Top 5 things I HATE (also 5 things I love) about my Toyota Tacoma

[@ponch001]

I bought the 2021 last month and I love my Tacoma also thanks for being true to your calling in serving the Lord

[@AlphaShark]

You know it's funny, just as you commented this I got a notification for someone commenting on another video saying "I didn't like the preaching, that was annoying" and I read that comment first and could've let it put a damper on my day. But I didn't, because I know this is my calling and your affirmation reinforces that!

[@RedWingsninetyone]

Toyota discussed the drum brakes with TFL. They stated that it is cheaper for the customer in the long run and obviously most of the stopping is done with the front brakes anyway. The advantages of disks is that they cool better and shed water better. However, drums stop just as well under normal conditions (not constant hard braking) and is better for keeping mud off of the brake pads themselves. Not to mention they're cheaper to change, although I suspect that'll change eventually.

[@sergioayon46]

I have a 2019 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off Road 4x4 fully equipped, love everything about my truck. I get about 21.5mpg on highway, 17 on city, and a total of 18.5 combined. It's actually not bad for a 3.5 V6, and a really heavy truck.

[@nbaldo003]

I have an 18 sport double cab with the automatic trans and get 22-23 average. On highway i have been getting 25-26 mpg. I do have a cold air intake and run 93 octane.

[@sergioayon46]

@@nbaldo003 That's actually pretty good.

[@nbaldo003]

Sergio Ayon The butt dyno likes it too. It feels more responsive on the higher octane gas. I hope to get the OVS tune this year and I’m hoping that’ll be 1-2 more mpg.

[@AlphaShark]

Wow, almost a year and a half later... It feels like longer because I've reviewed so much and experienced so much life. Hey little Isaac, that Tacoma video that "almost had 10,000 views" now has 150k views, and a little later in the video, you say "Someday I hope to review other trucks". Well Isaac you made it, God has blessed you beyond belief.

[@AlphaShark]

Where does the time go? It's been 4 years of car reviews and you just got your first press car last week. Yes, Toyota sent me a vehicle directly to my house! Isn't that wild? I bet you never imagined that could ever happen. That original video hasn't moved a ton in the last 2 and a half years, it sits at a little over 173,000 views now. Even though the videos views haven't changed much, my life has. I graduated college in the fall, I'm starting at OneLife tomorrow, and I'm slowing down production on the videos for a little while to breathe and focus on the Lord. I used to think I hadn't really changed much, but looking back at this it's so obvious to see how much I've grown, not just in production quality but as a human, and a believer.

[@BadWolf_JT]

According to the Toyota engineers, they kept drum brakes in the rear to prevent sand, mud and other contaminants from eating up your brakes when offroading and using the CRAWL feature to get out of sand/mud/etc. I would prefer disc brakes like my 2016 Sierra Denali has, but it's not a deal breaker for me either.

[@jeepnwithdog]

Stoutlagger thtb8s what they say however they do not follow that with the other rigs. Tacoma is the only trd pro that had drums. It’s cost savings plain and simple, they just spin it for off road. Not true, how would less breaking power ever be an advantage?

[@djkenny1202]

Why I ❤️ Toyota. Simple. Rugged.

[@GhettoFabulous670]

I've said it before, I'll say it again. As much as we love those pretty disc brakes. Just remember why drum brakes are on heavy duty industrial trucks. Drum brakes are a lil slippery when cold. But when it gets heated, their stopping power increase. Drum brakes are still great still, I say so because if you are a hard offroad-er, going through mud, thick dust, rocks etc. These brakes help keep out dirty debree etc. Yes their not pretty as disk brakes, but atleast they dont warp easily like disc brakes, especially the fact these trucks are popular going off road. Also a reason why 2018-2020 dump trucks, semi trucks, etc those big trucks, they use these brakes because they have better stopping power especially when you need to stop immediately and you got all that weight on the back. And we all know how kinetic enegery works, right? My next opinion is, these trucks are a lot better in fuel economy than other trucks. The nissan frontier is a 4.0l v6. Although the tacoma is a v6, think other wise. Yes it's a smaller block but atleast it's still packing a power and torque and not burning fuel like a v8. Though I'd pick the v6 4x4 over the v6 4x2 tacoma, nor the 4 cylinder 4x2 & 4x4. The 4x4 4 cylinder tacoma are hella under powered but great for what they do if they fit your budget and needs. The v6 4x2 eats a lil more gas because the fact it is a v6, but only 2 wheels are moving. Keep in mid, even tho it's a mid size truck, it still got a hefty weight to them. So ofc itll take a while for them to get moving. So 4x4 v6 is the way to go. Whether it's a sr5 or trd. Cheers

[@ezfly5680]

They stuck with the drum brakes because Toyota said they hold up better off road. Letting stones in and stuff. Nice truck! God bless

[@Gazziza29]

I don't buy that statement from Toyota at all. You're telling me those brakes hold up better off-road than the brakes on the Land Cruiser, 4Runner, and Tundra? I haven't seen evidence that it does or does not. I don't care either way, if the brakes work like they're suppose to then great but I don't believe that explanation of it. It's a cost saving measure because they can. The same way the cab is a carry over from the 2nd gen. Nothing more, nothing less.

[@kevinmott9046]

Tacomas have always had rear drum brakes lol. Tired of all the complaints because they’re cheaper to replace

[@Gazziza29]

@@kevinmott9046 So because something has always been done and it has always come with drum brakes that means it can't improve and change in the future? Silly logic. So if the next Tacoma comes with rear disc brakes what will you say then?

