2007 Toyota Tacoma

The 2007 Toyota Tacoma is a popular mid-size pickup truck known for its reliability and off-road capability. Engine options include a 2.7L Inline-4 producing 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.0L V6 generating 236 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options are a 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic (I4), and 5-speed automatic (V6). Owners appreciate the Tacoma’s ruggedness and resale value, but some have reported issues with rust, particularly in regions with road salt. The truck’s relatively compact size is seen as both a benefit for maneuverability and a drawback for interior space by different owners.

Body/Frame

• Frame Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive rust, particularly in the rear frame section, leading to potential structural weakness and even frame failure. This issue is more prevalent in areas where road salt is used.
  • Solution: Toyota issued recalls and offered frame replacements under specific conditions. If not covered by the recall, repair or replacement of the affected frame section is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $15,000+
  • Recalls: 09V044000, 12V025000, 14V115000

Engine

2.7L Inline-4

• No Issues Found

4.0L V6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket, resulting in oil loss, burning oil smell, and potential engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (2.7L Inline-4)

• No Issues Found

5-Speed Automatic (4.0L V6)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at specific speeds, especially when the torque converter is supposed to lock up. Can eventually lead to complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual (2.7L Inline-4 and 4.0L V6)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear suspension sagging, reduced load-carrying capacity, and potential for leaf spring breakage, especially when hauling heavy loads or off-roading.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs. Upgraded leaf springs are often recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• No Issues Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Airbag Clock Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag light illumination, inoperable horn, and possible issues with other steering wheel-mounted controls.
  • Solution: Replacement of the airbag clock spring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Toyota Tacoma, while generally reliable, has some common issues. The most significant is frame rust, which can be costly to repair if not covered by a recall. Other issues like valve cover leaks, torque converter problems, leaf spring failures, and airbag clock spring malfunction are less severe but should be addressed promptly. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the frame for rust and be aware of these common issues to ensure a positive ownership experience.