2004 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 2004 Toyota Tacoma problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma, several common problems have been reported:
- Frame Rust: One of the most significant issues with the 2004 Toyota Tacoma is premature rust in the frame. This problem has led to numerous complaints, with drivers expressing concerns about the structural integrity of the vehicle due to excessive rust in the frame. The rust in the undercarriage can also affect the suspension, potentially compromising the safety and longevity of the truck.
- Suspension Corrosion: Owners have reported problems with premature corrosion in the suspension of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma. This issue can lead to safety concerns and affect the overall driving experience of the vehicle. Excessive corrosion in the suspension components can compromise the handling and stability of the truck.
- Fuel Tank Straps: There was a recall for fuel tank straps in the 2004 Tacoma due to the risk of rust causing the straps to fail, potentially leading to the tank dropping. This poses a serious safety hazard and highlights the importance of addressing rust-related issues promptly to prevent accidents.
- Electronic Throttle Body Malfunctions: While powertrain and engine issues have been relatively scarce in the 2004 Tacoma, some drivers have reported problems with electronic throttle body malfunctions. These issues can impact the performance and drivability of the vehicle, requiring attention to ensure proper functioning.
- Premature Rust in Various Components: Apart from the frame and suspension, premature rust has been reported in various parts of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma, including the structure, electrical system, and cooling system. This widespread rust issue underscores the importance of regular maintenance and rust prevention measures to prolong the lifespan of the vehicle.
By addressing these common problems proactively and ensuring regular maintenance, owners of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma can mitigate potential issues and enhance the overall reliability and longevity of their trucks.
Is 2004 a good year for Tacoma?
The 2004 Toyota Tacoma is simply one of the best used trucks on the market. The ride may be a bit rough and everything from heated seats to cruise control costs extra, but as a work-capable, off-road-oriented trooper, it's hard to beat.
How many miles can a 2004 Toyota 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 the most common problem with the Toyota Tacoma?
Most Commonly Reported Toyota Tacoma Problems
Toyota Tacoma Transmission Problems: Over the years, some Tacoma drivers have reported experiencing a faulty automatic transmission once the car was over a certain high-mileage point.
Is 2004 Toyota Tacoma a good truck?
It has been very reliable. It is a five speed manual transmission V6. It has enough power. The only fault I can give is (like all Toyota Standards they often haven't be double clutched to get them in reverse.
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 2004 Toyota 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.
2004 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
- Suspension problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Toyota Tacoma vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Toyota Tacoma
The NHTSA has received 406 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Toyota Tacoma. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Toyota Tacoma vehicles.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-29
- VIN: 5TEWN72N94Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Vehicle was taken to dealer with frame rust, crack and holes. Toyota refused to fix , repair or offer parts to repair.
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-30
- VIN: 5TEPM62N14Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 2011- check engine light was illuminated. Toyota dealership attempted repairs 11 times but could not find a cause. They replaced 7 different sensors, replaced gas cap, charcoal filter.. still could not get light to go off. refused to continue servicing same issue with no fault. Since 2011, I have had to run diagnostics on a regular basis to ensure there are no other mechanical issues. 2022- gas tank fell off of truck while driving. The straps snapped off due to rust and tank fell to the ground. This issue could have caused GREAT bodily injury or DEATH. 2023-lost brakes while driving. TOTAL brake failure. local mechanic stated it was a proportioning valve failure. The housing for it was rusted through and cannot be removed safely. After multiple days of research, a replacement could not be located. Even contacting Toyota, part is unavailable so vehicle CANNOT be fixed. Total brake failure could have led to GREAT bodily injury or DEATH. ONGOING-- vehicle frame is extremely rusted. bumper has fallen off, spare tire fell off, brush guard rusted and fell off. The frame under cab near bed of truck is rusted through. gas tank straps rusted through and tank fell off. You can literally push fingers/hand through the flaking metal. ALL previous recalls were completed including undercoating but the rust has gotten so bad the vehicle is not safe to drive.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-25
- VIN: 5TEGN92N24Z
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Lower ball joint detached, nearly caused major problems for me on the road
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-19
- VIN: 5TEWN72N94Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Tacoma. The contact had taken the vehicle to Kolosso Toyota (3000 W Wisconsin Ave, Appleton, WI 54914) to have his exhaust replaced. While there, he was informed that the entire sub frame was corroded with several cracks and holes had formed around both front leaf springs. The mechanic informed him that the vehicle was unsafe to drive due to the failure. Prior to the failure, the contact took the vehicle to another local dealer where the vehicle was inspected under NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V225000 (Suspension). The contact was informed that a special coating was sprayed onto the sub frame to prevent corrosion; however, the recall remedy failed to prevent the corrosion. The manufacturer was contacted but provided no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 51,641.
WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-27
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5TEGN92NX4Z
- Components: WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I was driving on a highway at the posted speed and suddenly the front right wheel broke off the vehicle and caused me to roll 6 times on the highway and I was wrongly accused of being at fault.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-01
- VIN: 5TEWN72N24Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Bought the vehicle in May 2022 from a dealer. By November of 2022 it was discovered that the frame was totally rusted. The dealer won't help so I paid $10,000 for a truck that lasted 6 months. I then found out this was a common problem that Toyota knew about so I called them for assistance. They would not help. I have been renting a vehicle at a cost of $800 a month because I don't have the money to buy another vehicle.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-10
- VIN: 5TEWM72N64Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The whole frame, the chassis, it is rusty specially in the front How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? when the rusty becomes worse, it will compromise the entire vehicle estructure, even the suspension and wheel parts. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, I can see Toyota run a recall process until 2019 Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No, just regular shop service, on which they reported high damage for the suspension and frame parts. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear?. It is making bad noises and suspension parts are difficult to replace
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-13
- VIN: 5TEWM72N84Z
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH and making a right turn, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to veer to the side of the road. The vehicle failed to restart after several attempts. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) main fuse had blown due to a short circuit. The dealer replaced the Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) main fuse; however, the failure persisted. Additionally, the dealer diagnosed that the subframe was severely corroded, including transmission components and fuel system components. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist as unknown recalls had expired. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-01
- VIN: 5TEWM72NX4Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Frame is badly rusted as a result truck is not driveable..
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-30
- VIN: 5TEWM72N14Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while looking underneath the vehicle, he noticed that the subframe was rusted. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 176,000.
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-19
- VIN: 5TEWM72N64Z
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: I was driving home from a neighboring city after picking up a friend and on my way there on the interstate I noticed the back end of the vehicle was very loose. Upon arriving at my apartment and parking the vehicle I contacted a friend who was a prior state safety inspector, he looked under the vehicle and said the frame right where the shackle for the leaf spring on the driver's side had completely blown out and was no longer connected. Checked the passenger side and said it was connected by maybe 1/4 of an inch of frame. I was made aware of a safety recall that expired back in 2019 by Hailey Toyota and was informed they would not fix it for free. Neither myself or the original owner had every received documentation regarding this issue and was never informed that the entire frame had to be replaced under the recall/extended warranty. I have shelled out well over $600 in materials and labor to have my frame welded and patched with a kit specifically made for these vehicles and this issue and I'm still having problems out of it.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-29
- VIN: 5tevl52n44z
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Took Toyota Tacoma (2004) to have loud sound coming from under truck checked by a reputable mechanic. Told that the frame was rusted beyond repair & leaf springs were about to fall out. Mechanic said vehicle was not drivable. The recall (which ended in 2019) was never received even though we bought vehicle new & have not changed address since 1998. Recall should be extended. Toyota should be forced to fix the problem and not on their timeline. The noise became evident approx. 5 months ago & got louder. The truck is sitting in our garage & could be taken to any interested party for inspection. Thank you
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-20
- VIN: 5TEHN72N74Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated upon taking the vehicle to an independent mechanic for a tire replacement, he was informed that the passenger’s side subframe was severely corroded. The contact notified several unknown dealers of the failure. The dealers informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 233,000.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-23
- VIN: 5TEWM72N84Z
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: Excessive Corrison through out the frame.Was informed bu certified mechanic really it is unsafe to drive. What can I do I still owe money on this vehicle.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-11
- VIN: 5TEWN72N24Z
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, the passenger’s side axle fractured and the wheel detached. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who replaced the ball joints. The local dealer was not contacted. On another occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver’s side axle fractured and the wheel detached. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who replaced the ball joints however, the failure recurred. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V225000 (Suspension). The manufacturer was contacted but provided no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 190,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-01
- VIN: 5tewm72n34z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Financed a 2004 Toyota Tacoma and found that frame of truck is rusted out and not sure what to do, can't afford new frame and still owe a little over 9 grand for it....please advise what to do next. Thank u
