Tips and Tricks on the 3rd Gen Tacoma

Gotta new tip for how to clean your Cluster/Instrument Panel Lense without scratching it all up. For minor dust, film and finger prints simply use Microfiber Lense Wipes made for glasses. They are inexpensive and can be found at any drug or department store. Won't scratch.

 

I agree with this but will add that to keep most dust from getting inside the panel I took a circle of the soft side Velcro and cut a small X in center and placed over the knob.

 

I never had issues with dust inside but nice idea. I live in the Adirondack Mountain, NY. Not an issue here like maybe where you are from.

 

Most likely a stupid question, but how do you remove the SD Card Reader cover/door without breaking it? Does it come completely off or is it hinged?

 

My truck isn't equipped with an SC Card reader port
Mine is a USB Port. I just flip the cover up from the bottom.

 

Mine is hinged.

 

Where is the hinge exactly? And how do you open it exactly?

 

The SD card is below just left of the tuning knob, at the bottom of the radio. Press on the right side of the cover. The left side will pop out. Then pull it out.

The SD card cover is tethered to the radio by a small piece of plastic. So, be easy on it.

 

Stick a fingernail in the side and gently pull it out. You’ll see it remains attached on a rubber cord.

 

Edit: stolen pic off deweb.

 

It is. That’s what your head unit navigation reads maps from.

 

Yeah, I remember seeing it now. I just don't use it. I keep a USB Stick of mixed tunes for backup. Thx for the info.

 

Can I pull the map card out and replace with a SD card with music to play?

Is another option to use a USB stick in the center console for music files?

 

The SD card is for maps only. The USB port is where you want to put your music.

 

Are there any options available for different maps / SD Cards? If so, where can you get them?

Which USB port do you use for a USB stick with music files? I'm assuming it's the one next to the aux. audio port? Isn't there one inside the center console also?

 

Negative. Maps only. And the only other option you have there is to get an updated Toyota maps card for $$$$. You u fortunately can’t upload your own maps into the nav.

And yes, the USB port next to the aux jack is the one you can play music from. On my truck, the center console only has a 12v port, no usb. Not sure if that’s changed in newer model years.

 

The USB port on the dash is for use with the radio. My 19 has twin USB (charge only) outlets in the center console.

 

Just looked through Carista options, found it now allows you to customize PCS settings including "remember last state" of Pre-Collision System (PCS). IE you don't have to turn it off every time you get in the truck.

This post is not intended to debate whether PCS is a good or bad system or whether disabling it is a good or bad decision, just another option to customize the truck to best fit individual needs.

 

Just discovered this on my 2017 Limited purchased used, I'm sure this is standard, on both sides of the bed their are two slots on each side level with the wheel hub perfect for a 2x4 to go across the bed, you can lay a 4x8 sheet of plywood flat across the bed. Apology's if this a repeat tip, am only half way thru this Thread thanks so much for all the great tips and information.