What is 4-D vs regular D? And when should I use it?

Just got a 4Runner and I’m not familiar with these options, thanks for your help!

 

I believe putting it in 4 allows transmission to go to 4th gear but no higher. I can do 1,2,3,and 4 in this mode but not 5. D allows it to use all gears however it sees fit. As far as when you would want to use 4 I don't know...I know some people when offroading put their vehicles into 1st or 2nd gear but I typically have no issues keeping it in D and 4HI, if I really am having issues I will do 4LO

 

oh my

 

4 D is for towing, not good to tow in overdrive.

 

When in just plain "D", you'll have access to gears 1-4 plus 5, which is overdrive. This allows you to get better mpg at speed. You'll use it for daily driving.

But as mentioned, when towing, the overdrive is too high of a gear. So, you essentially cut off the ability of the truck to shift into overdrive.