toyota fj cruiser

Types of Toyota FJ Cruiser

The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a retro-styled off-road vehicle that was produced by Toyota from 2006 to 2014. The FJ Cruiser was designed to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and off-road enthusiasts, and it quickly gained a reputation for its ruggedness and capability. The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a discontinued off-road vehicle that has become a classic car. Here are some types of Toyota FJ Cruisers:

• FJ Cruiser 4WD: The Toyota FJ Cruiser 4WD was designed to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and off-road enthusiasts, and it quickly gained a reputation for its ruggedness and capability. The Toyota FJ Cruiser 4WD is a discontinued off-road vehicle that has become a classic car. The FJ Cruiser 4WD models come with a 4.0-liter V6 engine that delivers 260 horsepower. The FJ Cruiser 4WD models also come with a full-time 4-wheel drive system with a center differential that allows the driver to switch between 2WD and 4WD on the fly. The FJ Cruiser 4WD models also come with a locking rear differential, skid plates, and off-road tires that enhance its off-road capabilities.
• FJ Cruiser 2WD: The Toyota FJ Cruiser 2WD was designed to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and off-road enthusiasts, and it quickly gained a reputation for its ruggedness and capability. The Toyota FJ Cruiser 2WD is a discontinued off-road vehicle that has become a classic car. The FJ Cruiser 2WD models come with a 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 239 horsepower. The FJ Cruiser 2WD models also come with a rear-wheel drive system that offers good stability and traction on dry roads. The FJ Cruiser 2WD models also come with a limited-slip differential, skid plates, and all-terrain tires that enhance its off-road capabilities.

The Toyota FJ Cruiser 4WD and 2WD models offer different driving experiences. The Toyota FJ Cruiser 4WD models provide better traction and stability on slippery or uneven surfaces, making them ideal for off-road adventures. The Toyota FJ Cruiser 2WD models offer a more engaging and responsive driving experience, making them suitable for on-road cruising.

Specifications and Maintenance of the Toyota FJ Cruiser

The following are the specifications of the Toyota FJ Cruiser:

• Engine

  The Toyota FJ Cruiser engine is a V6 engine with a displacement of 4.0 liters. It has a horsepower of 260 and a torque of 271 lb-ft. The engine also has a Dual VVT-i feature that allows it to use Variable Valve Timing on the intake and exhaust camshafts.

• Transmission

  The transmission of Toyota FJ Cruiser is an automatic transmission with 5 speeds and an optional manual transmission with 6 speeds.

• Drivetrain

  The Toyota FJ Cruiser has a part-time 4WD system with low-range gearing and a 2WD option available on some models.

• Chassis and Dimensions

  The Toyota FJ Cruiser has a body-on-frame construction. Its overall length is 183.9 inches, its width is 75.0 inches, its height is 71.6 inches, and its wheelbase is 105.6 inches. The Cruiser also has a ground clearance of 9.6 inches and a turning radius of 37.4 ft. Its front suspension is independent coil-spring, while its rear suspension is a live axle with leaf springs.

• Performance

  The Toyota FJ Cruiser has a top speed of 115 mph. It has an acceleration of 0-60 mph in 8.4 seconds. The fuel tank capacity of the Toyota FJ Cruiser is 19.0 gallons, and the fuel economy is an average of 16 mpg combined.

• Engine oil and filter replacement

  Engine oil and filter replacement should be done every 5,000 miles. The car manual should be checked for recommendations and instructions on how to change the engine oil and filter.

• Tire rotation

  Tire rotation is done every 5,000 miles or during every other oil change. Tire pressure is also checked during this rotation.

• Multi-point inspection

  Multi-point inspection should be done every 10,000 miles. This inspection involves checking the battery, brake pads, brake discs, lights, wipers, and exhaust system, among other important Cruiser components.

• Coolant replacement

  The coolant should be replaced every 30,000 miles or as recommended by the car manual. The Toyota FJ Cruiser's cooling system is drained and then filled with a new cooling system.

• Brake fluid replacement

  The brake fluid should be replaced every 20,000 miles. The old brake fluid is completely drained, and a new brake fluid is added to the system.

• Transmission fluid replacement

  The transmission fluid of the Toyota FJ Cruiser should be replaced every 30,000-60,000 miles. The car manual should be checked for the exact mileage and instructions on how to do the replacement.

• Spark plug replacement

  Spark plugs should be changed after 60,000 miles. The car manual should be checked for the right type of spark plug and instructions on how to change them.

