For 2005 Toyota 4Runner owners, maintaining your vehicle’s health is paramount, and that includes keeping a close eye on your transmission fluid temperature. Unlike older models with a transmission dipstick, the 2005 4Runner features a sealed transmission, making fluid level checks and temperature monitoring a unique process. Getting this right is crucial, as the transmission fluid level must be checked within a specific temperature range to ensure accuracy. For instance, the service manual for similar year models often specifies a temperature range between 115°F and 130°F for A750E and A750F transmissions. Always consult your specific 2005 4Runner service manual to confirm the correct temperature range for your model before proceeding.
So, how can you effectively monitor your 2005 4Runner’s transmission fluid temperature? While infrared thermometers exist, they are generally considered less accurate for this task. This guide will focus on two reliable methods to monitor your transmission temperature, especially tailored for your 2005 4Runner using OBD2 and PID.
Method 1: The Paperclip Trick – OBD Jumper Method
This method is remarkably cost-effective, requiring just a paperclip. It’s based on the procedure outlined in the Toyota Factory Service Manual and utilizes your 4Runner’s dashboard lights to indicate when the transmission fluid temperature is within the correct range.
Important Pre-Condition: Before starting, ensure your transmission oil temperature is cold. This method works by monitoring the temperature as it rises from a cold start.
Steps:
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Locate the OBDII Port: Find the OBDII port in your 2005 4Runner, typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
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Prepare the Jumper Wire: Straighten a paperclip to create a U-shape jumper wire.
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Identify Terminals 4 and 13: Refer to the diagram below, which is from a similar year 4Runner service manual. Locate terminals 4 and 13 in your OBDII port. Note that the orientation of the port in your vehicle might be inverted compared to the manual’s illustration, but the pin positions remain the same.
04 AT fluid temp check.jpgImage: Diagram showing OBDII port pinout for transmission fluid temperature check, highlighting terminals 4 and 13.
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Insert the Jumper Wire: Carefully insert the paperclip jumper wire between terminals 4 and 13 of the OBDII port.
OBD jumper.jpgImage: Close-up of a paperclip jumper wire inserted into the OBDII port at the correct pins for transmission temperature check.
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Start the Engine: Turn the ignition key to start the engine. Observe the dashboard lights; they will likely begin flashing rapidly, which is normal as the system enters check mode.
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Enter Transmission Temperature Check Mode: Shift the gear lever between Neutral (N) and Drive (D) every 1.5 seconds for a total of 6 seconds. After this sequence, the ‘D’ drive indicator on your dash, or more commonly the ‘A/T Oil Temp’ light, will illuminate for approximately 2 seconds and then turn off. This indicates that your 2005 4Runner has successfully entered Transmission Temperature Check Mode.
AT light.jpgImage: Dashboard view showing the ‘A/T Oil Temp’ light illuminated, indicating Transmission Temperature Check Mode is active.
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Remove the Jumper Wire: Once the ‘A/T Oil Temp’ light has signaled entry into check mode, remove the paperclip jumper wire from the OBDII port.
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Monitor the ‘A/T Oil Temp’ Light: Allow the engine to idle. As the transmission fluid temperature rises, watch for the ‘A/T Oil Temp’ light.
- Solid Light ON: When the ‘A/T Oil Temp’ light illuminates and stays on continuously, it signifies that the transmission fluid has reached the lower end of the correct temperature range for a fluid level check. This is your signal to quickly proceed with the fluid level check.
- Flashing Light: If the ‘A/T Oil Temp’ light starts flashing, it means the transmission fluid temperature has exceeded the upper limit of the acceptable range. If this happens, you’ll need to let the transmission cool down and repeat the process from the beginning.
Tip: It’s highly recommended to do a practice run of this procedure to familiarize yourself with the steps and dashboard light indicators. Having a helper can also be beneficial, with one person monitoring the dash lights while the other is ready to perform the fluid level check underneath the vehicle.
Method 2: Using an OBD2 Scanner and Torque Pro App
For a more convenient and real-time monitoring solution, especially if you frequently check your transmission fluid temperature or want to monitor it while driving (useful for towing), using an OBD2 scanner and a smartphone app like Torque Pro is an excellent choice. While this method involves a small investment, it offers greater ease of use and additional functionality.
