Top 5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying a Tacoma - Why People Regret Their Tacoma

Just wanted to put a quick video together talking about the main things I see people complain about when they purchase their Tacoma Tacoma. Watch this before buying your Tacoma to make sure you are informed of the main things that people have issues with regarding their new Toyota Tacoma. My 3rd Gen Toyota Tacoma 2022 TRD Offroad has been great, but other people have not been as happy with theirs and that is why I made this video. I always enjoyed making videos about advice to consider before buying a truck so I figured I would make a video on things to consider before buying a Tacoma! Also wanted to talk about the things people probably wish they knew before buying their own Tacoma!
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[@deplorablechump8758]

Owned a Taco for 17 years. Zero issues. Easy maintenance. Sold it for 50% of the original price. You can’t go wrong with Taco.

[@RobsAutos]

Yep, reliability and great re-sale was a big factor for my Taco!

[@marcuskoolrt]

@@RobsAutos Sus

[@RobsAutos]

@@marcuskoolrt it’s possible to enjoy your vehicle, but still have complaints lol nothing perfect

[@jaboff-road1776]

You have to get pre fuel, efficiency, vehicle my Tacoma has a v6 4.0 I tow 4K up vail pass 8% grade

[@James-vh7bx]

You are talking 17 years ago, when Tacomas were built with pride , now they are built for demand. Not to mention they are being manufactured in Mexico…. Wrong place to manufacture them at. Look at Mexicos there buildings they don’t last that long.

[@pjgaidosh5189]

I agree on the mpg but other than that nobody is buying a Tacoma for power.. They buy them for the looks and durability.

[@RobsAutos]

You are right, no one is buying them for the power. But a lot of people though aren’t realizing just HOW gutless it is lol

[@chanoleyva8584]

You can do a cold air intake, cat back exhaust, headers and a tune It will make the truck quick. Completely different truck

[@carolinawoods-n-water4392]

@@RobsAutos those people spent zero time researching the vehicle so it’s their own fault.

[@dawsongranger4940]

@@chanoleyva8584 Yeah but are you doing that to a brand new 40-50k truck under warranty? Maybe an old used one

[@ynestroza95]

I didnt buy mine for power but getting in the highway sucks. My 2014 altima 4 Cylinder was so much smoother when stepping on the gas pedal.

[@FrankLinares]

I've owned my 2022 SR5 double cab 5' bed v6 for about 11 months. My first truck and love it. No issues what so ever. Planning on keeping it for the long haul.

[@PrepperDawg]

The Tacoma is not for everyone. If you're looking for the latest tech, gizmos, big engine you will be severely disappointed. We buy them because we like old school form, reliability, ruggedness, simplicity. They are ancient but that is what we love about them. I get 25 mpg on the highway and 20 in town. Not bad. This is not a long distance runner. It's a trucks truck. A real truck. I've hauled all kinds of things and it handles it like a champ. It's a little beast.

[@RobsAutos]

Very good points!

[@johnappleseed9290]

Nailed it, in 2021 I bought the bare bones most base model SR Access cab 4WD Tacoma with the utility package because I wanted to most simplistic and reliable truck I can own for the next 12-15 years or more God willing. I’m not a fan of techy and overcomplicated vehicles with huge touch screens and cameras in every angle, the more crap added the more the vehicle is prone for issues later down the line. All I got is a low profile toolbox in the back where I keep my jack, screw drivers/emergency tools etc. and in the back of my seat my fishing/camping gear.

[@PrepperDawg]

@@johnappleseed9290 Yes, exactly! Mine has also been great so far. It's a beast lol

[@PrepperDawg]

@@johnappleseed9290 Mine is an SR as well, V6, access cab long bed. Love it

[@danielrn133]

I hated my Tacoma. Horrible seating position. HORRIBLE. Also I live in Wyoming and at altitude in the mountains the engine turns to total shit. Went with a Turbo Ranger and so much better and it isn't even close. If the new Taco has a turbo and a cab designed for humans over 5'3 I would consider it again. The idea it is a "real truck: is stupid marketing BS.

[@westcoastplinkin6559]

I don't regret my Tacoma at all. I went from a full size to a tacoma. The Tacoma is the perfect size.

[@br0th3rb82]

A Camry has more leg room and prolly could tow not much less 😂😂😂

[@westcoastplinkin6559]

@@br0th3rb82 But a Camry is not 4x4 and doesn't have a bed (which I mostly use). I actually would prefer a single cab with a 7.5 ft bed.

[@br0th3rb82]

@@westcoastplinkin6559 that’s fair. I just laugh at dudes that use them as family cars or don’t even use the bed. You’re better off getting a sedan or an SUV at that point, tacos are pretty impractical. I’m shocked at the lack of leg room in the back. I’m 6’5 and people fit just fine behind me in my 06 Camry. I saw a review by a guy who was 5’11 with a Tacoma and when he was driving there was legitimately less than a foot between the back of his chair and the bench. Shocked ppl pay 30,40,50k for these

[@br0th3rb82]

@@westcoastplinkin6559 I genuinely wonder how ppl live with tacomas and trucks in general. What do you do if you have to go to the airport with people in the back? Where tf do you put your stuff? In the bed where it can get wet and dirty? Seems super impractical when you consider how few people actually utilize their trucks for towing and hauling on a regular basis

[@westcoastplinkin6559]

@@br0th3rb82 It's really simple, a Tacoma can fit the role of a Camry but a Camry cannot fit the role of a Tacoma. A tuck is super useful, I literally rebuilt my entire fence and hauled everything in the back of my Taco. Can't do that with a Camry. And I love cars too, I use to have a 99 Corolla and drove that thing everywhere. But the Tacoma can do everything the Corolla can do. The only thing that you suffer in is MPG but that's really not an issue to me.

