2004 Toyota Tacoma
2004 Toyota Tacoma
Overview
The 2004 Toyota Tacoma is a highly regarded compact pickup truck known for its robust build quality and legendary reliability. This generation, particularly the second generation which began in 2005, built upon the strengths of its predecessor. For the 2004 model year, the Tacoma offered a range of capable powertrains and configurations, catering to both work and recreational needs. Owners generally report high satisfaction with its durability and low cost of ownership. While no vehicle is entirely immune to issues, the 2004 Tacoma stands out for its minimal widespread mechanical problems, making it a solid choice for those seeking a dependable used truck.
Engine
2.4L 4-Cylinder (2RZ-FE)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
3.4L V6 (5VZ-FE)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
4-Speed Automatic
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Standard Suspension
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Standard Electrical System
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Exterior
Body and Frame
Frame Rust (particularly in rust-belt regions)
- Symptoms: Visible rust on the frame, potential structural compromise.
- Solution: Frame replacement or repair. Toyota offered a frame replacement program for some models, but this may have expired. Professional inspection and repair are necessary.
- Cost: $2,000 - $8,000+
Paint
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Standard Interior Components
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2004 Toyota Tacoma is an exceptionally reliable vehicle, with most major mechanical components showing no widespread issues. The primary concern for potential buyers, especially those in areas prone to road salt, is frame rust. This is a significant issue that requires careful inspection and can be costly to address if not covered by any remaining manufacturer programs. Beyond this, the powertrain, transmission, suspension, electrical, and interior systems are generally robust and dependable, contributing to the Tacoma’s strong reputation for longevity and low ownership costs.