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Rear window open while driving

30K views 35 replies 26 participants last post by  bhoward  
#1 ·
I have previously seen discussion on this forum about this. Well it seems Toyota doesn't want it open. The "door open light" stays on. ;) Had to transport some 10' long evestrough home. If set on the dash they stick out the rear window about 3", so no flagging necessary. If you transport anything long like this, use a towel on the dash and rear door, and tie it in the rear to a cargo hook on the floor. Don't want any oopsies!
 
#2 ·
With it open just stick something in the latch for it to 'latch' on.

I use a 'S' carbiner connected to another carbiner keychain so that my window stays open enough to let air flow while still keeping the 3rd brake light in sight.

They also make something called a VentLock or something which can keep it open yet secure.


 
#3 ·
Yeah Toyota definitely did not intend for the rear window to be open while driving. This is reinforced by the fact that the rear window being open creates a negative pressure zone which sucks in all kinds of dirt and debris. Driving down a dirt road with the rear window open results in your entire interior being covered in a layer of dust.
 
#9 ·
There are some folks who drive around all summer with the rear window open (using a ventlock), though not on dirt roads I imagine.

I tried it once, but I suspect that a fair amount of exhaust comes in too. One of these days I might borrow a carbon monoxide detector from work and see if any appreciable amount of CO builds up. There is probably enough airflow to prevent any hazard, but it's still something I prefer not to breath.
 
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#10 ·
I just use the shank of a padlock.

I don't drive with the back window open, as it sucks in exhaust fumes and all sorts of things. Unless I'm carrying lengths of steel, etc.

I do keep it popped open when I'm sleeping in the back. The window latch sits on the lock, so its only open an inch or two, and with the front windows open a crack, there is good airflow.

The lock also comes in handy for lots of random things. Some guys like to lock a gate open so they don't get locked in. Grab it on the way out, and you're set!
 
#12 ·
I just use the shank of a padlock.

I don't drive with the back window open, as it sucks in exhaust fumes and all sorts of things. Unless I'm carrying lengths of steel, etc.

I do keep it popped open when I'm sleeping in the back. The window latch sits on the lock, so its only open an inch or two, and with the front windows open a crack, there is good airflow.

The lock also comes in handy for lots of random things. Some guys like to lock a gate open so they don't get locked in. Grab it on the way out, and you're set!
After tons of research I’m realizing a 400-1000$ mod for an automatic window is not worth it but I am interested in the shank of the padlock and how it’s used. Can you explain in more detail? Thanks so much in advance!
 
#13 ·
 
#18 ·
I use one of these. The small ones fit into the window latch to shut off the sensor, then just wrap the velcro around the U bolt. Need something to prop it open though-it closes while driving sometimes. The vent lock looks great until the glass breaks if you hit a pothole too hard--I think those are supposed to be for parked cars but I may be wrong-wouldn't be the first time today.
 
#20 ·
I use the same thing Norm356 uses. Have used it for years. Most always have the front windows open and I can drive down the highway with front windows open and very little buffeting and noise. If the front windows are closed, I don't notice exhaust fumes and I have the standard rear exit exhaust. Maybe its not open enough to create that much of a vacuum to suck in the exhaust? Also, don't activate the rear wiper with it open like that. It'll jam the wiper because the system thinks the window is closed.
-jim
 
#22 ·
There’s a guy On YouTube who did what seems to me to be a pretty good test on air flow into and through the FJ with the rear window propped open.

Spoiler alert 🚨

Air is sucked in from behind the vehicle if the window is open while driving.


Others have reported actually smelling exhaust and feeing the effects of CO poisoning.

Proceed with caution
Dan
 
#24 ·
There’s a guy On YouTube who did what seems to me to be a pretty good test on air flow into and through the FJ with the rear window propped open.
Frustrating video since he's almost impossible to hear, but he finally summarizes with one sentence at the end of 6+ minutes. Another spoiler: massive suck unless windows are closed. Guess I'll still get a 4" ventlock to keep interior cool while camping, and be the idiot with wild hair in my eyes and the front windows down at 80mph! lol Thanks for the vid link - informative!
 
#23 ·
I do like my CT4x4 power window, way more convenient than jumping in and out when going from paved to dirt roads. As far as exaust, I'm pretty sure the 4runner windows roll down, I have not had problems.
 
#25 ·
I use this no rattles and I keep it in almost all the time unless I remove it to wash the rig. While I'm on the trails the a-c is on non recirculation and it builds a slight positive pressure in the cabin to help keep the dust down a little bit but then the cabin air filter needs replaced. If you're on the trails and you're rig is clean you ain't having any fun.
 

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#28 ·
"Others have reported actually smelling exhaust and feeing the effects of CO poisoning."

It seems like about once a year a new thread is started on this topic, of using either a purchased device, or a very inexpensive, home made one, to prop the rear window open. Through the discussion there is usually one person warning of exhaust coming in, but then about a dozen others reply who have been doing it for years who've had no trouble with that at all.
 
#29 ·
I tried doing this once. Definitely could smell exhaust fumes in cabin with windows down. Not going to play with fire.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
 
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#30 ·
Just wear a mask, then you know your safe;)
 
#34 ·
I love mine open using the Sub
 
#35 ·
I love keeping mine open using the RadRubber Design Glass Stabilizer. It works great for pulling out cigarette smoke. Don't really plan on using on the trails though.
 

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