Top 5 Starter Mods for a 4th Gen Toyota 4Runner (That Actually Matter)
Posted by Jordan on 02 04, 26
Every solid build starts with the right foundation. If you’re driving a Toyota 4Runner (2003–2009) and wondering where to begin, this list covers the five mods that make the biggest difference right away—not just in looks, but in how your rig feels and functions day to day.
These are the same upgrades we recommend over and over because they work, they scale with future mods, and they set your 4Runner up for long-term reliability.
Watch the Full Breakdown
This video walks through each mod, why it matters, and what to consider before buying:
#5 — Tires (The Only True Way to Recover ?)
Let’s start with the only thing actually touching the ground: tires.
Most 4th gen 4Runners came from the factory with highway or all-season tires. They’re fine for commuting—but they don’t match the capability or look most owners want.
Why all-terrain tires make sense:
- Better traction in dirt, snow, and light off-road use
- More aggressive stance
- Minimal sacrifice in daily drivability
You don’t need mud-terrain tires for most builds. For the average owner, all-terrains are the perfect balance.
#4 — Leveling Kit or Suspension Upgrade
Next up: fixing the factory rake.
From the factory, the front of the 4Runner sits lower than the rear. A leveling kit or suspension upgrade improves both stance and function.
Your options:
- Front spacers – budget-friendly, simple, under $50
- Full suspension kits – better ride quality and longevity
- Middle ground: Bilstein 5100s
Bilstein 5100s are a proven, daily-driver-friendly upgrade that improves ride quality and allows adjustable front lift—usually coming in under $1,000.
Shop 4Runner suspension & lift options:
https://4rcustoms.com/4th-gen-4runner-suspension-and-lift-kits
#3 — Headlights (06–09 Conversion or Full Upgrade)
Lighting is where form and function really come together.
If you own an 03–05 4Runner, upgrading to 06–09 projector-style headlights is one of the best improvements you can make. Projectors provide:
- Better light output
- Cleaner cutoff
- More modern appearance
This swap does require additional hardware, which is why we offer a conversion kit to make the process straightforward.
Headlight options:
- Budget black housings (fine for most owners)
- Premium options from AlphaRex
If you go budget, UV protection is critical—otherwise yellowing usually shows up within 6–12 months.
Shop 4th gen 4Runner headlights & conversion parts:
https://www.4rcustoms.com/headlights
#2 — Tail Lights (Easy, Plug-and-Play Personalization)
Tail lights are one of the easiest ways to modernize the rear of your 4Runner.
Benefits include:
- Brighter LED output
- No more burned-out bulbs
- Clean, updated styling
At 4R Customs, we offer:
All are plug-and-play and can usually be installed in under 15 minutes—four bolts and done.
? Shop 4th gen 4Runner tail lights:
https://www.4rcustoms.com/tail-lights
#1 — Grille (The Personality Mod)
If there’s one mod that completely changes the personality of a 4th gen 4Runner, it’s the grille.
Whether you’re going:
- TRD-style
- LED emblem
- Color-matched or blackout
…the grille is the centerpiece of the front end. It instantly modernizes the rig and ties everything together.
This is usually where we start on any build because the visual impact is immediate.
Shop 4th gen 4Runner grilles & accessories:
03-05 Grille
06-09 Grille
Shop all exterior mods
Why Buy These Mods Through 4R Customs?
All of the products mentioned above are available through 4R Customs, and every order comes with:
- Verified 4Runner fitment
- Install guides and support
- USA-based customer service
- One-year warranty on all items (two years on select products)
- Fast shipping from within the U.S.
Final Thoughts
These five mods—tires, suspension, headlights, tail lights, and grille—form the foundation of nearly every great 4th gen 4Runner build. Start here, and every future upgrade will make more sense.
Explore all 4th gen 4Runner mods: https://4rcustoms.com/4th-gen-4runner-mods-03-09/