[@CodyLeslie]

@@Gazziza29 Honestly, after having owned a first gen for 21 years and 255k miles, I never once had to replace the pads or do any major service to the drums. If that holds true for my second gen now, I don't have any reason to demand disk brakes. I'm not saying disks don't have higher performance, but the drums work well and require little to no maintenance, so I'm not sure how I could complain...

[@PeRRXX]

Kevin Mott maybe people are complaining because disk brakes are better. You can never have to much braking power in a vehicle. Not to mention from a looks standpoint, I think a lot of people will agree disk brakes look better

[@tsizzle]

First of all, thanks for the video review. I appreciate the details as I’m considering the Tacoma as well. With regards to the fuel efficiency, I believe that Toyota is trying to improve things but there’s so only so much they can do without affecting the legendary reliability of the truck. The 3.5L V6 is a direct injection Atkinson cycle engine. This is suppose to improve on the fuel efficiency compared to the previous generations. The only way I can see them improving fuel efficiency is to go to an even smaller cylinder and maybe adding a turbo. However, by doing that, in addition to an untested new design, they would be introducing more complexity and ultimately a potential hit to reliability. For reference you can read up on the oil dilution issues of the 1.5L turbo engine on like the Honda CR-V. Then there’s another approach of making a “hybrid” truck to improve fuel economy but man, that’s even more complexity and electrical components. Yet another approach is going with turbo Diesel engine but despite the MPGs on diesel, it burns dirtier than normal unleaded fuel.

[@karlbischoff77]

other midsized get better mpg and still have "legendary reliability"

[@eddieh1985]

Yeah. We definitely need an “OH SHIT BAR” on the driver side

[@lilymae4131]

The gas mileage rating I found disappointing when I looked at the Tacoma. I then drove the 2.7 and it didn't do so well, so asked about the V6 and the dealer wanted $35,000 after discount, so I bough an F-150 XLT with the 5.0 that gets 26 MPG on the highway if I keep it at the speed limit . It's well equipped with the extended range 36 gal. gas tank, mirrors that self dim and deice themselves. Satellite radio, power seat, electronic locker, sprayed in bed liner, a tie down bed kit, running boards, and too much more to list. Ford may not be up with Toyota for reliability, but it is better than most of the other brands. My nephews have Ford, Chevy and Toyota and all happy with their trucks. When I went shopping I asked them which is best and they told me they all have pros and cons. When test driving them I found out they were right. The perfect truck does not exist, as they all had their high points and lows. I found out I had to look at what was most important to me and find the closest match. I even looked at a lot of F-150's before picking the one I bought. Some had options I didn't want or need and others were to work truck like, without the options to make a long drive enjoyable. One thing can be said for the Toyota, if you plan to keep it for the long haul, the dependability will save you enough to pay for the gas it uses.

[@AlphaShark]

How much did you pay for yours?

[@lilymae4131]

It was just over $35,000 the sticker was about $46k before the package discounts which knocked about $1000 off and then factory incentives and dealer discount took off near 10k. I also looked at used Tacoma trucks, but they were high mileage and near the cost of new. Resale value is extremely good on the Toyota, but I just can't see paying near new price for a truck that has enough miles on it to have driven around the globe twice. I spent weeks negotiating the price on the F-150 and was only able to squeak by the original discount they offered by a couple hundred. I also liked the Ram and they had a great discount too, and rode better, but from reviews got the impression Ford is more dependable. Chevrolet at the time were a few thousand more as there discounts were less, but incentives change so they might be better now. I also had looked at the GMC Canyon , but early 2016 they didn't have many on the lot and didn't want to give more than a small discount like the Toyota dealer. My mom use to have a 72 Chevy 1/2 ton, bought new and had it up till the mid 90's. I loved driving it but it was a thirsty beast. I'm guessing at best maybe 14 - 16 on the highway and as low 8 - 12 in the city. So all trucks now do pretty good compared to trucks back then.

[@IstanbulHilux]

The grab handle is missing from the drivers side because of line of sight issues. Also rear drum brakes are there because of cost of maintenance, and less chance of dirt and rocks getting stuck in there during off road driving. Also most of the weight in a truck is in the front so no need for discs in the rear.

[@chrisginoc]

Drum brakes are there because it's cheaper and helps their profit margins. No if and or buts. I'm a Toyota fan since I was a kid and my dad got his first Toyota truck in 1989, but I wont make excuses for Toyota.

[@athletejmv]

