Tacoma 4x4: What is the best year to purchase in the 4.0 liter series?

Nice long bed - opens up so many opportunities!

#shortbedproblems

 

Welcome to TW!

 

I'm surprise no one has mentioned that 2012+ has the air injection system added in. If you read the threads here, here, and here you'll come to find out that the system especially in the 2012 models have been problematic. Good news is that if you do like the 12+ models, the air injection system can now be turned OFF thanks to HP tuners which you can read up here.

Off-Road models gets the rear differential locker (A-TRAC in 09+)
Sport has hood scoop and body colored grill surrounds, bumper, handles, etc..


05-06 I would avoid due to possible head gasket issues
08 is the last year for the mechanical LSD
09+ beginning of A-TRAC in 4x4 models, LED taillight, back up cam, only Off-Road models have the electric brake booster due to A-TRAC.
12-15 mild body refresh, air injection system

Happy hunting. Welcome to the site.