1997 TOYOTA Tacoma

Long Strange Trip.

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 4 Technology Rating: 1 Value Rating: 4

I got this 1997 Tacoma 4x4 Xtra Cab with 37k on it in 2007. From the beginning, the clutch master Cyl has been problematic. The first owner had replaced the factory master and the after-market master failed me on the way from the dealership. The dealership did nothing to correct the problem. They topped off the fluid and I was stranded a few days later in the middle of nowhere. I stock all fluids under the hood so I got out of the swamp. I have replaced the clutch master 4 times in the last 8 years. Other than that this truck has been bullet proof. This truck is a good truck. I have kept up with 5k oil changes. I don't hole-shot it but when I have needed it to get out of the way of something or pull itself out of some mess, it has not had any issues. It gets the advertised mileage even with 240k. It looks good but for some dings that were on it when I got it. The paint suffers from being under trees and I might repaint it. I recommend anything from the Toyota truck line. I have friends with 2003, 2014 and 2016 Tacomas -- none of them are any less reliable. I have replaced the starter, alternator, clutch, serpentine belt, timing belt, water pump, radiator, front and rear breaks with rotors, front struts, rear shocks and floor mats. Note that the recoil on the seatbelts will not be strong enough to retract the belt unless you feed it back. It has quick trap lock on the belt but if you pull the belt too fast it will lock before you can fasten it. I spent years at sea as a captain and so I tend to look ahead on maintenance. I am sure I would have been just as well without a lot of the renewed parts... but I am very confident in this truck.

Best money ever spent!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased my 1997 Toyota Tacoma LX V6 Extra Cab in '99 with 67,000 miles on it. Today, it has 272,000 miles. I've only replaced the radiator, O2 sensor, a ball bearing joint, and the starter, as well as, the normal required maintenance such as timing belts. It is a true work horse, and a remarkable automobile for reliability and function considering the other vehicles I've witnessed. I've been offered by three different individuals on separate occasions to buy it from me. It's not going to happen.

Very good

Performance: 5 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my Tacoma new, it now has 190K and still running strong. I have never had any problems with this truck; actually it has required very little maintenance. Very well build. It gets excellent gas mileage.

Most basic truck

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

Maybe my truck is just having it's time and I probably would have rated higher if I had it earlier but It's been Ok truck I bought it with 237,000 miles and I have 320,000 on it since I've owned it I replaced the radiator, dropped a K&N filter in replaced the transmission gasket (I have an auto), the electrical, tires, ball joints, bearings, front calipers, CV boots, alternator, this all happened within 3 months of owning it so @ about 250,000 I replaced all this and lasted to 320,000 I hope it just last now I did most of the work myself so it was some what worth it. I love parking this thing in the city though when I'm working out there.

Bury me in my Tacoma!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my Tacoma new in December of 1996. I confess that I haven't been the most responsible owner regarding regular maintenance and the like. It doesn't seem to matter, though. My Tacoma, now at 198,000 miles, turns over and purrs like a kitten every morning. I have driven it cross-country 7 times and would still have the confidence to do it today at its current mileage. I've used it for hauling construction debris, towing a loaded U-haul trailer up a mountain, and even fit two men over 6' tall in the regular cab with me. I've proven it can run on no oil (per my mechanic's chagrin) and an empty gas tank. This machine is truly remarkable and, at times, even miraculous.

Japanese WorkHorse

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I got the truck at 75,000 miles. It blew a head gasket at 238,000 miles. I had the engine rebuilt for $3,300 with new clutch in 2007. I have 271,000 miles on it now. Minor problem was o2 sensor, catalytic converter, and seat belt buckle. I have driven this truck in soft nc obx sand, and red Clay in Northapton county. It's hard to get stuck. I've never been stuck. It's is a classic workhorse. Awesome truck. My kids grew up in it, but now the extended cab is too small. Sorry to see her go. This a a truck you can push the limits. That means challenge it, drive it till it falls apart.

The best of the best

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I now have over 300,000 miles on this SR5 4x4 and other than regular maintenance, the only problem was the starter. Still shines like new, the ABS works great, all electrical is working and I know it will start every time I want to use it. I have hauled, towed and loaded this truck to the max and it has never let me down. This is my fifth Toyota product and I have yet to have any in the shop which is better on my wallet as well as peace of mind.

