Positioning:
Premium full-size SUV renowned for its off-road capability and legendary reliability.
Competitors:
Ford Excursion, Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, GMC Yukon/Yukon XL, Jeep Grand Cherokee (larger trims), Land Rover Discovery.
Features:
Robust chassis, advanced 4WD system (full-time 4WD with locking center differential), powerful V8 engine, luxurious interior appointments, exceptional towing capacity.
Advantage:
Offers a convenient, affordable, and comprehensive alternative to expensive printed manuals and dealership service.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, engine control system (ECM).
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic), transfer case, differentials (front and rear), drive shafts, axles.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, power assist, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake components (discs, pads, calipers), parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, linkage.
Suspension:
Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (solid axle with links), shock absorbers, springs, stabilizer bars.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, dashboard indicators, power accessories, body electrical.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, operation, and service.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, mirrors, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, roof rack.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt inspections).
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures and common issue troubleshooting for all major systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and testing procedures.
Rebuilds:
Engine and transmission rebuild procedures.
Depth:
Factory-derived OE (Original Equipment) level technical information for professional and DIY use.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Overdrive (ECT-i)
Transfer Case:
Full-time 4WD with locking center differential and 2-speed transfer case (Hi-Low range)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Toyota Genuine ATF WS (World Standard) or equivalent DEXRON III
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
10.0 Liters (10.6 US Quarts) for initial fill
Length:
192.1 inches (4880 mm)
Width:
76.4 inches (1940 mm)
Height:
73.0 inches (1855 mm)
Wheelbase:
112.2 inches (2850 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,750 - 5,200 lbs (2155 - 2359 kg)
Towing Capacity:
7,000 lbs (3175 kg)
Payload Capacity:
Approx. 1,400 lbs (635 kg)
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 45.2 cu ft (behind 2nd row), 94.5 cu ft (with 2nd row folded)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4/5 stars (for models equipped with side curtain airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control (TRAC)
Stability Control:
Standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional front-seat side airbags and side-curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters for all seating positions.
Audio System:
Premium JBL audio system with CD player and 6-10 speakers was often optional. Some models featured Nakamichi premium sound.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on audio connectivity, with some models offering rudimentary phone integration through optional kits.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using conventional oil). 10,000 miles or 12 months with synthetic oil (check manual for specific recommendations).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 60,000 miles, but can vary based on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific guidance.
Coolant Replacement:
Toyota Super Long Life Coolant recommended at 100,000 miles initially, then every 50,000 miles thereafter.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or SAE 10W-30
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.9 Liters (7.3 US Quarts) with filter change
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 SAE J1703
Power Steering Fluid:
Toyota Genuine Power Steering Fluid or DEXRON II/III ATF
Common Issues:
Exhaust manifold cracks (especially rear bank), catalytic converter issues, potential for ABS actuator failure, front differential seal leaks, occasional starter motor issues. The manual will detail diagnostic and repair procedures for these.
Brand Reputation:
Toyota is synonymous with reliability, durability, and quality, particularly in its SUVs and trucks.
Generation:
J100 generation (1998-2007), representing a significant redesign with a larger platform and improved amenities.
Production Years:
The 2003 model year is part of the first phase of the J100 generation.
