What is the best year for a Toyota Tacoma 4x4?

There isn’t a single “best” year; for most buyers the mid-to-late 2010s Tacomas strike the best balance of reliability, off-road capability, and modern features, while the 2024 refresh brings more power and updated tech. Your ideal year depends on budget, how you plan to use 4x4, and how much you value newer technology.

Understanding what makes a year 'best' for a Tacoma 4x4

When evaluating years, key factors include the generation, available 4x4 hardware, drivetrain reliability, suspension updates, electronics, safety features, and resale value. The third generation (2016 onward) is widely favored for a blend of rugged capability and modern amenities, while the 2024 refresh introduces notable power and styling updates. Below is a snapshot by generation and year-to-year tendencies to help you navigate the choices.

First generation (1995-2004)

The early Tacomas earned a reputation for rugged mechanicals and straightforward 4x4 capability. They’re typically the most affordable on the used market, but they can show age-related wear and rust in certain areas. If you’re considering one of these, a thorough frame and suspension inspection, plus documented maintenance, is essential.

Second generation (2005-2015)

These models broadened powertrain options and payload, while improving comfort and reliability over their predecessors. They remain popular with enthusiasts, but some years have been more prone to electrical glitches or transmission quirks. A well-documented service history and a pre-purchase inspection are important when shopping in this range.

Third generation (2016-present)

The current generation introduced enhanced off-road tech, better interiors, and more advanced safety features. It’s common to find strong resale value and robust reliability here, with mid-cycle updates improving infotainment and convenience. For many buyers, a late-model third-gen Tacoma 4x4 represents the best balance of capability and modernity.

Best model years for 4x4 performance and value

Below are year ranges commonly favored for 4x4 performance, reliability, and value in the used-Tacoma market. These groupings reflect generational improvements and typical owner satisfaction.

• 2016-2018: Early third-generation refinements with improved interior, electronics, and off-road tech.


• 2019-2023: Continued refinements across the third generation, with more standard safety features and better overall reliability and resale value.


• 2024 and newer: Mid-generation refresh that introduces a more powerful engine, updated styling, and modern tech, at a higher purchase price but with the latest hardware.

These ranges are guidance notes for value and capability. Individual condition, maintenance history, and proper inspection can swing the value significantly in any given year.

How to evaluate a used Tacoma 4x4 by year: a buyer’s checklist

When shopping by year, these checks help you gauge what you’re getting and what may need attention. Use the list as a framework during inspections and for negotiating price.

• General condition: Look for rust on the frame and body, especially around wheel wells and bed seams; check for signs of accidents or poor repairs.


• Drivetrain and 4x4 system: Test engage 4WD modes, verify smooth shifting in 4x4, and listen for abnormal noises from the transfer case or drivetrain.


• Suspension and steering: Inspect for worn bushings, leaky shocks, and any wandering or loose steering during a test drive.


• Transmission and powertrain history: Review service records for timely fluid changes, belt/chain replacements, and major service milestones; be alert for hard shifts or slipping in older automatics.


• Electronics and infotainment: Check that touchscreen, Bluetooth, navigation, and smartphone integration operate properly; ensure any recalls have been addressed.


• Safety features: For newer years, verify functioning safety aids (lane-keeping, adaptive cruise, blind-spot monitoring) and make sure airbags and related systems are up to date.


• Off-road equipment: If buying a TRD Off-Road or TRD Pro, confirm the presence and condition of crawl control, multi-terrain mode, and locking rear differential (where equipped).


• Ownership and recalls: Run a VIN-based recall check and verify that open campaigns have been completed.

These checks apply across generations, but the emphasis may shift with year. For example, newer models tend to have more standard safety systems and infotainment features, while older ones demand closer scrutiny for frame integrity and mechanical wear.

