How to Solve the Flashing 4lo in Prado?
4 Answers
Prado's flashing 4lo indicates entry into the low-speed cruise system, which is the automatic hill-climbing function. Press the brake, shift into N gear, then lift the first of the four levers in front of the center console from left to right (the one marked with a P). After three seconds, these lights will no longer appear. Below is an introduction to the model: The Toyota Prado is positioned as a mid-to-large SUV, with body dimensions of length, width, and height being: 4840/1885/1890mm, and a wheelbase of 2790mm. The version with a rear-mounted spare tire has a length of 5010mm. The entire lineup is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 naturally aspirated engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It delivers a maximum power of 206KW, maximum horsepower of 280PS, maximum torque of 365N・m, maximum power speed at 6000rpm, and maximum torque speed at 4500rpm.
Last time my friend's decade-old Prado had the same issue, turned out the 4WD shift motor was stuck after hours of troubleshooting. When the 4LO light flashes, it's basically the transfer case throwing a tantrum - most likely due to carbon buildup in the shift motor or poor sensor contact. Take it to the shop for a proper carbon cleaning, and remind the mechanic to check the motor gears for wear while they're at it. If it only flashes during cold winter starts, chances are the transmission fluid's too thick to flow properly. I've seen cases where revving the engine a couple times makes the light go away temporarily, but you'll still need fresh fluid eventually. These old-school off-roaders are nightmares when 4WD systems act up - better get it sorted sooner than later.
Our off-road team encountered this issue during desert runs. When the 4LO light flashes rapidly, you must immediately stop and shift to neutral, then try toggling between high and low range several times. If you hear creaking sounds from the chassis but the light keeps flashing, it's likely a position sensor drift issue. Those with modified underbody protection plates should be cautious - deformed skid plates compressing transfer case sensor wiring can also trigger false alerts. Last time my vehicle scraped the chassis during articulation, we found the wiring harness connectors full of mud upon disassembly. The mechanic taught us a field fix: unplug the shift motor connector, spray some electrical contact cleaner, let it dry completely, then reconnect firmly. If disconnecting the battery for reset doesn't work, immediately scan for transmission trouble codes.
When driving a Prado into Tibet on rough roads, this warning light is the most dreaded. Don't rush to engage 4WD—first pull over safely and shift to Park. Use a wrench to tap the transfer case housing a few times; sometimes this can dislodge a stuck solenoid valve. Focus on three key areas: check if the shift motor connector is loose, verify transmission fluid levels are adequate, and inspect vacuum lines for leaks. Older vehicles are particularly prone to vacuum solenoid valve leaks. Last time rescuing a fellow driver, we found oxidized control box pins—sanding them and reinserting solved the issue immediately. For short-distance drives back to the repair shop, remember to stay in High range at low speeds to avoid burning clutch plates.
