Common Tacoma Problems? F150 owner looking to switch

Hey guys, first post on the forums here.

A little background, I currently am going to college and working part time at a Ford dealership as a detailer. Ended up trading in my 03 Silverado and getting an 06 F150 Lariat. Worst purchase ever, the 5.4 is the worst engine ever designed. I have the dreaded cam phaser issue, and it's about $2k on the dot with my discount to correct. Talk to the GM, and since I've had the truck for less than a year I'll be cut a deal on a new truck.

That being said, an '11 Tacoma caught my eye. Here it is:
http://www.mangoldford.com/2011_Toyota_Toyota_Eureka_IL_212785673.veh

Now, I know I'll be downgrading a lot, but it's worth it to me to have a newer truck with low miles and a factory warranty (current is 89k), especially being a college student. The better mpg is a plus.

So, what are some common problems I should be aware of for this specific year and configuration? (2011 base 4x4 tacoma)

For comparison, the 04-08 5.4 F150's are notorious for the spark plugs breaking off, and costing an arm and a leg to take out and replace. Same goes for cam phasers, VCT solenoids, and lifters, starts to make the truck sound like a diesel.

I want to be aware of what I'm getting into; did Toyota correct the rusted frame issues?

I appreciate any and all help, and look forward to being a member if all goes well!

 

Calling it a downgrade to go from an F150 to a Tacoma is fightin words round here

We don't take kindly to Panda Bears that don't take kindly round here

 

Worse thing about Tacomas is you keep having to put gas in them. They just keep going and going and going.

 

Oh and Welcome to TW from BC

 

Howdy.

 

No, Toyota did not take care of the rusted frame issue. Metal still rusts, no matter who made it. The key is to treat it. I have a 1950 dodge with no frame rust. It has been coated in used motor oil and will last another 50 years no problem. It really is not an issue if you wash it every once in a while and spray it every few years with whatever rust prevention coating you like. Like I said, used motor oil works good, and it's free. There are a few very minor issues with tacoma's, but nothing that will keep you from getting to work. There are some random squeek complaints, but it's easy to fix. Overall, it is the most reliable truck you can buy right now, and has the highest resale value if you change your mind in a few years. If you want a truck that will last 300,000 miles or more, get it.

 

Oh a "downgrade". I am not sure if I am too inclined to help you now.

Honestly though. Tacoma's are still known for rust issues. Members have been using Fluid Film. I've never used it so I can't say if it works, other members can chime in about it. It squeaks, ticks, it has little annoyances(noise wise) but it's not going to stop anyone from buying it(at least for me).

Compared to the F-150, there isn't big issues with Tacoma. As long that you do your regular maintenance you'll have a reliable Tacoma for the long term. It may not have all the bells and whistles compared to F-150, but you can add some of those bells and whistles if you wish. You may have a "downgrade" on the luxuries but you're going to have the upgrade of reliability and knowing you're not paying out of the butt for things like you have on the F-150.

 

Squeaky leafs, chirping blower motor, loose steering when going over bumps, weak paint, no heated mirrors (oz <3), last but not least no turbo diesel option lulz.

 

You must be young, comparing the inadequacies of a ford to a Toyota. You should have seen the downfall of the big 3 during the financial crisis due to their inferior product.

 

Let me clarify, downgrade in the fact id be going from an extended cab lariat with all the bells and whistles to a truck with no power windows or locks, big downgrade. Second, I always liked the look of tacos but was iffy because of the rust issues. The whole ordeal with sudden acceleration really put a bad taste in my mouth in regards to Toyota, mainly failing to take responsibility. I do want a Tacoma because of the resale value, and would like to try out a small truck

 

The unintended acceleration thing was all a driver error bullshit media witch hunt

 

@Rhyno37: The whole powertrain is solid on that truck with no reliability issues.

There are annoyances like squeaky leaf springs and chirping heater blower. The latter you can take to a dealer to get an updated blower installed.

I see you are eyeing a base model. You can get cruise control and variable intermittent wipers by buying the appropriate steering column stalks from the dealer or online - the truck is already wired for it.

Rust protection on '05+ trucks is better than the previous generation - Toyota changed frame manufacturer from Dana to Hino (you know, real trucks...). The change in frame design from fully-boxed to double-walled C-channel also deters internal rotting. My frame is in good condition after three salty winters.

Toyota unintended acceleration is as much bullshit as Ford unintended acceleration, for which there are lawsuits also: http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2013/04/ford-lawsuit.html And yes, your '06 F150 is included.

 

What unintended acceleration?

 

Dude get a Tacoma and love it like we all mostly do. Plus ford lacks the reliability of a Tacoma. If I were you I would get a double cab SR5 with power options

 

Good to know, do you know off the top of your head how much it is for the cruise control and variable interment wipers? And would installing these parts void the factory warranty?

 

It is obvious what most people on a TACAOMA forum will be telling you, but it is honestly up to you.

I almost got an exact clone to that tacoma you linked....same color, same year, bucket seats, and an auto. But i chose the v6 for the slightly better resale value and because i live in a very hilly area and didn't want to be pounding a 4cyl up every hill. That being said, i would have been very pleased with that little 4cyl having driven a friends but i am damn glad i have the v6.

If i needed a commuter truck in a flat area, that truck would be absolutely perfect, i'd get an aftermarket airfilter for it, vent visors, some floor mats, and color match all the outside plastics (flares, bumpers, grill) and it would be an awesome truck. I would definately be happy with that tacoma over your current f150. I hadn't liked the f150 AT ALL until they put the ecoboost v6 in them...and they still don't get good enough milage in my opinion.

Again, it is up to you. Best of luck!

 

Do yourself a solid and get the taco. The only problems with tacomas is that once you buy one mod for them you cant stop and then you turn into an addict

 

Tires................... we have traction problems do to all the VVTi POWA

I keed I keed............... well, some of us do

 

Only common problem I have had with mine is the negative balance to my bank account after getting bitten by the mod and suspension bugs

Get one, you won't regret it and welcome