Quick answer

With the hybrid system operating, the transfer case in 4L, the driver's door closed and the shifter outside P or N, press DAC/CRAWL and turn the mode selector from LO through HI.

Before you start

Check that your vehicle has it.

Availability

Verified in the 2025 U.S. 4Runner Hybrid owner's manual for vehicles equipped with Crawl Control. Toyota identifies Multi-Terrain Select with Crawl Control on TRD Off-Road; confirm the DAC/CRAWL switch on the particular hybrid off-road grade.

Retail trim / version
TRD Off-Road i-FORCE MAX, TRD Off-Road Premium i-FORCE MAX, TRD Pro, Trailhunter
Required equipment / service
4L transfer range, DAC/CRAWL switch and mode selector, i-FORCE MAX 4WD grades equipped with Crawl Control
Compatibility check

Does the documented scope match your car?

This check combines the verified year, any source-supported powertrain scope, source-named trim/package and required equipment. It does not read a VIN or factory build record.

Source-named equipment or service
  • 4L transfer range, DAC/CRAWL switch and mode selector
  • i-FORCE MAX 4WD grades equipped with Crawl Control
Can you see the required control, menu or equipment on your vehicle?
Published availability and qualifications

Verified in the 2025 U.S. 4Runner Hybrid owner's manual for vehicles equipped with Crawl Control. Toyota identifies Multi-Terrain Select with Crawl Control on TRD Off-Road; confirm the DAC/CRAWL switch on the particular hybrid off-road grade.

Visual orientation

Know what kind of control to look for.

This original category diagram is an orientation aid, not a picture of your exact trim. Use the written labels and your vehicle manual to identify the real control.

Off-road systems orientation diagram for Toyota 4Runner
Off-road systems orientationOriginal visual guide · controls vary by trim · not to scale
How to use it

Step by step.

  1. 01

    Stop in a safe off-road location, start the hybrid system, close the driver's door and select 4L.

  2. 02

    Move the shifter to a drive position other than P or N.

  3. 03

    Press the DAC/CRAWL switch and confirm the Crawl Control indicator appears while the slip indicator flashes.

  4. 04

    Turn the mode selector to LO, LO-Mid, Mid, Mid-HI or HI to match the surface and grade.

  5. 05

    Steer while Crawl Control manages low speed; to turn it off, use the DAC/CRAWL switch sequence described by the illuminated switch indicator.

!

Important limits

  • Crawl Control is for extremely rough, low-speed off-road surfaces and cannot overcome steepness, slipperiness or vehicle-clearance limits.
  • Opening the driver's door, selecting P or N, or moving the transfer case to 4H cancels the system.
  • With the rear differential locked, hybrid and brake control can be limited above approximately 6 mph.
If it does not work

Quick checks.

  • ✓If activation fails, recheck READY, 4L, a closed driver's door and a shifter position other than P or N.
  • ✓If an overheat message appears after extended use, stop safely and let the brake or transmission system cool until the message clears.
  • ✓Motor noise and body or steering vibration during operation are described as normal; warning lights or persistent messages require inspection.
Owner feedback

What happened on your vehicle?

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Primary evidence

2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid Owner's Manual — Crawl Control

Relevant section or page: Pages 414–416. We use the written official source to determine the steps and applicability shown above.

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Editorial record

Reviewed with a visible trail.

Scope and steps were checked by Car Cheat Codes Editorial Review. A guide is narrowed or corrected when the source does not support a broader claim.

Published
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Guide change history
  • Initial verified publication.