[@ShinGohji129]

I regret having a Tacoma with the 2.7 engine, you can boast about how bulletproof the engine is while it’s screaming to get up on the freeway and getting passed by a Prius.

[@SumOneSomewhere]

😂 I haven’t had any issues but that’s funny

[@ShinGohji129]

@@SumOneSomewhere sorry that was a year ago me, I’ve embraced the 4 banger and now it’s equipped with some 31 inch tires :D

[@kayakdan48]

I just picked up my new 2023 Taco Sport in Lunar Rock with EVERYTHING on it. I absolutely love it. I bought it for camping and carrying sea-kayaks over 17ft long...yes I needed a Yakima version roof rack to do that. The only downside is the continuous looks from other drivers and compliments even when buying gas...I'm sort of a loner who appreciates his privacy and space, however, I think I can get over all the attention it gets.

[@jdoc9236]

That’s what I want mine for! Would you recommend it?

[@user-xg6dc9dp3i]

Cmon really!!

[@user-zm2lf1ro4uuuu]

Only sore losers would compliment others on their Tacomas

[@snogirl8025]

Yup. I have owned every iteration of toyota pickups starting in 1987 with a 22RTE. Factory turbo baby in 1987! Next came two 3.sl0ws' both of which went over 200k. Now, on my second 2GEN, a 2013 with 120k. Rust took my 2006. Just put a deposit on 2023. It's a truck! How the f did we buy one before youtube 😂

[@s40volvoguy]

agree! I have a 23 TRD OFFROAD and I have none of these made up issues they talk about lol it runs great and shifts fine!

[@FrankHotdog]

I've owned 1996, 1999, 2011, 2013, 2016 and 2021 Tacomas. I'm getting ready to purchase a 2024. I love these trucks. Absolutely no regrets.

[@PIMPSTA951]

Ill give you a trifecta of why the tacoma is a great truck. 1. LOOKS GOOD 2. LAST FOREVER 3. RESELL VALUE

[@CalvinHikes]

The trifecta is so true. I don't think it's underpowered but it's certainly with the annoying transmission doesn't do a good job accelerating properly and in the correct gear. And the gas mileage is amazing compared to the tundra but getting mid-teens constantly isn't great

[@dylanbrown3840]

I always tell people if you want good mpg and performance don't buy a tacoma. But if you want a reliable and durable truck buy a tacoma. I came from jeeps trust me when I say it's a breath of fresh air

[@Fernyg323]

I’m 4 months in and I enjoy mine. I guess i knew what i was buying. Enjoy!

[@dyates6380]

I love mine. I've had it for almost five years and it is the best vehicle I've ever owned.

[@mrjayrod76]

Thank you for this information. I'm going to test drive a 2022 this week. Now I'm not so sure about getting this truck. Much appreciation.

[@Sinnsanity]

I had the 2021 SR5 and had no issues towing a 6x12 uhaul trailer from Florida to NY. It did feel sluggish because of the weak v6 but I never really needed extra power for anything. It did it's job for merging onto the highway and passing cars. It's a great daily driver. I ended up trading it in for a TRD camry because I had no need for a truck in NYC but I really regret it. My next vehicle is definitely going to be a Tacoma again (because of the MT) but I'm going to get the TRD pro this time.

[@misterllemos]

Would you consider the RAV4 TRD Pro or Woodland as an alternative to a Taco since you live in NYC? I imagine having a bed is super useful for moving, but the length of the vehicle due to the bed could pose a minor inconvenience when parking in decks.

[@br0th3rb82]

You just said you don’t need a truck and live in nyc.. why in gods name would you get a 50k truck with 200hp and no leg room?

[@Cheeto_Duss]

The hardest thing for me to deal with is the driver seat. It’s either slightly uncomfortable or totally uncomfortable. But I love the truck overall for what it is. The size of the truck is a perk for me, the power is not mind blowing but is acceptable and the transmission is really something to experience but again it’s totally fine to me for a working vehicle/truck. The paint seems thin on all the models to me. I use it for work and running around town. No long road trips for me in this thing tho! (SR5 v6 4x4)

[@RobsAutos]

I do like the size also! For the seats, is it the angle? A lot of people fix the angle issue with seat jackers

[@Cheeto_Duss]

@@RobsAutos i have the power driver seat but I think its just the size of the seat. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@christopherbordenet6063]

@@Cheeto_Duss try seat jackets they are west to install. They make a huge difference in seating position

[@elche1976]

​@Cheeto_Duss glowing endorsement. Uncomfortable. Power isn't mind blowing but acceptable.

[@CalvinHikes]

Yeah the Comfort level isn't very high. I modified my seat and I'm pretty happy with it but I'm always thinking about it. I have other cars that I get so comfortable in I don't have to think about it I forget that I'm even sitting

[@nofear1820]

For me, quality is king. I'd much rather have a Taco than a Frontier or Maverick

[@RobsAutos]

Agreed

[@nateg0155]

Lol, I have a Nissan Frontier and it doesn't have any of these 3 problems that the Tacoma has. It has plenty of power and can accelerate like a sports car. I was passing Tacomas and 4Runners on mountain passes with it. And it doesn't gear hunt, stays in 9th gear on the hwy. And mpg is pretty good - I averaged 23 mpg on a 5k mile road trip with it, mostly driving 5 mph over the speed limit. Plus they are more comfortable and look way better than a Tacoma. Frontier is a hidden gem, while Tacoma is probably the worst vehicle that Toyota makes way overrated.

[@boston1450]

Lmao

[@Mike-ln2bo]

The Tacoma will still be on the road when your Frontier is in the junkyard.

[@xxxxxxGUNZxxxxxx]

​@@nateg0155lmfao

[@TheDotransporter]

Owning a Tacoma gives you a certain kind of proudness.

[@user-hg3dj7ek8s]

You're totally accurate with the trifecta. I still want one though. From what I understand, that v6 lasts forever. As in a million miles forever. I drive slow anyways, so not a deal breaker for me.

