1998 Toyota Tacoma problems
The Toyota Tacoma is a pickup truck manufactured by Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota since 1995. The first-generation Tacoma (model years 1995 through 2004) was classified as a compact pickup. The second generation (model years 2005 through 2015) and third generation (in production since 2015) models are classified as mid-sized pickups. The Tacoma was Motor Trend's Truck of the Year for 2005.
As of 2015, the Tacoma was sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Bolivia, Bermuda, and the French overseas collectivity of New Caledonia. Most markets across the world receive the Toyota Hilux in lieu of the Tacoma.
The name "Tacoma" was derived from the Coast Salish peoples' name for Mount Rainier in the U.S. state of Washington.
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Common 1998 Toyota Tacoma problems
The Toyota Tacoma, particularly the 1998 model, is known for its reliability and durability. However, like any vehicle, it can have certain issues that may arise over time. Here are some common problems with the Toyota Tacoma 1998 based on complaints from owners:
- Rusted out rear leaf springs and brackets: Similar to the frame, the rear leaf springs and brackets can also be prone to rusting. This can lead to decreased stability and handling, as well as potential safety issues.
- Timing belt failure in 3.4L engines: The 1998 Toyota Tacoma was available with a 3.4L engine, which has been known to have timing belt issues. If the timing belt fails, it can cause serious damage to the engine, so it's important to replace it according to the recommended schedule.
- Prematurely worn out steering components: Some owners have reported issues with prematurely worn out steering components, such as tie rods and ball joints. This can lead to decreased handling and safety, as well as increased wear on other steering components.
- Valve cover oil leaks: Over time, the valve cover gaskets on the 1998 Toyota Tacoma can crack and deteriorate, leading to oil leaks. While this is not a major issue, it can lead to a mess and potential engine damage if not addressed.
- Dim/hazy headlights: The headlights on the 1998 Toyota Tacoma can become dim or hazy over time due to oxidation. This can lead to decreased visibility and safety, especially during low light or poor weather conditions.
- Driver seat deterioration: The driver seat on the 1998 Toyota Tacoma can deteriorate over time, particularly the lower bolster on the driver side seat. This can lead to decreased comfort and potential safety issues.
- Faulty transmission: Some owners have reported issues with the transmission on the 1998 Toyota Tacoma, particularly high-mileage models. This can lead to decreased performance and potential safety issues.
- Peeling paint: Some owners have reported issues with the paint on the 1998 Toyota Tacoma, particularly the roof paint. This can lead to decreased appearance and potential corrosion issues.
It's important to note that these issues are not universal to all 1998 Toyota Tacomas, and many owners have reported no issues at all. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these issues, and addressing them promptly when they do arise can help minimize potential damage and safety issues.
How many miles can a 1998 Tacoma last?
The Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size, light-duty pickup truck.
While other midsize pickup truck models taper off at 200,000 miles, you can expect the Toyota Tacoma to last up to 300,000.
What years to avoid when buying a Toyota Tacoma?
Therefore, we give you this list of Toyota Tacoma model years to avoid, not including the all-new 2024 Toyota Tacoma.
- 2002 Toyota Tacoma. Generally speaking, the first-generation Toyota Tacoma is nearly flawless. ...
- 2004 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2005 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2009 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2016 Toyota Tacoma.
What is a common problem with Toyota Tacoma?
Premature Ball Joint Wear: Another highly reported Toyota Tacoma issue is the premature wear on the lower ball joints. This issue most commonly happens in the front suspension, making it more difficult to steer and reducing the cars ability to self-center.
What year Tacomas have issues?
Quick Answer: Avoid Toyota Tacoma Year Models 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016, and 2017. There have been a lot of issues reported with the 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016, and 2017 Toyota Tacoma year models, and we recommend avoiding them.
Is the 1998 Toyota Tacoma a good truck?
Unique styling, Toyota reliability, and powerful engines make the 1998 Toyota Tacoma one of the most desirable small trucks on the market.
What is a common problem with Toyota Tacoma?
Premature Ball Joint Wear: Another highly reported Toyota Tacoma issue is the premature wear on the lower ball joints. This issue most commonly happens in the front suspension, making it more difficult to steer and reducing the cars ability to self-center.
How many miles can a 1998 Tacoma last?
The Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size, light-duty pickup truck.
While other midsize pickup truck models taper off at 200,000 miles, you can expect the Toyota Tacoma to last up to 300,000.
