Why Every Tacoma & 4Runner Needs Skid Plates

Skid Plates Are A Must-Have For Any Serious Overlander

Protect your investment, explore with confidence, and armor up for the trail—because your off-road rig deserves it.

Whether you're climbing rock gardens in Moab, crossing water-logged trails in the Pacific Northwest, or cruising desert washes in the Southwest, your Toyota Tacoma or 4Runner is built to go the distance. But even the most capable off-road machines have vulnerable underbellies. That’s where skid plates come in.

If you’re not running skid plates, you’re risking major damage to critical components—and potentially racking up thousands in repairs. In this post, we’ll break down exactly why skid plates are a must-have mod for every serious off-roader.

What Are Skid Plates?

Skid plates are durable metal armor (usually steel or aluminum) bolted directly to your vehicle’s undercarriage. Their job? To shield vital parts from rocks, stumps, debris, and whatever else the trail throws at you.

Common Areas Protected by Skid Plates:

• Engine oil pan

• Transmission housing

• Transfer case

• Fuel tank

• Front differential

• Radiator cross members

Without protection, one bad bounce off a boulder can crack your oil pan or puncture your transmission case—stranding you in the wild and draining your wallet.

Why Skid Plates Are Essential for Tacomas 4Runners

1. Toyota Trucks Are Trail Favorites

Tacomas and 4Runners are off-road legends—but their popularity means many drivers push them to their limits. From lifted suspensions to oversized tires, the more you mod, the more aggressive your trails get—and the more critical underbody protection becomes.

2. OEM Protection Just Isn’t Enough

While some models come with light factory skid plates, they’re often thin, stamped steel that bends easily or leaves major components exposed. Aftermarket skid plates like those from Cali Raised LED are precision-fit, laser-cut, and trail-tested for real protection.

3. You’ll Save Money in the Long Run

Replacing a fuel tank or repairing a damaged transmission can cost thousands. Compare that to a complete skid plate kit starting under $1200, and the value becomes crystal clear. Skid plates aren’t just protection—they’re peace of mind

Real-World Scenarios Where Skid Plates Save the Day

• Deep ruts in muddy trails? Skid plates keep you sliding instead of snagging.

• Unexpected drop-offs? They absorb impact so your oil pan doesn’t have to.

• Rock crawling in tight spots? Glide over jagged edges without cracking a casing.

Our customers often tell us their Cali Raised LED skid plates took the hit—and saved their truck.

Cali Raised LED Skid Plates: Features, Options Why They’re Better

When it comes to protecting your Tacoma or 4Runner, Cali Raised LED skid plates offer unmatched durability, customization, and value.

Key Features:

• 100% Bolt-On Installation – No drilling, uses factory hardware.

• Material Options – Choose from 3/16" steel or 1/4" aluminum.

• Finishes – Available in raw or powder-coated black for corrosion resistance.

• Modular System – Protect what you need, when you need it.

• Made in the USA – Manufactured in Fort Worth, TX.

• 2-Year Warranty – Trail-tested, backed by confidence.

Most Popular Skid Plates:

• Front Skid Plate – Tacoma

• Front Skid Plate – 4Runner

• 4Runner Transmission Skid Plate
  

• 4Runner Transfer Case Skid Plate
  

• Transmission Cat Shield Skid Plate - Tacoma

• Fuel Tank Skid Plate - 4Runner

• Fuel Tank Skid Plate - Tacoma
  

• Complete Skid Plate Kits

Pricing Overview:

• Individual Skid Plates: Starting around$160–$305

• Full Packages: Starting at $1,127.09
  (Prices vary by model, material, and finish)
  
  

Complete Your Protection Package

Pair your skid plates with our rock sliders, ditch light brackets, and roof racks for a fully armored adventure rig that’s ready for anything withCali Raised LED

FAQs

Are skid plates hard to install?

Not at all. Most Cali Raised LED skid plates are direct bolt-on using factory hardware. Installation typically takes under 2 hours with basic tools.

Do I need the full skid plate kit?

You can start with the engine/front skid, but we recommend protecting all key components. Our modular kits make it easy to upgrade in stages.

Will skid plates reduce fuel economy?

The weight difference is minimal, especially with aluminum options. The protection and peace of mind far outweigh any slight MPG drop.

Final Thoughts

If you’re hitting the trail without skid plates, you’re taking an unnecessary risk. Skid plates are a critical upgrade for anyone serious about off-roading or overlanding in their Tacoma or 4Runner.

Shop Cali Raised LED's Full Skid Plate Collection