Everything you need to know about the Toyota Tacoma Part 1 Engine

A Toyota master diagnostic technician shares everything you need to know about the Toyota Tacoma from the nose of the truck all the way to the back in this multi part series with every episode focusing on one element of the Toyota Tacoma.
By the vote of my awesome viewers I present to you the 2nd Toyota Truck series on my channel. The Toyota Tacoma series which I am calling Everything you need to know about the Toyota Tacoma Series.
In the first installment of this series I'm gonna first talk about a very brief history of the Tacoma, How it has some ties with the Toyota Hilux and how it used to have a lot more ties with the Toyota 4Runner.
Many have not noticed that ties between the Tacoma and the 4Runner broke in 2016 when the 3rd Generation Tacoma came out. The Tacoma skipped an entire generation of upgrades that the 4runner got and then departed in a different direction.
After some history I'm gonna dive right into the engine. We'll take some of the fluff out on top and dive in! I'll cover mechanical components, Some good things some bad things and everything in between including The fuel system, Cooling system and more.
The Tacoma is a very popular truck among enthusiasts and for some time some other similar trucks from other manufacturers were dropped but the Tacoma soldiered on in it's 3rd Generation!
Towards the end of the video we'll take the Tacoma on a Test drive and I'll share with you my impressions on how the tacoma engine feels driving wise.
This series goes into in depth details that you usually don't see in car reviews which seem rushed and mainly focused on cup holders and soft touch materials. One thing I'll guarantee you if you watch this series, You won't hear the word Cup holder ;-) I hope you like the series and you learn something new.
Below are some other videos that are related to the Tacoma that are helpful if you own or plan to buy a Tacoma in the future:
2016-2021 Toyota Tacoma Common Problems:
• Should you buy the lat...
Tacoma sealed transmission fluid replacement DIY without a scan tool
• Toyota Trucks Sealed T...
Not impressed by the Tacoma? How about a similar series for the 4runner?
• 4Runner Technical Review
Toyota Maintenance guide so you won't get ripped off by the dealership
• How to maintain your T...
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#thecarcarenut #toyota #toyotatacoma
0:00 Intro
0:44 Tacoma History
3:55 Tacoma Engine Intro
5:29 Tacoma V6 Engine Details
19:00 Tacoma 4 Cylinder engine details
20:55 Tacoma Test Drive

[@TheCarCareNut]

Below are some other videos that are related to the Tacoma that are helpful if you own or plan to buy a Tacoma in the future: 2016-2021 Toyota Tacoma Common Problems: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mGfXg3SHlNdjg9U Tacoma sealed transmission fluid replacement DIY without a scan tool kzbin.info/www/bejne/hIakpnqjeayhqrs Not impressed by the Tacoma? How about a similar series for the 4runner? kzbin.info/aero/PLeFzfl0Q8rQWEfqiaOGG3wzXKNughcpzi Toyota Maintenance guide so you won't get ripped off by the dealership kzbin.info/aero/PLeFzfl0Q8rQVtXIaJSF7EtirvTRhSbsrV

[@TJizzle-bi1ur]

I have a 2010 Lexus HS 250h Premium. Do you know where I can find a manual on how to remove the assembly to clean out the cooling fan for the Hybrid battery? Along with additional information for disassembling and assembling steps for necessary maintenance? I looked through the books that came with the car but there's nothing more than the usual information for regular car maintenance.

[@kimdavis5631]

Hi my brother! Your "How to maintain your Toyota" playlist is worth its weight in gold for a layman and lite car enthusiast like myself. My local dealership recommended 11 services to me last Saturday and I was able to separate the wheat from the chaff as I'm following all of your maintenance recommendations to the T and the car thanked me after a recent PCV valve replacement. Thank you brother.

[@felixsxsw5879]

Hello, do you have any instruction on how to take the intake manifold off of a 2016 tacoma 4x4 trd off road. I had a rodent do damage to a harness under the manifold and i just want to make sure to do things right. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

[@TheCarCareNut]

Hi! Purchase a days pass at techinfo.Toyota.com to get access to the repair manual with all information that you need.

