Looking at Tacomas ... couple of questions for you folks

[Junior's 12 Valve]

Like the title states, a new truck MIGHT be in the future, and I have a few questions.

I've researched a few of them, but the only data I've found is nearly 4 years old and would like some up to date info.

What years are the best of the Tacos? The more bulletproof the better since it will be a DD.

Which engines were more reliable? V6 or 4 popper?

It will be 4wd and have a standard trans.

Are there any known problems on certain years or gens of Tacomas?

I'm not above getting a new .... er one, but I'm on a little bit of a budget, but that can be stretched dependent on features, overall soundness, and parts availability. Getting an older model doors concern me as far as a maintenance standpoint.

Thanks!

 

[shwaa]

Like the title states, a new truck MIGHT be in the future, and I have a few questions.

I've researched a few of them, but the only data I've found is nearly 4 years old and would like some up to date info.

What years are the best of the Tacos? The more bulletproof the better since it will be a DD.

Which engines were more reliable? V6 or 4 popper?

It will be 4wd and have a standard trans.

Are there any known problems on certain years or gens of Tacomas?

I'm not above getting a new .... er one, but I'm on a little bit of a budget, but that can be stretched dependent on features, overall soundness, and parts availability. Getting an older model doors concern me as far as a maintenance standpoint.

Thanks!

I vote for the 2013 model. Reasons:

1. Has the touchscreen stereo/navigation (all 2013+ has this, Navigation is extra $$ though)
2. This is the last year model that has the temperature gauge, compass and auto-dimming in the rear view mirror included. I'ts really nice actually. The 2014/2015 has the "cheap" standard rear view mirror. Not sure why they went backwards on that.

I'd steer clear of the 3rd Gen until the transmission issues are sorted out, hopefully 2017 will be better (this is all from what I hear btw, no experience first hand)
1st Gen's are great, but for a daily driver I think the 2nd Gen is much more comfortable.

As far as 4-cyl vs V6, I think both are plenty reliable from what I've heard.

 

[Chris85xlt]

i have a 2015 DDLB 4x4 SR5. Its my first tacoma so don't know if my input will help comparing to previous year tacos but here are some stuff ive noticed and mods ive done.

-I added a rear view mirror with compass and temp gauge (dont know why i couldn't get it from factory and the overhead console gauge is no longer available either). the OEM harness is still there hiding in the headliner.
-I do like my Entune touch screen radio. i can connect with my iphone Apple Map for the navi part.
-AC sucks but did the AC mod with a 22K ohm diode. i heard its a recent change to help the EPA.
-Added a ScanGauge to help provide info like trans temp, voltage and etc because factory dash doesn't tell you much.
-2009+ The Automatic limited slip diff is a joke and only works in 4Hi but there is a mod to have it work in 4Low too. i think people refer it as the "yellow wire mod". Ive done it but haven't had the chance to test it.
-Mine is made in Mexico.

Few things i plan to have the dealership fix:
-Driver door rattles and lots of wind noise.
-Battery is dying and leaking all over the place.
-Wiper blade chatters like crazy. The year ive owned it ive changed out 5 sets of blades and Dealership is still stumped. I think there's a problem with the wiper assembly.

I dont know if these are common issues or known problems on the 2nd gen Tacomas but from all praising i hear its suppose to be bulletproof and damn near perfect.

Don't think ill ever get another 2gen tacoma but the 3rd sounds promising after they work out some kinks. I do like the deeper bed, more powerful motor and can finally get the TRD OR in a long bed

 

[evilfij]

Used taco prices are crazy. I got a 2016 SR 4x4 ACLB MT four banger for $23,400 plus taxes and tags.

 

[bkg]

Buddy traded his 2012 in on a 2016. Cost him $4k out of pocket. Gen 2 prices are insane in TN. "Cheaper" to buy new.

 

[CMARJEEP]

I've had a 2016 TRD OR for about a month now and love it. There are a ton of people that are nitpicking about the transmission and some other stuff but I don't have an issue with any of that. I think the truck drives great, it has good power, and the interior is vastly improved over the 2nd gens.