Depending on your needs, you can get a Tacoma with a 2.4 liter or a 2.7 liter 4 cylinder engine, or the more powerful 3.5 liter, V6 engine. The solid, work horse design of these engines has seen minimal change since inception. The most common Toyota Tacoma engine is the 2.7 liter, 2TR-FE engine which has 4 valves per cylinder (16 total) and is a multiport fuel injected, double overhead cam, gasoline fueled, aluminum cylinder head on a cast iron block model with 160-164 horse power. The other popular option is the 3.5 liter, 2GR-FKS duel fuel injected for efficiency and emissions control, it has both traditional port injection and direct injection, the double overhead cams are driven by timing chains with an all aluminum block that puts out 278-311 horsepower. The hybrid version is a 2GR-FXS engine for years 2004-2015 or 2GR-FXE for years 2015 to present.

It doesn't matter what engine a Toyota Tacoma is equipped with, it's an extremely well designed, efficient motor, built to last and provide years of performance if it's regularly serviced. This means the vehicle should be taken to a garage that is familiar with the Toyota Tacoma at least once a year. Oil maintenance service is the main concern but the overall inspection is important as well. Since the Toyota Tacoma pick-up is designed as a work vehicle, there are many components that should be routinely inspected for wear. These are the front struts, rear shocks, ball joints, engine mounts, steering rods, axles and brakes. All of these are known wear items, especially if the pick-up is driven off paved roads or used for work daily.

Not many known problems exist with these vehicles. However, one area of concern many Toyota Tacoma owners complain about is vibration and noise starting around 25 mph through to 70 mph. While this does not appear to be a serious concern, it can be annoying. The manufacturer hasn’t come up with any "fixes" for this issue. However, some independent garage technicians have had success replacing the drive train to eliminate the symptom.

The transmission and differential fluid should be changed approximately every 60,000 miles, there's some variation with different years, but 60,000 is a good benchmark. Also spark plug replacement needs to happen around the same mileage. These are both service items and should to be done to prevent bigger problems from developing.

Having the Toyota Tacoma in for a regular maintenance every 5,000 miles at a garage like Berkeley Bob's, that knows those vehicle well, will allow the truck to be serviced properly and for the common wear items to be evaluated. This is key for the overall health of the vehicle and to ensure trouble free travel. As well as keeping the cost of ownership down because when a skilled, knowledgeable technician inspects the Tacoma, they are trained to spot things before they become larger problems.

A Toyota Tacoma is a sound investment if you are in the market for a new or newer pick-up. These vehicles are in demand and do maintain their value if taken care of, mostly because of their ability to serve as a work vehicle. The Tacoma does not require a lot of repair, however it will need regular maintenance and service to keep it in good shape and on the road for many miles.

Our highly skilled, ASE-certified technicians have over 30 years combined Toyota repair experience. If you have a question or your vehicle exhibits symptoms that cause you concern, or if you are considering purchasing a used Toyota Tacoma and are interested in a pre-purchase inspection give Berkeley Bob's a call. Our friendly, knowledgeable customer service staff can answer your questions and reserve a space for your Tacoma to come in for service. Or if you prefer you can schedule online.