{"title":"3rd Gen 4Runner \u0026 Hilux Surf Dash Mats (96–02)","description":"\u003cp\u003eDash mats and dash covers for the 3rd Gen 4Runner \/ Hilux Surf (N180\/N185, 1996–2002). NZ sun is brutal on a 25-year-old dash — once the original cracks, it's a fortune to replace. A custom-fit dash mat is the cheap insurance policy that keeps your dash looking original for another decade. Carpet and moulded options, cut for the 3rd Gen specifically.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFitment\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eEvery dash mat is custom-cut for the 3rd Gen 4Runner \/ Hilux Surf dash, 1996–2002. Fits KZN185, RZN185 and VZN185. Cutouts for factory speaker grilles, the defrost vents and the centre dash trim are pre-shaped.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhat's In This Collection\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eCarpet dash mats in the Surf Syndicate spec (medium-pile, UV-stable, cut for 3rd Gen dash geometry) and moulded covers for trucks with already-cracked dashes. Velcro mounting comes included — no adhesive, no permanent fixings.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhy Choose Surf Syndicate\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eGeneric 4x4 dash mats rarely fit a 3rd Gen properly — the dash curvature is specific. Ours are cut from a 3rd Gen template and have been fitted on real trucks to confirm the speaker cutouts and side wings sit flush. NZ shipped, fast.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWill it fit if my dash already has cracks?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the mat lays over the existing dash and hides minor cracks. For severely split dashes a moulded dash cover may be a better fit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does it stay in place?\u003c\/strong\u003e Velcro tabs on the back lock to small hook-side patches on the dash. No adhesive residue, easy to remove.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWill it block the airbag light or defrost?\u003c\/strong\u003e No — the cutouts are pre-shaped for the dash sensor, defrost vents and speaker grilles.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe right home for searches like '3rd gen 4runner dash mat', 'KZN185 dash cover', 'hilux surf dash mat NZ', 'N185 dash protector' and '3rd gen surf carpet dash mat'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShop similar collections:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/3rd-gen-hilux-surf-armrests-1996-2002\"\u003e3rd Gen Armrests (96–02)\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/3rd-gen-hilux-surf-cup-holders-1996-2002\"\u003e3rd Gen Cup Holders (96–02)\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/3rd-gen-4runner-hilux-surf-seat-covers-1996-2002\"\u003e3rd Gen Seat Covers (96–02)\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/3rd-gen-hilux-surf-gear-knobs-1996-2002\"\u003e3rd Gen Gear Knobs (96–02)\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/3rd-gen-4runner-hilux-surf-window-visors-1996-2002\"\u003e3rd Gen Window Visors (96–02)\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"hilux-surf-carpet-dash-mat-l-3rd-gen-96-02","title":"Surf Carpet Dash Mat l 3rd Gen 96 - 02","description":"\u003ch3\u003eTHE SILENT INTERIOR KILLER: Why Your 3rd Gen Dash is One Summer Away from a Death Crack\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe sun doesn't just fade interiors, it destroys them.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou've seen it on high-mileage rigs. That deep, jagged crack running right through the centre of the dash. Once it starts, there is no fixing it. For the 3rd Gen Hilux Surf, the dash is the first thing the sun hits, and the last thing you want to replace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy This Is the Most Under-Rated Upgrade for Your Surf:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eUV IRON CLAD PROTECTION:\u003c\/b\u003e Our heavy-duty carpet absorbs the heat and blocks 100% of the UV rays that turn your factory plastic brittle.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eKILL THE GLARE:\u003c\/b\u003e Tired of seeing the reflection of your dash in the windscreen? This matte-finish carpet eliminates hazardous reflections for crystal-clear vision.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eCUSTOM MOULDED:\u003c\/b\u003e Precision-moulded to the specific curves, air vents, and sensors of the 185-series. It looks like it belongs there.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eTEMPERATURE CONTROL:\u003c\/b\u003e Acts as an insulator, keeping your cabin significantly cooler and taking the strain off your AC.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eINSTANT \"FRESH\" INTERIOR:\u003c\/b\u003e The quickest way to restore that premium, clean look without spending thousands.