[@felixsxsw5879]

@@TheCarCareNut Thank you for helping me out. I was able to fix my harness yesterday and removed the intake with no issues. I really appreciate your help you helped me save big bucks on this repair. I really love your videos and will continue to support your channel. Much appreciated, Merry Christmas!

[@codymoreland4496]

2.7 with 440k still running fine. No major problems. 1 owner

[@ricktharp1]

Wow

[@daviddietsch]

Nice I’m At 270k

[@bowtiediesel]

Best channel for Toyota related stuff. No aftermarket or modding bullshit. Just pure down to earth Toyota technical info.

[@zzzz-ok7733]

Absolutely agree!!!💯

[@porschematt991]

Exactly

[@porschematt991]

Sometimes you just want to learn about the actual truck itself. I don’t care about mods that much

[@Starman-yt8lj]

Love my 2.7L. It’s as reliable as they come which is of the utmost importance to me. It won’t win any sprints but it won’t lose any marathons.

[@alexgarcia3900]

I live in Hawaii and I see these for sale with blown head gaskets. Make sure you don't stress that little engine too much

[@thomasdausch8557]

i am looking at the 2.7 i4 in comparison to the v6 ,, how would the 2.7 preform towing no more than 2000lb and some light duty dirt road exploring? tks for the input

[@alexgarcia3900]

@@thomasdausch8557 buy the v6. You will be much happier

[@brakotekventuresltd7420]

Still driving a2.7ltr ,2004 taco in Accra,Ghana. A reliable truck,less issues and always gets the job done..

[@BabakPA]

I agree! The 2.7 L is extremely reliable! I wish they would offer it in Canada in Manual but they don’t have either :((

[@mitomr.twiceasnice4358]

1.5 Million mile Taco, on the 2.7L. 🥊🔧 knockout. 🏆

[@jakubkuzmicki8572]

on the same engine!?

[@roque-au-parcus]

This channel is pure gold. You deserve way more subscribers, sir.

[@zzzz-ok7733]

💯💯💯👍

[@solooverland3666]

Most excellent, as usual! Thanks again for the very informative 4Runner series, AMD!

[@kimdavis5631]

Unbeatable technical review of the Taco Truck engine! The test drive is the icing on the cake!

[@61espo]

Thanks AMD! I was looking forward to this as I own a 2017 Tacoma. Thanks for taking the time to bring us these fantastic videos!

[@connoremery7719]

Super stoked you are doing a Tacoma series! Love your videos! I have a 2nd gen taco and have learned a ton about my truck thanks to you! Hope you cover more of the 2nd gen tacos. Thanks again for all the awesome info!🙏

[@SuperDrhook]

Awesome info vid on the 2gr I still love my 1gr in my 14' just as long as you do its regular maintenance they will go forever keep up the good content I cherish your channel 👍🏽

[@Mukeman]

Hey AMD - I've been looking forward to your series on the Tacoma. Many thanks to you and your excellent videos about Toyota's. I know it is a lot of hard work and editing, but your subscribers are "lovin it". This channel and its valuable content is what KZbin is made for. Keep up the great work!

[@---rg1gb]

I love that engine's sound...it feels solid. Good memories

[@icer22x]

Dude. This is the BEST review of a vehicle I’ve ever seen. I always want a technical review of cars! WELL DONE.

[@MaximumDIYGarage]

Thanks, AMD! The driving segment is very welcome!!! Great job as always!

[@AP-lb3oh]

Love the informative videos. I appreciate the knowledge you share and how responsive you are to the community. Thank you!

[@vancrews3971]

You are the most intelligent person I have ever listened to about these vehicles. Thank you for your videos.

[@readtheinstructions1407]

I like my 2018 SR5, Access, 4x4, V6, Tacoma very much. I average around 29MPG, with a 95% highway driving. I look forward to this series. Thanks for uploading Car Care Nut.

[@christopherkenn53]

As always, honest, simply, straightforward advice. This is why we love you brother.

[@LongArizona]

This video is amazing because I just bought a new Tacoma! What’s more amazing is that you have such incredible knowledge and that blow me away! Thank you so much Master AMD!🙏

[@coreytrevor5261]

Thanks for making this series I love Toyota especially the Tacoma. This is such a great Channel

[@markphilpot8734]

Best channel period for Toyotas! No nonsense, just the real on what’s up with Toyota!