I prefer the mechanical seats. They don't have to be electric to increase/decrease height... just one more part to cause problems down the road. You're spot on about the rear bumper... cheaper to just replace the whole thing if anything happens to it. Toyota parts are way overpriced unfortunately. I totally agree about the grab handle being absent. Would have been nice to have it on the driver side. Regarding the drum brakes, it is easier to change out the disk brakes. Drums aren't a daily concern regarding performance for street driving, but would have been a better option for many off-roaders. FYI, I've owned a 2016 TRD off road extended bed tacoma, 2019 SR 4x4 v6, and my favorite currently that I own a 2019 SR 2x4 I4. All models are double cab. I recently traded my 2019 v6 4x4 Tacoma for the 2019 I4 2x4 (3 months ago). The v6 is a car motor and needs to be revved and worked to produce power. Overall, it is rather anemic and fuel hungry. For a daily driver, power for the i4 comes on just as quick as the v6. So acceleration in normal rev ranges is about the same. V6 0-60 is only two seconds faster than the I4... you need to be flooring it. You want more power (for towing or racing), get a full-size in my opinion. I4 was designed to be a truck motor, has oil cooling jets, iron block (more robust), etc... v6 is aluminum block with sleeves... I4 considerably more primitive (less points for failure) and cheaper to work on (12 injectors in the v6 vs 4 in the i4)... I don't have to worry abut a shift happy tranny due to the truck going in and out of the Atkinson cycle (v6). I4 has a long history of durability and reliability... similar motor to the Hilux terrorists are driving all over the deserts of the Middle East. I think you get the point. To each their own. Fuel economy on my 2019 I4 4x2 is a consistent 23-24 MPG combined. My 2019 v6 4x4 was all over the place (15-20MPG). Same for the 2016 I had, but a tad worst on the combined. I understand the EPA rates the v6 being advertised to be just as good and about the same as the I4... that's a joke. I speak from experience and ownership. With mostly city driving in the I4, I drop from 23-24 MPG to 20-21 MPG. My wife's van (2019 Sienna) has the same v6 engine as the Tacoma and it does great averaging 23-24MPG combined. Only real con I have on the I4 is Toyota doesn't offer a tow package with transmission cooler etc. So I installed a complete tow-package myself with 7 and 4 pin connectors to use the truck with a travel trailer. Turned out to be a better setup than what factory offers. For my of my towing needs, I'm only going up to 3k pounds tops and the truck has no issues with that going 65-70MPH down the highway with 5 passengers. A lot of people running their mouths off about the I4 have never owned one as a daily driver and just go with v6 for with a rather have it now and not need it than need it and not have it mentality... also ego bro-struck adolescent mindset. If you look up owners of 4 cylinder Tacoma, most owners are very happy with them. I'm glad to gone to the "dark side" lol. No regrets. If I only had the option for the v6, I'd gladly take one again, but I prefer the I4. They are both great engines overall.

[@balkee42]

athletejmv so the I4 shifts better? Im looking for tacoma. Its either a 2gen with 4.0 or 3rd gen considering the I4

[@dsalyer2009]

I have a 1994 Toyota 4x4 I love the rear drum brakes have never had a problem stopping, I even pull a small tent trailer in the mountains of colorado. My truck has 220 thousand on it and the rear brakes are original, the fronts have been changed once and still have half the pad left. Also have the grab handle on driver side but, hardly use it seems like I always grab the steering wheel wheen getting in. If you do mostly city driving, the two wheel drive would probably get 5 miles per gallon better. My old truck has the 22R when it was new it got 22 city and 29 highway but, it lacks on power for towing.

[@Bobby21865]

I own a 2019 Tacoma TRD Sport 6 speed manual, I tend to average around 19-20 mpg. Your 17mpg average could be due to the weight you haul in the back as you’ve said in this video and previous that you haul landscaping equipment for your business. And there is a video that the chief engineer of the new 2020 Tacoma (which still has rear drums) explained why it still has drums. 1) cheaper maintenance, 2) for towing with the Tacoma the drums “seem” to be able to brake more effectively with load in the rear when hauling a trailer due to the added weight. And that disc brakes eat away at the friction material on the brake pads faster than shoes on drum brakes with the added weight in the back, also the off-road factor of the possibility of rocks getting stuck in the brakes is a lot less of a chance with drums. He stated “they don’t plan on changing to discs in the rear anytime soon”.

[@squirreldog1596]

Bobby21865 a manual truck, yuck

[@quaranjones2359]

Noah the manual Tacoma is amazing.

[@squirreldog1596]

Quaran Jones it’s far from amazing. Pretty much garbage imo actually

[@gerryjimenez28]

Great review I had A 19 Taco OR built in Mex that after extensive driving in very humid and rainy conditions would leak water into the cab directly underneath the evap core dealer tried telling me it might be my aftermarket prinzu roof rack. It finally leaked on a non rainy day. I winded up traded it in for a 21 Taco OR 4x4 Thx built! I completely agree with the fuel economy, but I also dislike how they removed the transmission dip stick and the paper cartridge motor oil filter on at least all 3 gen tacos..... making it more difficult to do simple maintenance at home.

[@AlphaShark]

Hmm, my 19' SR5 was built in Mex and I haven't had any leaks praise God. Maybe it depends on the trim? It may have been a one-off issue on your particular truck. Whether US or Mexico built I trust Toyota well above any other brand.

[@jetmechB727]

I've got the 2019 Tacoma SR Access Cab and I drive mostly hight way and I'm getting 24 MPG. So far I've got not real complaints.

[@AlphaShark]

Since I have the crew cab and I mostly drive city I think that's my biggest issue

[@ms1406]

Dude really loves his truck!!

[@AlphaShark]

Haha I definitely do. I am blessed to have it

[@BDevi0us]

I have a 2019 Tacoma Trd pro manual. I've been getting 19.5 mpg in the city.

[@Leatherkid01]

Scuff the chromes with 60 or 80 grit sand paper....then spray etching primer....2 or 3 coats then sand it with reccommended grit ....and paint . Then clear with 2 part clear . Nice review . And love it that am not the only one who hates chrome 🤣

[@ryanhols5030]

Agreed. Chrome only looks good on my wrenches.

[@RomeoAdams09]

If Doug had a cooler younger brother...

[@AlphaShark]

I WISH!

[@orlandoobeso5135]

I just bought a 2020 off-road a few weeks ago and it’s amazing! My compliant would have to be that the infotainment system can be laggy sometimes. I do think the headlights should have been LED but I guess buying an LED set for $50 isn’t bad. And I would agree with that handle on the driver side. I think there should have been one. Other than that, I think that truck is amazing 💙

[@AlphaShark]

I love mine and I agree with everything you just said.

[@bradshutler9356]

I still prefer my 95 Tacoma XC with the mods I have done. Less electronic frills to go haywire and the body style is more iconic. Have to pass on the 2nd & 3rd gen models not to mention the price. 24 years a satisfied owner. Just my personal preference.

[@AlphaShark]

That's awesome!