Reliable Tacoma

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this truck with 58K and now have 103,000. I have the 5sp manual tranny. I've not done anything but regular maintenance. I average 28mpg. Not real comfortable over long trips but very reliable and gets the job done. I wouldn't trade this for a new one.

Handy Inexpensive Reliability

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

With 120,000 miles on a truck picked up used with 60,000, it has been a hard- working reliable partner on a mess of major remodel projects over several years. Most reliable vehicle I have had in 32 years, and the one I have worked the hardest (I had to replace one spring due to heavy loads).

Runs till it Rusts!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned my 1997 Taco since 1998 and now have 200,000 miles on it. very reliable 2.7 4 cylinder. Only a few problems like starter and clutch fan. Now for the bad. Frame rust! I am looking at costly frame repairs, but I am sure that the truck will last another 100,000 miles once I get this done.

Great truck

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the first truck I have ever owned. I drive it hard and it has made 4 cross country trips pulling a fully loaded u-haul. I am about to roll 200K and besides tires, oil and timing belts I have only had the brakes and the clutch master cylinder go out. I bought it because of the reliability Toyota is praised for and I will definitely go back for another one. Problem is I don't see me trading mine in for another couple of years.

Many, many miles... many more to go!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this truck in 9/07 with 204000 miles on it from a neighbor who purchased it new in 1997. Exterior has lots of bumps and bruises, paint is pretty shabby. However the interior is very nice and the mechanicals are in excellent shape. I think it will last another 10 years, no problem!

Tacomas really are indestructible

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love my Tacoma. I don't think there is any other truck that can do what this has. I have 185000 miles on mine and haven't replaced anything except for the brakes and timing belt.

Buy Toyota

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I put 145,000 on the truck and I bought it used. I've done nothing to it but general maintenance. You can't go wrong with a Tacoma, it's my second Toyota and I will be buying a third after I put 200k on this one.

Unbelievable

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

260000 miles It still runs as good as the day I bought it. No oil leaks. 5000 miles between oil changes, oil is on the stick mark. No squeaks. Original clutch still very strong. Manual trans, all boxes very tight. No whines or noises. Steering box is perfect, The paint is still an (8+) This truck has taken me through more crap than any vehicle I can ever remember. I've gone through 4 sets of front brakes, rear are originals, 1 starter, 2 batteries. I still have the second set of spark plugs in it and the second timing belt which I think I better change real soon. Don't let your wife use it or you'll never get it back.

Ol' Reliable

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Awesome vehicle! After 128k miles, no problems. Engine and cruise control work perfectly. Interior components have started to rattle a bit, but that is to be expected on a truck with so many miles. Good gas mileage, good power in V6 model. Speakers aren't great. Back seats don't have enough room for passengers (but space is good for cargo). Front seats also a little uncomfortable, especially if you're tall.

One word - RELIABLE

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

My tacoma has 190k on it and it has started and gotten me where I needed to be every day. Motor still runs like new, the only thing I have ever had to do to the truck was put brakes on, replace shocks and CV boot covers, and replace a rack and pinion mounting bushing, I've probably only spent around 500 dollars on maintenance on this truck and have owned it for 6 years, with 190+ K miles on it. I honestly think it would run forever.

I am so Proud of our Tacoma!!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My husband has used our Tacoma for his handyman business for the past 3 years. He carries a FULL load of tools in the back daily under the shell AND tows a trailer filled with you name it (heavy weight) stuff on a daily basis. It just turned 178k miles and has never had ANY problems. He just put it through smog to get it registered and it went through with flying colors. It is just an awesome truck!!!!

Disappointment for a Toyota

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 3

Within a year of purchase my Tacoma overheated twice on a flat interstate at normal speeds and once in West Virginia. Auto trans prevents effective use of already limited power and gas mileage has never been above 22. Under load, it sinks to around 12. It now has 106k miles and I've repaired the transmission linkages 4 times and had numerous electrical problems. Very disappointing for the reputation of a Toyota.

Tacoma

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Great truck, very reliable and good on gas. Also has off road features, 5.5" lift, Rhino lining bed spray.

no worries

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

By far and away, the most reliable vehicle i have ever owned... at 100,000 miles it's just getting broken in... the a/c and heater work almost too well... with toyota quality there are no worries

It will outlast you

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had my V6 4WD towing package Tacoma for 160,000 miles since 1997. It has hauled heavy loads, pulled heavy loads, been seriously offroad (fire roads, creeks, 4wd tracks, mountain trails). Truck still cruises at 85-90 mph for hours, still climbs rocky trails like a champ. In 8 years, has only needed gas, oil, and tires, and one set of shocks. Gets 22 mpg hiway, 17 around town. Locking gas cap. Paint still great, nothing rattles, everything works as well as day 1.

