1st Gen Tacoma is the same way, just runs, and runs and runs. Unfortunately Upstate NY Road Salt is finally doing in my 2000 Tacoma, the frame barely passed this year's NYS Inspection, it definitely won't next year so I'll be looking for a 2nd Gen Tacoma. I've been driving Toyota's since 1983. 1980 Supra 1985 Toyota Pickup New 1986 Camry for a second vehicle. 1991 Toyota Pickup 1995 Tacoma 1995 Corolla for a second vehicle 2000 Tacoma Gotten my money and use out of each one, all great vehicles. Got this last one out of Virginia in 2012 with 47,000 miles, 12 years later, 249,000+ miles.
@@garyphillips6270 that's awesome dude. I feel like I'm growing up just in time to catch a glimpse of the golden age of cars, now everything is being downgraded with "tech upgrades"
My wife and I finally traded up our old ‘93 Pickup and ‘99 Runner back the the day because we kept saying we’ll upgrade when they finally start dying on us. 400k+ and 350k+ miles later we’re just caved and upgraded haha got sick of waiting.
374k 2011 TRD SP. I just started a power steering leak. Other than that, I have only had regular maintenance issues an just started a power steering leak. I LOVE this truck.
Also to add to your great video is the fact these trucks don't have a locking tailgate. You can easily steal them. A cheap fix is to use a hose clamp and wrap it around the pivot point. Although this isn't 100% protection it's better than nothing and will slow down a thief.
I have an 05 Tacoma I would also add bypass coolant “plastic” hose. Will rot away if not metal. Also air pump, along with motor mounts engine vibrations in park etc.
Love my 2011 Gen2. You've covered all the common problems I know except for two: The needle bearing on the front driver's side drive shaft goes bad. Diagnosed by a vibration/grinding in the frontend which can feel a bit like wheel bearings going bad or vibration in the front diff. If it goes away when you put the vehicle in 4WD on smooth pavement that's usually the needle bearing. There's a 3rd party company called ECGS (search on Tacomaworld) that makes a bushing/sleeve to replace the bearing, since many people say replacement bearings also go bad the same way. Haven't done that yet but mine feels like it needs it. This may be more common with trucks that see heavy off road use. The other issue is for models with the rear diff lock like the TRD Off Road, the factory grease in the actuator for that commonly gums up over time and it and either won't actuate OR keeps flashing in the dash even though it has actuated and locked successfully. Usually just removal, cleaning and re-greasing fixes that. Very straightforward. Thanks again for your vids!
The other common problem on these trucks in the overhead thermometer/compass unit. There is some weak soldering on the board that causes this to go out. Very simple fix with a cheap soldering tool. Tacomaworld is such a great resource, and the Tacoma community is so large nowadays- you'll find answers on just about anything.
Awesome video. We are looking for a 2014-2015 tacoma for my wife currently. I owned a 04 4Runner previously, so I know about the calipers and the oil leaks (never enough oil for drips on the floor though)
Awesome video! Have a 2010 Tacoma 4x4 crewcab and what you explained is true. Here in the state I reside in road salt is not used but it rains quite often and so far no rust issues on the frame. The headlights are another story. Both headlights, the turn signal bulbs melted the assembly housing for the signal bulbs and both assembly were yellow which I replaced and installed LED bulbs. Now both headlights are clear and driving at night is not an issue anymore. I also replaced both taillight assemblies and installed LED reverse lights. Another issue like you mentioned is the center console latch which in my vehicle broke. I completely removed the latch and I'm fine with it. So far on my vehicle no oil leaks, no leaf spring or electrical problems. Like you said no vehicle is perfect and will try to maintain and keep my Tacoma as long as possible. Once again great video, thanks for sharing!
My 2015 Taco is white and has the peeling paint around the windows on ALL of them...and the headlights were TOAST....bought new ones and that ONE DAMNED BOLT is a PITA!!! Lights are MUCH better, now......and i only get 15mpg, but I DO drive it pretty hard.
Yeah, I had one of these and the emergency break cable froze and it caused the rubber break hose to burst. That left the vehicle with only very weak front breaks. The entire break line and hoses had to be replaced and yet the emergency break cable is still frozen. The water reservoir cap is broken and cannot be found to be fixed I had a ford that fell off both wheels at once and drove on the break drums 😮 So…
Don't forget the dumb ass tweeters in the headliner smh I took mine out it was annoying but I felt so better knowing I can place them somewhere that makes sense
I have a 1992 Lexus SC400 with the 1UZ-FE motor. I have some of the same problems, like the horrendous oil leaks. Not all Toyota engines are bad for leaks, but it would seem that the V8s and the V6s are. That issue with the blower motor resistor: what a farce.