[@thebeddoctor4273]

I've always dreamed of getting a Tacoma ever since my dad brought home his 97. Now I'm an adult I drove one and hated it. I guess it's TRUE never meet your heros. Lol

[@AlphaShark]

The Bed Doctor yeah I drove a Ram and I thought for sure that’d be my truck! But I didn’t like it that much.

[@robertallenadams]

I totally agree with you on the grab handle being taken away. Now that my leg is permanently injured, I have to grab on to the groove on the roof to pull myself in. Good job on your videos. God bless

[@AlphaShark]

Hopefully it comes back next body style! Perhaps someone at Toyota will see this video and here our cries!

[@patrickphippspa584]

Thank you Isaac once again for your videos. I LOVE them. You are a pure joy to watch and I've subscribe, hit the notification bell and here's your comment. I hope your channel grows like crazy! I'm with you buddy. I have a first year run Tacoma with 99K miles which I love. It has the 2.4 if I recall correctly and I'm disappointed with the fuel economy. I have a back up Chevrolet Cavalier which I bought from the orgininal owner, my neighbor, who sold it to me for $700 with 80K miles. That uninspiring little car get 30mpg and I've gotten used to that. I understand that part of the poor fuel economy is gearing. Trucks haul stuff and have a different gearing. 4-door Cavaliers don't really expect to haul anything but people so aren't designed to have a gearing that accomodates heavier loads (so I'm told). No matter what others say, you picked the right truck. Those who complain are those who wish they bought the Tacoma. You can't argue the quality of the vehicle and the resale. They are sooooo flippin dependable and fun to drive. Thanks again buddy, sure do appreciate you, your time, and your channel. You're a natural!

[@jamesclark2761]

Love the Tacoma! I had a 04' V6 4×4. With the flowmaster!👍 for 4 yrs. It was an Awesome truck! My future vehicle might possibly be a tacoma!!

[@foote1967]

2017 Tacoma here. Think the head lights could be improved on. There have been times where I had to take a double take on making sure they were even on!

[@Lexusgx550]

pdx.trailerguy auto?

[@foote1967]

@@Lexusgx550 yes.

[@Lexusgx550]

pdx.trailerguy I know. But it’s kinda there. If you put your headlights on all time and when you turn truck off they will turn off and vice Versa

[@CarlArriaza]

I just use this steering wheel as the grab handle

[@ActionMax09]

At work, the other guys use the steering wheel as a grab handle on our Ford F450's... they don't have grab handles either. We drop those trucks off atleast twice a year because they damage the steering wheel.

[@PeRRXX]

That’s not great for steering

[@RedWingsninetyone]

My 2008 Canyon doesn't have a grab handle. It is cool, but not necessary.

[@CoelhoSports]

SR bumpers are body color unless you get the stripped down work truck (utility pkg) which are bare black plastic front and back as well as the door handles and mirrors. i thought the trd OR was also body color and only the SR5 had chrome color back bumper. 90% of the braking, especially in a pickup, is done by the front disks. tundra brakes can also fit the taco if you really want more braking but only a complainer even notices there are drums in the back. it's just something to complain about. you will also probably never have to replace those rear drums and, if you ever do replace them next century, you will be thankful they are drums and not disks. also, disks are more exposed than drums so having drums in the back is helpful if the disks get soaked or covered in anything. again, anyone who complains about the drums is a complainer. it's not about the drums. it's about them. also, i have never heard of anyone getting mpg as bad as you in a 3rd gen V6. there is a fuelly app and others like it where you can enter your mpg and i think you would be the worst out of the hundreds of thousands entered so far.

[@glenndavis8771]

needs hood struts that hood is heavy !!!! I have 2019 trd pro and cant believe they don't have that on that heavy hood ..

[@henryterrell7317]

I live on Guam and I'm getting AVG. 22 to 22.3 MPG on my 2018 Tacoma sport V6 3.5

[@kingstonsean]

The interior looks nice. I like the two tone door panels.

[@Tourbillion14]

2021 Cons, No glove box light, loose clock displayed on screen when display is set to off, interior light poor switched to LED, No vents for rear seat passengers , some reflection of interior molding on to side view mirrors, arm rest storage to deep optional tray required, interior bed light would be a good option, door storage side panel not long enough, The hood should have had actuators and not an old fashion rod. Hi, engine makes too much noise at idle - as if diesel truck Etc. but overall its a good truck.

[@ryandanroth]

Hey man, nice video. The driver side grab handle was mentioned in the IIHS's 2019 Tacoma crash testing as poorly positioned under "Passenger restraints and dummy kinematics". They stated that "the grab handle on the A-pillar protrudes so far into the path of the dummy's head that the rear of the head hit it." Probably became a liability issue after this, and was subsequently removed. Just a guess though!

[@AlphaShark]

ryandanroth that’s probably true! Very interesting 😁 thanks for the info!

[@TrikesterHal]

Drums on the back are probably cheaper for manufacture...save a few bucks here times a bazillion trucks sold means $$$ profit. Same goes for driver's side grab handle. 'Nuff said. Oh, I do love the vents because they are round and not rectangular. I think that rotating mechanism will last longer without breaking. The round ones can be aimed exactly (okay, I'm picky).

[@BucksBe]

Zero disrespect but you really remind me of a 20 year old Ryan Reynolds who when to church. Great review... Thank you!

[@AlphaShark]

I know there's no disrespect 😂 I am told this in person and in the comments by random people AT LEAST once a week!

