The Toyota Tacoma has been a popular pickup truck in the United States since its introduction in 1995. However, not all model years of the Tacoma have been without issues. In fact, there are a few specific years that consumers should avoid when considering purchasing this vehicle.
One of the main concerns with certain model years of the Toyota Tacoma is related to safety. For example, some older models may have issues with their frames rusting and weakening over time, which can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle.
Additionally, certain model years may be more prone to mechanical problems than others. For instance, some Tacomas from around 2005-2011 may experience issues with their automatic transmissions failing prematurely or displaying erratic shifting behavior.
While these issues aren’t necessarily present across all Toyota Tacomas from these particular model years, it’s worth doing your due diligence before buying one for yourself. By researching common problems associated with specific year ranges and thoroughly inspecting any used vehicles you’re considering purchasing, you can help ensure that you’re getting a reliable and safe pickup truck that will serve you well for years to come.
Factors to Consider
If you’re considering purchasing a used Toyota Tacoma, there are several factors you should take into account before making your decision. These factors can help you avoid purchasing a Tacoma that may have known issues or defects.
Model Year
The model year of the Tacoma is one of the most important factors to consider when deciding on a used vehicle. Certain years can be more problematic than others, and some model years may have recurring issues that could affect performance or safety.
Mileage
Another factor to consider is the mileage of the vehicle. Higher mileage Tacomas may have more wear and tear, which could lead to increased maintenance costs down the road. However, lower mileage vehicles may also come with a higher price tag.
Vehicle History Report
Before purchasing any used vehicle, it’s important to review its history report. This report will provide information about previous accidents or damage repairs performed on the vehicle. You’ll also be able to see if any recalls were issued for specific models and whether they were addressed by previous owners.
Mechanical Inspection
It’s always recommended that you get a mechanical inspection done on any used vehicle before making your purchase final. This inspection can identify potential problems with the engine or other components that could require costly repairs in the future.
Safety Ratings
When considering any vehicle purchase, safety ratings should be taken into account as well. Safety ratings from organizations like IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) can give valuable insights into how safe a particular model is based on crash test results.
By taking these factors into consideration, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision when selecting a used Toyota Tacoma model year to avoid potential issues or defects down the line.
First Generation Tacoma (1995-2004)
The first generation Toyota Tacoma was introduced in 1995 and remained in production until 2004. This model featured a more rounded body style than its predecessor, the Toyota Pickup, and came with either a four-cylinder or V6 engine option.
While the first generation Tacoma received praise for its reliability and durability, there were some notable issues that arose over time. One of the most common complaints from owners was regarding rust on the frame of the truck. This issue was so severe that Toyota ended up settling a class-action lawsuit over it.
In addition to frame rust, other issues included faulty ball joints, which could result in steering problems, as well as transmission and differential problems. However, these issues were not as widespread as the frame rust problem.
If you are considering purchasing a first-generation Tacoma, it is important to thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any signs of rust or other potential problems before making your purchase.
Second Generation Tacoma (2005-2015)
The second generation of Toyota Tacoma was launched in 2005 and continued until 2015. This version of the truck is generally considered to be a huge leap forward from its predecessor, thanks to its improved handling, updated interiors, and modernized technology features.
In terms of powertrain options, the second-generation Tacoma came with two engine choices. The first one was a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that could produce up to 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. The other option was a more powerful V6 engine that could generate up to 236 horsepower and an impressive 266 lb-ft of torque.
Additionally, this generation also saw updates on the suspension system which resulted in better ride quality and handling performance even when driving off-road.
One issue that some owners have reported with the second-gen Tacoma is related to rusting frames. While this problem affected only a limited number of vehicles manufactured between specific years (2005-2009), it still remains something worth noting for buyers looking for these used trucks.
Another common issue faced by owners is related to transmission problems experienced by some models equipped with manual transmissions. However, not all units were affected by this issue, so potential buyers should ensure proper inspection before making any purchase decision.
Overall though, if you’re looking for a reliable midsize truck that offers excellent off-road capabilities as well as good hauling capacity while being comfortable enough for daily use – then the second-generation Toyota Tacoma might just be what you need!
Third Generation Tacoma (2016-Present)
The third generation Toyota Tacoma was launched in 2015 as a 2016 model. It is available in six trims: SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited and TRD Pro. The third generation Tacoma comes with two engine options- a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine producing 159 horsepower and a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing up to 278 horsepower.
One of the major improvements in the third-gen Tacoma is its safety features which include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning with steering assist. Additionally, it also comes equipped with an infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Owners have praised the third-generation Tacoma for its high off-road capability due to its improved suspension system and ground clearance compared to previous models. It has also received positive reviews for its comfortable ride quality on highways and city roads.
However, some owners have reported issues with transmission shuddering when accelerating from low speeds or coming to a stop. This issue appears more frequently in Tacomas equipped with the V6 engine than those equipped with the four-cylinder option.
Another common complaint among owners is excessive wind noise at highway speeds caused by poor sealing around doors and windows.
Despite these minor drawbacks, overall the third-generation Toyota Tacoma remains one of the most popular midsize trucks on the market today due to its durability, reliability and versatility both on- and off-road.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are certain Toyota Tacoma model years that have been known to have issues and should be avoided if possible. These include the 2005-2010 models due to their reported transmission problems and rust issues.
However, it is important to note that not all vehicles of these model years will experience these problems. It’s always a good idea to thoroughly inspect any used vehicle before making a purchase, regardless of the make or model.
Additionally, Toyota has taken steps in recent years to improve the reliability of their vehicles and address any known issues. This includes recalls and extended warranties for certain models.
If you’re in the market for a used Toyota Tacoma, it’s best to do your research on specific model years and look for one with a clean history report and regular maintenance records. With proper care and attention, many Toyotas can provide reliable transportation for many miles ahead.
Ben is one of the founders and editor of Structured Living HUB. His interests are automotive and architecture. For over 10 years he worked as a modular house contractor in the United States.