None like it on the road today

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is an incredible truck. Good looking, reliable, fast, hardworking. I bought it with 54k on it and now it has 167k. Never has skipped a beat. Have taken it offroad many times and it did the job effortlessly. This is quite possibly the best truck you can buy.

Your basic perfect 2nd vehicle

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

bought used for daily commuter and occasional hauler. This vehicle is solid, reliable, surprisingly powerful, inexpensive to maintain, and fun to drive. I find I leave my M5 in the garage most weekdays now.

High mileage review

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Only problems in 162000 miles: replaced catalytic converter, both O2 sensors, lft. rear axle seal, that's it. Dealer serviced completely. Extremely reliable transportation.

Toyota 97 4x2 5speed 2.4L Extra cab LX

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very reliable vehicle. Has never failed to start since 1997. Routine maintenance has been performed regularly. With 110000 miles it is just starting to use about a quart of oil between oil changes. The gas mileage is 30 miles per gallon consistently. Check engine light came on at 100000, dealer said it was the catalytic converter. One pint of "Sea Foam" gas treatment in half tank of gas and the light went off and stayed off. A very good truck overall. Small and sporty, easy to park, good power from the small four since the truck is light weight.

97 Tacoma 4x4, 2.7L

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This truck is a great value. It's tough, dependable, reliable, and considering these trucks are "Built to last" many years, the slightly higher price is well worth it. Very low and easy maintenance- have owned since new (currently 135K mi), mainly just change oil, add gas, and drive!!. The only repairs of concern were A/C and a new fuel injector. The 4cyl. manual is suprisingly powerful, the hauling capacity is "at least" 1/2 ton, and the 4x4 system is, from what I've heard...superior to all others. Right now for small trucks, the Tacoma is the only one I'd consider.

97 tacoma 4wd ext. cab

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Excellent build quality, paint and bodywork excellent after almost 6 yrs. Strong and powerful. Pulls trailers with heavy loads 3k+ well.

Awesome Truck!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased my 1997 Toyota Tacoma used. It only had 46,000 miles on it. I have never owned such a great vehicle. This is my first used vehicle, and I have had not one single problem with it. Even after 72,200 miles. I would recommend a Toyota to anyone looking for a vehicle.

Very reliable and a great truck

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Had 5 Toyotas now and love em. The 97 4x4 Tacoma is awsome. Have 96k on it witout any probs and love it.

Tess Tacoma

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Great truck! Completely dependable.

my truck

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

Great reliability and gas mileage.

Love it!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Love my truck. Bought it 3 1/2 years ago already 3 years old and have never had a single bit of trouble with it. Great in snow/ice with 4 wheel drive on and couple sand bags in bed. AC ice cold, runs smooth, great for hauling stuff around. Seems to be holding it's value great and every time I got to Home Depot someone offers to buy it! I'd buy another in a minute!

GREAT TRUCK

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought truck in Fla. with 23k on it.Use d it for business, lots of miles. Now live in Pa. Truck has 97k on it, other than routine maint. it has only needed the clutch fan replaced,tires at70k,and I chose to replace the clutch at 80k but could have gone much longer.I love this truck it seems like it will run forever. I do wish it was 4WD back here in Pa.

1997 Tacoma Extended Cab 3.4L 2WD

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Excellent vehicle. Only negative trait is the large turning radius. It (the turning radius) was reported as a negative in Edmund's review, but I didn't think it would be too much of a problem. But it is. Not to the extent of not buying one, but one must be aware of the large turning radius when operating it. It affects parking capability, U-turn capability, and close confinement capability. A few more inches of clearance would be beneficial as well. I think these issues were addressed with the '98 Tacomas. So, a few (2-4) inches of clearance would be nice, but a smaller turning radius would be much, much better.

No Problems

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had my truck for nearly 5 years, I forget to get my oil changed and I don't get my tires rotated. I run my tank nearly on empty all the time, and I have never had anything go wrong. It does great in snow. The only maintenance I have done is get new tires, and added wind shield washer fluid. I don't even check the oil..the Air conditioner is always cold. It runs just like the day I got it. I will keep it forever.