What year Tacoma is best?
Best Toyota Tacoma Trucks to Buy Used
- 2015 Toyota Tacoma. This model year scored a 5 out of 5 for reliability, a 4 on safety with the NHTSA, and an 8.4 out of 10 for its front, rear, and side-impact safety features. ...
- 2019 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2006 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2005 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2020 Toyota Tacoma.
1998 Toyota Tacoma car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Tacoma problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Air bags problems
- Tires problems
- Suspension problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Toyota Tacoma vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Toyota Tacoma
The NHTSA has received 322 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Toyota Tacoma. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Toyota Tacoma vehicles.
2023-01-24
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-24
- VIN: 4TAPM62N3WZ
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 1998 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while inspecting the subframe of the vehicle, he noticed that there was a hole in the rear passenger side wheel well. The contact stated that the failure had increased significantly. The dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist as an unknown recall had expired. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
2022-07-15
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-21
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4TAWN72N5WZ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I had an accident over a year ago and the airbags did not deploy then I ask the guy that fixed it told me that it didn't have the sensor on the front of my truck, and I wonder why. Now I realized the never saw that sensor on my truck, and want to know what is happening with my truck if other vehicles are involved in the same situation. Sincerely: [XXX]. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
2022-03-15
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-15
- VIN: 4tapm62n5wz
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Left and right Frame members forward of the rear leaf spring mounts are severely rusted. According to the Toyota dealership who inspected it, the frame is compromised and their is a potential for structural failure in a collision. I purchased the vehicle in October of 2020 from the original owner who maintained it in immaculate condition. The rusted areas are not very obvious while inspecting the outside of the frame, however the interior portions have severe damage. I contacted Toyota Brand Enhancement, on the dealerships recommendation and was told they would not assist based on the lack of a recall.
2021-03-08
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-15
- VIN: 4TAPM62N7WZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I BOUGHT A 1998 TOYOTA TACOMA 4X4 AUTOMATIC WITH 106995 ON THE ODOMETER AND I AM HAVING A HARD TIME GETTING IT INSPECTED BECAUSE OF THE RIGHT SIDE REAR FRAME IS TESTED TO BAD
2021-03-06
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-06
- VIN: 4TASN92N2WZ
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: BOUGHT A VEHICLE FROM A WOMAN OFF OF CRAIGSLIST. MET HER IN AN UNFAMILIAR AREA. WOMAN STATED THE VEHICLE WAS IN GOOD CONDITION AND RUNS PERFECT. WOMAN WOULD NOT ALLOW US TO TEST DRIVE THE VEHICLE. MY HUSBAND INSISTED ON CHECKING THE VIN ON CARFAX AND SHE QUICKLY PULLED OUT AN OUTDATED TITLE. THE VEHICLE'S ODOMETER READING STATED APPROXIMATELY 166,000 MILES. AFTER THE TRANSACTION OF $5000.00 WAS COMPLETED IN CASH. SHE QUICKLY LEFT WITH A HEAVYSET HISPANIC MALE THAT WAS WITH HER. MY HUSBAND LOOKED AT CARFAX AND THE LAST REPORTED MILEAGE ON CARFAX FOR THE VIN NUMBER WAS APPROXIMATELY 278,000 MILES FOR THAT VEHICLE. THE WOMAN QUICKLY BLOCKED OUT PHONE NUMBERS. ABOUT AN HOUR LATER SHE HAD HER NUMBER UNBLOCKED. WE CALLED HER FROM A DIFFERENT NUMBER AND ACTED AS THOUGH I WAS READY TO PURCHASE A VEHICLE FROM HER AND SHE STATED SHE HAD ANOTHER VEHICLE, AND COULD MEET ME AT THE SAME LOCATION (NOT KNOWING IT WAS ME) NOT ONLY WAS THE ODOMETER READING FALSE, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVEABLE AND COMPLETELY UNSAFE. THE TRANSMISSION WAS BROKEN.
