Multi-Terrain Select optimizes your Tacoma's traction for specific terrain types. Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all 4WD approach, MTS lets you select specialized modes that adjust brake control, steering feel, and drive force distribution to match the surface you're driving on. The system handles individual wheel braking, throttle response, and stability control so you can focus on driving.
(Reference: Owner's Manual, pg. 413-415)
When you select a terrain mode (Sand, Mud, Rock, etc.), the system automatically handles individual wheel braking, throttle response, and stability control to maximize traction without requiring constant driver intervention. It aggregates Toyota's traction technologies into terrain-optimized presets, so you don't have to manually configure multiple systems while navigating technical off-road sections.
The 4th gen Tacoma provides different terrain mode sets depending on whether you're in 4H (Four-Wheel High) or 4L (Four-Wheel Low).
AUTO - System automatically adapts to current road conditions
SAND - Sandy roads, loose gravel (allows controlled wheel spin)
MUD - Muddy terrain, deep ruts (permits wheel spin to maintain forward progress)
ROCK - Rocky terrain, technical crawling (maximum traction, minimizes wheel spin)
4L provides maximum torque multiplication for technical off-road obstacles requiring precise control at speeds <25 mph
AUTO - System automatically adapts to current road conditions
DIRT - Bumpy dirt roads, washboard surfaces
SAND - Sandy roads at higher speeds
MUD - Muddy roads, slippery conditions
DEEP SNOW - Deep snow, winter conditions
IMPORTANT: When you select SAND, MUD, or DEEP SNOW mode in 4H, VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) automatically turns off. This is intentional. These modes require wheel slip that VSC would prevent. The VSC OFF indicator light will illuminate. VSC resumes when you exit these modes or turn off MTS.
Step 1: Engage 4WD
Before activating MTS, shift your transfer case to 4H or 4L using the front-wheel drive control switch. MTS will not operate in 2H (two-wheel drive).
Step 2: Press the "MTS" Switch
Step 3: Select Your Terrain Mode
Step 4: Verify Activation
Check that the selected mode indicators are illuminated on the multi-information display. If indicators don't light up, MTS is not active.
Use AUTO mode when:
Use SAND/MUD modes when:
Use DIRT mode (4H only) when:
Use ROCK mode (4L only) when:
Use DEEP SNOW mode (4H only) when:
Normal Operating Characteristics (NOT malfunctions):
Brake Control Feedback:
When Multi-terrain Select's brake control activates, the slip indicator light will flash. You may feel pulsing through the brake pedal. Normal indications that MTS is actively managing traction.
Fuel Economy Impact:
Multi-terrain Select controls the vehicle to maximize drive force and improve drivability on rough roads. Fuel efficiency may drop when compared to driving in normal mode.
Method 1: When "MTS" switch indicator is illuminated (system running):
Press the "MTS" switch once. The system will turn off and the display will disappear.
Method 2: When "MTS" switch indicator is NOT illuminated (system standby):
Press the "MTS" switch to turn the indicator on, then press again with the indicator illuminated.
Multi-terrain Select will be canceled automatically in these situations:
Multi-terrain Select works with your Tacoma's other off-road systems:
Four-Wheel Drive System (Pages 404+):
Engage 4H or 4L as terrain demands. MTS optimizes traction within your selected 4WD range.
Rear Differential Lock (Pages 408+, if equipped):
Provides mechanical 100% lockup of rear differential. Engage when stuck or before difficult obstacles. Works in conjunction with MTS for maximum traction.
Crawl Control (if equipped):
Works in 4L only. Can be used simultaneously with MTS ROCK mode. Crawl Control manages throttle and brakes for obstacle crawling while MTS optimizes terrain-specific traction.
Downhill Assist Control / DAC:
Can be used with MTS for descents. MTS terrain mode optimizes traction during descent while DAC maintains set speed going downhill.
If you become stuck even with Multi-terrain Select engaged:
Recommended Sequence:
For detailed operation of the transfer case, differential lock, and other 4WD functions, refer to pages 404-422 in your owner's manual.
WARNING
When using the Multi-terrain Select
NOTICE
Precaution for use
Multi-terrain Select is intended for use during off-road driving. Do not use the system at any other time.
