2004 Toyota Tacoma

The 2004 Toyota Tacoma is a popular compact pickup truck known for its reliability and off-road capability. Engine options included a 2.4L inline-4 producing 142 hp and 160 lb-ft of torque and a 3.4L V6 producing 190 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Tacoma for its longevity, dependability, and resale value. Common complaints revolve around rust issues, particularly in regions with heavy road salt use, and some component failures related to the vehicle’s age.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various seals and gaskets, including the valve cover gasket and the rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, low oil levels, and the smell of burning oil.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.4L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 2.4L, the 3.4L can also develop oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and other seals. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, low oil levels, and the smell of burning oil.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The 3.4L V6 is an interference engine, meaning that a broken timing belt can cause severe engine damage. Symptoms include engine misfires, rough running, and complete engine failure. It is recommended to replace the timing belt around every 90,000 miles to prevent this issue.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt, water pump, and other associated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with hard shifting or failure to shift properly. This can be caused by wear in the transmission or a faulty solenoid.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the transmission or the faulty solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch failure occurs more frequently in older vehicles. Symptoms include slipping, sticking, and difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Lower Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The lower ball joints on the 2004 Tacoma are known to fail, especially when lifted or used off-road. Symptoms include excessive play in the front suspension, clunking noises, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear leaf springs can sag or even break, especially when carrying heavy loads or after years of use. This can lead to a rough ride and reduced load capacity.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the instrument cluster failing or malfunctioning. This can include erratic gauge readings or complete failure of the cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Frame Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: A very common issue is severe frame rust, especially in areas where road salt is used. This can compromise the structural integrity of the truck.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, the frame may need to be repaired or replaced. In extreme cases, the vehicle may be unsafe to drive.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $10,000+ depending on the repair needed and severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack due to sun exposure and age.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dash cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Toyota Tacoma, while generally reliable, does have some common issues. Frame rust is a significant concern, especially in certain regions, and can be costly to address. Other issues like oil leaks, suspension component failures, and electrical problems are typical for a vehicle of this age. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the frame for rust and be aware of the other common issues to make an informed purchase. The severity and cost of repairs can vary widely.