Summary

The Toyota Tacoma 4x4 has earned a loyal following, and the “best year” often centers on the third generation (2016 onward) for a balance of rugged capability and modern features. Within that generation, 2016-2018 are favored for refined tech, while 2019-2023 add incremental improvements and better safety gear. The 2024 refresh brings notable updates, including more power and updated styling, but at a higher price point. For most buyers, a well-maintained 2016-2023 Tacoma 4x4 offers exceptional value and reliability, with the option to move up to a 2024 model if you want the newest powertrain and tech. Always verify maintenance history, inspect the frame and drivetrain, and consider a professional inspection before purchase.

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.

Which Tacoma engine is most reliable?

The most reliable Toyota Tacoma engine is the 2.7L four-cylinder (2TR-FE) due to its simpler, time-tested design, though it has less power. The 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS) is also reliable, but the older 4.0L V6 (1GR-FE) is often considered bulletproof by mechanics. For the newest models, the 2.4L I-Force Turbo is a potential reliability concern because it uses a plastic coolant control valve that could be a failure point. 
Engine reliability by type

• 2.7L 4-Cylinder (2TR-FE): Often considered the most reliable and durable, as it is a simpler, older design that is known to last for very high mileage with proper maintenance. 
  • Pros: Very reliable, durable, and easier to work on. 
  • Cons: Lacks power, especially for towing or with four-wheel drive and an automatic transmission. 
• 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS): A solid and reliable engine, but has a few more potential issues than the four-cylinder, such as minor oil leaks. It is better for performance and towing. 
  • Pros: More power, better for towing, and reliable. 
  • Cons: Has a few more potential issues compared to the four-cylinder, such as potential oil leaks. 
• 4.0L V6 (1GR-FE): Widely considered a bulletproof and proven engine, especially in the later years of the second-generation Tacoma. 
  • Pros: Extremely reliable and durable, with a reputation for longevity. 
  • Cons: Not as fuel-efficient as newer engines and is only available in older models. 
• 2.4L I-Force Turbo: The newest engine in the 2024 models, it's too early to tell its long-term reliability, but early concerns center on the plastic coolant control valve. 
  • Pros: Designed for efficiency and performance. 
  • Cons: Potential for failure in the plastic coolant control valve. 

What to consider when choosing

• For maximum, proven reliability: The 2.7L four-cylinder is the best choice, especially if you don't need much power for towing or heavy loads. 
• For a balance of power and reliability: The 3.5L V6 is a great option, providing more power for towing and general use while still being very reliable. 
• For older, proven reliability: The 4.0L V6 in the second-generation Tacoma has a strong track record of durability. 
• For the newest model: Be aware of the potential issues with the 2.4L I-Force Turbo's plastic coolant control valve. 

What is the best year Toyota Tacoma to buy used?

The best years to buy a used Toyota Tacoma are generally 2018-2020 for a balance of modern tech and reliability, or 2015 for a reliable, last-generation model with a strong reputation. For the newest available features, 2020 or later are good choices, especially after the 2020 model year update which added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 
Recommended years

• 2018-2020: These years are part of the third generation and are recommended because they are known to have resolved the frame rust issues from the 2016-2017 models and include modern safety features. 
• 2015: Considered one of the best years of the second generation, it offers solid reliability and good resale value. 
• 2020 and later: These later third-generation models are excellent choices for the most up-to-date technology, including infotainment systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were introduced with the 2020 refresh. 

Other good options and considerations

• 2016-2017: While these were the first years of the third generation and had some bugs, they are still a good option if you're looking for a newer model and the frame rust issues have been addressed. 
• 2005-2006: These years have strong engines, particularly the 4.0L V6, and earned high reliability scores from Consumer Reports. Be sure to have them thoroughly inspected, as some early second-generation models had rust issues. 

Years to be cautious about

• 2008-2010: Some sources mention these years as having more problems than other years. 
• 2011: This year was subject to several recalls for issues like faulty wiring and tire pressure concerns. 

Ultimately, the "best" year depends on your budget, priorities, and how you plan to use the truck.

What Tacoma year is the longest lasting?

What years of Tacoma are the most reliable? Model years from 2015 and newer have received high marks for reliability and features, especially with the third-generation redesign.