[@abrahammateo4540]

Thank you for your honesty brother. May the good Lord bless your work

[@donschlichting8744]

Thanks for doing this series! It's been a gift as a New Tacoma owner after always owning Fords. Great to be informed by a master tech. Please keep the videos coming!

[@melvyns.rivera8545]

Same here.

[@bluefj-wc3vz]

I loved the up front and topside oil filter cans on the ‘08 V6. Great Tacoma series start. I’m thinking of getting a new one. Still have my ‘92 hilux though 🤘🏻

[@smallfact0ry921]

Just picked up my 2022 tacoma 4x4 4cylinder 2 days ago. Love the simplicity and ease of maintenance of the 2.7 motor. It’s all the power I will need. At this point in time they are MUCH cheaper because dealers are marking up the v6 models (roughly 3-6k over msrp here in New England). I got it for msrp. Next week I’ll fluid film the entire underside and enjoy…

[@jamesg6792]

I have a 2021 2wd TRD Sport on order. Cement exterior loaded out. I am an avid Toyota supporter and have driven nothing else since 2000. Best vehicles out there hands down. This video was enlightening because I also own a 2008 Sienna. I assumed the engines were the same because they are both a 3.5 engine. Well i now know i was way wrong lol. Thanks again.

[@mattb9664]

Most excellent overview, as always!

[@solooverland3666]

Guys, considering the amount of in-depth information and multi-decade experience going into AMD’s useful and polished videos, the LEAST we can do is not skip through the ads. Thank you! 💪🏼👍🏼

[@86SVOwner]

AMD isn't getting compensated for the ads. KZbin adds them into videos of popular contributors.

[@IndependenceOverland]

@@86SVOwner are you sure they aren’t monetizing their videos? Recently KZbin decided to put ads on videos that aren’t monetized, so most creators that didn’t have their videos monetized before do have them monetized now because their viewers are having to see ads either way. So I would be willing to bet they are monetized videos now, and it does help creators by just watching 15 seconds of an ad or so.

[@g.fortin3228]

Yep the heat's gonna get to the rear one..more heat retention back there. You're channel is the BEST around for all the good and bad details...very honest and valuable. Love your videos.

[@CarnutMM]

I do love the fact this engine has both port and direct injectors. But I do worry that more injectors make more chances of problems down the road. I’ve never found a noise issue in my 3rd gen Tacoma.

[@Enchanted3DPrints]

I just got one. switched from a Ls based gm which was whisper quiet at idle. I noticed the ticking with my new taco and though i know DI makes a bunch of noise it is hard to get used to. However the 10k i put in a newer GM in 15 months will not be missed. Looking forward to toyota reliability. My dad had a 2000 tundra for 20 years until he bought a new one and in that time it was in the shop one time for a fuel injector. Other than that just routine maintenance stuff. Love this channel!

[@wudger901]

Your comments regarding the 2.7 4cyl engine make me glad of my 2015 manual. Maybe you could do a video sometime concerning the frame rust issue-just had mine inspected and treated.

[@canadamike6397]

Thank you so much! Your videos on these have helped me understand my truck 1000x better!

[@jamespowers8142]

I’m a original owner of a 1995 1/2 emarald green oak interior standard cab 3.4 liter 5 speed 4x4 SX Tacoma with 256,000 miles its been the best truck ever runs like a champ and has been my daily driver for 26 years when I bought it in 1995 at Huntington Beach Toyota the window sticker price as equipped was a whopping $21,000 sticker price that was huge in 1995 I can never sell it it’s been such a great truck if you take care of these trucks they will last for a long time this channel has been a lot help with the upkeep on my Toyota thank you so much for the great vids take care and god bless

[@barrybaldwin5535]

I'm so glad that I found your page to learn these particulars from a professional & not just an amateur reviewer or a buyer that is reciting what they read. I spoke in another video about letting my 19 year old Tundra Double Cab LTD go because of frame rot & deciding on the base level Tacoma SR with 2.7L. After digesting your testimony regarding that model, I feel that I made the right choice. After 5 weeks of waiting for my already assembled Model 7514 4×4 to ship from Vera Cruz, MX, I was informed yesterday that it is finally moving to my Dealership in in Franklin County, Greenfield, MA. Thanks again for taking the time to film & produce a logical & factual video on this subject.