2019-04-24
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-24
- VIN: 4TAPM62N8WZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FRAME IS VERY BAD SHAPE DUE TO RUST PROBLEM AND BROKEN
2019-03-13
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-11
- VIN: 4TAPM62N7WZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: MY SON WAS DRIVING HIS 1998 TOYOTA TACOMA DOWN THE HIGHWAY WHEN THE FRAME SEPARATED IN HALF. LUCKILY HE WAS ABLE TO SLOWLY PULL THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE AND GET IT OFF OF THE ROAD WITHOUT HARM TO HIMSELF OR OTHERS. THE TRUCK WAS LATER TRAILERED TO A FRIENDS HOUSE WHERE A TEMPORARY BRACE WAS WELDED ON. WE LATER BROUGHT THE TRUCK TO A DEALERSHIP WHO TOOK ONE LOOK AT THE FRAME AND SAID WE WERE NOT DRIVING THAT TRUCK HOME IT WAS EXTREMELY RUSTED BEYOND ITS YEARS. THE DEALERSHIP GAVE US A RENTAL CAR FOR THE EVENING UNTIL THEY HEARD BACK FROM TOYOTA WHO REFUSED TO REPLACE THE FRAME BECAUSE THE PROGRAM HAD EXPIRED. UNFORTUNATELY I AM ON ABLE TO PURCHASE A NEW VEHICLE FOR MY SON. I DID MY DUE DILIGENCE WHEN I PURCHASED THE TRUCK AND PULLED A CARFAX ON IT AND THERE WAS NO REPORT OF A RECALL, I DID NOT LOOK UNDERNEATH TO CHECK FOR FRAME DAMAGE AS THE TRUCK HAD A CLEAN TITLE AND THERE DID NOT SEEM TO BE A REASON.
2019-02-28
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-13
- VIN: 4TAWM72N9WZ
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT STARTED FRAYING AND AFTER WHILE LOCKED UP ,WOULD NOT RETRACTED OR PULL OUT. NOW THE PASSENGER SIDE IS FRAYING AND NOW IT IS LOCKED UP, IT DOES NOT MATTER IF THE ENGINE IS RUNNING OR NOT IT WILL NOT RETRACTED OR PULL OUT.
2018-12-20
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-07
- VIN: 4TAVL52N3WZ
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: THE WIRING HARNESS CABLE FROM THE SENSORS TO THE COMPUTER BURNOUT AND THE SEATBELTS DOESN'T RESPOND RIGHT ESPECIALLY WITH HIS UNRAVELING AND DOESN'T LOCK GOOD OR POOL AND THE MASTER CYLINDER IT'S NOT FUNCTION CORRECTLY EITHER IT'S LIKE IT'S NOT STOPPING THE BRAKES ARE NOT STOPPING I KNOW THE VEHICLE IS OLD BUT STILL THIS IS A DEFECT AND VERY HAS FOR THE DRIVERS OF ALL THE VEHICLES MY 1998 TOYOTA TACOMA SR5 2.4 LITER 2 WHEEL DRIVE
2018-08-04
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-01
- VIN: 4TAPM62N3WZ
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: FRAME ON RIGHT AND LEFT REAR RUSTED THREW
2018-03-11
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-01
- VIN: 4TAPM62N1WZ
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I RECEIVED A SAFETY RECALL LETTER IN 2011 REGARDING A TACOMA FRAME RUST CORROSION ISSUE. I OPENED A CASE AND HAD MY TOYOTA INSPECTED ON 5/20/11 BY A TOYOTA DEALERSHIP. THEY SAID THE FRAME HAD PASSED INSPECTION. ON 12/02/11 TOYOTA PERFORMED A BODY FRAME UNDERCOATING ON THE VEHICLE. FAST FORWARD TO 2017. I FOUND A SMALL HOLE IN THE FRAME THAT WAS INSPECTED BY TOYOTA AND DEEMED SAFE. I CONTACTED TOYOTA AND THEY SAID SINCE THE SAFETY RECALL ON THE FRAME HAS PASSED THERE WAS NOTHING THEY CAN DO ABOUT IT. THE INTERNET IS FULL OF OTHER STORIES OF TOYOTA'S WITH RUSTING FRAMES. I FEEL IT IS NOW UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND/OR SELL TO SOMEONE.
2017-11-30
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-29
- VIN: 4TAPM62N7WZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE PROBLEM WITH MY TRUCK IS THAT THERE IS SEVER CORROSION ON THE FRAME MAKING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO DRIVE. TOYOTA HAS PREVIOUSLY ACKNOWLEDGED AND ATTEMPTED TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEM HOWEVER THEIR ATTEMPT (UNDERCOATING) FAILED. THE MANUFACTURER NOW REFUSES TO RECTIFY THE SITUATION.