[@Doc1855]

My 23 TRD Off Road double cab has the Premium and Technology pkgs. I love the Leather, front camera like on the PRO. I would have bought the PRO, but I need a 6’ bed

[@Jonnyfixedgear]

I've only had mine a short while < 1000 miles and I am getting an indicated 22+ MPG mixed driving. That's with a tight engine and I'm sure the computer is overstating the MPG a touch. MPG is less about the engine and more about the aerodynamics. That's why no real change with the 4cyl vs V6. It takes a certain amount of power to move the truck at any given speed. Chevy is leading in this regard esp. on the full size trucks. I've heard that the chin spoiler gives the truck an extra 1-1.5 mpg over the off road and TRD pro which do not have it. Look at a colorado and the chin spoiler sits much lower to the ground reducing turbulent air under the truck. Of course the trade off is ground clearance.

[@IIPre]

Wished the cabin/ space for the back seats, was a little bit bigger other than the small cabin it's decent enough

[@vintagevmax2410]

Ask, any full time mechanic about rear drum vs. disc brakes on any truck that is actually used as a truck especially, one that is 4-5 years or more years old. Likes or dislikes (not Hates) of any standard equipment before purchasing our trucks, should be part of the overall decision before buying. B.T.W. on my first tank which was hilly country driving, included many quick runs up thru the RPM range then back off to the speed limit (My researched thought's and experience on break in), resulted in a hand calculated 21.38 mpg. on the V6. Keep up the good work/ reviews !

[@azura13liss]

Id say the fuel economy is on par with other cars with this same engine. I have the Sienna which shares the same engine and I get 17 mpg combine 19 highway. The sienna weighs less and is actually more aerodynamic and doesn't have to send all that power thru a transfer case or rear diff. So 17 mpg on the Tacoma is acceptable and doesn't surprise me. If you want better MPG just pump 91 premium non ethanol however not worth the price premium for a few mpg increases.

[@26japrey]

The purpose of the rear drum brakes has to do with them being "better" for offroad capabilities, not getting mud and dirt in them.

[@MrMojo9430]

Hi, great video. I own a 2019 Taco as well ( almost exactly like yours), and I love it. The only downsides I've seen that you didn't mention or haven't experienced are a bit of engine shutter at idle and the transmission trying to decide what gear it wants to be in during city driving. Just minor annoyances that I've noticed and will be bringing up at my first scheduled service. Other than that I have no complaints!

[@Packerfan-qc6cs]

Darren Sides check for an update from Toyota on your transmission. My 2017 had similar issue, feels like a brand new truck after update and mileage jumped up to 20 on average with minimal weight in back. No charge but a mechanic had to confirm the issue.

[@jeffreydmclendon]

that shot of your truck in the thumbnail was awesome

[@AlphaShark]

Thanks, I took it in a field at sunset in my town, I was just driving by and it was too good of a photo op to not do it!

[@adamflax1321]

I agree with your negatives. At the time I purchased mine. That was all I could afford. The window sticker even tells you how much more it will cost than other vehicles. I have the 2.7. I could only wish for 17 mpg. It's RWD, babied with 4000 miles and lucky to get 12 mph. In the winter with snows, 10 mpg max. DO NOT LISTEN to Toyota. When Toyota starts caring about customers and adds headlights that really work as well along with improving this crappy fuel mileage. Buy one. Otherwise buy a used Mazda B210.

[@AlphaShark]

I'm actually in the process of putting LED bulbs in all of the lights, interior and exterior.

[@adamflax1321]

@@AlphaShark Replacing those bulbs is definitely worth your time and money. Everything was done on mine with the exception of the headlights. Plus, a backup light strip on the license plate and the switching daylight/front turn signals kit. Both of those additions work really well!! You can light up a small air field with the three backup lights now. The turn signal kit is cool cause now the daytime lights are super white bright. As well as when it changes to yellow its as bright too. Frankly, it looked stupid with yellow daytime lights. My 2000 Tacoma didn't have those. Toyota just cheeped out now. The LED bulbs are definitely brighter. You will definitely appreciate how bright the yellow rear turn signals are! The light pattern is all over the place on the fog lights. That's the only negative thing I can say about all the bulbs. VLEDS is the company that I purchased everything from. I have been very happy with them all around. Good Luck ASP

[@Dansk55]

I have to concur with that bumper. I was at the dealership and its just... there!! Really flimsy to the touch too and I didn't appreciate some welding job done underneath. Overall a great truck.

[@AlphaShark]

I agree!

[@qiqerod]

All those negatives you mentioned except the fuel economy are of no big deal for me. I like all trucks also but I test drove my cousins Trd sport and boy I felt in love!! I have made my decision and I want my first truck to be the Tacoma. All these other trucks will always be available for all of us so years after the Tacoma if I ever want something else so be it. But Tacoma is exactly what will work for me

[@jubankta1627]

Bro I have a 2007 Tacoma almost 200 miles and not a drop of any fluids runs great u just can’t kill these Tacoma’s I’d be happy as hell if u indeed get one for what its worth

[@pxv2005]

I agree with you on the fuel economy. I love tacos but I don’t buy any more of it until they fix this fuel economy. I kind come on Toyota you kind improve others models why don’t you do anything to tacos and 4Runner.

[@CoelhoSports]

the taco v6 and tranny was just added in 2016 as part of an entire redesign. what do you mean by "do anything"? his mpg is far from typical. everyone i know gets what the truck is rated for or better.

[@squidusn71]

I don't think they'll ever fix the mpg unless they go hybrid which they probably will, maybe. It's still a heavy truck. If you don't tow or off road, Tacoma isnt worth it. It isn't a practical daily driver.

[@Jeziorski7]

the interior materials, like all of them except the black hard plastic. The stuff scratches way to easily. Toyota actually made a mistake and replaced my full door panel. Looked great. 2 months later its full of scratches again. This is literally from touching it and your put leaning on it. Pretty shit tbh. The rest of the materials are fine tho.