[@KilgoreUSA]

Great Video. Thanks for taking the time and educating the rest of us.

[@Battleaxegunner]

I own a 2011 TRD Sport Tacoma, and I love and swear by the big 4.0L 1GR-FE. Very torquey. Not to mention Magnuson Supercharger kits are available for this thing to bring out it's true power! The aftermarket for previous generation Tacoma's is so vast and huge! LCE Performance makes a turbo kit for the legendary 22RE engine for those who are interested. Maybe one day, we can see a Turbo diesel Tacoma!

[@cj5fromla]

Thank you for a great video. I really enjoy my 17 tacoma trd orsb 4x4, but did get a kd maxx pro tune done on it. The tune really help with allowing my engine to now give me the low end instant torque power that was pretty much lacking even after getting the dealership to update their latest firmware update. Thanks alot toyota for building one heck of a fun truck. Hope the next gen 4 is even more exciting and the interior be even more roomier in both width, and length, also off road capable than the last 3 gens have been.

[@marclarose4512]

Thanks AMD, I love my 21 Tacoma an I love your channel!!! Keep up the great work brother!

[@kamakaziozzie3038]

Thank you for this video! I spent twenty minutes searching YT for someone that would explain this engine bay layout in detail. You provided me with quality content. new sub ✌️

[@leecarroll1817]

Love your tutorial, I have a 2016 Hilux with the 2.4 diesel, yes I'm in Europe and absolutely love this tank. It's clean, leaks/uses no oil. WITH the 6 speed STD trans it's quiet on the highway and like a tractor in the rough, hence the choice of many not so nice folks that mount 50cal machine guns on the bed. I absolutely love mine.

[@gocivic99]

Yes. The Tacoma video is finally here. This truck is weird man. It's loud, thirsty and awkward. it makes me smile every day. Thank you for explaining the loudness of the "diesel" sounding engine. You have resolved many of my concerns. Example: In winter I thought I had a leak with excessive water/fuel burn off in the morning that would resolve after it warmed...(face palm) direct to inline switch. I'll be looking forward to the follow up videos.

[@matt9c1]

I hear you. My 2021 I just picked up sometimes idled loud as well. I watched AMD's previous Tacoma video before I bought it and knew all was well. It is sometimes loud like a diesel, but I know all is well. Nobody has asked me about it yet, I figure if they do I will tell them Toyota gave me a secret diesel Tacoma to test ha ha :)

[@g-mang-man7924]

Started working on Toyotas in 1992. First Toyota truck was a 1984 Xtracab long bed 4X2. 2nd was a 2001 Tacoma Xtracab 4X2. I wanted a Tacoma Double cab 4X4 when they came out....but in 2010, I purchased a very used but well kept 2000 Tundra 4X4 access cab TRD. Bought it with 140k miles, and sold it in 2018 for a 2011 Tacoma TRD off road double cab 4X4 V6. After 25 years of working on Toyotas, I feel like I own one of the best Toyota vehicles ever built.

[@matt9c1]

Excellent video AMD ! I look forwards to the rest of the series.

[@redwine1671]

Your Channel is amazing! I love the durability and reliability of Toyota Thank you so much for sharing this content

[@jimbattles9642]

thanks for the straight forward information on everything toyota. bought first on in 1992 and had to wait 12 weeks for it to arrive as it was on a ship when i signed the papers. we then bought a used avalon and passed camry to son. then another avalon and a tundra. always reliable. also thank for your video ending. you have a very calm spirit and the ending tells me why. always learn something. son is now looking for a used toyota and takes your recommendation seriously. and has been looking for several months.but will not buy one with year and consistent service record.

[@MrOnlinmrine]

I came from daily driving my Integra for 4 years to a 3rd gen Tacoma. I don't see where these "loud" or "vibrations" claims come from. Compared to a Boosted integra, this Tacoma rides like a Cadillac. I already done all the preventative maintenance stuff like spark plugs, diff oil, trans fluid change, brake inspection with cleaning and lubrication, air filter was fine so I left it. Upgraded the plastic oil canister to an aluminum one. Then I cleaned and detailed the engine bay. So I got intimate with it and I can see it looks easy to work on so far. I love it

[@BMAdarsha]

you great sir, i just picked my 2023 Tacoma TRD OR, now i learnt why my RPM goes up and down during idle. thanks for the great info!! BTW, i picked up my tacoma from Elgin. and drove back to Westresn wasington area. if i lived in IL or any near by states, i would've come to you even for my regular service.

