Is a 2020 Tacoma a good year?

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma is generally considered a good year for this popular midsize pickup truck. The Tacoma has long been a reliable and capable off-road vehicle, and the 2020 model year builds on that reputation with a range of improvements and updates.

Overview of the 2020 Toyota Tacoma

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma received a number of updates and enhancements compared to previous model years. Some of the key features and changes include:

• Updated exterior styling with a more aggressive front grille and redesigned headlights


• Improved infotainment system with a larger 8-inch touchscreen display and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility


• Addition of the TRD Pro off-road trim level, which includes upgraded suspension, skid plates, and other off-road-focused features


• Availability of a new turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, in addition to the standard 3.5-liter V6


• Enhanced safety features, including standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking

These updates help to keep the Tacoma competitive in the midsize truck segment, which has seen increased competition in recent years from models like the Ford Ranger and Jeep Gladiator.

Reliability and Durability

One of the Tacoma's key strengths is its reputation for reliability and durability. The 2020 model year is no exception, with the Tacoma earning strong reviews for its dependable performance and long-lasting build quality. According to data from Source, the Tacoma is one of the most reliable midsize trucks on the market, with a history of low repair costs and high owner satisfaction.

This reputation for reliability is a major selling point for the Tacoma, as it makes the truck a practical and cost-effective choice for both personal and commercial use. Buyers can expect the 2020 Tacoma to provide years of dependable service, even with heavy-duty use and off-road driving.

Driving Dynamics and Off-Road Capability

In addition to its reliability, the Tacoma is also known for its impressive off-road capabilities. The 2020 model year builds on this reputation, with the addition of the TRD Pro trim level that further enhances the truck's off-road performance. Source notes that the TRD Pro features upgraded suspension, skid plates, and other off-road-focused equipment, making it a capable choice for those who plan to take their Tacoma off the beaten path.

Even in its more standard configurations, the 2020 Tacoma delivers a comfortable and composed ride, both on-road and off. The available V6 engine provides ample power and towing capacity, while the truck's sturdy frame and suspension provide a confident and capable driving experience.

Conclusion

Overall, the 2020 Toyota Tacoma is a strong choice in the midsize truck segment. With its reputation for reliability, off-road capability, and a range of updates and improvements, the 2020 Tacoma is a good year for this popular and long-running model. Buyers can expect the 2020 Tacoma to provide years of dependable service and performance, whether they're using it for work, play, or a combination of both.

What year is the most reliable Tacoma?

The most reliable Toyota Tacoma years are often considered to be 2015, 2018, 2019, and 2020, particularly the 2015 model for its "bulletproof" V6 engine and the 2018-2020 models for being part of the third generation and free from the frame rust issues found in earlier years of that generation (2016-2017). If you're looking at older models, the 2009-2014 years are generally trouble-free, though they may lack modern features and have some specific issues like oil consumption or potential rust if not inspected thoroughly.
 
Highly reliable years 

• 2015: Often cited as one of the most reliable years due to its proven 4.0L V6 engine and pre-facelift design. 
• 2018-2020: These years are considered reliable and offer modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were introduced in the 2020 refresh. They also avoid the early third-generation issues of 2016 and 2017. 

Reliable older models 

• 2009-2014: These years are praised for their reliability and generally have fewer complaints than other models from that generation. However, they lack the advanced features of newer models. 

Years to potentially avoid

• 2016-2017: These years are noted for having several issues, including frame rust, leaking valve covers, and various other leaks and mechanical problems.
• 2007: While Consumer Reports gave the 2007 model a high reliability score, it has a lower customer satisfaction score and more complaints related to major components like the engine and drivetrain compared to other years in its generation. 

Is the 2020 Tacoma a good year?

As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and styling to be its strongest features and performance to be its weakest. 144 out of 250 of owners (58% of them) rank the 2020 Tacoma five out of five stars. Overall, consumers seem aligned in their opinions of the 2020 Toyota Tacoma.

What year to stay away from Tacoma?

The Toyota Tacoma years to avoid include 2006, 2009, 2016, 2017, and 2019 due to issues like frame rust, transmission problems, and engine issues. Other problematic years include 2005, 2007, and 2012, which also have known issues.
 
This video explains the Toyota Tacoma models to avoid: 39sShifting LanesYouTube · Oct 6, 2021
Second Generation (2005–2015) 

• 2005–2010: Prone to significant frame rust due to poor drainage, which can lead to costly repairs or replacement. 
• 2006: Suffers from frame rust, and has transmission issues such as slipping and hard shifting. 
• 2007: Experienced a spike in complaints related to body, engine, and drivetrain issues. 
• 2009: Had numerous complaints about the radio, and also featured frame rust issues. 
• 2012: Saw an increase in engine stalling and hesitation, and issues with the electronic stability control system. 
• 2015: Had a spike in complaints about transmission failures and faulty drivetrain components. 

Third Generation (2016–Present) 

• 2016: The first model year of the third generation, it has the most complaints, including transmission problems (rough shifting, slipping), engine issues (stalling, oil consumption), and infotainment system glitches. 
• 2017: Continues with transmission problems, rough and noisy steering, and issues with interior material quality. 
• 2019: Reports of sluggish and clunky transmissions with jerking and vibrating, and safety recalls for fuel pump issues. 

Which Tacoma years are worth avoiding?

A: The years to avoid, specifically 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016, and 2017, have reported significant issues such as body and paint problems, engine mishaps, faulty interior accessories, drivetrain and engine defects, and problematic transmissions.