• Air filter replacement

  The air filter should be replaced every 15,000-30,000 miles. Cleaning the air filter should be done during every oil change.

How to Choose Toyota FJ Cruiser

• FJ Cruiser Brand New vs. Used

  The first decision when purchasing an FJ Cruiser is whether to obtain a new or used one. Both have pros and cons. A new car has a better cost-to-value ratio. It costs more but has less depreciation. It has a warranty that covers the cost of repairs for a few years. A used FJ Cruiser has a higher cost-to-value ratio. The cost is lower, and the depreciation is higher. The consumer pays less for the car. Used cars may require repairs and maintenance, which can be costly.

• Condition

  When purchasing a used FJ Cruiser, check its condition. Look for any damage to the body or paint. Check for rust, especially in areas where water can collect. Ensure the undercarriage is free of rust. Inspect the tires to see how much tread they have left. Ensure they are not worn out. Check the brakes, engine, and transmission. Confirm they are in good condition. Test drive the vehicle before buying it. See how it drives and listen for any strange noises. Make sure the 4-wheel drive system works if it is available. A well-maintained used car will cost less to drive than one that needs repairs.

• Trim Levels

  The Toyota FJ Cruiser comes with several trim levels. Each has different features and options. Choose the one that fits the needs. The base trim level is simple yet functional. It has everything needed without extra frills. Higher trims have more comforts. They include features like leather seats, a better sound system, and more safety technology. Consider how many people will use the vehicle. Some have room for 5 passengers, while others can seat 7 or more. A larger car will be cramped if only a few people ride. A small car may not be comfortable for many to fit. Think about the planned use of the vehicle. Will it drive mostly in the city or on rough roads? Some trims handle off-roading better. Others are suited for paved roads and light trails.

• Features

  Decide what features are important. All FJ Cruisers have essentials like air conditioning and power windows. Higher models may include navigation, a rearview camera, and advanced safety features. Make sure the vehicle has the wanted technology. This includes the sound system, infotainment, and safety tech. Higher trims have better audio. Some have navigation and driver assistance features.

• 4WD vs RWD

  The drive system is also important when purchasing an FJ Cruiser. It comes in 4WD and RWD versions. 4WD is best for off-roading and driving on rough terrain. RWD works well for city driving and paved roads. RWD cars have better fuel economy than 4WD ones.

How to DIY and Replace Toyota FJ Cruiser

Replacing a Toyota FJ Cruiser can be a simple DIY task or a complex one, depending on the model and the condition of the car. Here is a general guide:

• Step 1: Gather the necessary materials

  Get the owner's manual for the specific FJ Cruiser model. Gather basic tools like screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, and possibly socket sets. Get replacement parts that correspond to the needs of the vehicle.

• Step 2: Preparing the vehicle

  Ensure the vehicle is parked in a safe, well-lit environment. Engage the parking brake and ensure the ignition is off. Depending on the work required, pop the hood and the interior door to access the engine or interior components.

• Step 3: Disassemble the old or damaged component

  Use the owner's manual to locate and disassemble the component that needs replacement. Take reference photos during disassembly to aid in reassembly. Keep track of small fasteners and bolts.

• Step 4: Install the new component

  Compare the old and new components to ensure a match. Install the new component and tighten bolts and fasteners securely. Refer to the owner's manual for torque specifications if necessary.

• Step 5: Reassemble and test

  Once the new component is installed, reassemble any disassembled parts. Close the hood and doors. Start the vehicle and test the new component to ensure it functions correctly. Take a test drive if applicable to ensure everything is working as expected.

Q&A

Q: Is the Toyota FJ Cruiser a good car?

A: The FJ Cruiser is an excellent off-road vehicle. It is reliable, has low maintenance costs, and is durable. These features make it a good car. However, its accessibility for the physically disabled and sufficient cargo space may not be a good car.

Q: Is the Toyota FJ Cruiser 4 wheel drive?

A: Yes, the Toyota FJ Cruiser is a four-wheel drive. The FJ Cruiser is designed as a strong and capable off-road vehicle, which is a key feature of the Cruiser.

Q: How long will the Toyota FJ Cruiser last?

A: The Toyota FJ Cruiser can last up to 250,000 to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. The Cruiser's longevity can be influenced by factors such as driving habits, maintenance, and environmental conditions.

Q: Why did Toyota stop making FJ Cruiser?

A: Toyota stopped producing the FJ Cruiser due to declining sales in 2014. The main reason for the decline was the FJ's small design, which could not accommodate more passengers, and its poor fuel efficiency.