2000 Toyota Tundra 4x4 Extended Cab SR5 review from North America

I was the first one to purchase a Toyota Tundra in our town, because I worked for the dealership and ordered one as soon as I found out they were going to be released. I had previously owned a Toyota Tacoma and had approx. 160,000 miles on it with no problems and it was not babied in any way. I also own an older Camry and have had no real problems with it. Actually my only complaint with the Tacoma was not enough horsepower, so I was very excited when I learned Toyota was coming out with a V-8 engine.

I have used this Tundra somewhat like a 3/4 ton, so I have expected some problems. I had rack and pinion problems at 110,000 and had to rebuild it a couple of times. I have also had some paint issues on the lower door panels. However my main complaint has been the rear differential.

I started having a leak at 90,000 miles, and I replaced the bearings and seals twice as I did not realize the seal ring had to be pressed on a certain distance. Then the ring and pinion went out at 110,000 miles, and I ordered all the parts to put everything back together at a cost of over $1000.00 only to find the differential carrier worn on the inside after I had already installed the carrier bearings.

When I contacted the parts department at a local Toyota dealership again to order the carrier, I was informed that I could purchase a drop-in assembly for $825.00. I asked them why they did not inform me of this information to start with and they just blew it off by saying, I did not ask.

So now I have spent over $1800.00 in parts and guess what? My rear differential is still leaking. I have pulled it down and had a friend of mine make new axle seal rings, which did help until the vehicle had 130,000 miles on it. I have now spent about $2700.00 in the rear differential with new axle brgs. again, and of course each time you tear it down the brakes are soaked, so you have to replace the rear brake shoes.

Needless to say I'm very disappointed. The power is really great on the truck, but the way Toyota designed the rear differential is a joke. I was one of Toyota's strongest advocates, so much so, that I was the number 1 salesman for Toyota in the state of Colorado in the year 2000. Now I'm in the market for a new vehicle again, and I was very interested in the new Tundra, but obviously I have to get the one I now own fixed before I can trade it in, and I have to tell you folks, this experience (which is not over yet), has probably been a deal killer for a long time Toyota customer.