2017-11-06
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-17
- VIN: 4TANL42N7WZ
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION ON A HIGHWAY AT A SPEED BETWEEN 60-65 ML/HR, WHEN I HEARD SOMETHING POP. WHEN COMING TO A STOP SIGN AT THE OFF RAMP, THE STEERING WHEEL IMMEDIATELY TURNED TO THE RIGHT, AFTER PRESSING ON THE BRAKES. I TOOK IT TO WALMART WERE I PURCHASED THE TIRES AND EXPLAINED TO THE INTAKE TECHNICIAN OF THE SITUATION AND REQUESTED A BALANCING OF ALL 4 TIRES, BECAUSE I THOUGHT A WEIGHT HAD FALLEN OFF THE RIM. THE AUTO TECHNICIAN BALANCED ALL 4 TIRES. THE RECEIPT STATED TIRES BALANCE ACCEPTED AND COMPLETE. NO OUT OF BALANCE SPECIFICATIONS WERE INDICATED. THE PROBLEM WAS NOT RESOLVED. WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 60-65 ML/HR AND COMING TO A STOP, THE VEHICLE STILL PULLED TO THE RIGHT IMMEDIATELY WHEN LETTING GO OF THE STEERING WHEEL. I THEN HAD THE ALIGNMENT CHECKED BY ANOTHER AUTO/TIRE SHOP. IT WAS FOUND TO BE OUT OF ALIGNMENT. THE MECHANIC COULD NOT SOLVE THE VEHICLE PULLING TO THE RIGHT AND SWAPPED THE FRONT TIRES, FROM RIGHT TO LEFT. HE FOUND THE VEHICLE NOW PULLED TO THE LEFT. HE STATED THE ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS ARE CORRECT AND THAT IT WAS A BAD TIRE. THE PROBLEM WITH THE TIRE WAS INTERNAL AND TO CONTACT WALMART WHERE YOU PURCHASED THEM. WALMART DID NOT CHECK THE TIRE AND STATED THE WARRANTY WAS NOT EFFECTIVE AT 5/32ND TREAD DEPTH. WALMART STATED THEY OPTED OUT OF MICHELIN'S TIRE WARRANTY AND TO CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER OF THE TIRE DIRECTLY. I THEN CONTACTED MICHELIN NORTH AMERICA CUSTOMER CARE, WERE THEY AUTHORIZED ME TO TAKE IT TO ANOTHER TIRE DEALER WHO SOLD MICHELIN TIRES. I TOOK IT TO PHIL LONG TOYOTA DEALER WHO STATED THEY WOULD PROCESS THE WARRANTY FOR THIS TIRE. THEY CHECKED THE TIRE AND FOUND THAT THE TIRE ON THE LEFT SIDE HAD AN INTERNAL SEPARATED BELT. THE COMPANY MICHELIN NORTH AMERICA IS PROCESSING THE WARRANTY.
2017-09-22
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-01
- VIN: 4TAPM62N0WZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 TOYOTA TACOMA. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT BECAME AWARE THAT THE SUBFRAME BETWEEN THE REAR AXLE WAS SEVERELY RUSTED. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED BY THE MANUFACTURER OF A BUY BACK PROGRAM, WHICH HAD EXPIRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED CASE NUMBERS: 1505202202 AND 1602030551. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 132,238.
2017-09-04
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-24
- VIN: 4TAWN72N9WZ
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I RECENTLY BOUGHT MY 98 TOYOTA TACOMA EXTENDED CAB 44. I KNEW NOTHING OF ANY FRAME RUST PROBLEMS OR ANY OTHER PROBLEMS THAT TOYOTA'S HAD. NOW I AM THE PROUD OWNER OF A GOOD LOOKING TRUCK THAT I JUST FOUND OUT IS NOT ONLY UNSAFE TO DRIVE OFF ROAD BUT ON ROAD ALSO.YESTERDAY I FOUND THAT THE REAR SHOCK,WHERE IT MOUNTS ON TOP,HAD BROKE THROW THE FRAME AND AFTER INSPECTING AND DOING A QUICK WELDING REPAIR JUST TO MAKE IT HOME,THAT THE FRAME HAD PREVIOUSLY BEEN REPAIRED IN OTHER PLACES BUT ONLY WELDED NEW METAL OVER THE EXISTING RUSTING FRAME.NO ONE HAS MADE ANY ATTEMY TO INFORM ME OF ANY PROBLEMS AND FROM WHAT I'M SEEING NOW IT'S PAST THE 15 YR DEADLINE. I BOUGHT A TOYOTA BECAUSE OF ITS DEPENDABILITY BUT WHAT GOOD IS IT TO HAVE A DEPENDABLE ENGINE WHEN THE FRAME WASN'T PREPARED TO HOLD UP TO NORMAL CONDITIONS WITHOUT RUSTING INTO.
