Side curtain air bags

[screeber]

I've been doing a bit of research on the availability of side-curtain airbags as an option for the Tacoma. Seems like the majority of trucks I see with this option have it as a part of a bigger package with VSC, daytime running lights, and maybe some other things.

Wondering if anyone has pursued/seen the air bags on anything without VSC? I want the airbags for the safety of me and my kids, but think the VSC isn't really worth all that much (but sure costs quite a bit more).

[bowen1]

I think that it depends on the region you are buying your truck in. I have a 2006 dc lb sport with the side curtian air bags. They are a stand alone order in the west (nummi plant). I special ordered my truck and do not have the VSC, but I did order mine with the drls. Good luck with your purchase, I do know that different regions have different packages.

[afphinfan]

I just looked at the same truck I bought with the addition of side curtain air bags. The reason I didn't get it was because it had 1100 miles and they still wanted ~invoice price.

[kbultaco]

Screbr,
I have side airbags with the VSC and daytime lights as you said they might bundle those options together.
Transporting my kids made side airbags a must for me, and at the time March 2005, the only Tacomas with side airbags were the double cabs.
2005 DC LB 4x4
Kbulll

[tsl90]

While most here will agree with your dislike for it, there is good evidence that systems like VSC significantly decrease your risk of a serious accident. This is especially true in an SUV, but even regular cars see a real reduction. I suspect the numbers of pick-up trucks with the feature is still too small to know for sure - but it seems likely that the benefit they get would be similar to an SUV.

Someone will likely follow with a post that suggests you don't need VSC unless you're a bad driver. I think if you do some reading on it you'll find that is an overly simplistic view.

All that said if I had to choose b/n VSC and the bags, I'd probably pick bags too. You can't even get those on an Access Cab though.

TL

[sheeter]

For those with the side air bags... The way I understand it is that only the front is covered by the air bags, not the rear on DC's. Do they cover the rear? Also, is it possible to get the side bags with leather?

[j4x4ar3]

Side air bags cover both the front and rear passengers on the DC.

I have two little ones as well and wasn't going to buy a truck w/o the side air bags. I got the VSC as well though with my 4x4 DC. If you want all the other bells and whistles with the 4x4 like Downhill Assist, Hill Start Assist, etc... you have to get the VSC package.

When I got my 05 though getting side airbags was a challenge. I waited 4 months to get my truck fully loaded with the options.

[ScubaGuy]

Originally Posted by tsl90

Someone will likely follow with a post that suggests you don't need VSC unless you're a bad driver. I think if you do some reading on it you'll find that is an overly simplistic view.

TL

People used to say the same thing about anti-lock brakes. Now most people agree that they are a good idea. I think the same will happen with DSC. But I do think it should default to being on, with a button to disable it if desired.

[tsl90]

Originally Posted by ajglennon

People used to say the same thing about anti-lock brakes. Now most people agree that they are a good idea. I think the same will happen with DSC. But I do think it should default to being on, with a button to disable it if desired.

Couldn't agree more. I thought there was a way to turn it off on my wifes 4-runner, but there's not. From what I've read the same is true in the Tacoma.

TL

[j4x4ar3]

Originally Posted by tsl90

Couldn't agree more. I thought there was a way to turn it off on my wifes 4-runner, but there's not. From what I've read the same is true in the Tacoma.

TL

VSC on the 4x4 version is always on UNLESS you put it into 4H or 4L. At that time you get a dash light that says VSC OFF. It is ON by default otherwise.

[PDXJoe]

Originally Posted by bowen1

They are a stand alone order in the west (nummi plant). I special ordered my truck and do not have the VSC, but I did order mine with the drls. Good luck with your purchase, I do know that different regions have different packages.

I think you're right, they are a standalone..at least here in the west. I have an 06 SR5 without VSC, but I do have the side airbags and the DRLs, which were also a stand-alone extra.

I didn't special order mine though, I found this configuration and it was closest to what I wanted.

[screeber]

Thanks for all the reply's.

I don't know if Denver is considered part of Toyota's "West", but I'm having trouble finding the air bag option without having to drop thousands more for what amounts to a fully-loaded Tacoma. It may require a special order here in Denver, so I'll just keeping looking and asking.

Regarding VSA, I certainly wouldn't turn it away if it was given to me as an option, but in the bigger picture the $1000 or $1500 Toyota wants for it isn't justified in my list of requirements. I'd prefer to defer this cost, and save the money for mods and add-ons....

[RedHot Taco]

My Tacoma has side air bags without VSC. DRL is required with side airbags, not sure why, but I’d like to disable them.

Since they offer different packages in different regions, I’d be happy to purchase one in Florida for you and drive it to Denver. Just send a cashiers check to cover the truck and travel expenses, 50K should do fine.

Rick

[PDXJoe]

I'm sure it's just a supply-demand thing for the side airbags. I know I wanted them, and you can bet they are a popular option. I'm sure if you keep your eyes peeled, you'll find one eventually.

[Silver-Bolt]

I have the side curtin bags and DRL no VSC. Didn't want the bags but worked a good enough deal to take them any way.