.

I’m not a fan of clutter and being able to make sense of piles of camp gear is really important to me. I have tinted windows and one of the first things I noticed was how little cabin visibility I had, even in a well-lit garage. The factory halogen interior lights are honestly an insult to 4Runner owners, so I had to change this ASAP.

I swapped every single light on the vehicle for an LED but the ones I notice the most were on the inside. VLEDs were my go-to for this. They run sales all the time and have three color temp options for most of their LEDs. I used 6000K for the puddle, license plate, and interior door lights. After trying 5500K on the main cabin lights, I found them to be too unnaturally white and exchanged them for 5000K, which VLEDs was happy to help with. Since I sleep inside for camping, I didn’t want to be absolutely blasted with white light; especially when trying to wind down.

At the time, the MESO Customs white/red dome light was out of stock. While I think that could be neat, I like the things to match for an OEM look. I’ve found that 5000k is plenty bright while not being too harsh in the evening. That’s especially important in the vanity locations where you are staring right into the light. These are also nice when driving at night because you can turn them on and find things very quickly without disturbing your vision.

Since I didn’t buy a truck, I wanted to have a place for things that can get really messy and work with my dog. I very quickly realized that I was concerned about tearing up the back of my cargo area. Canvasback cargo liners put my worries to ease. They come with a lifetime warranty, are washable, have tons of options, and can take a beating!

I love that it seals the cargo area off, allowing for tons of storage behind them. I got everything I needed to allow me to toss in any kind of gear, including mud and blood from hunting, without worries. Also, I realized that it provides a light layer of insulation, taking the edge off the plastic on cold nights when your sleeping bag is compressed into the side of your cargo area. If I had gotten a drawer system, I wouldn’t get the cargo area side panels. However, as it sits now, I would do any of these mods over again!

7. Bon Pov (@thiizz.rnnr) – 2020 Venture Edition

Top 5 Interior Mods

1. 5th Gen 4Runner Dash Mount (Complete Kit)
2. Push Button Start & Trim
3. 5th Gen 4Runner/FJ Cruiser Shift Knob Set (Automatic Transmission)
4. Rago Fabrication 4Runner Center Console Modular Storage Panel
5. Pedal Commander

What Do You Like About Your Interior Mods?

I like my setup because everything I’ve added serves a purpose; I only add and buy what I need. Overland life can get expensive, so you’ve got to play it smart. I’ve added these mods because they’re what I need inside my 4Runner for functionality.

The dash mount holds my phone while I’m driving, which is a must. I can also mount other things if needed. It also came with a USB charging mount, which is a plus.

The aftermarket push button start added a nice touch and lights up when the car is on. The shift knob looks amazing and is way better than stock. On The Rago Fabrication center console MOLLE panel is my walkie-talkie, first aid kit, and more.

Lastly, I only have good things to say about the Pedal Commander, I mean who doesn’t like better acceleration or some gas savings?

Final Thoughts

I could not agree more with most of these mods mentioned in this week’s Feature Friday submissions. Interior protection is a must, along with any sort of throttle response enhancement.

We want readers to get inspired by a variety of rigs/products. Submit your build for Feature Friday here to get featured. Next week, we will showcase Exterior Rear Window Storage Options. If you would like to submit your build for next week, include your setup details and an awesome photo that shows it off.

Have a great weekend everyone!