what do I do

2009 Tacoma was my dad's truck which I've inherited after his death. I have been informed it needs new pistons....so my question is this.... rebuild upgrade or buy new motor....thanks

 

New pistons, huh? Did they wear out?

 

First, sorry for the loss of Dad. I miss mine all the time.

Second, post in the 2nd gen forum, which is what your '09 is.

Third, offer more detail of who is telling you what and based on what testing, etc. 'New pistons' is an unusual diagnosis. New piston rings or a valve job is more common. Also which engine it is and mileage/maintenance history.

 

Buy a new motor it's cheaper

 

I second this.

Also if someone rebuilds with new pistons...you'd have to find a very reputable place and it's probably going to cost a lot more. Most should should be able to swap and engine easily enough.

 

The Car Care Nut (AMD, a Toyota Master Diagnostic Technician, produces videos with the view that one should DIY if possible) YouTube channel recently posted a video on the first 2TR-FE (4-cylinder) engine that he'd ever seen fail. I purchased my 2009 Access Cab SR5 DLT (Dad's Last Truck) from his estate, as he went to assisted living thinking that he'd sold it to me, but hey, he held on to it after he decided to quit driving and would have my sister drive it around the ranch loop while he watched it pass the barns, shops and house.
If it runs fine, make sure the tires are not to far beyond their date of manufacture, and if it needs an oil change, take it to a good Toyota dealer (Lithia Toyota of Missoula was good, and Parker Toyota here is another good neighbor) and they'll provide a good inspection of many points (and I get a free car wash, a better deal than a quick lube place), as they have the Techstream software, and experienced techs. Spoiler Alert? AMD (started his own shop a year ago, and maintains his Toyota/Lexus certifications and training with Toyota/Lexus diagnostic software) replaced the engine with a new block ordered from Toyota, and the accessories still usable bolted right up, and it's good to go, less labor cost, less total cost than putting new parts into an old block.
That reminds me, this is the week to start replacing the exhaust header on the 2TR-FE with the new LC Engineering Street Exhaust Header. Adding 10% more horsepower to this durable engine sounds worthwhile, and I hope it comes off easily. Life happens as soon as you plan, though.
Welcome to Tacoma World, and taking care of your own DLT. Dad and I always felt, "There's a lot riding on your tires." I inherited a Michelin belt buckle as he didn't like western buckles, but this one's a small oval that was likely dealer swag in the early 1980s. I've been wearing it as Dad and Mom are still riding with me. Just as your parents will always be with you.

- Be well, Charlie in Coeur d'Alene

 

Welcome to the Forum!!

Another person being up sold. It would be good to know just how you got to this point.

The truck will not start? If it runs at all just very poor .

First I have never heard anyone say it needs new pistons !!

Till the engine is out and apart The cylinders and pistons are measured . There is no way to tell.

Do you have an Invoice with all the information on ??

Interesting .

 

I would get a second opinion. And if it matches, get a new engine(or low mileage from a parts truck)