[@stevanrose7439]

We have two Tacomas a 12 with 65k miles and a 02 with 300k miles. And they both drive the speed limit with no problem. 😉 They are trucks not sport cars.

[@user-hg3dj7ek8s]

@@stevanrose7439 here's an update. Since I posted this I went and got myself a 2023 Tacoma SR5 Trail edition. I absolutely love it. What a nice little rig it is.

[@TrevorMaffetone]

I’ve got an 21 f150 with 256k miles no issues has power. Room. Technology. It tows.. and you all wonder why f150 is still the best selling truck

[@uberleet01]

@@TrevorMaffetone have a fleet of f150s and transits - nothing but issues

[@TrevorMaffetone]

@@uberleet01 what engine is your fleet running ?

[@ProducerRyan]

Great video, love the humour! Waiting on my 2023 delivery

[@RobsAutos]

Thank you! You will enjoy it!

[@LariatLady150]

I am happy and relieved to report that I have not experienced any of these issues with my new-to-me 2021 TRD Pro. Coming from 13 years driving my 2000 Ford F150 Triton V8 that still has LOTS of get-up-&-git-r-done power, I am quite impressed with the power in this V6. I spent 6 hours on the road yesterday driving from Atl to Jackson, MS and 3 hours the day before from Knoxville to Atl, and the gas mileage has been better than expected at 17.9 mpg. Acceleration has been great! I even chirped the tires when I merged into traffic at one exit!! 🤭 Didn't expect that!! Plus, there are no issues with transmission selecting gears. It rode smooth as silk, gear changes were barely noticeable, and pick up is great!! I'm pleased as punch and lovin' this Tacoma! I will say, though, that going from a zero technology truck to this technological overload has been quite an overwhelming transition. 🤯😵‍💫😬🤪😭 ha!

[@wbeard358]

Most people regret selling their taco and end up with another down the road

[@T8Media]

This is the right comment.

[@xxxxxxGUNZxxxxxx]

💯

[@drmorcoch9338]

back then i tried the v6, drives like that decrepit biden. got the v8 instead. people who like to go off road buy 4x4 like that guy in the video. what's the point of buying an off road vehicle that can't climb up a hill or go over rocks, haul your quad, boat, or dirtbikes. i'm sure your v6 is more than capable of carrying your bicycle. it all depends on how you want to use it.

[@liemnguyen8143]

I just bought 2017 Sport model. Everything is stock and I do get 22mpg. Thanks for the info about the newer model of Taco. This really helps.

[@patches6309]

My 2nd Gen 2013 Taco is a truck owners dream. Not only does it hold it's value but the truck runs like it never will die! Most reliable truck as long as you do basic maintneace (oil change/etc.) Not desinged to haul heavy tow loads or race other trucks. It is an unkillable & reliable motor. Starts up every day and runs! WTF more do you need?

[@danettej4796]

Thanks for all the great information on the Tacoma. I’m sure it will be reliable like all Toyota trucks.

[@98red300]

Thank You for your honesty about the truck. I have heard of everything you described as some of the regrets after some of my friends have bought theirs. I'm currently in the market for one but I'm not sure if I can deal with the transmission hunting for a gear. I can deal with just about everything else. However, I do feel later down the road the 2021-2023 will be sought after due to the new 2024. With the 2024 having a brand new turbo engine in it I feel they will have some major issues with it for quite some time. That's the only reason I'm looking at at 2023. Thanks again for the great video.

[@boostwizzard]

The new turbo Taco will have its quirks here and there but one shouldn't be afraid of it not being reliable. Toyota does its homework before releasing anything new. Personally, i just don't like the new body styles on any of their new trucks... too big of a grill and too many sharp edges .... but I'm sure it will be super reliable rig. But willing to bet that the MPG will be very close to the current one

[@RKDriver]

I will also be watching to see how the 2024's turn out. They'll also have a hybrid version which interests me. Hopefully they'll redesign the interior so that seating/comfort issue is resolved.

[@jamesmclawhorn8259]

Yeah that's why I bought my 23 and didn't wait til the 24

[@jmyers6175]

People are going for the 24 model and are Not looking back. The Tacoma was due for a complete change.

[@0331longrifle]

100% get a tune or a power commander for the throttle response and different transmission shift points

[@fscottnoah7223]

Really appreciate this video. If some people are “on the fence” about what to buy, I’ve been “grinding the fence” on deciding between a ‘23 Tacoma, ‘23 4Runner, or the new ‘24 Tacoma. This helped me solidify that decision.

[@okbro1324]

What was your decision?

[@xxxxxxGUNZxxxxxx]

What did you go with? I own a 2017 tacoma and zero regrets here.

[@kritonman1]

I have a 2010 Tacoma and love it. Had no intentions of getting a new vehicle until i saw the 2024 tdr pro!! I’ll get that provided the dealership doesn’t mark it up too high like they are with all the other Toyotas.

[@justinfinch333]

i just got a 17 and i am in love with this truck its perfect in everyway i have the trd sport fully loaded@@xxxxxxGUNZxxxxxx

[@JermsDNA]

Great Video, Rob! Very Informative.

[@RobsAutos]

Thank you!

[@devildoc6749]

My Taco Pro sport is white and has paint coming off, in the areas you mentioned. I went ahead and got the paint for the truck and a primer and went to town. I do love the 2024 TRD Pro, sweet truck. Great video. Thinking about putting a light bar since the 2024 has one and looks great.

[@70williams]

My taco off-road is doing the same on my left side only sucks

[@stephenamadeus5619]

Very insightful! I want to buy one but I should definitely know these key points. Thank you so much.

[@nicholaspetre1]

At last somebody started telling the truth and not just compliments. Thank you for being honest.

