2003 Toyota Tacoma SR5 TRD 4x4 Ext Cab review from North America
"Great reliable used truck value; only get the V6 if you need the power as gas mileage is horrid"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Power steering pump replaced twice under warranty.
Water pump replaced once under warranty.
Clutch pedal assembly & clutch torsion spring & bushings all replaced at 60K miles due to severe squeaking with clutch pedal depression.
Front lower ball joint recall done.
Seatbelt retractors don't work.
Cup holder tabs worn & frayed (not a big deal since the cup holders are tiny anyhow)
Infamous dash rattle.
General comments?
Headlights crappy & replaced with PIAA.
Fog lights not available, added PIAA fogs.
Severe windshield pitting; 3 cracks, 5 rock starbursts even with hood deflector since new.
Seats uncomfortable -- added my own lumbar support.
2003+ mirrors are larger and have much better rear view.
Spray-in liner highly recommended.
Paint quality is average despite polishing with Zaino products 6-10 coats per year.
Stereo pathetic & completely replaced -- no room for subs in extended cab without extensive cutting.
Truck is very reliable & fun to drive.
Back end is squirrelly on ice & snow -- always, always always weight down the rear axle in the winter!!!
Poor gas mileage -- 17 mpg in town, 18.8 on the highway -- makes me want to upgrade to a V8.
K&N FIPK reduced gas mileage by.5 mpg, would recommend drop-in K&N filter instead.
Good tire life, went to 17" Sequoia wheels & tires.
Recommended reviews
| Pricey, but worth every penny. |
|
| 2003 - Tacoma XTra Cab SR5 4x4 2.7L 4-cylinder Great, reliable truck with superb mechanics, but has an uncomfortable, problematic interior |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2003 |
| Year of manufacture | 2003 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.4L V6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 16 miles |
| Most recent distance | 87500 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Tacoma |
| Date of Entry | 13th May, 2007 |