2017-08-15
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-11-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4TAPM62N1WZ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS STOPPED IN TRAFFIC ATTEMPTING A LEFT TURN. VEHICLE WAS REAR ENDED BY A DRIVER NOT PAYING ATTENTION, SENT AIRBORNE, FLIPPED SEVERAL TIMES FORWARD AND SIDEWAYS, THEN HIT A PARKED CAR. AIR BAG NEVER DEPLOYED, RESULTING IN MAJOR INJURIES TO DRIVER OF VEHICLE.
2017-08-05
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-17
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELTS ARE FRAYED AND LOCK UP. SR5 EXTRA CAB- DRIVERS SIDE AND REAR SEAT BELTS ARE NOT WORKING
2017-06-17
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-12
- VIN: 4TAWN72N9WZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE TACOMA HAS DEVELOPED SIGNIFICANT RUST AROUND THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR LEAD SPRING BRACKET. THE BRACKET IS BEGINNING TO PULL AWAY FROM THE FRAME AND THE VEHICLE IS NO LONGER USABLE AS A RESULT, THIS IS VERY DISCOURAGING AS THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN MAINTAINED WELL AND CURRENTLY HAS 250K MILES ON IT. ALL OTHER PARTS OF THIS VEHICLE IS IN VERY GOOD SHAPE.
2017-06-05
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-25
- VIN: WZ100502
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELTS LOCK UP AND WILL NOT RELEASE AND WILL NOT RETRACT AND THE STRAP IS COMING APART.
2017-05-19
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-19
- VIN: 4TAWM72N5WZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FRAME PERFORATION AKA RUST THROUGH PROBLEM FAILED PA INSPECTION THIS WEEK. GARAGE NOTIFIED ME OF KNOWN TACOMA FRAME RUST PROBLEMS. TOYOTA DEALER SAYS ITS TOO LATE BUT I WAS NOT AWARE OF THIS HAZARD THAT TOYOTA SEEMS TO BE WELL AWARE OF. BODY SHOP WILL NOT TOUCH THIS PROBLEM OF RUST THROUGH ABOVE SPRING LEAF MOUNTS DUE TO LIABILITY CONCERNS. THIS SEEMS LIKE TOYOTA'S PROBLEM TO SOLVE. PLEASE HELP!
2017-04-26
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-01
- VIN: 4TAWN72N8WZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE FRAME OF THE 1998 TOYOTA TACOMA XTRACAB TRUCK WE OWN HAS SEVERE RUST ISSUES TO THE POINT THAT IT IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. I HAVE ATTACHED 4 PICTURES TOTAL WITH 2 OF THE PICTURES SHOWING THE DAMAGE TO THE CAB FROM MOVEMENT THERE ARE OTHER AREAS THAT ARE RUSTED WORSE, BUT CAN NOT GET GOOD PICS OF. WE LIVE MIDWEST, A AREA THAT SALT IS NOT A FACTOR. WE NOTCED THIS DAMAGE AFTER FEELING THAT THE BED WAS MOVING.
2017-03-06
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-01
- VIN: 4TAWN72N2WZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THIS VEHICLES FRAME IS BREAKING BECAUSE IT LACKED ADEQUATE CORROSION-RESISTANT PROTECTION. AS A RESULT, IT SUFFERS HEAVILY FROM RUST PERFORATION.