[@alibabaschultz352]

Everything is relative and subjective. If you make a lot of money, and have luxurious taste, then the Tacoma might seem lame to you.

[@dutchvan4503]

I have owned several Tacomas and drive one today. It's a V6 automatic. i have zero issues. The truck is fast and getting onto and merging with speeding traffic is no problem. I have no problems passing others. I cruise around 75 MPH and can pass others easily. The gas milage is not great but the Tacoma was never known for great gas milage. I'd buy another one tomorrow if I needed a truck. I tow and haul all the time with not issues. Look it's a medium sized truck and has limits but it will perform to what the manual says it will do. If you overload it or any other truck you are the problem not the truck. Why is the resale value so high for such a poor truck. This guy should not own a truck. A truck is a truck is a truck and you need to know that before you buy it. It's noisy and not that comfortable but it's a freaking truck. In my experience after owning other trucks the same size I'll be buying these trucks. So, here's what I would tell this clown. If you want a snappy transmission, gas milage and a fast vehicle don't buy a truck. As far as having to gun it to pass vehicles that's true for any vehicle you drive. You go into passing gear even in my Corvette or any truck that I have owned.

[@crosisofborg5524]

Ive owned my 2009 Taco since new and have never regretted it. It’s been perfect.

[@ruthnoya8424]

09 is a great year.

[@drmorcoch9338]

the 09 engine is better than the 23 engine. but even then it's still slow. you can't go off roading with a weak engine let alone haul your quad, or dirtbikes or tow a boat. that's the reason i buy pick up trucks with v8 engines. toyota v8's are excellent though... lots of power and good gas mileage

[@korbendallas2741]

Bruh I didn’t like my taco for a year until recently, it’s a manual transmission too. As a matter a fact I’m in love with it now. It was so weird, but dammmm it’s such a beautiful truck. Gas sucks and they’re a little small inside but it’s my taco. People are gonna be paying top dollar for these in the future

[@1st.SGT.]

Damn lucky to have a manual!!!

[@kodiaksride]

I have a 2020 Tacoma 4x4 V6 Off Road with a manual transmission. Just got back from and adventure in the mountains of Colorado and averaged 22.8 mpg over 350 miles. This is my 3rd Tacoma and they have all had the manual transmission. I would never get an automatic. If I wanted 30+ mpg, I wouldn't have purchased a truck. The electric drivers seat solved a lot of the issues from my 2016. The big change was the LED headlights that became an option in 2020. Don't buy a 2020+ Tacoma without the LED headlights. It make a world of difference. They are bright and really help when driving in the mountains of Colorado.

[@georgedreher2322]

I bought a 2022 4x4 manual Off Road last August. Live in Florida but do a lot of camping in North Georgia mountain areas. Pull a small 2500 lb utility style camper. No problems pulling that weight and the truck has a great ride due to the upgraded shocks. Truck has plenty of power for me & wife. No complaints here.

[@giantlabs]

Towing anything over 1k lbs is a pita because of the gearing. You'll set your cruise on the highway and any slight grade change causes the Taco to go back and forth from overdrive. So we ended up locking the transmission into the gear below overdrive the whole trip on the highway.

[@kevinscott6393]

I have owned several Tacomas since 1987. In 2008 I bought a Tundra 5.7 because I bought a larger boat. Well, in 2019 I went back to Tacoma. After owning for several months, I did not like the 3.5 V6, nor did I like the transmission. Previous Tacomas had the 4.0 V6 which I recieved better mpg's than the 3.5. The transmission never could find the right gear ascending hill. I got tired of both item so I ended up go back to a 2021 Tundra 5.7 V8.

[@willamandaglover263]

Not sure what you mean about towing. I towed my trailer with family of 5 with TOTAL weight being 6100lbs and towed no problem. Was very impressed as I got closer to camp site there was hair pin turns and all loose gravel. Even at speed of 25 km an hour and towing up hill my Taco was unbelievable and impressive in getting up this hill. Again about speed its a truck. I care about longevity and resale. Competition still cant compare. Same model of Ranger that I was thinking sells for 10k less now after 4 years!

[@willamandaglover263]

@@user-hv3ni5ct1l well actually my payload was 1140 and my 3kids are under 6 so ya was no where near over 900 big guy. And proper weight distrubition hitch had me just under 500 and I scaled it, ya know to be safe and all. Maybe know what your talking about before you make comments. Ps I pull a few people over hence me checking everything first.

[@willamandaglover263]

Thanks for that. Sorry I wasn’t saying the weight distribution hitch changed the weight. Just letting you know I scaled it and had all my numbers prior to towing and proper hitches etc. My family again did not exceed the pay load as noted above. The 5 of us weigh 380 as again all kids little and infant plus my just under 500 tongue weight did not exceed 1100. Thanks for the comments though. At least you’re making good points if I was just packing and going and not weighing anything or going on scale after all loaded to ensure everything worked .

[@zackeryshackelford3864]

You talk about the transmission... hit the "ECT Power" button - I always use it in the mountains, and it makes a day and night difference. Raises shift points a bit and maybe some other stuff

[@mikey1297]

Is the ECT basically their version a “tow / haul?” Doing research. Considering selling my 06 duramax to get into a Tacoma. Looking for something smaller than this massive ass 2500 🤣

[@JournalofaWarriorsJourney]

Yes - and do you tow with it too? The “Sport” shifting is mentioned in the manual (I don’t recall it mentioned in the video either).

[@johnhughes6573]

I tow my small camper trailer - Catalina lite with no problem with my 2022 Tacoma off Road with no problem. It is a smaller trailer but that said, I’m totally satisfied. It’s an automatic and I can gear down going up hills.

[@1st.SGT.]

Yea ect or put it in in sport and choose the gear yourself. Done.

[@Chad-wb7du]

Glad to see so many of these things are addressed on the new Tacoma!

