Head gasket failure

I have a 2005 Tacoma with the 4.0l with 179k on it and started getting the P0306 code. I thought it was spark plugs or coil pack. Was running rough on start up for about 30 seconds. Let engine sit over night Pulled spark plug on cylinder 6 and did not see any issues with the plug, put scope in the spark plug hole and inspected cylinder. Found coolant on top of cylinder 6. Seems like bad head gasket. Have not had any overheating issues. Anybody else having issues with head gaskets on their 2nd gen Tacoma?

 

It’s very common on ‘05- mid production year ‘06 4.0L Toyota motors. It usually happens at exactly your mileage. It’s a big job to change them.

 

Unfortunately it is a known issue for Tacomas 05 and early 06 after that toyota quietly switched to an improved headgasket. An engine swap would probably be easier but replacing the headgaskets are something that can be done.

 

This makes me so happy mine is a 07 lol , definitely a weekend project that's for sure but it can be done! If you are not good with engines I would recommend having a shop do it or swap the whole engine out with one from a 07+

 

I would love to do the job myself to save money but I work for a Mack Truck Dealer as the road service tech so I work like 50 to 60hrs a week, don’t really have time to do it. Talked to several shops and it’s around 2000 to 3500 to repair.

 

Do it

 

$2,000 isn’t a bad price assuming they’re competent, use OEM or equivalent parts, and do both sides.