@@CanadianGearhead Agreed, but -- like you said in the video -- the problem is not evident, and it caused you to go through several resistors before you found the REAL problem. I don't know about you, but I have found Toyotas to be bad for electricals. (I have a 97 Toyota, the 92 Lexus, and a 91 Honda, btw.) By FAR, the Honda is the most reliable of the 3, and much, MUCH less frustrating to work on.
I replaced the blower motor + the plugs and never had any issues since then. Quick fix. :) The rear leaf springs got replaced on my 07 Pre runner. I didn’t pay anything for it.
I had a 08 got it new the paint went bad it was rusted weal hubs went bad serpentine belt water pump shocks were bottomed out I made no modifications to it was spending more money fixing it every month then a new truck payment
I’m new to your channel and have watched a few videos, it could be camera angle but it looks like your frame is bending or splitting at the bed line. The gap behind the cab and the drooping rear end, I’d get under there and check it out… or tell me I’m crazy, either works for me just want to make sure you and the family are safe
I normally get my vehicles professionally oil sprayed but I held off on this one thinking I was about to sell it - I wanted to be able to show off the frame to prove it's new. If I keep it for longer, I'll definitely spray it!
Hi There. Have you ever had to replace a knock sensor? All the research I have don't tells me that you have to take the entire top end of the engine apart because the sensor is inside the block rather that outside like most cars. I decided to just leave it even thought he dash light stays on. Yes I have sticking brakes! You can feel it when you stop then let off it clunks. Also, when driving on the freeway if I just let my foot off the gas the truck feels like I am braking slightly.
I had mice chew through the knock sensor harness on my 4Runner and had to have it replaced - same story. It sucks, but it's not something you want to leave broken because it's in charge of saving your engine if you get bad gas etc.
@@CanadianGearhead Hello Sir, I bought the little lights from your link for the temperature control knobs. I put them in and they do not light up. Do you have any other suggestions like is there a fuse for those? Thank You!
thoughts on a 09 tacoma 4x4 4cyl manual access cab with 230k km for 11k? no rust, mint condition interior and recently spent 7k on the car replacing all breaks tires etc
I have a 09 I bought brand new it’s been great whatever went bad was replaced by the dealer for free. I just did the first tuneup at 145,000 miles synthetic mobile one sense new and then I did change the transmission fluid at 120,000 but nothing else has been done except a starter and alternator. These trucks are pretty easy and cheap to work on compared to stuff made now.
A video showing people possible issues to look out for when purchasing a truck is not "whining", you window licker. The oil leaks don't bother me in the least bit.
Sounds like some fairly big items, for a supposedly bulletproof Toyota ! Never heard of a Frontier frame rusting in half or leaf springs breaking, or brake problems, and they go up to a million miles, yet people lie and say Toyota is so "superior." I don't get it.
They are superior chime in 20 years from now! Frontiers are good trucks also! the two Japanese brands are superior for midsize pick up trucks ! American brands don’t hold up in general overtime they really get shabby
@@darylhill9400 I drive all Japanese, but one exception to me was the ORIGINAL Ranger, from the time when my Nissan Hardbody was made. Those seemed to hold up a lot better than the GM S-trucks. They had solid engines. They were really glorified Pinto motors, but they were tough. Today I'd be terrified to buy "American," which probably means "hecho en Mexico." Then again, Tacoma is now Mexican too, which leaves Frontier as the only one I'd want. EXCEPT WHT did they stop the manual transmission after 60 years? They last forever.
@@jeanclaude7018 I actually bought a brand new in 1985 a Ford Ranger. It was a really good truck but in 2000s I bought a brand new first generation tundra I totaled it with our hundred thousand miles and I never done a single thing except oil changes yeah those Nissan hard bodies were real good too. And I agree with you by the way, he did have to do a lot of various work on that Tacoma. I commented to you before watching the whole video, but that hasn’t been my experience but I baby all my stuff.
While they run a long time here in the northeast I work on them often and rust claims them first, but there’s a handful of common issues. Knock sensor harness always chewed by rodents, power steering pumps common. I’d take the 3400 over the 4.0 but honestly I don’t see why owners are so loyal when Toyota f’d so many with the frames. I wouldn’t buy one but to each there own, could do worse
@@darylhill9400 New Mexican soft Taco is unfortunately overpriced junk now too. Transmissions, shock towers, differentials going bad at very low miles. It's up to Frontier now to carry the old Japanese torch.