[@whaynes95]

Try owning a GMC Canyon... the worst truck there is. I'd take any of these issues over having that peace of junk again.

[@josephp8735]

I have an 08 Colorado, pretty much the same truck. It eats the front tires every 1000 miles no matter how gentle I drive or how often I get the tires aligned. About to trade it in just buy a new loaded taco pro

[@faraon2012]

GMC expensive and garabage all new cars and truck. 😮

[@8626John]

I'm 6 feet, 2 inches tall and I've been driving a 2008 Tacoma access cab for five years and I have no real difficulty with it, except it's two-wheel-drive and I have moved to an area with snowy winters. I just ordered a 2023 Tacoma TRD Off-road quad cab with a long bed and I plan to drive it for the next 15 to 20 years. I did a lot of research and the dependability and reliability of the Toyota brand outweighed other considerations. I know going in that it isn't great on gas mileage and it's not a hot rod, but it should fit my needs perfectly, and that's the key.

[@TheMcdred]

Agree with everything said here. My regret - not keeping it close to stock. Have chased issue after issue and did not realize that would be the case as no one really talks about it. Still like it though, but to his point, looking to upgrade in the next month or two….

[@pahuntnut]

If your selling your Tacoma because of poor gas miliage and want to move up to a Tundra, then be prepared for even worse miliage. I averaged 15 mpg and that includes a lot of highway driving. In our business we have Tacomas and Ford F150. The Full size Ford gets 3 mpg better than the Tacoma and they have given us zero issues also. Toyoya has a fan base that ignores its faults and will pay and price because they still believe that other vehicles have all kinds of service issues.

[@Dan-gf4pt]

I agree with all these points-stamp of approval

[@1979bobhd]

I had a 1996 Toyota T100 extended cab 4x4 and I had absolutely zero problems with it, it was a great truck, good mpg and plenty of power it was a tough Toyota in Burgundy and I would still have that truck today if this girl wouldn't have made a left turn in front of me and totaled it.

[@196clint]

Informative post, I want one but don't now, what Truck make and mod would you recommend for gas mileage, towability and power instead of theT.T 2022 competitor Rob?

[@viperxbr]

Greetings from a Canadian neighbour! Great video but what difference would all of this have made in YOUR decision of purchasing a Taco? Would you have really gone with something else? My main decision for going with this truck was reliability and longevity. I keep my vehicles long term, 10-15yrs at least. Toyota has really been the only brand that can acheive this IMHO. I have a brand new 23' TRD Sport Premium 4x4 long bed in Lunar Rock(great colour btw) on the way, arriving in three weeks. It will be my daily driver and used to pull my ATV, on a utility trailer, to and from the cottage. Looking forward to it! Cheers!

[@RobsAutos]

Great question!!! Honestly, I would have been more tempted to check out the American competition. Or if I really wanted to stay Toyota, just waited until the next generation Tacoma next year. But these issues definitely don’t sway me enough to make me want to sell the truck, just would have swayed me from buying it in the first place if that makes sense.

[@viperxbr]

@@RobsAutos for me, dealing with these few oddities which, in essence, is normal running behaviour for the Taco, is far easier than dealing with real and well known reliability problems that happen too often on a regular basis with the American competition. I can't stand having to bring in my vehicle to shop, half a dozen times a year, because of consistent problems/failures. It's crazy how drivers who have owned American cars all thier lives, get so conditioned in brining thier cars to the shop for consistant problems, it becomes the norm to them and they don't see the problem with that. Wacky world we live in eh! Cheers!

[@85mustangjenn]

How are you enjoying your 23 trd off-road Tacoma so far? I'm fixing to buy one myself

[@viperxbr]

@@85mustangjenn Hey Jenn, I've got the TRD Sport and I'm loving it! I never really intended on getting the Off-road because one of the main reasons for buying the truck was to pull my off-road vehicle, an ATV. It's my daily driver and I drive %99 of the time on ashphalt. I have no regrets with my decision. I'm 6'3" and I find it comfortable for longer trips. No problems with it at all. My expectations were for a simple truck with little to no bells and whistles and that will last forever. Highly recommend it if that's what you're looking for. Cheers!

[@pb7133]

Drove my taco for 22 years. 2001. 300,000 miles, very minimal issues. Never left me stranded. Sad to see it go. Just got a 2023 trd pro. Baby on the way. 4 door. Expect to drive this for the next 20 years.

[@Mario-lj7gm]

Have a 2023 trd pro and no problem with the available power or transmission. Zero gear hunting. Mpg gets better with mileage. Great truck.

[@mcass3663]

I resolved every issue mentioned here. I had a Yota tune installed which solved the trans gear hunting issue. NO longer looks for gears it shifts flawlessly and very responsive for a OR. I changed my intake to a TRD intake and with a slight mod to it I get around 700km/tanks !!

[@DEVG4]

What tune did you use??

[@mcass3663]

@@DEVG4 Yota Tune. A local guy here heads to a certain location once a month to tune up Tacos. By appointment only though. About $300 for 5 minute tune but the results are exactly what you wanted. My gas mileage stayed the same after the tune thank God. He never seen a Taco get almost 700kms/tank such as mine. I haven't heard of anyone getting the same as mine. I have power, response and seamless shifting at any speed. Well worth looking into

[@dannylewandowski2822]

Tuned properly these trucks outperform and make drivability way better.

[@mcass3663]

Yes 100%. Changing the coil packs too @@dannylewandowski2822

[@planoman0935]

I owned a 2023 Off Road and the Overland torque tune did wonders for the engine and the ECT button became the sport mode. It still gear hunted on the highway but got about 19 mpg in the city. Now get ready...I have a 2024 and it solves all those issues. More torque at lower rpm, 8 speed AT, better ride etc and the tech brings it into the 2020's. At least when you sell it you will get a good price!