[@nathanfrisby3133]

I recently had my 2019 Tacoma back in for the recall replacement of my fuel pump. The mechanic mentioned that I might see a increase in my mpg, I think he was right it seems to be close to 2 more mpg . He also said that this new pump is larger.

[@ryu-ken]

Finally the tacoma video we've all been waiting for

[@jsi2082]

thanks for the info on the engine vibration and noise. I thought something was wrong with my truck. Glad to hear that it is normal to feel vibration at a traffic light.

[@jmyers6175]

Very informative. I use pennzoil ultra platinum 0w-20 and oem toyota oil filter. I change it every 4k. 21 tacoma trd off road army green. Love this little truck so much 🙂

[@shortydancer]

I love these videos. Can’t wait for 2nd gen Tacoma videos.

[@GarageGear]

Love my Tacoma! Thanks for sharing some of the finer details of the engine! You Da MAN!

[@joedonnelly9487]

Exceptional video - love the details and the what we'll experience in driveability

[@donnyboy146]

Excellent in depth video. Thanks.

[@ghost2690]

As a toyota fan boy I love this channel!

[@atomicorang]

I am too!!!!

[@05xrunner]

I am going to enjoy this series. I have had all Generations. The first one was my 2000 Tacoma Reg cab 5 speed when I was 21, then I got a 2005 Xrunner, there was a few years gap of not owning a toyota and then I got my 2016 TRD sport and now I have a 21 TRD sport.

[@CarnutMM]

I’ve owned 3 Tacomas. What was your favorite gen?

[@05xrunner]

@@CarnutMM I think it may have been my 2000 just because it was my first and was my youth and had a lot of fun back then with it and just brings back alot of good memories.

[@paulklemer]

Thanks for all the good informative videos!

[@BC-ni3sk]

Great vid and a man who is a fountain of Toyota knowledge!!

[@fishingguy8911]

Thanks for putting together a great Tacoma video

[@orestino6212]

I previously owned a new 2007 Tacoma with the 4.0 engine and it was quicker however it only got 18 mpg. Now I have a 2021 Tacoma and I 23-24 mpg. They were both SR5. I love my 2021 Tacoma. My 2021 has a lot of features the 07 didn't. Your right about the 2021 vibrating at Idle.

[@Jagermonsta_]

I feel very lucky to have found your channel. I love our Toyotas and always want to learn more about them

[@claudiomartino3555]

Thanks for including the Tacoma on your videos!

[@gilbertoesquivel9668]

Great and informative video my friend! You have made a ton of Taco owners very Happy today....I just wish you would have put this series together 2 years ago...

[@janpur1417]

Manual Tacoma is quite quiet as you rev less to move as opposed to an auto. Wish an aftermarket company would make metal valve covers, intake and coolant lines. I am a big fan of diesel Hiluxes so when the direct injection comes in I love the sound!

[@carlpasquali7965]

So very helpful Please keep it going. Bought a 2021 2wd, 2.7,sr5. Full transmission replacement after 2,100 miles because of bad whine. The replacement transmission didn't fix it. Oh well. Like the 2.7.

[@raivkka4313]

This video makes me appreciate my 2004 even MORE !!

[@tysonmccombe8789]

Love the content! I would love a similar series with the Carolla

[@markpelenytschka8374]

Enjoyable video and everything was very well explained

[@michaelkiese7794]

Wonderful video series, AMD! Can't wait for your videos on the Toyota Trailhunter series!

[@hothmobile100]

I bought the 2022 Tacoma with the legendary 2TR-FE 4 cylinder because it's a simple Iron block and will last forever. And I didn't know about the secondary air injection pump until recently when I tried to figure out what is the noise you hear after you turn the truck off. It's the air injection releasing the pressure and it sounds kind of cool like a turbo. I never knew about these things. Most American's call them "smog pumps" I believe. I love the simple and reliable trucks, I don't care how slow it is or how bad the gas is if I can put 400,000 miles on it.