What You’ll Need:
- ELM327 Compatible OBDII Bluetooth Dongle: These are widely available online (e.g., Amazon) and are relatively inexpensive, starting around $15-$20. Ensure it’s Bluetooth compatible for connection to your Android device.
- Torque Pro App for Android: This app is available for a small fee on the Google Play Store (around $5).
Setup and Configuration:
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Connect the OBDII Dongle: Plug the ELM327 OBDII dongle into your 2005 4Runner’s OBDII port.
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Pair Bluetooth: Turn your vehicle’s ignition to the ‘ON’ position (engine not started). On your Android device, go to Bluetooth settings and pair with the OBDII dongle. Refer to the dongle’s instructions for the device name if needed.
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Configure Torque Pro Vehicle Profile: Open the Torque Pro app. If you haven’t already, set up your vehicle profile. This usually involves entering basic vehicle information like year, make, and model.
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Add Custom PID for Transmission Temperature: This is the key step to read your 2005 4Runner’s transmission temperature.
- From the Torque Pro main screen, tap the gear icon (menu) > ‘Settings’ > “Manage extra PIDs/Sensors”.
- On the “Manage user defined PIDs” screen, press the menu button again > “Add custom PID” > “OK”.
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Enter the 2005 4Runner Specific PID Information: You’ll need to input the following values exactly as shown for your 2005 4Runner (and similar 4th Gen models from 2004-2009).
- OBD2 Mode and PID:
21d9 - Long Name: (e.g.,
Trans Temp F) – Choose a descriptive name for easy identification. - Short Name: (e.g.,
Trans Temp) – A shorter version of the long name. - Minimum Value:
0 - Maximum Value:
300 - Scale Factor:
x1 - Unit Type:
F - Equation:
(((((G*256)+H)*(7/100))-400)/10)Important: Ensure you have five opening parentheses at the beginning and no spaces in the equation. A green checkmark should appear if entered correctly.
4th Gen 4Runner Torque Pro Trans Temps PID Setup -1.jpgImage: Screenshot of Torque Pro app showing the “Edit Custom PID” screen with the top section filled in for 4th Gen 4Runner transmission temperature PID.
4th Gen 4Runner Torque Pro Trans Temps PID Setup -2.jpgImage: Screenshot of Torque Pro app showing the “Edit Custom PID” screen with the bottom section and equation filled in for 4th Gen 4Runner transmission temperature PID.
- OBD2 Mode and PID:
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Add the Transmission Temperature Gauge to Realtime Display:
- From the Torque Pro main screen, select ‘Realtime Information’.
- Tap the menu icon > ‘Add display’.
- Choose a display type (e.g., ‘Digital display’).
- Select the custom PID you just created (e.g., ‘Trans Temp F’ or whatever you named it).
- Choose a widget size and place it on your Torque Pro dashboard.
4th Gen 4Runner Torque Pro Trans Temps PID Setup -3.jpgImage: Screenshot of Torque Pro app showing the “Add Display” menu and selection of “Digital display”.
4th Gen 4Runner Torque Pro Trans Temps PID Setup -4.jpgImage: Screenshot of Torque Pro app showing the Realtime Information dashboard with a digital display gauge showing transmission temperature.
Now you can start your 2005 4Runner, and the Torque Pro app will display the real-time transmission fluid temperature. This method provides a precise and continuous reading, making it ideal for fluid level checks and monitoring transmission health, especially under different driving conditions.
Alternative Apps:
Besides Torque Pro, other OBD2 apps like OBD Fusion can also monitor Toyota transmission temperatures. These apps may offer enhanced diagnostics features for Toyota vehicles, sometimes requiring an additional purchase for model-specific features, which might include easier setup for transmission temperature monitoring.
Conclusion
Monitoring your 2005 4Runner’s transmission fluid temperature is essential for maintaining its longevity and performance. Whether you opt for the free paperclip method or invest in an OBD2 scanner and app, you now have the knowledge to accurately check your transmission fluid temperature and ensure your 4Runner stays running smoothly for years to come. Choose the method that best suits your needs and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re taking proactive steps in your 2005 4Runner’s maintenance.
