2004 Toyota Tacoma base 5 speed review from North America

The truck makes a ringing noise when accelerating or engine braking. The dealer looked at it and said it was normal for this make and model. I was not happy with the ringing- It is annoying more than anything. I happened to see a free car diagnosis clinic at a local college (the students in the mechanic program get credits for looking at cars) Two 17 year old kids knew what the problem was right away. The catalytic converter contains ceramic baffles, one of which must have broken during manufacturing. The broken piece is rattling around when exhaust pressure increases during acceleration and engine braking, causing the ringing sound. I'm upset that the dealer lied to me, because I'm sure they knew what the problem was. I will try to bring the truck to another dealer and this time I will tell them what is wrong and that it needs to be fixed.

Traction. I'm not sure if its the tires or just that the back end is so light. I had a base S-10 before and the wheels didn't slip as much. Without at least 200 pounds in the back this would be extremely dangerous in the rain and snow.

Paint. I've already had a few chips from minor "dings" that have exposed the steel. I don't remember any other car or truck I've had like this. Buy a bottle of touch up paint.

Bed rail. The bed rail is pressed with thin steel that bent when installing a bed cover. You will have to get bed rail covers because they will either bend or the paint will chip if you use the bed often.

For the price, 14K it is a good deal on basic truck. This assumes that it lasts like Toyota's in the past. Overall, I am happy with the truck.

The interior is roomy and comfortable.

Besides the ringing, the engine runs quiet and smooth.

Decent acceleration.

One problem for tall people (over 6') is that the front window is slightly lower than the cab. So, if you are sitting up strait you cannot see up when you are waiting for a light to turn green. This was very annoying when driving in a big city where you are constantly looking at traffic signals.