Newb question about ECT

Is it bad for the trucks transmission and engine to always use the ECT? I know it will effect fuel economy but does it put extra wear and tear on the trucks mechanical parts?

 

No. It just changes the shift points, like sport mode in other cars. No harm in using it all the time.

 

I wonder if my sport will need it in "sport" mode haha.. I pick it up this Friday im excited.

 

Here's the textbook answer...I use it when I want quicker throttle response.

 

I call it ETC vs ECT. Etcetera - unspecified thing. Another button to push that makes me feel good. Honestly, it does help with towing and climbing - less gear hunting. But if I am going to tow anything over 2500# it’s not going to be with the Taco.

 

Shit….I thought it was for Electro Convulsive Therapy. Been too afraid to push the button!!!

 

I use it often. When towing, in the mountains and even when climbing the short 18% grade that leads up to my street in town.

Probably because I drove manual transmission cars and trucks for years and motorcycles I find that I enjoy the process of using the ECT in conjunction with selecting different gears while in S Mode when driving in the mountains. The truck performs better and it adds a bit of fun for me.

 

i have had the "ECT on at start up mod" on my 2016 about 10 months after i bought it new.
Can't drive without it!

 

is there a way to make it on all of the time? how much does it effect gas economy?

 

Get a tune and you won't need the button.

 

As far as gas i don't even notice. With the MOD you have to push the button to turn it off so is on at start up.
Years ago i got mine from Messo here but he does not sell them any more but goggle "tacoma ECT on at Start up"
there are some for sale and they are plug and play for the most part.
Best part is if you are running around making various stops you don't have to turn it on every time you start the truck.
Worst part for me was when i would forget and start to drive off the truck would not get out of its own way unless i floored it!

PS also should find a youtyube video on installation when you google.

 

Ectra power bro

 

I did some searching and some require splicing wires, that's a no go for me.
Found this looks like just plug and play.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2565432320...lp:2332490&itmmeta=01JQQ3PW0VMG8XDRYQJ5VB1RVH

 

I have the button tied into my shifter for a quick thumb press and would click it every time after startup.

to me- drive is eco mode/friendly and 6th is a 2nd over drive. Ect is what normal driving is. When I press the pedal I expect it to go, not think about it then puts around (that’s a good way to get tboned crossing an intersection). I never put it in drive, always s5 and always with the ect active. Then I got tuned and haven’t needed to press the button since

 

Yes! ECT and S5 so it can't drop into sixth gear and struggle out. Poor man's tune. Good to go.

 

It's worth noting that 2nd Gen had no ECT button- no poor man tune option.

 

I had it (ECT) and never used it until I got the OTT Tune in 2022.

Did a couple of variations with touchy throttle and have been happy with:

Mild Drive/Spicy ECT

 

I always drive in ECT mode. Lately I've been using the s mode to keep it below 5th around town, depending on the speed. I wish I found a manual one when I was looking, at least one not 500 miles away.