1999 Toyota Tacoma

Introduction:

The 1999 Toyota Tacoma is a compact pickup truck that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The engine options included a 2.4L inline-4, a 2.7L inline-4, and a 3.4L V6. The transmission options included a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic, and a 5-speed automatic. The Tacoma was praised for its durability, reliability, and off-road capabilities. However, it was also criticized for its cramped interior and lack of power with the smaller engines.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak: Oil leak from the valve cover gasket.
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the top of the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner fails, causing the timing chain to skip and potentially damage the engine.
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattling or knocking, loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

2.7L Inline-4

• Head Gasket Failure: The head gasket fails, causing coolant and oil to mix.
  • Description/Symptoms: White smoke from the exhaust, overheating, coolant loss.
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.4L V6

• VVT-i System Failure: The Variable Valve Timing-intelligence (VVT-i) system fails, causing engine performance issues.
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor fuel economy, reduced power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the VVT-i solenoid or sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Difficulty Shifting: Difficult to shift gears.
  • Description/Symptoms: Gears may grind, pop out, or feel stiff.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch, master cylinder, or slave cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• No Issues Found

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping: The transmission slips or hesitates when shifting gears.
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revs increase without acceleration, gear changes feel delayed.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid or overhaul the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Breakage: The leaf springs may break, causing the truck to sag.
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, uneven ride height.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock Absorber Failure: The shock absorbers may fail, causing a rough ride and poor handling.
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replace the shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: The alternator fails to charge the battery.
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, dead battery, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Frame: The frame may rust prematurely.
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on the frame rails, especially in areas exposed to road salt.
  • Solution: Have the frame inspected and treated for rust.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure: The door lock actuator fails, preventing the door from locking or unlocking.
  • Description/Symptoms: Inoperable door locks, door may not open or close.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: 01V-063
• Cruise Control Switch Failure: The cruise control switch fails to engage or disengage.
  • Description/Symptoms: Cruise control does not work, switch may not illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the cruise control switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1999 Toyota Tacoma is a generally reliable vehicle, but it does have some common issues. The most severe issues include head gasket failure and timing chain tensioner failure, which can both lead to catastrophic engine damage. The transmission issues, such as slipping and difficulty shifting, can also be costly to fix. The suspension and electrical issues are generally less severe and less expensive to fix. Overall, the Tacoma is a good choice for those looking for a durable and reliable truck, but it is important to be aware of the potential issues before purchasing one.