1989 Toyota Pickup Reviews

I had to replace the valve cover gaskets, new water pump, timing belt, radiator, dual exhaust, shocks, regular maintenance.

Some rust on the body, but the frame has been rust proofed

It is a pretty quick old pickup.

Runs excellent with 235000 miles on it.

Runs as strong as the day I got it.

Original motor, second clutch.

Good mpg.

I had to replace the water pump about three times since 1988.

I also replaced the timing belt twice.

Replaced the head gasket at about 160000 miles.

Driver seat (cloth) is starting to wear.

Just recently,10/07, replaced the fan clutch and thermostat.

Toyota recalled the truck to replace the steering relay rod on 10/6/06.

The fuel gauge has not worked in 10 years, but not worth repairing.

Replaced all the spark plug wires at about 120000 miles.

New radiator installed at about 160000 miles.

I will drive this truck until I die or it quits.

I have stop using it off-road and buy passenger tires (225/75/15) instead of LT tires and save about $45 per tire.

I priced the 2008 Frontiers and Tacomas, and are they in the $24,000-25,000 price range for similar options I have on the '89 and their beds are smaller.

New trucks also force you to get options you may not want to pay for if you just want a 4x4, extened cab, A/T, V6 and a bed liner; without any of the power packages.

Speedometer and odometer conked out six years ago at 310,000 miles. The 400,000 miles on it now is an estimate. May be higher.

Replace alternator at 380,000 miles.

Internal door rod broke/bent, making outside door handle useless. About $250 for parts & labor to repair.

Funky electrical system -- radio has long turned off off with turn signal; now it's starting to turn off when I brake.

Originally got this as a temporary hand-me-down from my dad, when it had about 320,000 miles on it. Now, five years later, I don't want to get rid of it.

It's rough-riding (manual steering), basic (no options, not even AC), and the body is falling apart, but it starts every morning and still runs like a champ. Oh yeah, it also passes California smog with out any problems, and gets decent gas mileage.

This truck has been a revelation. Toyota rocks.

Interior Plastic is brittle and has broken off in some places.

Standard Battery clamps broken. Replaced with Marine Clamps.

Bench Seat has no more padding.

The Toyota Pickup is known for its rugged versatility. This one is no exception. Mechanically, a rebuild has been done, but not for mechanical failure. The previous owner was trying to make a desert runner out of it but he didn't get past the engine and transmission rebuild. It has been all gain for me as the engine, although lacking in the torque and horsepower department, gets the little truck up and going no problem. It seriously is one of the best engines you can have. The 22re is indestructible.

I have a question about the pickup I just bought. I drove it up to my house and it sat all afternoon. In the evening I went to start it up and it cranked turned over and then just conked out. It did these numerous times and I know the engine is not flooding because I gave it a couple days and I followed the instructions on how to get rid of the flooding. Please let me know what you think might be wrong and if so how much would it cost. Thank you.

Justin.