Buying - year? problems? long bed? manual?

Hi there
Newbie here.....
I did a few searches but wasn't coming up with much
I have a few questions'
I own a 2001 xtra-cab 3.4 V6 auto
I am looking at replacing my wife's 2009 Outback with a second gen double cab
I would like a 4wd manual with a 6' long bed and double cab. Is an option?
What are the problem areas with second gen tacos?
Is there a particular year that i should be looking for?
Thanks for any constructive input
Slowstride

 

If it helps the automatics on the 2nd gens are great transmissions and actually get better gas mileage than the manuals. A DC long bed auto is a nice ride.

 

If manual is important on your list, then it's available in the 5 foot bed

 

You can only have 3 of the 4 things you listed (4x4, Double Cab, Long Bed) no manual in that combo, but like others have already mention the automatic on the 2nd gens are great. No complaints overall with my 2nd gen either... As far as what year to look for its really up to, there is really no major difference between the 05-08 and 09-11 except a few minor cosmetic features and i believe ATRAC (maybe a few more )

Overall you should be very happy with a 2nd gen, goodluck finding the one you want

 

If you decide you need a manual, don't get an 05-06. The 6-speed manual has gone through two upgrades since then. Prior to that, the 05s and some 06s had big problems with shift forks breaking, and major wear / grenading of synchros. These things were addressed in the later versions with heavier duty parts. Time will tell. A throwout bearing (TOB) issue remains through all years, but only affects a small percentage (begins to squeal). Toyota does now have a TSB for the TOB issue .. haven't heard any feedback on it though. There's also a quality aftermarket fix.