[@AlphaShark]

Totally agree, I've owned it like 4 months now and there's sooo many scratches. My previous car had tons of this plastic and there was a lot of scratches too.

[@davidcampbell1899]

if you end up replacing the rear brakes (doing it your self) your going to have to go to confession after it, because your going to swear and curse out every engineer at Toyota on what a pain in the butt they are to replace!

[@alexandrakriest]

Very informative video I like this guy.

[@AlphaShark]

Hey Lex! Thank you 😁

[@westwood3286]

great video once again

[@MrRedskins0021]

I love the interior and I get 19 in the city when I go to work and 24 on the weekends when I go fishing out at the beach.

[@305ssmonte5]

I have a 2017 2WD automatic V6 Tacoma. I agree with all your cons. I get 11.2 mpg.

[@FivexxXxx5]

305ssmonte Wtf. I expected much better from a V6 engine , this is the truck i want to get next . Might aswell go all out and have the extra power with the V8 Tundra if the fuel economy is already trash.

[@PeRRXX]

11? My Crown Vic gets better then that, with a 4 speed and a V8.

[@kingstonsean]

Composite bedliner is a great idea.

[@coltonworkman5839]

You have a lot of energy but love the video dude I’m actually selling my property so I can buy one of these trucks

[@squirreldog1596]

Guy is the stunt double for the “you look incredibly comfortable” Hanes commercial

[@AlphaShark]

This comment made my decade. Over the years people have told me Ryan Reynolds, Benedict Cumberbatch, Dylan Minnette.. one guy at an LA Fitness hot tub told me I looked like Tom cruise! Needless to say I've just excepted I look like a generic brown haired white guy. But this was such a specific comment and IVE SEEN THIS AD that I couldn't stop actually laughing in real life. Also love the thought that that guy would need a stunt double.

[@BenJamin-ou7kd]

Good review, entertaining, and good info. Gracias!

[@Glennhairston]

Good honest review thanks enjoyed it

[@jaywells5283]

Hey i wanted to say thanks for doing these vids on the Tacoma, I hadn’t really even thought of one, and I’m considering a mid size truck. Yours looks pretty nice, I really like the grey color, and yeah resale value as well as a lot of mechanics would rather have the easier work overall on Toyota’s than say a Chevy or gmc that I have been looking at, but here is my question; you have a small gripe about the overall gas mileage, and I see you have a standard air filter setup in your engine bay, have you thought of getting a better air intake system? Like a ram air, etc.., or do you personally think it would make a difference?

[@AlphaShark]

Thanks for your comment it's appreciated! You know I haven't thought of the air intake! I'll definitely look into it, it could definitely help. I'd say give a Tacoma test drive and you'll know or not if it's for you. I sat in my truck, touched the steering wheel and was like "this is the one" and then I drove it and I'm like "God please let me able to afford this truck!"

[@isaachowell716]

Great video man!

[@kingstonsean]

Toyota engines are built for reliability not fuel economy.

[@squidusn71]

You must enjoy going to the gas station...i didn't, lol.

[@Reelsimmer]

Alpha shark needs decals, tshirts and accessories to buy!

[@AlphaShark]

I am working on that! Perhaps I'll put a poll up.

[@maydanlex]

One of my favourite looking mid size trucks,

[@jiwsaw10]

Have you noticed anything abnormal with your automatic transmission like not so responsive sometimes when you put your foot on the pedal?

[@AlphaShark]

Yes just barely, occasionally i'll gun it and it will fly down the highway and I'm talking 25 to 60 in seemingly 2 - 3 seconds. But other times it feels a little sluggish getting up to speed.

[@bighorn4x479]

i think they have drum brake in the rear because it better for off road use

[@Nexgeninfi]

Not sure if this is still true with latest engines, a little bit more fuel runs slightly rich thus lowering the burn temperature, provides lubrication to cylinder walls ultimately increases engine life and reliability. Maybe why Toyota still uses this tried and true method. Still tho this is not a reason for them slack on fuel saving innovation....

[@foojitive]

Toyotas are reliable because they don't try to change their powertrains too often to go for the best fuel economy. You may not love the fuel economy as they could have gone with a full DI engine with a turbo, but those engines also have nasty carbon build up and need more maintenance over time. Instead, Toyota went with a naturally aspirated D4S design which has both port and direct injection so that the port injectors will keep the engine carbon free. You will get slightly less fuel economy and older powertrains in a Toyota, but it will pay for itself with reliability and longevity.

[@richmikesell812]

I have a 13 model and no cons. Ever (70k). The deal breaker is that, for 2016 and newer, is direct injection. That's a big maintenance issue down the road to 80k or 90k.

[@AlphaShark]

Dually noted! Thankfully I tend to only put about 8-10k a year on the odometer so it'll be a long while till I would have that.

[@BrianBourgeois-]

They don’t have dual injection?

[@richmikesell812]

@@AlphaShark yes, but it will keep being less and less efficient as time goes on, starting the day you bought it, until it's time to fix it.

[@davidprice1339]

These engines are dual injection offering both port and direct. No issue with carbon buildup..

[@FriedChorizo]

The drums are better for sand and mud getting in there

[@MR-nz5pg]

My 2015 V6 Tacoma gets 21.0 on the hwy and 18-19 in the city, Glad I have a last year 2nd Gen and not the 2016+ with the crappy transmissions.

[@r.c.gilligan2814]

Rear drum brakes are better for dirty driving conditions, because dirt gets in the rear disc and prematurely wears the brakes.

[@squidusn71]

Would you switch your front discs to drums if that's the case?

