Concerns about new 2018 V6 Tacoma

I have a 2015 Tacoma V6 4 door TRD Off Road and have had absolutely "zero problems" with it. Only problem is, for my business, I should have purchased a long bed,
I am thinking about trading for a 2018 TRD 4x4 long bed but looks like the drive ability problems relating to the transmission are a significant problem.

I do not want a truck with engineering problems when my current Tacoma has been so very good. However, I do like the styling and upgrades available.

Any suggestions or insights? I may just switch to Chevy or Ford is this problem is real and continuing. Also, perhaps fixed in 2019 model?

 

From all I've read on here, I don't like the 3.5L at all. From the lack of power issues, to the CATs being bolted strait to the block. I think Toyota messed that engine up big time.

 

Welcome to TW! What do you typically haul in your bed?

 

The engine and transmission are in their third year of production. My 2017 drives great. I did the ECT always on mod and it did increase my power (debatable on the site, but the seat of my pants is my proof...lol). The engine really comes alive at 3000 RPM. The ECT gets you to the power band faster. It took me 3 months to really know how to get the best performance using S-mode and the ECT.

Performance... it is a truck. It doesn't do 0-60 like a 'vette, but it ain't a Prius either.

Your best bet is to drive it yourself.

I will say, I've been place that were absolutely pucker worthy and fun.

 

Promiscuous women...

 

Then the Taco is perfect for you...It is a Pink Taco Magnet.

 

Welcome to TW!!

 

What are you talking about the cats are down stream and it on the manifolds. False information here

 

The 3rd gen is a great truck, you only hear about problems here cuz well it's TW. These trucks have great power a lot of people complain aboutt the automatic but I have no power problems with the manual transmission. The only things to worry about is the leaf spring tsb and the rear diff recall.

 

Nope. Go take a look under your hood bud. That is one hole that all three cylinders dump into at the same time. The "manifold" is integrated into the engine. Part #1 is a CAT, and if you look closely, it bolts up against the engine vs a 2014 4.0L where you have the ability to install a header.

 

For example.... If you wanted to improve your 2016+ 3.5L Tacoma's exhaust system you would have to go with something like this:
https://www.urdusa.com/urd-power-extractor-pipes-2016-tacoma-3-5l-v6/

A single pipe.

 

I am not hearing much good about the 3.5 liter V6. How about the 4 cylinder? Is that a good solution if you want reliability, smooth shifting, and reasonable towing capacity? Does it come in TRD Off Road trim? Would it be a good alternative?

 

my 2.7 was good, but my 3.5 now is just fine. The transmission takes getting used to, but i believe most of it has to do with it being neutered for gas mileage. With the ECT it definitely moves better.
My only gripe is the damn leaf springs being so soft...

 

Those are pre cats, you can remove those

 

You still can't use a header on that engine due to the design, and that is upsetting.

 

Mine are good.had 1700 lbs of Allan blocks in the bed and barely squat at all. Pretty surprised actually

 

Is anyone really that concerned about cats because they want to install a header?

If my Magnaflow exhaust problem has taught me anything it's that it's not worth messing with exhaust systems anymore.

 

No. the v6 may develop power high in the revs but the 4 cylinder just doesnt develop power period - and they both use the same transmission

 

Are you sure? That part has one inlet, like the header dumps in to the part holding the pre-cat.

I have an 18 V6 automatic. No problems. More pep than my 08 and 16. This is TW, people complain about breaking a bolt they over torqued by double and everyone follows up by calling it poor quality. The new trucks are great. Test drive one, and you’ll be pleased.

 

Welcome to TW- my advice is to test drive the Colorado, Canyon, Frontier, F150, Silverado, Ram, Tundra, and all the long bed variations of the Tacoma, 4cyl and 6cyl. That should tell you more than you need to know about what truck is best for you.


I have a v6 Tacoma long bed, and I think it is a great truck.

And if you do buy the 2018 Tacoma, will really enjoy your truck much more if you log off TW soon thereafter.....stay away for a little while at least.

Good luck!