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe \"Syndicate\" Promise\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e✅ \u003cb\u003eGuaranteed RHD Fitment\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e✅ \u003cb\u003eFREE Worldwide Shipping\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e✅ \u003cb\u003e45+ Five-Star Reviews\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSpec\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDetail\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFitment\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1996-2002 Toyota Hilux Surf \/ 4Runner (3rd Gen, 185-series)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDrive orientation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRHD — guaranteed fitment for NZ, AU, UK, JP markets\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eColours\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDark Grey with Dark Grey edging, or Black with Black edging\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMaterial\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHeavy-duty UV-blocking carpet with matte finish\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCutouts\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePre-cut for factory air vents and sensors\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMounting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSits on top of dash — held in place by friction and fit\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShipping\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFree worldwide\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003ch4\u003eWill this dash mat fit my 3rd Gen Hilux Surf or 4Runner?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The Surf Carpet Dash Mat is precision-moulded for the 3rd Gen Hilux Surf and 4Runner (185-series, KZN185 \/ VZN185 \/ RZN185 \/ KDN185, 1996-2002). The cutouts line up with the factory air vents and sensors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes this dash mat fit LHD 4Runners?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis mat is moulded for RHD (right-hand drive) vehicles, which is what the Hilux Surf was sold as worldwide outside North America. The 3rd Gen 4Runner sold in the US is left-hand drive and has a mirrored dash — this mat will not fit LHD 4Runners correctly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes this dash mat actually block UV rays?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The carpet construction blocks 100% of UV rays from reaching the underlying dash plastic — preventing the brittle cracking that gives old Surfs that \"death crack\" down the centre of the dash.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch4\u003eWill the dash mat cover the air vents?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. The mat is pre-cut with openings for all factory air vents, the defrost vents, the warning light sensors, and the airbag sensor. Airflow is unaffected.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch4\u003eHow do I install the dash mat?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo fasteners or adhesive needed. Lay the mat on the dash, align the cutouts with the vents, and smooth it down. The carpet underside grips the dash plastic and the precise moulding keeps it in place. Install takes about 2 minutes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Will this dash mat fit my 3rd Gen Hilux Surf or 4Runner?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes. The Surf Carpet Dash Mat is precision-moulded for the 3rd Gen Hilux Surf and 4Runner (185-series, KZN185 \/ VZN185 \/ RZN185 \/ KDN185, 1996-2002). The cutouts line up with the factory air vents and sensors.\"}},\n    {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Does this dash mat fit LHD 4Runners?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"This mat is moulded for RHD (right-hand drive) vehicles, which is what the Hilux Surf was sold as worldwide outside North America. The 3rd Gen 4Runner sold in the US is left-hand drive and has a mirrored dash - this mat will not fit LHD 4Runners correctly.\"}},\n    {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Does this dash mat actually block UV rays?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes. The carpet construction blocks 100% of UV rays from reaching the underlying dash plastic - preventing the brittle cracking that gives old Surfs that death crack down the centre of the dash.\"}},\n    {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Will the dash mat cover the air vents?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. The mat is pre-cut with openings for all factory air vents, the defrost vents, the warning light sensors, and the airbag sensor. Airflow is unaffected.\"}},\n    {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How do I install the dash mat?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No fasteners or adhesive needed. Lay the mat on the dash, align the cutouts with the vents, and smooth it down. The carpet underside grips the dash plastic and the precise moulding keeps it in place. Install takes about 2 minutes.\"}}\n  ]\n}\n\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Surf Syndicate","offers":[{"title":"Dark Grey w\/ Dark Grey Edging","offer_id":42489780961438,"sku":"DRKGRY\/DRKGRY","price":153.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Black w\/ Black Edging","offer_id":42536994013342,"sku":"BLK\/BLK","price":153.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0599\/3280\/3230\/files\/Grey_Dash_Mat.png?v=1754373795"},{"product_id":"front-dash-ac-air-vent-replacement-pair-l-3rd-gen-96-02","title":"Front Dash AC Air Vent Replacement Pair l 3rd Gen 96 - 02","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"108\" data-end=\"196\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"108\" data-end=\"196\"\u003eFront Dash AC Air Vent Replacement (Pair) – 3rd Gen Hilux Surf \/ 4Runner (1996–2002)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"198\" data-end=\"332\"\u003eRefresh your interior with a brand-new set of \u003cstrong data-start=\"244\" data-end=\"271\"\u003efront dash AC air vents\u003c\/strong\u003e, designed to replace cracked, broken, or worn factory units.