Head gasket issues 05 Taco?

I recently was told that some early versions of the 4.0L V6 are prone to head gasket issues. I own a 2005, and was naturally concerned considering it is the first year of the second gen Tacoma. My research on the issue turned up a bit of information, but not much. Can anyone confirm the existence of potential head gasket failures in early 4.0L V6 engines?

If there is such a potential problem, is there a way to prevent it from occurring? My 2005 is at 104k and has been solid so far, but I drive it hard and now I'm a bit worried I should be taking precautions to prevent a head gasket failure.

 

As long as you have changed the coolant fluid before it turn acidic not much you can do. Either it will blow and leak or it won't...

Just be aware of the signs and watch for it.

 

Thx. Still wondering if there is a confirmed issue or if it's just a myth.

 

I have an 05 that just turned over the 100K mark. Never had an issue.
But from what I have read that the gasket problems seem to start around 150K. I did some reading about coolant and it seems that Asian vehicles are very picky about the type of coolant used. It has to do with the different types of metals used in the engine and how they react with the coolant.
That being said, I would NEVER use the "fits all" type of coolant sold at parts stores (prestone, peak, etc).
Keep fresh Toyota coolant in your engine and just cross you're fingers!

 

My 05 has 250k miles. No issues

 

There has been a handful of cases reported here on TW of coolant weeping into cylinder #6, causing a misfire on start-up. I wouldn't call it widespread, but it could be called a known issue. I wouldn't worry about it too much though, it's not a high percentage that are failing. Maintain your coolant, keep your rad clean, don't accelerate hard on a cold engine, you know, the usual stuff.

 

The most important part here. Antifreeze will turn acidic / corrosive when they are depleted and eat away at the head gasket.