1996 to 2004 Toyota Tacoma
The Draw: Few pickups can match the tough and charming Tacoma where popularity and owner loyalty are concerned. Long sought out for ruggedness, off-road abilities and a knack for reliable long-term operation, the Tacoma has earned itself thousands of happy followers. Used Tacoma shoppers in the market for a 1996 to 2004 unit will find a variety of options and configurations available to suit a wide range of needs. Look for a pair of 4-cylinder engines displacing 2.4L or 2.7L whipping up 160 or 177 lb-ft of torque, respectively. A 3.4L V6 was also available with 220 lb-ft of torque.
Styling, off-road capability, and a smooth powertrain were all highly rated by owners, as was fuel mileage on most models.
The Checks: Having the Tacoma you’re considering inspected for rust should be considered absolutely mandatory. Though no worrisome drivetrain or electronic-related issues present themselves in checks of online forums, some earlier Tacoma models in this generation were actually recalled or bought back by Toyota due to a serious rust problem that could perforate the frame. This compromises structural integrity and poses a major safety concern. Purchasing a Tacoma from this generation without having the frame inspected for rust is strongly advised against.
If the Tacoma you’re considering doesn’t look like sheet-metal Swiss cheese underneath, and if it passes standard pickup checks (including a visual inspection for leaky rear brakes and axles), you can buy with confidence. Have the suspension, differentials and driveshafts, tires, fuel lines and 4x4 systems checked out for maximum peace of mind.
The Draw: Few pickups can match the tough and charming Tacoma where popularity and owner loyalty are concerned. Long sought out for ruggedness, off-road abilities and a knack for reliable long-term operation, the Tacoma has earned itself thousands of happy followers. Used Tacoma shoppers in the market for a 1996 to 2004 unit will find a variety of options and configurations available to suit a wide range of needs. Look for a pair of 4-cylinder engines displacing 2.4L or 2.7L whipping up 160 or 177 lb-ft of torque, respectively. A 3.4L V6 was also available with 220 lb-ft of torque.
Styling, off-road capability, and a smooth powertrain were all highly rated by owners, as was fuel mileage on most models.
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| 1996 Toyota Tacoma (Photo Toyota) |
The Checks: Having the Tacoma you’re considering inspected for rust should be considered absolutely mandatory. Though no worrisome drivetrain or electronic-related issues present themselves in checks of online forums, some earlier Tacoma models in this generation were actually recalled or bought back by Toyota due to a serious rust problem that could perforate the frame. This compromises structural integrity and poses a major safety concern. Purchasing a Tacoma from this generation without having the frame inspected for rust is strongly advised against.
If the Tacoma you’re considering doesn’t look like sheet-metal Swiss cheese underneath, and if it passes standard pickup checks (including a visual inspection for leaky rear brakes and axles), you can buy with confidence. Have the suspension, differentials and driveshafts, tires, fuel lines and 4x4 systems checked out for maximum peace of mind.
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| 2004 Toyota Tacoma (Photo Toyota) |