The biggest problem with the 2nd gen is it will last so long you'll get bored of it
Nahh not me mama, I have a 2012 4x4 TRD sport in manual had for four years, still have a shit eating grin when I shift the gears 😎🤘🏾🤘🏾
1st Gen Tacoma is the same way, just runs, and runs and runs. Unfortunately Upstate NY Road Salt is finally doing in my 2000 Tacoma, the frame barely passed this year's NYS Inspection, it definitely won't next year so I'll be looking for a 2nd Gen Tacoma. I've been driving Toyota's since 1983.
1980 Supra
1985 Toyota Pickup New
1986 Camry for a second vehicle.
1991 Toyota Pickup
1995 Tacoma
1995 Corolla for a second vehicle
2000 Tacoma
Gotten my money and use out of each one, all great vehicles. Got this last one out of Virginia in 2012 with 47,000 miles, 12 years later, 249,000+ miles.
@@garyphillips6270 that's awesome dude. I feel like I'm growing up just in time to catch a glimpse of the golden age of cars, now everything is being downgraded with "tech upgrades"
My wife and I finally traded up our old ‘93 Pickup and ‘99 Runner back the the day because we kept saying we’ll upgrade when they finally start dying on us. 400k+ and 350k+ miles later we’re just caved and upgraded haha got sick of waiting.
@@chazlyle41 😂
My 06 hasn't had ANY of these issues. Just under 200k km on it. BEAST TRUCKS!
Get ready buddy, youre heading to it.
374k 2011 TRD SP. I just started a power steering leak. Other than that, I have only had regular maintenance issues an just started a power steering leak. I LOVE this truck.
My power steering leak just started too she has .239,200 miles love my 08 TRD sport!!
That oil leaking is good rust preventer!
Also to add to your great video is the fact these trucks don't have a locking tailgate. You can easily steal them. A cheap fix is to use a hose clamp and wrap it around the pivot point. Although this isn't 100% protection it's better than nothing and will slow down a thief.
Good call!
Who tf steals tailgates? I've never heard of that happening before
I have a 2010 Tacoma I rust proof every year and it looks great.
Same here with my 09 it’s 99% perfect frame
Same😂. I have Krown do my truck every year
I used the 3M Headlight restoration solution kit with great results on my 06 Tacoma.
I have an 05 Tacoma I would also add bypass coolant “plastic” hose. Will rot away if not metal. Also air pump, along with motor mounts engine vibrations in park etc.
Love my 2011 Gen2. You've covered all the common problems I know except for two:
The needle bearing on the front driver's side drive shaft goes bad. Diagnosed by a vibration/grinding in the frontend which can feel a bit like wheel bearings going bad or vibration in the front diff. If it goes away when you put the vehicle in 4WD on smooth pavement that's usually the needle bearing. There's a 3rd party company called ECGS (search on Tacomaworld) that makes a bushing/sleeve to replace the bearing, since many people say replacement bearings also go bad the same way. Haven't done that yet but mine feels like it needs it. This may be more common with trucks that see heavy off road use.
The other issue is for models with the rear diff lock like the TRD Off Road, the factory grease in the actuator for that commonly gums up over time and it and either won't actuate OR keeps flashing in the dash even though it has actuated and locked successfully. Usually just removal, cleaning and re-greasing fixes that. Very straightforward.
Thanks again for your vids!
The other common problem on these trucks in the overhead thermometer/compass unit. There is some weak soldering on the board that causes this to go out. Very simple fix with a cheap soldering tool. Tacomaworld is such a great resource, and the Tacoma community is so large nowadays- you'll find answers on just about anything.
Awesome video. We are looking for a 2014-2015 tacoma for my wife currently. I owned a 04 4Runner previously, so I know about the calipers and the oil leaks (never enough oil for drips on the floor though)
Awesome video! Have a 2010 Tacoma 4x4 crewcab and what you explained is true. Here in the state I reside in road salt is not used but it rains quite often and so far no rust issues on the frame. The headlights are another story. Both headlights, the turn signal bulbs melted the assembly housing for the signal bulbs and both assembly were yellow which I replaced and installed LED bulbs. Now both headlights are clear and driving at night is not an issue anymore. I also replaced both taillight assemblies and installed LED reverse lights. Another issue like you mentioned is the center console latch which in my vehicle broke. I completely removed the latch and I'm fine with it. So far on my vehicle no oil leaks, no leaf spring or electrical problems. Like you said no vehicle is perfect and will try to maintain and keep my Tacoma as long as possible. Once again great video, thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching!
Thank you! I got my 09 with 178k miles on it and I’m learning how to maintain it and how to fix certain things.
