1997 Toyota Tacoma LX 2.7 - 4cly from North America

Summary:

Very reliable and tough, best in class by far

Faults:

Starter contacts failed out - removed started replaced contacts and plunger reinstalled started myself.

Brakes - Replaced front rotors/pads rear drums/shoes myself.

With regular oil changes, tires, filters, cleaning I think it will go forever.

General Comments:

The most reliable and durable vehicle I have ever owned. I would recommend extra cab model for the additional space up front. 2.7 is strong for a four cyl. 4X4 works very well, even pulled a full size Chevy out of trouble on the beach.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 7th May, 2007

1997 Toyota Tacoma 2WD Extended Cab 2.4L 4 cylinder. from North America

Summary:

Durable, Dependable, Reliable, The Best

Faults:

The only thing to go wrong so far was the Universal Joint at 100,000 Miles.

Otherwise, this truck has been great. Problem free and reliable.

General Comments:

This truck has never let me down. Its reliable, economical, and comfortable. The 2.4L with a 5 Speed Manual gets between 25-30 miles to the gallon. This is my first truck/car I have ever owned (16 Years Old) and I never want to get another.

On the highway and in the city streets, with the manual transmission, it picks up very well. On the highway, it drives excellent in 4th gear.

The extended cab has given me the room for a few passengers and to have a sub box and have a very nice stereo in the truck.

I have owned this truck 3 years and it has caused me no problems. I work at an auto garage so I get discounted parts, but never need them.

The only reason I would get rid of this truck is the 2WD. It is terrible in snow. Even with bigger BF Goodrich tires, it still slides all around and gets stuck almost everywhere. My next truck will definitely be a 4x4 Toyota.

I strongly recommend this vehicle to anyone who wants a high-quality truck.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 11th April, 2006

28th Nov 2008, 11:21

Can you tell me a little about your sub box configuration? I am looking to put some kind of system in my 2000 Tacoma 4X4 extended cab, but I'm trying to save space too. Just wondering.

Thanks.

Garrett.

1997 Toyota Tacoma SX 3.7 4 cylinder from North America

Summary:

A Deer Hunt'n, OffRoad'n, Road Trip'n Macine!

Faults:

Had to replace the starter and starter solenoid at 86,000 miles. Did this myself and was surprised how well everything came out and went in. Cornstalks ripped off the passenger side CV-Boot, but I just stretched it tight and used a hose-clamp to re-secure it. Also have an annoying rattle somewhere in the defrost or air vents. I have a slight stutter during acceleration and cannot put my finger on what is causing this. Thought it was moisture in the fuel tank, nope, then maybe plugs, nope. Still don't know. Any ideas please reply! Been putting up with it for about 4 months.

General Comments:

Excellent truck. I've crossed creeks, driven endless logging roads and hauled deer out of places a truck should never have made it in let alone back out of. Spun it 3 times on the highway at 60 mph right into a grass bank and destroyed the front passenger side 1/4 panel and part of the bed. I drive it 600+ miles a week and have it in and out of 4 wheel drive at least every other weekend. Off-road is amazing. The only issue I have a gripe about is how easily this truck hydro-plains when not loaded down in the bed. Tip: MAKE sure you have at least 160 lbs in the bed (sand bags, or salt bags). This truck has not let me down. My next truck is going to be this same one, but with a 5 speed 6 cylinder. Best of all; put a cap over the bed and I can live out of it for days without paying hotel costs. This has financially allowed me to go on many road trips and ski vacations saving hundreds of dollars.

Great Truck. Sure beats a JEEP and is much more functional.

Chad@hocking.edu.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th December, 2003

18th Dec 2003, 09:18

Just realized something else wrong with the truck listed above. The passenger side floor-board is soaking wet after I drive through moderate rain and or snow! I assumed the dampness on the passenger floor was from having wet, snow covered boots and damp hunting clothes, but it is not. I have not been able to pin-point it yet, but I know this is a problem I must address ASAP. I've heard of this happening to other Tacoma's also. Very disappointed with this new found problem.

-Chad.