Why Upgrading My 4Runner Bumper Was the Mod I Wish I Did First
Posted by Jordan Harris on 06 09, 25
When I first got into off-roading, I didn’t fully understand how quickly a stock setup can get in the way of a good time. One of the biggest wake-up calls came early in my 4Runner journey while wheeling with a few buddies. We hit a steep vertical climb — not extreme by any means, but just enough to challenge the departure angle of my OEM bumper. I heard the scrape before I felt it. My factory bumper dragged hard on the rock ledge and left a deep gouge across the plastic. That moment changed everything.
I wish I had upgraded to a high clearance steel rear bumper sooner.
Fast forward to today, and I’ve got a Nguyen Works Rear Bumper on my rig — and it’s hands-down one of my favorite 4Runner mods.
Whether you're running a 3rd gen 4Runner (1996–2002), 4th gen 4Runner (2003–2009), or 5th gen 4Runner (2010–2023), upgrading to a high clearance rear bumper is a game-changer. Not only does it dramatically improve off-road performance with better departure angles and underbody protection, but it also unlocks a world of overland functionality.
Here’s why I’ll always recommend a rear bumper upgrade as one of your first 4Runner mods:
1. Real Off-Road Performance
The stock rear bumper is plastic. It’s not built for rocks, steep drops, or rugged trails. With my new steel bumper, I don’t think twice about taking on more vertical or technical terrain. The high clearance design gives me confidence to hit aggressive angles without dragging or damaging anything.
2. Overland-Ready Utility
My 5th gen 4Runner rear bumper has a swing-out arm with options I use almost every day. The fold-down cooking tray has been clutch for grilling while skiing in the winter — we’ll literally flip burgers or cook ramen off the back of the rig. It’s one of my favorite parts of any trip.
The bottle opener is more than just a novelty. After a long day on the trail or slopes, it’s the perfect touch. The jerry can holder lets me carry water without sacrificing interior space, and when I’m on a longer trip, I’ll bring two.
You can also add a hi-lift jack mount, bike rack receiver, or even quarter panel hoops depending on your setup. The modularity is insane.
3. Looks Mean. Performs Even Meaner.
Let’s not lie — steel bumpers just look tough. They give your 4Runner that capable stance that says, "I don’t just park at the trailhead." Whether it's a 3rd gen 4Runner steel bumper with swing-out accessories, or a full 4th gen 4Runner rear bumper with recovery points, these bumpers look the part and deliver when it counts.
Final Thoughts
If you're asking yourself what your first big mod should be — this is it. The bumper upgrade is one of the few mods that adds both form and function right away. It protects your rig, improves your capability, and turns your rear setup into a legit basecamp.
Whether you need a 4Runner rear bumper with tire carrier, want high clearance for rock crawling, or just want to make trail days easier with a cooking table and overland storage, this is the upgrade I’d do again without hesitation.
Check out our full selection of 3rd, 4th, and 5th gen 4Runner rear bumpers on the site. And if you need help choosing your setup, shoot me an email — I’ll point you in the right direction.