Whats the best year Toyota Tacoma to buy?
The Toyota Tacoma has long been a favorite among truck enthusiasts for its reliability, off-road capability, and strong resale value. However, with so many model years to choose from, it can be challenging to determine which year is the best fit for your needs. In this article, we’ll explore the standout years for the Toyota Tacoma and help you make an informed decision.
Why the Toyota Tacoma Stands Out
The Toyota Tacoma has earned its reputation as one of the most dependable midsize trucks on the market. Known for its rugged design and versatility, it appeals to both daily drivers and off-road adventurers. Here are a few reasons why the Tacoma is so popular:
- Reliability: Toyota is renowned for building vehicles that last, and the Tacoma is no exception.
- Resale Value: The Tacoma consistently ranks among the top vehicles for retaining its value over time.
- Off-Road Capability: With features like Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select, certain trims are perfect for tackling tough terrain.
- Customization: A wide range of trims and aftermarket options make it easy to tailor the Tacoma to your needs.
Top Toyota Tacoma Model Years to Consider
While most Toyota Tacomas are excellent choices, some model years stand out due to their features, reliability, and value. Here are the best years to consider:
- 2015: The last year of the second generation, the 2015 Tacoma is known for its bulletproof reliability and simpler design. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a truck without too many modern electronics.
- 2016: This year marked the beginning of the third generation, bringing a more refined interior, improved fuel efficiency, and updated technology. It’s an excellent option for those seeking a balance between modern features and affordability.
- 2020: The 2020 Tacoma received a mid-cycle refresh, adding a larger touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and improved seating comfort. It’s ideal for tech-savvy buyers.
- 2023: For those who want the latest and greatest, the 2023 Tacoma offers advanced safety features, a powerful V6 engine, and a variety of trims to suit different lifestyles.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tacoma
When deciding on the best year Toyota Tacoma for you, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Budget: Older models like the 2015 Tacoma are more affordable, while newer models like the 2023 come with a higher price tag but offer more features.
- Usage: If you plan to use your Tacoma for off-roading, look for trims like the TRD Off-Road or TRD Pro. For daily driving, a base or SR5 trim might suffice.
- Mileage: If buying used, check the mileage and maintenance history to ensure the truck has been well cared for.
- Features: Decide which features are most important to you, such as advanced safety systems, infotainment options, or towing capacity.
Conclusion
The Toyota Tacoma is a fantastic choice for anyone in the market for a reliable and versatile midsize truck. Whether you opt for the tried-and-true 2015 model, the tech-savvy 2020 version, or the cutting-edge 2023 edition, you’re sure to enjoy years of dependable performance. Take the time to assess your needs and budget, and you’ll find the perfect Tacoma to suit your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What year of Tacoma to stay away from?
While most Tacomas enjoy a long history of reliability, there are a few years that are not good investments. Out of all of the years the Tacoma has been on the road, avoid the 2016-2017 years. Other years with issues include 2006-2009, 2011, and 2012.
Are Tacomas more reliable than Fords?
Ford F-150 vs. Toyota Tacoma dependability sees both trucks offer strong ratings. However, J.D. Power awarded the 2023 Ford F-150 a Quality & Reliability score of 86 out of 100. Meanwhile, they handed the 2023 Toyota Tacoma a Quality & Reliability score of 83 out of 100.
What year did Toyota Tacoma have transmission problems?
2024
Road & Track spoke with a Toyota spokesperson who confirmed the news, telling the outlet the number of affected trucks is "less than thousands." Going as far back as June 2024, some 2024 Tacoma owners began reporting transmission failures on online forums.
Which year of Tacoma to avoid?
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.
What year did Tacoma have the bad frame?
1995-2004
Despite its reputation for impeccable build quality, there was a period during the production of the first generation Tacoma where things went sideways for the Big T. As we've hinted at in previous articles, the frames of 1995-2004 model year Tacos were prone to big-time rust.
What is the top Toyota Tacoma?
What is the highest trim level for the Toyota Tacoma? The highest trim level for the 2024 Toyota Tacoma is the TRD Pro. The 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is fully loaded with off-road features like FOX™ shocks, four-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, and much more.
How long does a Tacoma transmission last?
There are numerous examples of Tacoma owners reporting their trucks reaching over 400,000 miles (640,000+ km) with the original engine and transmission.
Which Tacoma model years to avoid?
While most Tacomas enjoy a long history of reliability, there are a few years that are not good investments. Out of all of the years the Tacoma has been on the road, avoid the 2016-2017 years. Other years with issues include 2006-2009, 2011, and 2012.
What year of Toyota Tacoma is the most reliable?
When considering the best years of the second-generation Tacoma, models from 2009 to 2015 are generally regarded as the most reliable. By this time, Toyota had addressed many of the early issues found in the 2005-2008 models, which were prone to automatic transmission problems.
What are the best tacomas ever?
Researching online, the 2015 Tacoma seems to be the highest rated of all gens. This is my 2015 SR5 6 speed and 2021 TRDOR 4Runner.
