How To Build a Custom Toyota FJ Cruiser

From factory options to off-road upgrades, here are the best ways to build a custom Toyota FJ Cruiser.
Written by Amber Reed
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
With an original design that focused almost exclusively on off-road capabilities and extensive customization options, you can personalize the rugged, turn-of-the-century Toyota FJ Cruiser exactly the way you want.
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a midsize, robust SUV that was designed from the ground up with rough terrain in mind. Manufactured between 2007 and 2014, the FJ Cruiser didn’t generate much interest during its eight-year run, but it’s wildly popular today with off-roaders and modding enthusiasts—with some models of this sporty
Toyota
selling for more than $30,000 at classic car auctions in 2021.
But building a custom FJ Cruiser can get a little complicated. Luckily, we're here to help you understand the add-ons and packages that were originally available for the FJ Cruiser, as well as the current aftermarket modification options.

Toyota FJ Cruiser customization options

Adored for a delightfully quirky body style and ability to glide over tough landscapes, the Toyota FJ Cruiser is a great canvas for customization—starting with the original models, which offered upgrades like improved traction control, shock absorbers, and advanced instrumentation like an inclinometer and compass.
The Toyota FJ Cruiser only had one trim level, but you could choose between a two-wheel drive automatic transmission, a four-wheel-drive manual transmission, or a four-wheel drive automatic transmission version. In addition, there were three special-edition FJ Cruisers, which include:
  • TRD Special Edition: This version of the 2007 FJ Cruiser featured a monochromatic color scheme, a specially-tuned suspension, and other mechanical upgrades designed to improve offroad performance. Only 3,200 of the TRD Special Edition were ever produced.
  • Trail Teams Special Edition: This model was produced in limited runs from 2008 to 2013 and further improved off-road performance with a “trail-tuned” suspension and shocks, all-terrain tires, and other upgrades.
  • Trail Teams Ultimate Edition: Released in the FJ Cruiser’s last year, this edition included more mechanical upgrades, but highlighted improved shocks that offered high-speed stability. Toyota only made 2,500 of the Trail Teams Ultimate Edition, and it is the only model to include an exclusive gray finish on its wheels.
All FJ Cruisers come with a 4.0-liter V6, but later models have increased power. FJ Cruisers from 2007 to 2009 get 239 horsepower, while 2010 models get 259 horsepower and models from 2011 onwards get 260 horsepower

Toyota FJ Cruiser packages and options

If you’re looking to buy a used FJ Cruiser, you might want to keep an eye out for the package options Toyota offered to help drivers customize their vehicles.
Package
Features
Convenience Package
Rear privacy glass, rear wiper, spare tire cover, keyless entry, cruise control, rearview camera, auto-dimming rearview mirror
Upgrade Package
Leather-wrapped steering wheel, 17-inch alloy wheels, upgraded traction control on four-wheel-drive models, rear parking sensors, ancillary gauges and trip computer functions, 11-speaker sound system with CD changer
Offroad Package
Bilstein shock absorbers, locking rear differential on automatic transmission models, upgraded traction control system, additional instrument panels
Accessory Package
First-aid kit, all-weather floor mats, cargo mat, passenger armrest, rear-door storage net
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In addition to packages, Toyota had individual upgrade options available for the FJ Cruiser, including all-terrain tires, larger brakes, and a performance exhaust kit.

How to customize your Toyota FJ Cruiser to save money

In most cases, a highly modified FJ Cruiser will cost more than a stock model, and aftermarket customizations can be expensive and often lead to higher
car insurance
costs. But there are a few mods that can actually save you money in the long term.
Security systems like aftermarket alarms can deter thieves or prevent vandalism, while a vehicle recovery system with GPS tracking helps the police find your car if it’s been stolen. Another great aftermarket mod is a car security camera or dashcam, which can help you save money after an accident if the footage proves the other driver is at fault.
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The best Toyota FJ Cruiser mods

If you’re looking to customize your Toyota FJ Cruiser in 2022 and aren’t mechanically inclined yourself, the first thing you need to do is find a good performance technician to work on your vehicle. Your technician can inspect your FJ Cruiser and work with you to select aftermarket mods that meet your needs and benefit your car. 
Here are a few upgrades to keep in mind when customizing your Toyota FJ Cruiser:

Tires

The FJ Cruiser was designed for off-roading, so if you’re looking to traverse bumpy back roads in your cruiser, investing in a set of all-terrain tires is a must—and for the more aggressive adventures, mud tires can combat rocky, steep, or sludgy driving conditions.
If off-roading isn’t your thing, and you just want to enhance the FJ Cruiser’s already quirky appearance, you can try out a set of oversized tires or stylish rims.

Suspension

A lift kit might be among the most popular FJ Cruiser customizations. Although a stock model already has a generous 10 inches of ground clearance, a modified suspension allows your vehicle to accommodate larger tires, which can further improve off-road performance. The type of lift kit you need will depend on your vehicle, your tires, and the terrain you will be off-roading on—your technician can help you determine which kit is right for you.

Engine

The FJ Cruiser’s base 4.0-liter V6 engine might be a little disappointing in 2022, so swapping it out for a high-performance engine like a V8 can give you more power, speed, and towing capacity.
Less extreme engine upgrades that still offer a power boost include a cold air intake, throttle module, or supercharger.
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How to find affordable car insurance for your Toyota FJ Cruiser

A lot of customizations or aftermarket mods on your car can sometimes increase your
car insurance
rates. But finding affordable coverage for a custom Toyota FJ Cruiser doesn’t have to be difficult—all you need to do is download
Jerry
, the
trustworthy broker app
Jerry can collect quotes from dozens of top insurance companies, like Travelers, Nationwide, and Progressive, in seconds! They’ll handle all the phone calls and paperwork, and can even help cancel your old policy. 
And to ensure you always have the lowest rate, Jerry will send you new quotes every time your policy comes up for renewal, so you’re always getting the coverage you want at the best price. This level of service is why Jerry earned a 4.6/5 rating on the App Store and made it the top insurance app in the country.
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