[@HFVidShotz]

Drum brakes cost less to manufacture. 80% of braking is performed by the front brakes. Toyota does not believe that disc are needed in the rear. Overkill. The 2020 has drum brakes in the rear. This info provided in a KZbin video by a Toyota Tacoma development executive. Search for it. Very intersting. I belive it was on the KZbin channel by the name of TFL Truck. Thank for the clean video. God Bless you!

[@justinsyers8148]

Man, i just installed my replacement bumpers to get rid of the chrome. $120 for both, painted silver sky metallic. Completely changes the look of the truck. Took about an hour to install both

[@AlphaShark]

Absolutely changes the look I love mine! It was $180 to do mine, I have a video on my channel where I install them, it only took me about 25 minutes all said and done! Excellent!

[@justinsyers8148]

Alpha Shark Pictures just watched, yeah those bumpershellz are a good option! I meant to order that but actually ordered the replacements. So i had to remove the chrome bumper and replace it with a new one. A little more involved. I was thinking you’re one bad man to replace them in 25 minutes lol. Great content! I love your videos

[@AlphaShark]

@@justinsyers8148 That's still cool! No I wouldn't have been able to do the whole bumper that fast! I'm good 😎 I'm not that good. Haha

[@gotthyme]

I also like the ride but Not impressed with my 2018 off-road video screen, it washes out in the light kinda like the cheap backup camera.

[@christernes949]

I just got a TRD pro in march of this yr. Mine does have the random shifting on the highway....so it does suck on gas going to visit my brother....back and forth to work i get about 18 miles to the gallon but its all back roads....im slowly modifying it to my needs....i dont like the only 1 usb to plug in for the radio because i use a ipod classic which somehow still compatible with the tacoma where other cars doesn't like it. So Android auto is useless or no radio....im not sirus xm person either i hate how they say they dont advertise but they advertise for other channels....the QI charger sucks not the greatest which is why i keep additional cords in the truck for faster charging...previous vehicle was a '15 Cherokee that was clunking into 5th gear....than '20 jeep Grand Cherokee was a pure electronic lemon nightmare, my boss wanted to put a lemon on it because since day of delivery had nothing but issues......onto tacoma not 1 warranty work was done....while GC was at the dealership 9 times all for faulty wiring. I love my Taco!

[@cardo1111]

Drum brakes while somewhat antiquated are generally more durable than disc brakes. The EPA ratings Are essentially useless. It seems like you never get the gas mileage that the manufacturers claim in real world driving.

[@jomeraquino]

Sometimes my truck runs 25mpg i have 2017 tacoma sr5 and i love it

[@Jaun2Three]

Owned my 2nd gen trd sport since 2007. Its been great but not sure what id buy now bc of said mpg after 100k miles. Dont think about mpg ever. If you do your gonna have a bad day. haha

[@jubankta1627]

I have the same truck

[@normt5463]

The Tacoma just cannot get.out of last place in comparison tests today.

[@AlphaShark]

I think the problem is that people on focus on tech and not reliability!

[@bryduhbikeguy]

I think it did well in crash testing.Not so much in Hauling.

[@bwolf667]

I have a 2019 Taco SR 4x4 double cab since April of 2019. I agree with the complaint of the drum brakes, fuel mileage is not what you would think, but it is better than the gen 2 Taco with the 4.0L 6 cylinder. I don't like the sound of the old 4.0 engine vs. the new 3.5 engine. The seat position for the driver feels lower and has caused me leg pain and discomfort in the Gen 3, but I never experienced it in the Gen 2 Taco. I found a person who is machining a front seat bracket riser that has help to mitigate the leg pain by raising the front edge about 1.5" and providing some extra thigh support.

[@jimmymaldonado5215]

I got the 2015 4cyl and 2019 trd pro v6 they can take a beating!!

[@chrisfrank8413]

Haha, sold mine, got rid of the Wheezy V6. Ranger, here i come!!!

[@chrisfrank8413]

@@loveydovey4u Mistake would of been to keep the Wheeeezer!

[@Masterfulpelon]

Keep these videos coming bro!

[@TLFIN]

Transmission sucks. I have bad vibrations and under acceleration it hiccups...then coming to a stop feels like rolling over a rumble strip

[@lpzlpz8374]

T Unit right what’s up with that I’m so mad

[@Gary65437]

Over 4,500 lbs is not a small truck. Lawn mowing must pay well in your neighborhood to afford a $500 per month trk note.

[@kevinp5325]

The F-150's get decent mpg's, but their combined # is no where near 22 mpg...check fuelly to see for yourself. The Tacoma's 3.5l v6 isn't stellar, but it still returns slightly better mpg's than what you'll get with the 1/2 tons. The only way to boost the mpg's even further is to go diesel or go hybrid. Gasoline engines only have so much efficiency to offer.

[@BrianBourgeois-]

Kevin P his friends probably have the 2.7, in which case it is common for the f150’s to average in the 20s.

[@TheRedDeadTaco]

I just got a quote to color match the bumpers for 160 bucks.

[@AlphaShark]

WHERE KERMIT? Local place, or a chain?

[@TheRedDeadTaco]

Alpha Shark Pictures It’s a local place. Your best bet to make it the cheapest is to call around. I bought black oem caps so they were never installed before they got painted. You will probably get cheaper quotes if you take the caps off first and tell a shop they are not attached to the vehicle. Hope this helps a bit!

[@AlphaShark]

@@TheRedDeadTaco thanks Sheriff!

[@urmum7461]

Sheriff Kermit that's cheap

[@jasonbabin1190]

How did you get the brown interior on door panels and dash. Looks nice. Never seen that except on your vehicle.

[@AlphaShark]

It is only available on SR5 trucks from 2019-2021 I believe.