2017-02-21
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-31
- VIN: 4TAPM62N1WZ
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: PURCHASED 1998 TOYOTA TACOMA 4WD TRUCK OCTOBER 2012. VEHICLE HAD BEEN RECALLED FOR FRAME RUST AND WAS SERVICED BY A TOYOTA DEALERSHIP 05/25/2011 AND FRAME AND UNDER CARRIAGE WAS INSPECTED, CLEANED, PREPARED AND COATED WITH UNDERCOATING. DEALERSHIP ADVISED THE PROBLEM WAS CORRECTED. MILEAGE AT TIME WAS 161,757. IN LATE 2012 RUST SPOTS DEVELOPED AGAIN AND CONTINUED TO WORSEN UNTIL THE FRAME COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH AND BROKE ABOVE THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL IN THE VICINITY OF THE SHOCK ABSORB-ER BRACKET WHICH ALSO WAS RUSTED THROUGH. THERE ARE VARIOUS OTHER RUST PROBLEM AREAS ON THE FRAME AND SUSPENSION PARTS AND ANOTHER FRAME RUST THROUGH IS EVIDENT ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE ABOVE THE REAR TIRE AT THE SHOCK ABSORB-ERR BRACKET.. DECEMBER 2016, MILEAGE 211,927 THE VEHICLE WAS CONSIDERED TO BE UNSAFE FOR OPERATION AND TAKEN OFF THE PUBLIC ROADWAYS BY THE CURRENT OWNER AFTER THE FRAME BROKE INTO WHILE TURNING INTO THE DRIVEWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS PLACED OUT OF SERVICE DUE TO FEAR OF BEING HELD LIABLE FOR DEATH, INJURY OR DISMEMBERMENT TO SELF, PERSON OR PERSONS DUE TO KNOWINGLY CONTINUED OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE WOULD BE UNSAFE. AFTER EXTENSIVE RESEARCH OF FRAME RUST THROUGH PROBLEMS, THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP THAT HANDLED THE RECALL IN 2011 WAS CONTACTED IN PERSON BY THE CURRENT OWNER ON FEBRUARY 21, 2017 AT 1:30 PM AND WAS ADVISED BY THE DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPARTMENT THAT THE ENHANCED WARRANTY WAS ONLY GOOD FOR 15 YEARS FROM THE DATE THE VEHICLE WAS FIRST PURCHASED NEW AND PLACED IN SERVICE WHICH WAS APRIL 1998 AND HAD EXPIRED IN APRIL 2013. AS THE CURRENT OWNER OF THE VEHICLE I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED BY TOYOTA THAT A WARRANTY HAD EVER EXISTED AND WOULD SOON EXPIRE AND NOR MYSELF OR THE PREVIOUS OWNER WAS EVER NOTIFIED TO HAVE THE VEHICLE REINSPECTED BY TOYOTA TO MAKE SURE THE PROBLEM HAD NOT REOCCURRED AND VEHICLE WAS SAFE FOR CONTINUED OPERATION.
2017-02-13
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-13
- VIN: 4TAVL52N7WZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: RUST RECALL TOYOTA CAR DEALERSHIP UNWILLING TO "GOODWILL" FIX FRAME DUE TO NOT APPLYING RUST CHEMICALS ON TO THE FRAME
2016-12-14
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-09
- VIN: 4TAWM72N4WZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: MY VEHICLE HAS BEEN INSPECTED EACH YEAR AND PROPERLY MAINTAINED. INSPECTIONS AND OTHER MAINTENANCE HAVE FREQUENTLY OCCURRED AT TOYOTA DEALERS BY TOYOTA TECHNICIANS. MY VEHICLE WAS UNDERGOING ANNUAL INSPECTION DECEMBER 2016 AT A NON-TOYOTA GARAGE AND I WAS ADVISED OF A FAILED INSPECTION DUE TO STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY ISSUES CAUSED BY SEVERE RUSTING ON THE FRAME OF THE TRUCK. I WAS ALSO ADVISED TO CEASE DRIVING THE TRUCK AS IT IS NOW CONSIDERED A DANGER TO MYSELF AND, I ASSUME, TO OTHER MOTORISTS. THE TECHNICIAN SUGGESTED THAT THERE MAY HAVE BEEN A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM. I CALLED TOYOTA SEVERAL TIMES AND WAS ULTIMATELY TOLD I HAD RUN OUT OF TIME. I PLEADED THAT I HAVE OWNED THE VEHICLE FOR OVER TEN YEARS AND WOULD HAVE TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF ANY RECALLS HAD I RECEIVED ANY INFORMATION OF ONE, BUT NO ONE IS ABLE TO EXPLAIN TO ME WHY I WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. A PROBLEM LIKE THIS DOES NOT CROP UP WITHIN A YEAR AND HAVE THE ABILITY TO HIDE FROM HONEST TECHNICIANS CONCERNED WITH THE INTEGRITY OF THEIR INSPECTIONS/MAINTENANCE AND THE SAFETY OF MOTORISTS. THIS VEHICLE IS FREQUENTLY USED FOR TRAVEL OVER DISTANCES GREATER THAN 50 MILES, ONE WAY, AND TO FIND OUT THAT I HAVE BEEN OPERATING SUCH A DANGEROUS VEHICLE OVER SUCH LONG DISTANCES AND POSING SUCH A DANGER TO MYSELF AND COUNTLESS OTHER MOTORISTS BECAUSE OF THE SILENCE AND/OR NEGLIGENCE OF TOYOTA TECHNICIANS IS UNACCEPTABLE AND REPREHENSIBLE. MY VEHICLE IS OTHERWISE IN GREAT RUNNING CONDITION WITH MANY NEW PARTS THAT SHOW PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP. I MUST DEMAND THAT TOYOTA REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FRAME ON MY VEHICLE TO RESTORE THE SAFETY AND PEACE OF MIND THAT MOTORISTS HAVE A RIGHT TO EXPECT WHEN THEY GET BEHIND THE WHEEL OF A CAR. *TR