How is your truck i saw a 08 212k miles I was think of getting it but im looking to see if its worth it
My 2015 Taco is white and has the peeling paint around the windows on ALL of them...and the headlights were TOAST....bought new ones and that ONE DAMNED BOLT is a PITA!!! Lights are MUCH better, now......and i only get 15mpg, but I DO drive it pretty hard.
My personal addition would be to replace the bushing for a better driving experience
Canadian Gearhead, you have a California accent.
I'm about to get a 2005 PreRunnner and this was a good video, thxs!
Haha i have an 05 with 265k and you were spot on with everything here, from the center console to the ac resistor
Yeah, I had one of these and the emergency break cable froze and it caused the rubber break hose to burst. That left the vehicle with only very weak front breaks. The entire break line and hoses had to be replaced and yet the emergency break cable is still frozen.
The water reservoir cap is broken and cannot be found to be fixed
I had a ford that fell off both wheels at once and drove on the break drums 😮
So…
Yeah, those rear drum brakes are actually pretty reliable and super long lasting.
Just cranking out videos lately! Great content as always!
Aiming for 3 vids per week now!
Good video I love my 09 with 160k. All the aside I want to know about the locking door in your center console.
@@paulsampson1145 I have a full vid on the Tuffy console safe on here!
I got a gen 2.5 at 15k miles. It is now 180k. Only issues has been knock sensor wire broke. Replaced it myself.
Don't forget the dumb ass tweeters in the headliner smh I took mine out it was annoying but I felt so better knowing I can place them somewhere that makes sense
I have a 1992 Lexus SC400 with the 1UZ-FE motor. I have some of the same problems, like the horrendous oil leaks. Not all Toyota engines are bad for leaks, but it would seem that the V8s and the V6s are.
That issue with the blower motor resistor: what a farce.
Luckily the blower motor resistor is an easy enough fix, it's just a pigtail harness that you can get for fairly cheap
@@CanadianGearhead Agreed, but -- like you said in the video -- the problem is not evident, and it caused you to go through several resistors before you found the REAL problem. I don't know about you, but I have found Toyotas to be bad for electricals. (I have a 97 Toyota, the 92 Lexus, and a 91 Honda, btw.) By FAR, the Honda is the most reliable of the 3, and much, MUCH less frustrating to work on.
I replaced the blower motor + the plugs and never had any issues since then. Quick fix. :)
The rear leaf springs got replaced on my 07 Pre runner. I didn’t pay anything for it.
yea i have a 4.0 v6 and it's the only engine I've ever had that doesn't burn or leak oil. It's for sure better than the 90's toyota engines
I had a 08 got it new the paint went bad it was rusted weal hubs went bad serpentine belt water pump shocks were bottomed out I made no modifications to it was spending more money fixing it every month then a new truck payment
i need to know more about that radio
Spot on!
I'm doing u-joints and carrier bearing on my 06 crew cab this weekend. 300k on the originals.
Lots of great info in your videos!! I'm hoping to get a tacoma in a few weeks. Thanks for the in depth video
I’m new to your channel and have watched a few videos, it could be camera angle but it looks like your frame is bending or splitting at the bed line. The gap behind the cab and the drooping rear end, I’d get under there and check it out… or tell me I’m crazy, either works for me just want to make sure you and the family are safe
Just a weird camera angle, the frame is fairly new
I can't believe you are not using fluid film on that frame and suspension, bro don't waste the opportunity!
I normally get my vehicles professionally oil sprayed but I held off on this one thinking I was about to sell it - I wanted to be able to show off the frame to prove it's new. If I keep it for longer, I'll definitely spray it!
I use Krown every fall
Shocked the antenna issue was touched in this review of common issues. It's an issue for 90% of the 2nd gen Tacoma's.
Meant "was not touched"
Hi There. Have you ever had to replace a knock sensor? All the research I have don't tells me that you have to take the entire top end of the engine apart because the sensor is inside the block rather that outside like most cars. I decided to just leave it even thought he dash light stays on.
Yes I have sticking brakes! You can feel it when you stop then let off it clunks. Also, when driving on the freeway if I just let my foot off the gas the truck feels like I am braking slightly.
I had mice chew through the knock sensor harness on my 4Runner and had to have it replaced - same story. It sucks, but it's not something you want to leave broken because it's in charge of saving your engine if you get bad gas etc.
@@CanadianGearhead Hello Sir, I bought the little lights from your link for the temperature control knobs. I put them in and they do not light up. Do you have any other suggestions like is there a fuse for those? Thank You!
Rust on the frame.
My frame has gone.
Only 100k miles on it.
Tragic.