When to see your Toyota dealer:
MTS may be malfunctioning if:
If either condition occurs, have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer. Do not rely on MTS until the malfunction is diagnosed and repaired.
Leave MTS in AUTO mode for most situations
Most experienced users report leaving MTS in AUTO mode since it usually dials in traction appropriately. Only switch to terrain-specific modes when AUTO isn't providing the desired traction management.
Give the system a moment to react
In deep sand or mud conditions, allow MTS to adjust traction control before applying additional throttle. The system needs a brief moment to modulate brake intervention and throttle response.
Operate at low speeds for rocky terrain
MTS works best at low speeds, particularly when navigating rocky terrain. The brake-based traction control can more precisely manage individual wheel slip at crawling speeds.
Pair MTS with Crawl Control for technical terrain
The combination of MTS (traction management) and Crawl Control (automatic speed management) is effective for technical obstacles. Think of Crawl Control as off-road cruise control. It manages throttle and braking so you can focus on steering while MTS optimizes traction.
Combine with rear locking differential when truly stuck
When MTS alone isn't enough, engage the rear locking differential for mechanical 100% lockup. This combination becomes incredibly hard to get stuck in challenging terrain.
Sources: 4GTaco.com, TrailTundra, MotorTrend
Using excessive tire spin
Excessive tire spin can dig the vehicle in deeper instead of helping forward progress. Let MTS manage wheel slip rather than fighting the system with aggressive throttle application. The brake-based traction control is designed to limit counterproductive wheel spin.
Not switching back to normal mode on pavement
After off-road use, return to normal 2H mode when back on pavement to preserve tires and drivetrain components. Running in 4WD modes on dry pavement causes tire scrubbing and drivetrain binding, accelerating component wear.
Activating MTS when it's not needed
Don't activate MTS unless you're experiencing significant wheel slip. The system isn't necessary for normal driving conditions and running MTS unnecessarily reduces fuel economy.
Sources: TrailTundra, 4GTaco.com
The 4th generation Tacoma's MTS system is virtually silent with none of the ABS clunking that the previous iteration was known for. This addresses a major complaint from 3rd generation owners who experienced loud brake modulation noise during MTS operation.
When used correctly, MTS allows you to push your vehicle well beyond its perceived limits. Users with 100,000+ miles of technical trail experience found they could tackle difficult trails without aftermarket suspension modifications.
Sources: MotorTrend, Torque News
This guide synthesizes information from:
The extracted PDF pages for this topic are attached for your reference. Always consult your physical owner's manual for warranty compliance.
Owner's Manual Pages:
Additional Sources:
Disclaimer:
This guide is derived from the official 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual (OM04041U) with supplementary information from the owner community and automotive publications. Always follow your official owner's manual for warranty compliance. This is a reference guide only.
(Reference: Owner's Manual, pg. 413-415)
Multi-Terrain Select, MTS Modes, Terrain Selection, Off-Road Traction
When you select a terrain mode (Sand, Mud, Rock, etc.), the system automatically handles individual wheel braking, throttle response, and stability control to maximize traction without requiring constant driver intervention. It aggregates Toyota's traction technologies into terrain-optimized presets, so you don't have to manually configure multiple systems while navigating technical off-road sections.
Available Terrain Modes: 4H vs 4L
The 4th gen Tacoma provides different terrain mode sets depending on whether you're in 4H (Four-Wheel High) or 4L (Four-Wheel Low).
When in 4L (Four-Wheel Low)
AUTO - System automatically adapts to current road conditions
SAND - Sandy roads, loose gravel (allows controlled wheel spin)
MUD - Muddy terrain, deep ruts (permits wheel spin to maintain forward progress)
ROCK - Rocky terrain, technical crawling (maximum traction, minimizes wheel spin)
4L provides maximum torque multiplication for technical off-road obstacles requiring precise control at speeds <25 mph
When in 4H (Four-Wheel High)
AUTO - System automatically adapts to current road conditions
DIRT - Bumpy dirt roads, washboard surfaces
SAND - Sandy roads at higher speeds
MUD - Muddy roads, slippery conditions
DEEP SNOW - Deep snow, winter conditions
IMPORTANT: When you select SAND, MUD, or DEEP SNOW mode in 4H, VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) automatically turns off. This is intentional. These modes require wheel slip that VSC would prevent. The VSC OFF indicator light will illuminate. VSC resumes when you exit these modes or turn off MTS.