[@johnspooner4128]

I'm reading about the lack of power, are you talking about the small v6 or the 3.5 ltr v6?

[@-B_G-]

I drive mine in sport mode and it solves the power/gear hunting problem.

[@The93ssfd]

sport mode? could you explain?

[@-B_G-]

@@The93ssfd - move the shifter to the theft of (D) drive in between the plus and minus sign and it defaults to 4th gear. Then while stopped bump it down to first and now you manually control when it shifts. The gear you shift to will temporarily be displayed on your dash. It automatically down shifts so when you stop or slow down just reset/bump to first/ appropriate gear for your speed/rpm or you can just drive until you reach the gear you set it at last as normal. Just think of it as a manual without a clutch in Sport mode. It’s basically a gear limiter that you can control or set. Comes in handy in hilly terrain but I drive mine in sport mode all the time so I can extend shift points to my liking and avoid gear hunting getting better response and mpg.

[@The93ssfd]

@@-B_G- I see. Thank you.

[@TRD_JAY]

I don’t really drive fast or tow. I don’t see a problem with power lol

[@RobsAutos]

Nice! Happy to hear

[@5.7SOCIETY]

You just haven’t driven a car with power yet lol had one it’s slower than shit

[@honda116969]

Mine is the 6-speed manual transmission TRD off-road. Not perfect but for me it's perfect. Garaged kept so hopefully it'll stay nice over the years. & Yes ⛽ mileage sucks! My buddy's 5.3 Sierra lifted 6" only 2-3mpg difference between his truck & mine mine is stock! I think I'm going to tune the ECU better mileage & better power

[@Zoovfam]

Looking to get a tacoma just so I can haul my kayak to go fishing also in the winter time for ice fishing. Other than that, not looking to be an every day ride. But I've been taking my dad's '98 tacoma with 280k miles and it's still going smoooooooth.

[@GeezeRider]

I've got a 2016 and this review is spot on! Except- I don't have any issues with my white paint yet. One thing he failed to mention is the minimally adjustable drivers seat in the older Tacoma's. There is minimal headroom, especially if your truck has a sun roof, and since you can't lower the seat it makes getting in and out "interesting" so you don't knock your head. I'm only 5' 10" and still find my short hair rubbing against the headliner and side bolster. VERY annoying. Also, think long and hard about having only a 5' long bed.

[@americancollegegrad3729]

I’m looking at a 16 next week, it’s white. how do you tell the paint is thin? What do I look for?

[@darrylmusic7839]

Love my Tacoma and when I enter the highway I hit the gas and my Tacoma takes off like a rocket, when I pass some one I just slide shifter over to standard shift and it drops back to 4th and make it peppy to pass with ease, gas mileage isn't the greatest around town but on the highway I get around 9L per 100km, it really depend how heavy a foot driver you are and I baby it to get good mileage, they really hold their value because there a great dependable truck

[@NinerK]

GM White Paint did the same thing in the 90's and 2000's. My neighbor GMC Sierra circa early 2000's has the peeling white paint. I had a 2004 Tahoe in white pain that did the same thing. Great video, thanks!

[@cvbzizou]

Great video! Thank you for posting and saving us $$.

[@rougebeaster]

Got the 2.7 4cyl 159 HP baby. Never been a problem for me.

[@bluecollarmark]

I have the 2022 SR5 Tacoma, 4 cylinder, 2.7 litre. I love it.

[@bos6782]

Thanks for the video. Many good points

[@codywillemarck]

Just got to 2K on my taco. Average 20 MPG around town. Can pull 22 if I try. Found it very zippy compared to my 09 Pontiac vibe and 05 Silverado. Transmission drives a lot like an automatic semi. If you think it gear hunts or is underpowered your to used to driving a zippy little car. Very easy to distinguish this during a test drive before purchase. But I’ve found it basically idles @ 1850 RPM in 6th doing 75mph on the highway. The unfortunate part is MPG falls to like 18 at that speed. Taco does not have the high tech lane keep but I find it very tech advanced compared to my wife’s 2014 VW Jetta. Plenty of tech to confuse the fuck outa me.

[@CalvinHikes]

There's a second transmission mode which basically makes a transmission work a little more aggressively and the whole thing feels better. But then I get even less gas mileage. The transmission is sloppy and that affects both the feeling of power as well as the gas mileage. The transmission is always wrong it shifts when I don't want it to and it fails to shift when I do want it to. In the standard setting.

[@jmyers6175]

I get it. You bought 2016 technology. Hasn't changed the engine and transmission only the powered drivers seat. Love my army green trd with 6 speed manual. Old school.

[@Jrod32391]

Get a pedal commander it really solves the stock lag in the acceleration. Really doesn’t feel like a slow truck at all anymore

[@revilsdr]

My Tacoma was a little bit on the sluggish side but more so was very uncomfortable for long road trips. The seating position is pretty bad for most people especially if you have any kind of back issues your back will be hurting you on a long road trips headroom in poor too. I also experienced a lot of interior rattle with my Tacoma, took it in several times but they could never quite figure out where all this rattling was coming from under the dash and headliner areas so I could never drive with the radio off the interior noise was to bothersome. I sold my tacoma and have a ridgeline now the ground clearance isn't good but way better in all other areas.

[@mcass3663]

You can increase your power slightly with TRD intake. And to further improve on your performance remove the fabric baffle on the cover to the air filter! use injector cleaner often and watch the difference in performance! I you do not want to guy TRD intake just buy a K&N filter and remove the fabric baffle.

[@yaboiimarc9857]

Towed a small trailer from Seattle to San Diego no real problem even in the mountains of North Cal but I knew what I was getting into not expecting it to rocket past anything

[@MrMikey1273]

Ive had a 2020 sr5 4x4 with v6 and automatic transmission. I find the power acceptable. The engine does make power at higher rpm. I only tow a pop-up camper, mostly use it to daily drive and haul home improvement supplies. For me its been an outstanding truck. Its been very dependable. The mpg could be better but it does do as well as my old turbo diesel jeep Liberty CRD. I kept mine mostly stock. I think if i wanted to tow more an eco boost f150 would be a better truck. That said for where i live the size of the Tacoma is a better fit.

