what to ask when buying a 3.4 taco?

Alright I posted something like this in the "new member" forum but got no replies lol...
I'm planning on getting a 01-04 3.4 xcab trd taco sumtime in the late summer...

I was wondering what things shall I be looking out for as in the CONs and recalls and such...I know about the frame rust recall...I have a 3.0 and ther hell for blowin a head gasket so what issues if any do 3.4s have? I would like to hear as much as possible on personal experences, especially from original owners and long time owners...id like to hear small problems from dash light goin out to a blown motor...everything will be thot of, when I'm looking at a truck to buy...thanks

 

Besides the frame rust problem in northren states, weak rear suspension and well thats about it lol. There isnt really any major problems with these trucks. Mine has just about 146k and the only things that I know the previous owner has replaced was a fuel pump, all I had to replace was a alternator. Runs like a champ! And I dont really "baby" it all the time.

 

Yea its crazy how these trucks are just so reliable lol my build is going to be somewhat slow like urs no offense lol as in ill be doing things when I have money, so 1st the truck then lift then tires then start on some armour lol...I can't wait til I get the truck, really lookin forward to it

 

Haha none taken. Im broke so it will take alil but I have some big plans for it. Just take your time finding one and pick the one that picks you and you will love it! Good luck.

 

I have the same problem, being broke that is lol....but thanks man

 

If the timing belt/water pump have been replaced.

 

X2 on timing belt and water pump. Ask about maintenance papers. Other than that the 3.4 is a solid motor. My cousin has about 300xxx miles on his.

 

Yea check with that. But if not, no worries. Its a non-interference engine. Meaning if the belt brakes the pistons WILL NOT hit the valves so no engine damge if it breaks. but the pump is known for slight leakage, nothing major.

 

The 01-4 Tacomas are notorious for these small qwerks. Obviously not every Tacoma has these. These are just the more common ones.


1. Frame rust
2. Premature ball joint wear
3. Leaking rear axle seal
4. Leaking oil pan seal
5. A/C blown motor
6. Leaking CV boot
7. Transmission "Thunk"


Those are the most common.

 

There was a recall on the ball joins I believe, but it was not a large one.

 

Correct.

 

I have seen a few with the axle problems but not many at all. And the CV boot isnt that usually with the lifted Taco's? And just to add to the list some have a slight dashboard rattle, (mine doesnt so I dont know much bout it)

 

Yes. You can check by VIN on toyotaownersonline.com for the recall and whether a truck you are considering has had the recall performed. Mostly certain 01s and 02s, I believe (it was a bad batch of scratched BJs, not a universal design issue). Any dealer will replace it no questions asked and align it, too. At least, that was my experience. Don't let it stop you from buying a truck, but do get it done immediately if you do buy a truck that needs it.

 

Is it fast???

 

Alrite man that's some good info THANKS lol