Fix Poor Throttle Response With This Plug And Play Mod
Before I get into the install details and review, let me explain exactly what the Pedal Commander® is.
This is a throttle response control module that allows you to adjust the sensitivity of the gas pedal. From the factory, 3rd Gen Tacomas have a “mushy” or “dead” throttle response. When you add a lift, larger tires and heavy accessories, the lag only becomes worse.
Modern cars and trucks use a gas pedal that sends an electrical signal to the engine and fuel management systems. This sensitivity is pre-set from the factory and is usually not very responsive. This is where the Pedal Commander® comes in.
The module plugs in between the gas pedal assembly and the factory wiring harness. When it’s plugged in, it modulates the input to the computer to vary your pedal sensitivity.
I’ll admit, I was skeptical about this product before I had it installed.
You’re telling me all I do is plug it into my gas pedal and that’s it? No wait time or tuning required? Pedal Commander® makes some bold claims for this product. Once you see and feel it for yourself, you’ll believe it too, its pretty impressive which is why most Tacoma and 4Runner owners are running one.
Let’s go through the various settings.
ECO
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Reduces throttle response by 50% versus stock.
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This mode can help to save up to 20% fuel.
I like to view this setting as a valet mode. This kills the throttle response making it safer to drive minimizing any unnecessary throttle jolting.
I don’t trust many people with my truck. I’ve had it valet parked only a handful of times. I set it in ECO mode before handing the keys off to give myself a little peace of mind.
I personally never drive with this setting on. It’s pretty boring! I can’t attest to the 20% increase in MPGs that Pedal Commander® claims because I haven’t tested it myself. But let’s be honest, most of us didn’t buy this product to save fuel, we got it to go fast!
CITY
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Increased response for active traffic.
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Suggested for daily driving.
This setting provides a nice and subtle upgrade from the stock pedal response that you’re used to.
This is the mode I use for daily driving. It eliminates the early pedal lag without kicking you back in the seat every time. Don’t let the CITY mode name fool you though, it’s still pretty strong.
SPORT
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High-performance response for spirited driving.
Now we are getting into the jumpy, jittery, and peppy response we are looking for.
This feels like a 4X increase in response/sensitivity from stock. You might think this was the highest and strongest it could be but you’d be wrong. We’ve got one more setting to go!
SPORT+
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Extreme response.
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Strongly suggested for track and race use.
I use this mode when doing donuts in the dirt or fooling around off-road when I want the tires to get loose and spinning. This is a fun mode and will give you a major advantage off of the line.
This is as extreme as Pedal Commander® claims. It knocks your head back in the seat. Be ready for it! Your tires will slip sometimes even on dry pavement.
Read Louie’s full review HERE.