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"334\" data-end=\"494\"\u003eThese direct-fit replacements are made to suit \u003cstrong data-start=\"381\" data-end=\"438\"\u003eall 3rd Gen Hilux Surf and 4Runner models (1996–2002)\u003c\/strong\u003e and restore smooth airflow and a clean dash appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"496\" data-end=\"499\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"501\" data-end=\"524\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"505\" data-end=\"524\"\u003eProduct Details\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"525\" data-end=\"730\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"525\" data-end=\"582\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"527\" data-end=\"582\"\u003eSuits \u003cstrong data-start=\"533\" data-end=\"580\"\u003e1996–2002 Hilux Surf \u0026amp; 4Runner (185 Series)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"583\" data-end=\"633\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"585\" data-end=\"633\"\u003eSold as a \u003cstrong data-start=\"595\" data-end=\"603\"\u003epair\u003c\/strong\u003e (driver and passenger side)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"634\" data-end=\"689\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"636\" data-end=\"689\"\u003ePerfect replacement for old, stiff, or broken vents\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"690\" data-end=\"730\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"692\" data-end=\"730\"\u003eDirect fit – no modifications required\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"732\" data-end=\"735\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"737\" data-end=\"848\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"737\" data-end=\"772\"\u003eSimple upgrade, big difference.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"772\" data-end=\"775\"\u003eBring your dash back to life with this easy-fit air vent replacement set.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Surf Syndicate","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45848334336158,"sku":"DASHVENT","price":55.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0599\/3280\/3230\/files\/ACVents.jpg?v=1754362234"},{"product_id":"centre-dashboard-cup-holder-l-3rd-gen-96-02","title":"Centre Dashboard Cup Holder l 3rd Gen 96 - 98","description":"\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"5\"\u003eIs your 3rd Gen’s dash looking a bit empty, or worse, do you have a broken cup holder that won’t stay shut? This retractable dual cup holder is a direct replacement for the factory unit found in the 1996–1998 model years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6\"\u003eIt’s the most convenient way to keep your drinks secure without cluttering your center console or floor space.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"7\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"7\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eProduct Overview\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8\"\u003eThis unit is a complete assembly, designed to fit into the dashboard slot above the stereo. It features the classic \"pull-out and fold-down\" design that Toyotas of this era are famous for. Finished in the correct \u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8\" data-index-in-node=\"213\"\u003eMoon Mist Grey\u003c\/b\u003e to match your 185-series interior, this part restores that \"like-new\" functionality to your cockpit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"9\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"9\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eKey Features\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"10,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"10,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eEra-Specific Design:\u003c\/b\u003e Specifically engineered for the \u003cb data-path-to-node=\"10,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"53\"\u003e1996–1998\u003c\/b\u003e dashboard layout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"10,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"10,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eDual-Cup Utility:\u003c\/b\u003e Features the two-stage fold-out arms that pivot to hold various drink sizes, from standard soda cans to small coffee cups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"10,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"10,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eFactory Color Match:\u003c\/b\u003e Produced in the iconic \u003cb data-path-to-node=\"10,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"44\"\u003eGrey\u003c\/b\u003e finish, ensuring the faceplate blends perfectly with your dashboard trim when retracted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"10,3,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"10,3,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eSmooth Mechanical Action:\u003c\/b\u003e Features high-tension springs and smooth sliding tracks to prevent the \"sticky\" or \"sagging\" operation of the original aged part.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"10,4,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"10,4,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eDurable ABS Construction:\u003c\/b\u003e Built to handle the weight of two drinks and the high-temperature environment of your dashboard during summer.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Surf Syndicate","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46508474531998,"sku":"DASHCUP3RDGEN","price":109.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0599\/3280\/3230\/files\/3rdGenCupHolder.png?v=1770947415"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.surfsyndicate.co.nz\/collections\/3rd-gen-4runner-hilux-surf-dash-mats-1996-2002.oembed","provider":"Surf Syndicate","version":"1.0","type":"link"}