Utility package Tacomas (The bearded toy)

I own a 1st gen but recently found out about the bearded truck and am considering buying one. But I'm concerned about the reviews on the auto trans. Would appreciate any feedback.

 

I drive a 2019. I have no idea what the fuss is about.

 

I have a 2020 and I have no issues with it...would suggest test driving until you feel comfortable buying.

 

I have a 2020, IMO the transmission itself is fine, but they need to do a better job on programming the shift points. The transmission does take a little while to learn your driving habits.

One thing i hate about most new vehicles, they no longer have a dipstick for the transmission, totally stupid IMO.

 

Hey Jim, welcome to TW!
I have a 2019 AC Utility package. 2WD, 2.7L 4 cyl Automatic I bought new and so far I love this truck. I did have to do some upgrades (DIY) to add intermittent wipers, fog lights, keyless entry. Etc to get it to what I wanted but enjoyed doing those things myself.
The suggestion to test drive one is a good idea, get on a highway you can go 65-75 mph on and see how the transmission shifts. It does have a learning mode and performs better for me after the first 1000- 1500 miles. I usually use ECT mode around town and driving 45 mph or less, ECT mode moves up the rpm at which it will shift for better performance. On the interstate in normal mode sometimes on a grade it will shift to a lower gear and rpms will go to 3500 or so, and on occasion it has hit 5500 rpm if I’m going over 70 up a steep grade lol. Normally runs at 2200-2400 or so rpm at 70-75 mph flat grade just fine. This engine was made to run at higher rpm if needed so no worries just some getting issued to. I have no concerns with the transmission now and know when to hit that ECT button
I love the extra storage room in the cab with the utility package!

 

I love the extra storage behind the seats too!

I gotta get keyless entry in it though. I admit that I didn't think I would miss it but I do.

 

Same with me I thought I didn’t need it. But after a few times being on the passenger side which doesn’t have a key lock (right ? I forget now haha) I realized I needed keyless entry.

 

Yeah, I think the SX package has it and I didn't research that enough before purchasing which is of course my fault!

Probably my next 'mod', we'll see. Or fog lights!

 

If you find a solution you like, keep me (us) posted. It's just about the only thing missing.

 

This is the OEM (sort of, actually Toyota Dealers kit) keyless entry mod I did for my Tacoma if you’re a diy type you might want this:
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/installing-oem-keyless-entry.619447/
read through the whole thread and you will see I have some additional advice there.
It works fine, but if I were to do it again I might consider using a reputable car stereo/security system company to install keyless entry and a security system add on for it.
One thing I like about doing the oem mod though is I know where every wire goes and if I have any troubles I have the schematics etc.

 

The trans is alright. For a truck it's fine. Not smooth like a lexus or mercedes but it just works. Only gripe I have is that it likes to hold higher gears, doesn't like to down shift until you really put your foot down. At the same time the 2.7 doesn't have much to offer so it'll be slow either way.

 

265/70/17 Nitto Terra grapplers mounted on 2010 4Runner SR5 wheels painted black. Ran about $300 otd. Not my first choice but I saw the wheels cheap on marketplace and figured I might as well have a winter/off road set. They are coming off in the spring. Tires are too heavy and big for the 2.7 to comfortably drive. Not sure why but not the rear end feels unstable over bumps. Too cold for me to care.

Had to order mag lugs for the aluminum wheel set up because the original acorn lugs that come in the steel wheels don't work.

Also installed a black horse brush guard a few weeks back. Have yet to find the time to design a lockable storage set up behind the seats. The taco is too long to get into my garage at home and it's getting too cold out to do anything.

 

It's "Bearded Taco", OP.

 

Did my Tacoma utility package into a McFly remake.Paid new 23 grand four cyl manual trans 4x4.

 

Awesome..McFly!

 

SR utility package.

 

You have the best looking factory wheels hands down. Looks great.

 

For the price it’s a good deal if you can find them.

 

Wish someone close by had the OEM snowflake alloy wheels. I would trade then my "best looking factory wheels."

 

The All-Pro Off-Road sliders I got bolted up just fine with no modifications.