1999 Toyota Tacoma SR-5 from North America - Comments

The clutch/transmission has never operated smoothly.

The air conditioner smells very foul.

I've got the TRD Off-Road package, and use the 4wd every day. It's a very good 4wd vehicle.

This truck is the best vehicle that I've ever had in the snow, and I've had jeeps, 4wd pickups, etc.

I would opt for the 6 cylinder if I had the choice again. The 2.4L is not strong enough for mountain driving.

I also had problem with a sticky transmission on a 1999 Tacoma. It also seemed to shudder a bit when starting out (manual transmission.) I took the ultimate gamble and changed all fluids over to Mobil 1 products. Engine 0w30--transmission 75w90 and differential 75w90. Transmission. and differential oil are the same product. I could not be more pleased with the result. Synthetics seemed to cure the annoying little demons. It is hard to tell if the engine is running from inside the cab now. Shifter knob hardly vibrates!! If you do this make sure you do not have any leaks to begin with (gaskets etc.) as synthetics are so slippery you will leak more oil. If you have any questions feel free to e-mail me. (dialjo@pacbell.net)

I recently purchased a 1999 Toyota Tacoma SR5 ext cab 2.7l automatic 4WD pickup. I notice when I come to a complete stop (not a rolling stop) and I go to start out again, the transmission kind of slides and jerks the truck when I go. Called up where I bought it and the dealer told me this is normal for all auto Tacoma's. He also invited me to drive a brand new one to see. Could this be true?

Mike.

I have to agree. I have 2.7L 5 spd. and it is by far the best 4x4 I have ever driven in the snow. I too have had a Jeep, and other 4x4s. Only problem is a squeeky clutch pedal.

Yep, I have the auto and occasionally it jumps a little bit while waiting at a light, etc. It also did it in another one that I test drove before buying this one. It is more annoying than anything but I am surprised that Toyota let this quirk go.