[@1989purry]

I drive 75mph hwy most all the time i did a ott tune and the besthing u can do for gear hunting and ect now my 2.7 keep the speed going to hills

[@thomash238]

Had a 2103 Tacoma, love it. Test drove a 2023 Tacoma, hated it, feels like a RAV4 sounds. Love the wife’s 4Runner. Tacoma should go back to follow 4Runner

[@brakotekventuresltd7420]

Very educative. Thanks alot

[@oldscratch3535]

I have a 2017 Tacoma with the 2.7L. I wanted something that was super reliable and easy to work on. I haven't had to do a single thing to this truck except change the oil and install front brake pads. You won't be winning any races or hauling thousands of pounds, but this engine and truck isn't made for that in the first place. This engine is super simple and tough. I trust it completely.

[@ron3586]

Looking forward to part 2.

[@jamesbiscardi3129]

Getting a 21 Tacoma on Thursday, can’t wait!

[@kbros65]

Another job well done!!! Thank you!!!

[@megahurts2]

I will say, for those that like modding, this engine also has forged internals which makes it a great host for forced induction (turbo or supercharger). Also with the way the VVTI works in the 2GR-FKS, a quick tune allows you to do this safely without blowing up your engine as you have to lower the compression ratio before adding extra air in there. The OVTune folks I think ran their test Tacoma at 12-14ish PSI (I think). but the power they made was amazing. 500 ft lbs of torque at 3000 RPMs and I dont re-call what the HP was. The 4.0L V6 in the second gen Tacoma does not have forged internals and usually people, from my mild observation, approach that with a bit more caution when adding forced induction. I will say, that is good to know about the that goofy coolant line in the back and the lifters. Lord willing, I never have to tear my engine down to fix that....or I will be a sad panda.

[@samukahtviv1]

Does the old 2grfe have forged internals?

[@RealEstateTorontoPhotography]

Great and very informative Video. Thank you so much much more interesting than any Netflix shows !

[@johnm1898]

Very informative video. Thank you for posting. Could you explain when the three modes of the fuel injection occur? What mode is idle in. What mode cruising is in. What mode full acceleration is in. What mode full deceleration is in.

[@fredsharron2932]

Very detailed and nicely expressed. Thx.

[@XCELERATIONRULES]

Love your channel...My only complaint about my Tacoma is the cheap rear bumper..got tired of parking lot dings..put a nice metal bumper on both my trucks.

[@DIYDaveOK]

Man, all you've done is make me want a new Tacoma even more!!!

[@eatcommies1375]

This is Gold!!! Thank You!!

[@josephrimando5684]

This guy is an authority on Toyota vehicles. Nice to be informed.

[@0dq0]

Great video. Thank you!

[@KaluNatt]

Great video about Toyota Tacoma. Thanks.

[@alexdesamsonow822]

Just love this channel!!! Thanks so much AMD!👍😊🎸

[@michaelleipski9030]

Thanks AMD I think I will stick with my 2015 Tacoma 4x4 as long as I can. I like metal in the engine bay.

[@atomicorang]

After owning this engine and listening to you explain it.. sounds like a bomb ready to detonate at any second. I might consider looking for the 2.7 4 cylinder Tacoma.

[@jzila9900]

your imagination is timeless lol

[@JayVU12]

Amen brother, I love the encouragement at the end :)

[@Izzy_Nator]

Its fun to learn about these V6 Toyotas Thanks

[@brady2809]

I wouldn't have bought my 2022 trd if it wasn't for this guy. Thank you

[@danielmelton7481]

Your videos are great. Very informative.

[@eddieBoxer]

Thank you car nut, Ive been waiting for this video for quiet some times, I want to hear this from the expert, Thanks again, BTW great video a thumbs up my friend.

[@pete4757]

Great Video AMD!

[@Winterfell1066]

So informative. Love your channel

[@Bigcurt1963]

Thank you so much for the 2.7L I4 DOHC 16v review in this video. I am looking at a 2021 SR5 4 door. Part 2 Titled: Everything you need to know about the Toyota Tacoma Transmission!