[@jasonbabin1190]

@@AlphaShark I am getting an 2023 SR5 Trail Edition in March if it ever comes in. I think putting a bronze/tan insert like your truck would have been nice to go along with Tan stitching. I hope I like my truck as much as you do yours. Your videos helped push the Tacoma over the Ranger and of course the ridiculous residual value that Tacomas hold. I hope the EV lobby and the governments don’t kill my resale.

[@Chris-eg1wl]

Darn grab handle 😂😂

[@elibryrob]

$60 to fill up your tank? Woah! Which state do you live in? Here in Alabama, gas has been riding at around $2.30 for the past several months and I don’t usually spend more than $35 to fill up my Colorado. That’s one place where I wish state governments weren’t so different, haha.

[@AlphaShark]

It's about $3 a gallon here, a little lower, but I also have an 18 gallon tank. I don't know how much your Colorado is. Also I spend roughly $52 on average at the pump.

[@luismessimer1]

After a year of previous comment, gas is at 3,29 at florida 😅. Crazy!

[@angelortiz67]

Just wanted to say something. The reason they made the Tacoma have the option for the 4 cylinder is because they are notorious for being undestructable and they didn't fine tune it to get high mileage cause most people would go for the v6. But if you want a Tacoma inline 4 engine that does get 25mpg combined. Go for the earlier models (from about 95-99) they will haul about the same as the new Tacoma I believe and work awesome. And if you want a reliable SUV. Go for the 4runner

[@kingstonsean]

You don't need a grab handle on the driver's side on something that low to the ground that also has dumbass sidesteps!!!! You have steering wheel to - and when you're driving your hands should be on it.

[@squidusn71]

Does it still have a steel hood? It is quite heavy on the previous model.

[@AlphaShark]

Yes! Very heavy hood unfortunately.

[@tj4034]

What Toyota says about why they are using rear drum brakes is complete BS. If disc brakes have so many problems with sand, gravel, etc (they dont), then why dont they use drum brakes in the front too? DOH!

[@AlphaShark]

It does seem fishy! I too wish they would just add them so there wouldn't be all this hulaboo.

[@mamashiraz]

I just traded in a 2017 Frontier (DONT judge me, it was a gift😂) and got a 2019 Tacoma SR5. A Tundra was my dream truck but I couldn’t justify the cost of a V8 if I wasn’t using it to generate income so I got the Tacoma. I also got a V6 because a 4 cylinder truck makes no sense to me! The dealer referred to it as a TRD and that’s a little confusing...can it be both an SR5 and a TRD🤷🏻‍♀️ It does have the plate covering the engine under the front but it doesn’t have the crawl control like the Off Road so I don’t know... I love the Toyota Safety Sense monitoring (it’s already sounded an alarm to warn me an idiot was in front of me!! Luckily, I didn’t end up testing the brake assist and crash prevention feature!). The Frontier drove like a truck whereas the Tacoma rides smooth like a car so I like that. To me bigger is better but still small enough to fit in parking spaces. I love that it sits higher-that comes in handy during upstate NY winters! And the most important point I will make..... I wanna grab handle too😂 What the hell? I look crazy grabbing the steering wheel or center council trying to climb in!! I NEED that handle!! No luck on Amazon. Sales guy told me to buy one online and he’ll help me install it (because he knows I’d have to take out a second mortgage to pay the dealer to do it🤦🏻‍♀️) Love your channel and your taste in trucks!!😊

[@AlphaShark]

It is sometimes confusing, older trucks could be an SR5 and a TRD, but the newer ones aren't so I think the salesman just wasn't as well versed in trucks. That's cool though! Glad you enjoy it as much as me and others 😊 Also, cannot find a driver's side grab handle anywhere online!

[@mamashiraz]

Alpha Shark Pictures Actually salesman was right! I asked someone today...a traditional SR5 is a 4 cylinder and an SR5 with a V6 is a “TRD Sport”...with the base off road suspension, shocks and skid plate so there you have it! Yours should have those too since it’s a V6. I found a number of sites with modified grab handles...no luck in finding one to match the passenger side 🤷🏻‍♀️ Still looking!😊

[@mamashiraz]

MotorcycleMan Yeah, I’m thinking that. I’m on my second recall and I haven’t even had the Taco for 6mos!! 😞

[@CarlArriaza]

I am getting 18.25 mpg on my 2019 offrd

[@avanti2k]

In case you haven’t figured out the steering wheel is your grab handle😀

[@AlphaShark]

Wellllllll I know but it's cooler to have an actual grab handle. And I wouldn't have a gimmick on my show if it wasn't for that.

[@mwrudi83]

Hey Issac! Can I pick your brain on your thoughts of them moving the production of the Tacoma to Mexico for the 2021 model year! Do you think this will affect the quality and durability of the truck?

[@AlphaShark]

Actually in 2019 they started splitting production between a Mexican plant and the Texas plant and I checked my VIN and mine was built in the Mexican plant, I've had absolutely no quality control issues as of yet. In fact, I found out that 2016-2018 Tacoma's suffered from a leaking rear window that was very common in bad rain. My 19' built in Mexico does not suffer from that problem. I think it's completely fine they're moving production, the F150 and Silverado have been built in Mexico for the last 20 years and while they have suffered from quality control issues it seems to swing more towards that their Ford and Chevy and not that they're built in Mexico. Toyota knows how to do QC so I have no doubt they'll hold to those standards in Mexico hopefully.

[@mwrudi83]

Alpha Shark Pictures, thanks for the reply back. You’ve alleviated some of my anxiety buying one built in Mexico. 😎😎

[@AlphaShark]

Michael Rudisill sure thing! Glad I could help Michael. 😊

[@pocillipora]

Re gearing the diffs gives you better gas milage