Trouble spots on Tacomas

Thanks to all who provided input on the 1st thread about Rangers vs Tacomas. With your input and after thinking back to my old '85 Yota 1 Ton ( a bullet - proof buck board), I've decided to look for a Tacoma. I'm looking for a '01 or '02 Xtracab, 4x4 (i'd still like a PreRunner (better gas milage, less moving parts to repair), but really want a 5 speed), V6, 5 speed, 100k or less.

When I buy used, I usually get my mechanic and my transmission guy to take a look at them for me, make the sale conditional on their report. While they are both good, I'd like to make sure they don't miss anything. I'm looking for input on potential trouble spots in a 1st gen Tacoma so that I can prep them.

Once I buy, I'll let you know what I got. Then I'll be asking about syn lube/oils, gas milage improvements and fun mods.

Thanks again for your help. The folks on this forum provided a lot more insightful comments than I got on the Ranger site. Is that cuz you're smarter?

 

Rust recall on the frame. Check behind the rear wheels on frame to look for rust. No worries just something to watch for I think toyota gave a 15 year warranty on the frames. Correct me if Im wrong.

 

What these guys said^^

But if you live where there's snow, or you want to eventually off road, I would highly suggest 4x4 (I also just really don't like prerunners, but that's just my opinion and may not be yours).

 

Yep, water pump, frame, and rear leaf springs on mine. If you do need the frame replaced its actually pretty good, at least my experience was. Replaced frame and also get brand new rear springs and new front lower control arms, brake lines, parking brake cable, and I think they replaced the diff oil also.

 

The dash of my '02 rattles. I didn't know it was a common problem - does anyone know a fix for it? If I push down on the front/center it'll stop rattling, so I figure something's just loose.

I bought mine new and now have about 136,500 miles on it. My troubles have included the following:

• Rattle in dash
• Had a premature spark plug issue (not really the truck's problem)
• Lower ball joint recall
• Air/fuel sensor just after manifold went bad
• Water pump started leaking @ 103k (should have had timing belt & water pump replaced before then)

It's been a great truck, and I'm ashamed to admit this, but until recently it was pretty neglected other than oil changes. That sure didn't stop it though.