1998 Toyota Tacoma SR5 TRD 4x4 review from North America
"Nice, reliable, but underpowered"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The drivers side light sensor stopped working, so when you open the door, the dome light dosen't turn on.
Muffler had to be replaced at 103k.
I have also heard a rumor about 1998 tacoma frames rusting out quickly. I haven't had this problem.
Other than that, the usual Toyota quality.
General comments?
The rear "seats" are tiny. But the front seats are comfortable.
The 2.7L four is pretty quick to accelerate, but merging with highway traffic requires your foot to the floor.
The interior materials aren't up to Toyota quality. Hard shiny plastic is everywhere. But it is well assembled with no squeaks or rattles. I also have a Mazda Tribute with 37k miles and it has more rattles than my Tacoma.
It handles very well in the snow, and returns 24 average mpg. I think in 1998 anti-lock brakes should be standard on all models.
Tacomas hold their value a lot better than say, a S-10 or a Ranger.
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| Unbelievable reliability |
| 1997 - Tacoma SX 2.7 4 cylinder gasoline If you can stop the rust, it will never die |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1998 |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.7L I4 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 100000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 105001 miles |
| Previous car | GMC Sierra |
| Date of Entry | 16th December, 2007 |