[@mcass3663]

You can increase your power slightly with TRD intake. And to further improve on your performance remove the fabric baffle on the cover to the air filter! use injector cleaner often and watch the difference in performance! I you do not want to guy TRD intake just buy a K&N filter and remove the fabric baffle.

[@matthews8374]

I've driven a '21 TRD Taco for three years now on a lease. I have absolutely loved it! Yes, doesn't do wheel stands but it has adequate power and believe it or not I have gotten a little over 30mpg on the highway. The seats are not very comfortable so you need breaks on long trips. Tows my small trailer with the RZR UTV on it very well, but the ride is very stiff and bouncy and the cab is very noisy. My lease is up in a couple of months and I have been looking at the new '24 Tacoma as well as the new 4Runner but they are a long way out. Then I noticed the new '24 SR5 Tundra (not hybrid) was in the SAME PRICE BRACKET. I drove one this morning to see if it would fit in my garage bay. That was all it took - I paid money down and my new blueprint SR5 Crew Tundra will be here in February at the end of my lease. After driving the Taco for three years now there is NO COMPARISON in the ride and power of the Tundra. None. No more cab noise and bouncing around. Look closely at the SR5 Tundra instead of the Tacoma! I believe you will leave the Tacoma behind too!

[@dinogarcia3665]

I had a 2013 Taco before 4X2 with 6 in lift, Never any problems with it at all, only put 65,000 miles on it, loved it only thing it wasn't a 4X4 or I would of kept it. Very reliable trucks well worth the money.

[@inktime]

I don’t regret the purchase of my taco, but I pretty much agree with all you say. 😮

[@KayBertoss]

Love my 2020 TRD Sport DCLB 4x4 in Super White. Meets our families needs. No issues after 3 years. Toyota just announced yesterday that they finally recognize that there is an issue with 3rd gen paint peel on the 040 Super white. 2016-2022. So moving forward anyone with this issue will be eventually covered. Only problem is Toyota hasn’t figured out a fix yet. Apparently the white paint was not bonding to the primer properly. Super White 040 is a one step paint process. Clear coat is mixed with the paint.

[@Ghost-lo6ij]

Owner of a 2023 SR5 Tacoma V6 (SX Package) 1. Don't Reget it at all 2. Maybe the last generation with a NA engine 3. Since it not a 4X4 (Extra Weight) MPG are decent getting 20 to 22 mpg (Freeway) 4. Only flaws the truck come with, the front bumpers are not painted right. I had to call Corporate Toyota because the dealer didn't want to help me, only when Daddy Toyota step in that when the dealer fixed my front bumper. 5. True about MPG this is a truck is not electric or Hybrid don't expect Corolla mpg's. 6. Reliability is a major factor in buying a Tacoma. F-150 and Silverado's actually have reliability issues and Ram is expensive (Debatable Topic).

[@antonio576]

Excellent video. As tempted as I am to get one, your trifecta is spot on and the reason why I WON’T buy one.

[@deplorablechump8758]

Bad decision you ever made.

[@rsotojr]

Same

[@APOSTLESDOCTRINEPHOENIX]

​@@rsotojrdidn't like yours

[@CA-ne1ev]

This is the most honest review I have found on Utube about this Beautiful looking truck but the A/Holes that built the Engine and Transmission are Idiots its a Slug of a Truck, excellent review Thanks !!

[@texastuna7298]

HEY ROB, I AM GOING TO SAVE UP MONEY FOR 2015 TACOMA ... DOES IT SOUND LIKE A BETTER OPTION ?

[@TRDTalk]

Just got mine and already agree with all of this 😅

[@scottm3775]

Super helpful!!! Thanks 😊

[@jamesmclawhorn8259]

I own a 23 4x2 TRD OR V6. I do wish it had more acceleration but it's liveable. My commute is 5.1 miles one way in half country, half city setting and I only avg 16 mpg at best. On freeways I can get 20-22. But, it's a gorgeous truck, drives like a truck should, and will last forever. I'm happy with it.

[@jmyers6175]

Change your oil often if driving short distances. Every 4 months, seriously.

[@wanderoutdoors6094]

Exactly my thoughts on my friends new tacoma back in the day. Plus the spartan economy interior. Crazy how much nicer the 4runner is

[@maxstrass]

Coming from a 4 cylinder with a CVT, the Tacoma is 1000x better, I know there’s complaints about hunting gears and lack of power, but it feels like I can actually merge onto the highway without taking a lifetime to do it, granted the gas mileage is slightly worse, but I fully expected that switching from a crossover to a mid sized truck, granted, I have been looking into possibly tuning the truck and making some other modifications, but in its stock form, especially from what I had before, it’s a massive improvement

[@nghiadinh94]

Successfully dealing with all these annoying things makes you a great driver :>

[@sepehrnafezi6572]

My RAV4 has problems and the Toyota dealership forgot to put the Oil lid back after changing the Oil. 😅so after long drive in far far away from my home, I saw smoke and stopped In the street for Long time and called Toyota,finally Toyota dealership guy came and took my RAV4 and gave me a Toyota Tacoma to drive until my car get fixed. So after that unexpected test drive with Tacoma,I decided to never buy Tacoma if I wanted to buy a truck. It’s very slow uncomfortable truck. It was at 2021. now I have Nissan frontier 2023 pro 4x!when for the first time I drove test Nissan frontier, I find driving Nissan frontier is very different by Toyota Tacoma, Frontier feel like a cool Truck much better than Tacoma! Thanks for Tacoma to show me how cool is frontier 😂 and make good decisions.

