Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2002 Toyota 4Runner BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
NORMAL Mode Diagnostic Trouble Code Retrieval
- Connect Toyota hand-held tester or scan tool to Data Link Connector (DLC) No. 3 at driver's side of instrument panel. See Figure. Turn ignition on with engine off. Turn hand-held tester or scan tool on. Using hand-held tester or scan tool manufacturer's instructions, check for DTCs and freeze frame data.
- If hand-held tester or scan tool does not display UNABLE TO CONNECT TO VEHICLE, go to next step. If hand-held tester or scan tool displays UNABLE TO CONNECT TO VEHICLE, check DLC No. 3. See DATA LINK CONNECTOR NO. 3 INSPECTIONΒ under SCAN TOOL PROBLEMS.
- Record any DTCs and freeze frame data displayed for system diagnosis. If driveability problem exists and no DTCs are present, go to TROUBLE SHOOTING - NO CODES article for diagnosis by symptom.
- If any DTCs exist, perform appropriate DTC test under DIAGNOSTIC TESTSΒ . For DTC descriptions, see DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DEFINITIONSΒ table under DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DEFINITIONS. For information on freeze frame data, see FREEZE FRAME DATAΒ . For information on two-trip detection logic codes, see TWO-TRIP DETECTION LOGICΒ .
- After repairs for DTC have been completed, DTC must be cleared from Engine Control Module (ECM). See CLEARING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODESΒ . Road test vehicle to ensure all symptoms and/or complaints have been repaired.
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
