How to Install Rear Window MOLLE Panels on a 5th Gen 4Runner (No Drill)

Our rear window MOLLE panels bolt into the 2010–2024 4Runner's factory mounting points. No drilling, no cutting, nothing you can't undo. Here's how to do it right the first time.

Before you start

• Fits: 2010–2024 Toyota 4Runner (5th Gen). For the 2025+ 6th Gen, see our 6th Gen panels.
• Time: 30–60 minutes for both sides, working alone.
• Difficulty: Easy. If you can use a socket wrench, you can do this.
• 3rd-row seat owners: the panels sit near the side curtain airbag area. Don't carry passengers in the 3rd row with panels installed.

Tools

• 10 mm socket, extension and ratchet
• 10 mm wrench
• Phillips screwdriver
• Plastic trim tool or a flat screwdriver wrapped in tape
• Allen key to match the included hardware
• Blue thread locker (optional, recommended)

What's in the box

• Driver and passenger MOLLE panels
• Mounting hardware

Lay everything out and match the hardware to the steps below before you start.

Step 1: Clear the cargo area

Fold the 2nd-row seats if it gives you more room. Remove the cargo cover if you have one. Keep a small cup handy for screws and covers. You'll want them if you ever take the panels out.

Step 2: Remove the upper mounting point

Above each rear side window is the factory coat hook. Pop off its cover with the trim tool and remove the 10 mm bolt underneath. Set the bolt aside, since you'll reuse it.

Step 3: Remove the lower mounting points

Below the rear glass there's a small trim cover hiding a factory 10 mm bolt. Pry the cover off and remove the bolt. Toward the hatch, remove the screw or bolt holding the cargo tie-down.

Step 4: Install the spacers

Thread the included spacers into the lower mounting points by hand, then snug them up. Don't crank on them, or the threads can strip.

Step 5: Hang the panel

Hold the panel in position and start every bolt by hand, upper first, then the lower two. Don't tighten anything yet. Get all the bolts started so the panel can still shift into alignment.

Step 6: Align and tighten

With everything started, square the panel up, then tighten in a triangle pattern: lower front, lower rear, then upper. Snug plus a little, not gorilla tight. A drop of blue thread locker keeps them from backing out on washboard roads.

Watch the glass: when you pull a wrench or ratchet back, keep it clear of the rear window.

Step 7: Repeat on the other side

Same process for the opposite panel.

Step 8: Shake test

Grab each panel and give it a firm shake. No movement, no rattles. Load it with a bag or two, then check again after your first gravel road.

Installing the shelf version?

If you bought the MOLLE panels with shelf, fit the side panels loosely first, then set the shelf in place before final tightening so everything lines up.

Troubleshooting

• Panel won't line up: loosen all the bolts and start over with everything hand-tight.
• Rattle on the trail: recheck the tightness on all mounting points, then add a strip of felt tape where the panel touches the trim.
• Stripped spacer: email us and we'll send a replacement.

What to mount

Recovery straps, a first aid kit, tool rolls, a fire extinguisher, MOLLE pouches and small lights. Keep heavy items low and strapped down.

Need panels? Shop 5th Gen rear window MOLLE panels, or see installs for every 4YOTA part on our Install Guides page. Questions? Email support@4yota.com.