Looks like I’m moving to a third gen !

So for a number of years I have owned my 09 Toyota Tacoma and it’s been a great truck but my buddy offered me a good deal on his 19 so I’m most likely selling my 09 and throwing some money on top of it to get his 19.

Is there in common concerns or problems with the third gen’s that I should be aware of or look at before purchasing it?

 

4 cyl or V6? If the V6 check for a timing cover leak. If dual cab check for evidence of a leak in the third brake light at the rear window.

 

Most common problem is 1st and 2nd gen owners telling you their gen is better. If it's not rusty, GENERALLY, you will be pleased with the 3rd gen. It's a good truck.

 

This is a great place to start.

https://youtu.be/b6tRAQ_r0Ms?si=FGK8aV9L3BW6LU4q

Also, the 3rd gen forum.

 

The 3rd gen is an evolution of the 2nd gen with many of the same common problems (most 2nd gen dudes fail to realize that) . In fact throughout the 3rd gen years Toyota solved most if not all of the left over 2nd gen issues and 3rd gen issues.

 

Watch for timing cover leak and rear bypass plastic pipe coolant leak. Check for these before purchase, they are pull engine cost repairs.

Outside of those two major repairs you'll need to wind the engine higher for power. Shifting is annoying sometimes but turning off cruise control on hills, using S mode or the button to eliminate overdrive gears works fine for me. Tune is always an option if it really bothers you. Enjoy.

 

It is a v6 and double cab

 

Thank you

 

If he is a good friend I would guess he would tell you of any known problems. Check the frame and maintenance records.

 

The only thing that really stands out is to make sure if it has the automatic is to have the latest firmware (not the right term, I'm at a loss of words right now) that helped improve shifting performance. I will say that after having two 2nd gens with the 5 speed automatic the 6 speed auto in the 3rd gen is definitely a letdown. However, the rest of the truck is pretty good.

 

He is a good friend and going to take it to the dealership to have them inspect it for any issues that he could not be aware of.

 

That’s great. Good luck with her

 

The 2nd gen was loaded with common issues more than the 3rd gen including the timing cover leak! Amazing how people quickly people forget from generation to generation

 

The 3rd gen is surprisingly similar underneath. The frame and suspension is shockingly similar. The 4WD system is improved, which is definitely an improvement over the 2nd gens. Both my 3rd gens clicked in far better than my 2nd gens. Although admittingly the older one had seen some abuse before I got it.

 

What color?

 

Desert tan color, long bed
4x4, camper shell matching color at 75k miles.

basically exactly what I have but ten years newer and instead 230k miles

 

Awesome, sounds like a winner!
Enjoy!

 

Good thing he's not buying a 2nd gen

 

We don't forget. That's the problem.
The only thing the 3rd gen has on a 2nd Gen is labor hours. (more)
All the same issues as the 2nd Gen, but more difficult to work on.

 

Awsome! I guess you can hang out with the cool kids now.