[@nept369]

manual, 4x4 22 sport. have a pedal commander and cool air intake and bed stiffeners for mods. the pedal commander helps with throttle response and give you extra push. i to haul a small horse trailer when necessary with 0 issues. gas mileage isn't great, but I knew that when i purchased it. ive taken mine to an off-road park (yesterday in fact) and have been in areas where i only see atvs and dirtbikes. I'm sure jeeps could make it to those areas too, but they tend to stick with their jeep people. overall I'm extremely happy with my purchase with just over a year owned. Its kind of a swiss army knife of vehicles. It may not be the best at anyone thing but its really versatile.

[@TimmyCramer]

Went from a 2010 tacoma to a 2017 tacoma. Was shocked by how weak it was and sold it 2 yrs later. Driving a 2020 2wd with the 2.7 4 cylinder per all I want is decent gas mileage work Donkey truck. Will buy a 4runner with the 4.0 awesome motor. 😊

[@JoeJacksonGT3]

Love a 4runner for what it's capable of, but it's the WORST vehicle to drive on the road. The 5 speed transmission, while robust, is ancient and causes the engine to stay in higher RPMs. I had a '21 and sold it 4 months later. I couldn't take driving it on the highway

[@revilsdr]

the 4cyl tacomas are slugs the engine is way underpowered for the vehicles weight.

[@westcoastplinkin6559]

@@revilsdr My neighbor is a contractor and daily drives a 4cyl Tacoma for his work truck. Seems to be very reliable.

[@snanguidry3283]

4runner is koo but that mpg is like driving a hummer

[@-B_G-]

@@westcoastplinkin6559- the most reliable actually. The 2.7 is known to be one of the longest running motors to date when taken care of. I have a 96 ext cab 4x4 that I still drive several times a week 100 mile round trips.

[@renaissancemaneric8019]

Appreciate the honesty

[@shnerp]

I have one on order, mpg is a little bit of a concern, but I work from home and only plan to use the truck for the weekends. I also currently drive a crosstrek, so I know all about gutless performance and wierd cvt shifting, so in that regard, the tacoma will be an improvement. however, the crosstrek does get excellent MPG.

[@redskins1120]

You’ll get 18mpg on the city and 24 on the city easy.

[@sawyerheslep8493]

It doesn't have a cvt

[@thomas3816]

If your concern is the MPG, then maybe a truck isn't for you my guy. Trucks aren't getting MPG that small sedans are getting.

[@mcass3663]

You can increase your power slightly with TRD intake. And to further improve on your performance remove the fabric baffle on the cover to the air filter! use injector cleaner often and watch the difference in performance! I you do not want to guy TRD intake just buy a K&N filter and remove the fabric baffle.

[@shnerp]

@@mcass3663 I took delivery and I am happy with the truck. After 2 months of driving, mpg is not as bad as I was expecting. seats are comfortable and ride is nice. No regrets :)

[@kevinpaymaster]

Bought a new 2023 Taco 4X4 Off Road and absolutely LOVE IT! Compared to Ranger, Frontier, Ridgeline, Colorado or Canyon, TOYOTA IS KING when it comes to Quality, Durability, Reliability, Longevity and overall customer loyalty. Everyone is entitled to their opinion and choice, but I'd rather go with something proven. My deepest regrets whenever you trade it in down the road. Misery loves Company.

[@tg8150]

Forgot about the frame breaking in half due to rust. The Tacoma is all hype- that’s what sells it. That’s also what makes owners sell it. When they realize it’s essentially a Camry with a bed, a plastic one at that. Car engine, tiny drivetrain parts, horrible transmission, downright dated and horrible interior. The sheeple keep buying a truck that dates back to 2005. Lastly, it’s not a safe vehicle. Fanboys rejoice!

[@xxxxxxGUNZxxxxxx]

Does a camry have leaf springs? Asking for a friend 🤔

[@rubenfranko6600]

I’m FKG agree on all your points. Sad but it’s true. Very good video 👍🏼

[@rogermedrano3617]

Do you know if it’s normal for the AC compressor to kick on & off while being park ? I want to know if this is normal. Thank you

[@adammoser5238]

Well i just totaled mine, and one thing i will give it credit for, it kept me safe. Just bruises, seemingly from air bags. But, i never enjoyed the truck. MPG was good for a truck, maybe even great. However, it was the most annoying and frustrating driving experience ever! The transmission software, absolutely sucks!!!!! Even with the OTT tune it still wasn't that great. You need to do an extensive test drive, freeway, hills, curvy roads, do it all. I wish i had, hope the newer ones are much imporoved, because i did not enjoy this truck. Too expensive to not have fun and enjoy driving it.

[@michaelcoughlin8238]

Interesting about the white paint issue. I've been watching Tacoma videos all morning and a few mentioned paint was thin but the white was thicker paint due to needing more for proper coverage.

[@benegleston7839]

I just bought my 4th Tacoma. Great truck! I put almost 200,000 on my old one before I took out 3 deer and totaled it.

[@tomm7505]

Love my '23 TRD Sport V6 Access Cab. Mine is white and no issues yet.

[@DaveG-kb2sr]

If you actually use 4wd on trails or beaches get a Tacoma. If you're just looking to cruise around town on aftermarket lift kits and occasionally look at your 4wd knob get a Ford/Chevy/Ram.

[@chrisgolla3170]

its all about reliability and resale value for me. Like anything it could be better, but that is what aftermarket option are good for, example is a sprint booster for my 2022 TRD Sport. Inexpensive and makes a difference on with multiple options. I traded a 2013 Tacoma for this one, nothing but basic maint cost for those years and got a great trade in price.

[@UAPfpv_]

I get 22mpg. I drive with a light foot though. I do drive about 50 miles a day over the hills. I haven't noticed the gear hunting. In a year, I have never mashed the pedal though.