Much better than expected

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Performs well; has excelent payload capabilty; best-in-class ground clearance; gas mileage isn't bad for a 4WD truck; the 4-cyl performs like a V6; the brakes are great; however, the handling is slightly ponderous at times and the seats can get uncomfortable during long trips

Cant beat the price!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

Purchase a preown off a dealership with 9K on it. it has been great so far.. Its equiped the 5 SP. Air, bedliner And it provided adeq. Power, For basic truckin need. A 2WD will do. Just its horrible on SNOW.. It slides all over the place. The cabin is made for Japanese people where if you are over 6 foot tall, it can be uncomfortable. OK.. I think I have wrote enough. Let me sums it up. This truck is perfect if you are. A) Under 6 foot tall, B) Local Commute, C) Dont want to spend any money on repair. D) Love to pick furniture off the street. And not good for. A)Giant, b)Offroad Demons, C) People who like FORD, CHEV, or Dodge. D) Family Trip.

One of the best trucks ever made

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is hands down one of the best trucks I have ever owned.It had 45000 miles on it when it was bought.It now has 113000 miles and has not missed a beat.I have used it like a truck as well; from hauling heavy loads to driving 1000 miles to visit relatives and the occasional romp in the mud.This truck has never and I mean never let me down.

Very happy with this truck

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I’ve had my Tacoma for nearly 5 years and plan on driving it another 5. After 117K miles, the only problem was w/ the air conditioning - a difficult- to-diagnose leak costing $380 at the dealer. Other than that, I've changed tires as needed, the engine oil every 4- 5K, and trans/diff every 15K. New plugs, air/fuel filters, EGR Valve - routine self-performed minor tune-up. I've done a bit of 4WD (6X/year) - Handles solid in snow and trail. The check engine light I used to get? - hasn't done it once since I turned the gascap at least 3 clicks after fillup. I strongly recommend it and will likely buy a newer one - probably around 2008

97 XCAB 4X4

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Have not had the truck long but am very pleased with it. Had 86K on it and just had the 90K service performed with the dealer saying the truck is mechanically almost perfect. This is our 5th current Toyota and continues the tradition of great value.

Toyota Tacoma

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have only performed normal maintenance on the truck. Great Machine.

Great Truck!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my 1997 2WD extended cab Tacoma brand new in Jan. 97. The truck now has 210,000 problem free miles. My truck has been super reliable. The 2.4L 4 cyl. doesn't burn any oil, and the original clutch still works perfect. I highly recommend the Toyota truck.

What a junker

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

This peice of junk was never any good from day one! Its just one thing after another. Then you take it in to be repaired and they can't figure out what is wrong! I will NEVER BY A TOYOTA AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yota

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Very reliable, if maintained properly

Truck that keeps needing service

Performance: 3 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

This truck has been in the dealership once every 6/7 months. Its either a check engin light, overheating, cat. converted or rough iding. This is one of the worst truck I purchased for seeing the dealer on everything. I don't drive the truck hard and most of the time its highway miles.

97 Tacoma 4x4

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Dependable, tough, stylish truck. The 2.7 liter, 4 cyl. motor suprisingly has plenty of pulling power with the 5 spd trans. Has never failed me in 12" of snow or 25 below temps. Paint holds perfectly, no chips, no rust, no fading. Nice comfortable ride for shorter trips, no more than 400 mi. Best of all, after 106,000 mi. the engine still runs like new.

1997 Toyota Tacoma

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

My experience with this vehicle has been great. The vehicle is reliable, sturdy and fun. The body has endured minor damage well and I have had no mechanical problems at all. I have always felt safe in my vehicle. The cab is spacious enough for 4 people if necessary but is more appropriate for 2 people and cargo.

Great Truck that keeps on going!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Having had 4 Toyota 4x4's this is the first in the Tacoma Series and the first X-tended Cab. This truck has cost only oil changes, nothing else over 5 years. Rotate the tires every 5,000 miles. To this day there is not a rattle anywhere to be found and living in New England, going off road, driving in Boston, that says something about build quality. I will keep this for a long time. The appearance may be that you pay more for a Toyota, in fact you get more and when it comes time to sell. the value will surprise you, compare to others,Total cost of ownership is less than $1K per year, and I have something that will run for the next five years. Try that with another brand.