2003 Toyota Tacoma 2WD Base Regular Cab 2.4 Liter from North America
Summary:
The Toyota Tacoma is great economical transportation
Faults:
Nothing serious has gone wrong with the vehicle.
The only engine issue I had was a "check engine" light on because of a loose gas cap.
The parking brake cable kinks when it's released, and there is a small rain leak around the passenger foot area.
General Comments:
This truck is perfect and reliable transportation in all weather conditions. It doesn't have a lot of features and options, but it does everything I need a vehicle to do. It has power steering for easy handling, and high ground clearance for driving through heavy snow.
Fuel mileage is great. I recently installed Bosch Platinum/Iridium (4 electrode) spark plugs, and began using synthetic oil with 10% Duralube. Mileage increased from 26 to 33 MPG on the highway. The only thing I don't like about the design is the cheap plastic parts used in the interior.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 27th October, 2012
31st May 2011, 16:31
I have a '96 Tacoma. Indeed the engines in these things will last forever. Even though mine is going on 16 years old, it barely shows any wear. The truck could probably last another 20+ years no problem. My guess as to why is because Toyota put HUGE oil pans on these things. My 4 banger Taco holds almost 6 quarts of oil. That means the engine runs cooler and the oil stays cleaner. It's the best vehicle I've ever owned, and I've owned it since new.