2009 Toyota Tacoma

The 2009 Toyota Tacoma is a popular mid-size pickup truck known for its reliability and off-road capability. Available engine options include a 2.7L inline-4 producing 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.0L V6 that generates 236 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic for the 2.7L engine, and a 6-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic for the 4.0L engine. Owners often praise the Tacoma for its durability, strong resale value, and off-road prowess. Common complaints often include less than stellar fuel economy from the V6 engine, and some owners dislike the interior styling.

Engine

2.7L Inline-4

• No Issues Found

4.0L V6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve cover, leading to oil consumption and potential burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Injection Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, and potential catalytic converter damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air injection pump and/or valve. Some aftermarket solutions bypass the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (2.7L Inline-4)

• No Issues Found

5-Speed Automatic (4.0L V6)

• No Issues Found

5-Speed Manual (2.7L Inline-4)

• No Issues Found

6-Speed Manual (4.0L V6)

• Throwout Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squealing or grinding noise when the clutch pedal is depressed, difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the throwout bearing, potentially along with the clutch kit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Corrosion/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sag, clunking noises from the rear suspension, visible rust or cracks in the leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: 2014-2015 NHTSA Recall Number: 14V572000
• Lower Ball Joint Failure (Early 2nd Gen Tacomas)
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, excessive play in the front wheels, potential for complete ball joint separation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lower ball joints. Aftermarket options may offer better durability.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found (though early models were prone to this issue)

Electrical

• Clock Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag light illumination, inability to use steering wheel controls (horn, radio controls).
  • Solution: Replacement of the clock spring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tail Light Assembly Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion of the electrical connectors within the tail light assembly leading to dim or non-functioning lights.
  • Solution: Replacement of the tail light assembly or repair of the corroded connectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Frame Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive rust on the frame, potentially leading to structural weakness. (Primarily a concern in regions with heavy road salt usage).
  • Solution: Frame replacement (under recall, if applicable), rust repair, or frame reinforcement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity, may be covered under a recall
  • Recalls: Limited Service Campaign SSC-90L: Frame Inspection and Rust Preventive Coating, expired. If a frame failed inspection it would be replaced by Toyota.

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2009 Toyota Tacoma, while generally reliable, does have a few common issues to be aware of. Frame rust, if present, is a significant concern, primarily in regions where road salt is used. Check for previous recall work, particularly regarding the frame. Other potential issues, such as valve cover gasket leaks, throwout bearing failure (manual transmission), and leaf spring corrosion, are more manageable in terms of cost and severity. Overall, the Tacoma remains a solid choice, but a thorough inspection is recommended, especially focusing on the frame and suspension.