Known Tacoma Problems?

[gator1939]

I will be buying a pickup in the next two months or so. Included in my search will be 2000-2006 Tacomas (from preliminary search, anything newer is beyond my price target). Knowing that all vehicles have some inherent problems, I am asking if there are any well known problems with any particular year of Tacoma that I should be on the look-out for.

Thanks
gator1939

[nekto]

My $0.02:
I've had a bunch of Tacomas over the years (99 4x4(new), 2001 4x4(used), 2006 4x4(new), 99 2x4(used). I did not like the new size of the 2006. It had plenty of power, but performed like crap off road, and drove like a fullsize on road. The older you go, the more chance of problems, but I currently have a 99, and will be buying a 2004 4x4 soon. I blew out the torque converter in my first 99, but suspect it was just a faulty unit, was replaced under warranty, and is a very uncommon problem. Zero problems with the 2001&2006. Replaced the axle carrier bearing in the 99 2wd, as well as front shocks, and the front springs need replacing, but those are totally to be expected in a 13 year old truck. I currently have a 2010 Colorado 4x4, but will be selling it soon, to be replaced with a 2004 4x4.

Go with the Tacoma. If you want a very smooth ride, with all the bells and whistles, and don't mind a big truck, go with the new style, 2005+.
If you want a nimble truck that can tear it up off road, and still perform well on road, go with pre 2005

[humanoid]

1st gen Tacos (95.5-04) had the frame rust problem, which was recalled and the recall is about to expire if it hasn't already. Another recall was done for the lower ball joints. Other than those 2 there are no other real things you need to look for. One more thing, 2nd gen Tacos are from 2005+.