1998 Toyota Tacoma recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1998 Toyota Tacoma.
2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
2006-05-24
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
1998-08-06
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR CO., LTD.
- Components: AIR BAGS:ON-OFF SWITCH ASSEMBLY
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE STATEMENT REQUIRED IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL THAT "...THE ON-OFF SWITCH SHOULD ONLY BEN USED WHEN A MEMBER OF A PASSENGER RISK GROUP IDENTIFIED IN THE REQUEST FORM IN APPENDIX B......IS OCCUPYING THE RIGHT FRONT PASSENGER SEATING POSITION..." IS MIS-STATED. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION."
- Consequence: IF THE AIR BAG SWITCH IS "OFF," THE SEAT OCCUPANT WHO IS NOT A MEMBER OF THE PASSENGER RISK GROUP WOULD BE SUBJECT TO INCREASED INJURY IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE SENT A CORRECTED OWNER'S MANUAL.
Positive 1998 Toyota Tacoma car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Toyota Tacoma problems:
I'm looking at a 1998 TACOMA-any notorious problems? - YotaTech ...
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/im-looking-1998-tacoma-any-notorious-problems-101145/
Dec 6, 2006 ... The '98 Tacoma was a good rig. The only notorious problem is the jealousy you will experience from non Toyota owners... Welcome to YT.
1998 Toyota Tacoma Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1998-toyota-tacoma/problems
Problem with your 1998 Toyota Tacoma? Our list of 12 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1998 Toyota Tacoma.
1998 Toyota Tacoma Stuttering Problem - YotaTech Forums
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/1998-toyota-tacoma-stuttering-problem-250388/
Mar 5, 2012 ... 95.5-2004 Tacomas & 96-2002 4Runners - 1998 Toyota Tacoma Stuttering Problem - So my dad has a 98 tacoma with the 2.4L engine.
Common Tacoma problems I should be aware of? | Tacoma World
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/common-tacoma-problems-i-should-be-aware-of.16861/
Oct 19, 2008 ... I was wondering what some of the common problems are with tacomas. I am looking at buying one and so I would like to know what I should ...
1998 Toyota Tacoma Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
https://www.cars.com/research/toyota-tacoma-1998/consumer-reviews/
Excellent small truck · Most reliable! · This truck is a survivor. · Most reliable truck i have owned · Toyota Taco · Great Truck · Never had any issues · nice truck.
Other years of Toyota Tacoma
Are you having problems with your 1998 Toyota Tacoma?
Jasmin Bauch 2024-11-19
What a great truck! It sounds like you've had it for a long time and it's still serving you well. It's wonderful to hear that you wouldn't change a thing about it.
Rickie Lakin 2024-10-20
I love this truck! It can go anywhere, including off-road. Sure, its gas mileage isn't great, but who cares when you want to explore the mountains or tackle some big mudholes? It looks great and is fairly easy to modify. I'll say it again, I love it!
Lindsey Ledner 2024-09-16
I think this truck is enjoyable to drive, although it may be a bit small on the inside. It's a blast to take on the highway and leave all those beaters and Civics in the dust. In my opinion, the truck is quite fast, especially compared to slower cars (weighing 3360).
Salvador Cormier 2024-09-08
The ride may be a bit rough, but this durable truck is perfect for work or play. While it may not be the most comfortable for everyday driving, I can attest to its superb design and reliability. As someone who does their own maintenance, I highly recommend the Tacoma.
Brook Boyle 2024-07-27
Great truck! It definitely stands out from anything Ford or Chevy have ever produced.