How to Use Multi-Terrain Select
Engaging the System
Step 1: Engage 4WD
Before activating MTS, shift your transfer case to 4H or 4L using the front-wheel drive control switch. MTS will not operate in 2H (two-wheel drive).
Step 2: Press the "MTS" Switch
- Locate the "MTS" button on your center console
- Press once to activate the system
- The "MTS" switch indicator light should illuminate
- Multi-terrain Select display appears on multi-information display
Step 3: Select Your Terrain Mode
- While turning the mode select switch left and right, choose the mode that matches your terrain
- Selected mode displays on the multi-information display with corresponding icon
- Mode indicators will illuminate when successfully engaged
- Wait for confirmation before proceeding onto technical terrain
Step 4: Verify Activation
Check that the selected mode indicators are illuminated on the multi-information display. If indicators don't light up, MTS is not active.
Selecting the Right Mode for Your Terrain
Use AUTO mode when:
- Terrain conditions are mixed or uncertain
- Transitioning between surface types
- You want the system to make real-time adjustments
Use SAND/MUD modes when:
- Surface requires momentum (wheel spin is beneficial)
- You need to maintain forward progress through loose material
- Traditional traction control would intervene too aggressively
Use DIRT mode (4H only) when:
- Driving washboard dirt roads at moderate speeds
- Surface is uneven but not requiring low-range gearing
Use ROCK mode (4L only) when:
- Rock crawling or navigating boulder fields
- Maximum individual wheel traction required
- Precise throttle control critical (crawling situations)
Use DEEP SNOW mode (4H only) when:
- Driving through deep, unplowed snow
- Maintaining momentum is essential
System Behavior and Characteristics
Normal Operating Characteristics (NOT malfunctions):
- Vibrations may be felt throughout the vehicle or steering wheel (brake-based traction control modulating individual wheels)
- Operating noise may be heard from the engine compartment (ABS hydraulic unit and brake actuators working)
- Throttle response may feel different than normal driving (drive force control optimizing for terrain mode)
Brake Control Feedback:
When Multi-terrain Select's brake control activates, the slip indicator light will flash. You may feel pulsing through the brake pedal. Normal indications that MTS is actively managing traction.
Fuel Economy Impact:
Multi-terrain Select controls the vehicle to maximize drive force and improve drivability on rough roads. Fuel efficiency may drop when compared to driving in normal mode.
Turning Off Multi-Terrain Select
Method 1: When "MTS" switch indicator is illuminated (system running):
Press the "MTS" switch once. The system will turn off and the display will disappear.
Method 2: When "MTS" switch indicator is NOT illuminated (system standby):
Press the "MTS" switch to turn the indicator on, then press again with the indicator illuminated.
Automatic System Cancelation
Multi-terrain Select will be canceled automatically in these situations:
- When the engine switch is turned off
- When the front-wheel drive control switch is in "2H"
- When "TOW HAUL" mode is selected while in "4H"
- When drive mode select is selected while in "4H"
Integration with Other 4WD Systems
Multi-terrain Select works with your Tacoma's other off-road systems:
Four-Wheel Drive System (Pages 404+):
Engage 4H or 4L as terrain demands. MTS optimizes traction within your selected 4WD range.
Rear Differential Lock (Pages 408+, if equipped):
Provides mechanical 100% lockup of rear differential. Engage when stuck or before difficult obstacles. Works in conjunction with MTS for maximum traction.
Crawl Control (if equipped):
Works in 4L only. Can be used simultaneously with MTS ROCK mode. Crawl Control manages throttle and brakes for obstacle crawling while MTS optimizes terrain-specific traction.
Downhill Assist Control / DAC:
Can be used with MTS for descents. MTS terrain mode optimizes traction during descent while DAC maintains set speed going downhill.
When the Vehicle is Stuck
If you become stuck even with Multi-terrain Select engaged:
Recommended Sequence:
- Try different MTS modes (switch from AUTO to terrain-specific mode)
- Engage rear differential lock (if equipped) for mechanical traction
- Shift to 4L if currently in 4H (maximum torque multiplication)
- Combine MTS ROCK mode + rear diff lock + 4L for maximum capability
For detailed operation of the transfer case, differential lock, and other 4WD functions, refer to pages 404-422 in your owner's manual.