I only have 7,000 miles on my 2023 2.7L 4x4 and I hope to only encounter minor problems like these on my journey to 300k miles.
How much is a good deal to pay for valve cover gasket replacement
Thoughts on a 2006 tacoma 2wd with 141k miles for 13k. Clean title and no rust frame
13 is a little high keep shopping
Nice mr2
My 2013 Toyota did a spray on my frame to last the life of the truck it was a Toyota recall.😊they did it for free.
If there's just a little bit of rust on the frame, is that cause for any worry?
Not at all
I just bought a 2005 with 160.000 miles and after watching this I'm starting to doubt my purchase.
If your frame isnt rusty,your golden.Change all the fluids,tranny,diffs,transfer case,engine.Buy4 cans of fluid and coat the frame in the fall.
@@marmotwisdomI’m test driving an 05 tmmr who did a complete frame swap and is asking 9k it has 190,000 what we thinking
@@GollyImHarddupdate? i think that was valid
@@GollyImHarddHave an 06 4cyl, man. frame was swapped, it's at 270 and running fine, but it was 16 new out the door. Prices are kinda crazy
I am being sold a rust-free 2007 Prerunner crew cab, 2 owners, 230k miles for $10,500. Is this a good price or not?
How do you fix the steering slop issue?
There's a universal joint in the steering. column, just change it out
Thank you for the great tips!
Spray it with Rp 342 wax coating military grade 👌
Are the new frames the same shit ones that rusted out?
They were improved, mine is holding up great years later
@ ah right on man that’s good.
Only 150,000 miles? That's basically a new truck then
thoughts on a 09 tacoma 4x4 4cyl manual access cab with 230k km for 11k? no rust, mint condition interior and recently spent 7k on the car replacing all breaks tires etc
Wouldn’t pay that much for a 4cyl
If it was a 4.0 I'd say that's decent but I'm not sure the 2.7s fetch the same money
@@CanadianGearhead the 2.7 is the best motor in the world, a iron block four-cylinder that will last 1,000,000 miles
I have a 09 I bought brand new it’s been great whatever went bad was replaced by the dealer for free. I just did the first tuneup at 145,000 miles synthetic mobile one sense new and then I did change the transmission fluid at 120,000 but nothing else has been done except a starter and alternator. These trucks are pretty easy and cheap to work on compared to stuff made now.
how much is a frame install? Curious? 05-15? 2gen
2k
I only have 164K on my 2008.
I have 60K on my 2012 TRD Sport
36 k on my 08
340,00 miles and complaining of oil seppage ??? Try getting that reliability out of ANY DOMESTIC TRUCK ?????.. Stop whining. 💪
A video showing people possible issues to look out for when purchasing a truck is not "whining", you window licker. The oil leaks don't bother me in the least bit.
Sounds like some fairly big items, for a supposedly bulletproof Toyota ! Never heard of a Frontier frame rusting in half or leaf springs breaking, or brake problems, and they go up to a million miles, yet people lie and say Toyota is so "superior." I don't get it.
They are superior chime in 20 years from now! Frontiers are good trucks also! the two Japanese brands are superior for midsize pick up trucks ! American brands don’t hold up in general overtime they really get shabby
@@darylhill9400 I drive all Japanese, but one exception to me was the ORIGINAL Ranger, from the time when my Nissan Hardbody was made. Those seemed to hold up a lot better than the GM S-trucks. They had solid engines. They were really glorified Pinto motors, but they were tough.
Today I'd be terrified to buy "American," which probably means "hecho en Mexico." Then again, Tacoma is now Mexican too, which leaves Frontier as the only one I'd want. EXCEPT WHT did they stop the manual transmission after 60 years? They last forever.
@@jeanclaude7018 I actually bought a brand new in 1985 a Ford Ranger. It was a really good truck but in 2000s I bought a brand new first generation tundra I totaled it with our hundred thousand miles and I never done a single thing except oil changes yeah those Nissan hard bodies were real good too. And I agree with you by the way, he did have to do a lot of various work on that Tacoma. I commented to you before watching the whole video, but that hasn’t been my experience but I baby all my stuff.
While they run a long time here in the northeast I work on them often and rust claims them first, but there’s a handful of common issues. Knock sensor harness always chewed by rodents, power steering pumps common. I’d take the 3400 over the 4.0 but honestly I don’t see why owners are so loyal when Toyota f’d so many with the frames. I wouldn’t buy one but to each there own, could do worse
@@darylhill9400 New Mexican soft Taco is unfortunately overpriced junk now too. Transmissions, shock towers, differentials going bad at very low miles. It's up to Frontier now to carry the old Japanese torch.