Safety Precautions
WARNING
When using the Multi-terrain Select
- Check that the selected mode indicators are illuminated before driving. Multi-terrain Select will not operate when the indicators are off.
- The road conditions listed are for reference only. The function may not be the most appropriate depending on pitch, slipperiness, undulation, etc. Check the road conditions thoroughly before driving.
- Multi-terrain Select is not intended to expand the limits of the vehicle. Check the road conditions thoroughly beforehand, and drive safely and carefully.
NOTICE
Precaution for use
Multi-terrain Select is intended for use during off-road driving. Do not use the system at any other time.
Malfunction Indicators
When to see your Toyota dealer:
MTS may be malfunctioning if:
- When the slip indicator light illuminates (steady, not flashing). Flashing slip indicator = normal operation. Steady illumination = potential system fault.
- When the indicator for each mode does not illuminate on the multi-information display even though Multi-terrain Select is selected.
If either condition occurs, have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer. Do not rely on MTS until the malfunction is diagnosed and repaired.
Pro Tips from the 4th Gen Tacoma Community
Leave MTS in AUTO mode for most situations
Most experienced users report leaving MTS in AUTO mode since it usually dials in traction appropriately. Only switch to terrain-specific modes when AUTO isn't providing the desired traction management.
Give the system a moment to react
In deep sand or mud conditions, allow MTS to adjust traction control before applying additional throttle. The system needs a brief moment to modulate brake intervention and throttle response.
Operate at low speeds for rocky terrain
MTS works best at low speeds, particularly when navigating rocky terrain. The brake-based traction control can more precisely manage individual wheel slip at crawling speeds.
Pair MTS with Crawl Control for technical terrain
The combination of MTS (traction management) and Crawl Control (automatic speed management) is effective for technical obstacles. Think of Crawl Control as off-road cruise control. It manages throttle and braking so you can focus on steering while MTS optimizes traction.
Combine with rear locking differential when truly stuck
When MTS alone isn't enough, engage the rear locking differential for mechanical 100% lockup. This combination becomes incredibly hard to get stuck in challenging terrain.
Sources: 4GTaco.com, TrailTundra, MotorTrend
Common MTS Mistakes to Avoid
Using excessive tire spin
Excessive tire spin can dig the vehicle in deeper instead of helping forward progress. Let MTS manage wheel slip rather than fighting the system with aggressive throttle application. The brake-based traction control is designed to limit counterproductive wheel spin.
Not switching back to normal mode on pavement
After off-road use, return to normal 2H mode when back on pavement to preserve tires and drivetrain components. Running in 4WD modes on dry pavement causes tire scrubbing and drivetrain binding, accelerating component wear.
Activating MTS when it's not needed
Don't activate MTS unless you're experiencing significant wheel slip. The system isn't necessary for normal driving conditions and running MTS unnecessarily reduces fuel economy.
Sources: TrailTundra, 4GTaco.com
4th Generation Tacoma MTS Improvements
The 4th generation Tacoma's MTS system is virtually silent with none of the ABS clunking that the previous iteration was known for. This addresses a major complaint from 3rd generation owners who experienced loud brake modulation noise during MTS operation.
When used correctly, MTS allows you to push your vehicle well beyond its perceived limits. Users with 100,000+ miles of technical trail experience found they could tackle difficult trails without aftermarket suspension modifications.
Sources: MotorTrend, Torque News
Manual Pages Reference
This guide synthesizes information from:
- Pages 413-415: Multi-Terrain Select operation
- Pages 404-422: Related 4WD systems (transfer case, differential lock, Crawl Control, DAC)
The extracted PDF pages for this topic are attached for your reference. Always consult your physical owner's manual for warranty compliance.
Source Attribution
Owner's Manual Pages:
- Primary content: Pages 413-415
- Related systems: Pages 404-422
Additional Sources:
- 4GTaco.com (4th Gen Tacoma enthusiast forum)
- TrailTundra (Toyota off-road enthusiast site)
- MotorTrend (automotive publication)
- Torque News (automotive news publication)
Disclaimer:
This guide is derived from the official 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual (OM04041U) with supplementary information from the owner community and automotive publications. Always follow your official owner's manual for warranty compliance. This is a reference guide only.