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-20
- VIN: 5TEWN72NX4Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The frame has rusted and broke behind the cab
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-06
- VIN: 5TEGN92N24Z
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: While driving down the highway my front passenger wheel completely disconnected from the ball joint. There was nothing indicating that the wheel was even loose; no wobbling or shaking or grinding. Luckily the wheel itself slid under the frame of the vehicle and I was able to maneuver the truck off of the highway; a very serious crash could have occurred. Since that incident I have been witness to two other Toyota trucks suffering from the same sudden issue. One was a Toyota Forerunner of a similar year where its wheel had completely fallen off at the ball joint. Another was a 2004 or earlier model Toyota Tacoma. I was merely driving past these vehicles as they were off to the side of the road and saw that their respective front passenger-side wheels had fallen off in the exact same manner as mine had, with the wheels being dragged under the body / frames of the vehicles. I don't know if this amounts to some sort of defect in these model Toyotas but I find it highly suspicious that the front wheels are suddenly falling off of these vehicles while they are being driven.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-01
- VIN: 5TENL42N34Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the underside of the vehicle started to flake and fall off in pieces. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with needing the frame replaced however, the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 165,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-24
- VIN: 5TEPM62N54Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FRAME RUST
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5TEHN72N84Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Tacoma. The contact called on behalf of her mother who was driving approximately 45 mph when she lost control of the vehicle which resulted in crashing into a power pole. None of the air bags deployed. The vehicle was towed to an insurance lot and currently was at a storage yard. A police report was taken and the driver sustained injuries to her face, and her dentures shattered but did not seek medical treatment at the time of the crash. The driver attempted to go to the hospital later but there was a 5-hour wait and was not seen. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 159,000.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-15
- VIN: 5TEWN72N44Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: This vehicles frame has rusted and broken. I feel lucky to have made it home just as the frame cracked wide open on one side making the truck un-drivable. Had this happened on the freeway or somewhere out in a rural setting I may have been killed, caused a problem for other drivers or been stranded away from any help. I have sent a photo of the damage to a frame shop but an independent inspection is not, in my opinion, needed since the rusted, broken member is clearly visible to any lay person. There were no warning lights or anything associated with this problem. What I did feel was some serious shaking and bumping as I moved down the road toward my house.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-07
- VIN: 5TEGN92N14Z
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH and making a right turn, the front passenger’s side tire and wheel inadvertently detached from the vehicle. The contact was able to veer to the side of the road, where he noticed that the lower control arm had detached from the subframe and was resting on the floor. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The dealer was notified of the failure and advised the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired under the NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V225000 (Suspension) because the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 250,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-04
- VIN: 5TESN92N84Z
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 2004 Toyota Tacoma - 61K miles. Has had its Rack & Pinion replaced 3 times. Sounds like this is a common issue from Google searches but Toyota does nothing about it...
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-29
- VIN: 5TEWN72N24Z
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My frame is rusting out where rear springs connect to the frame. Truck is non inspectable for Maine. There was a recall at some point and I never got recall paperwork.
2004 Toyota Tacoma recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: TIRES:TEMPORARY/EMERGENCY SPARE TIRE
- Summary: Toyota is recalling certain model year 2001 through 2004 Tacoma light trucks manufactured from August 28, 2000, through August 27, 2004, and originally sold, or currently registered, in the following cold climate states with high road salt usage: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. The spare tire in the subject vehicles is located underneath the rear of the vehicle and held by a spare tire carrier. A lift plate on the carrier is used to help raise, lower and retain the tire. During its manufacture, the lift plate may not have been sufficiently coated with anti-corrosion materials. If the plate is insufficiently coated and the vehicle is operated in cold climate regions where road salts are frequently used, road spray can reach the carrier assembly and corrode the lift plate.
- Consequence: Corrosion of the plate could cause it to break, which could result in detachment of the spare tire from the vehicle. Detachment of the spare tire could result in a road hazard which may increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, dealers will inspect the vehicle and replace the spare tire carrier lift plate as necessary, free of charge. The recall began in February 2013. Owners may contact their Toyota dealer or the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.
- Manufacturer: AJ MOTORSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, DUE TO A MANUFACTURING ISSUE IN THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINT, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE SURFACE OF THE BALL OF THE JOINT MAY HAVE BEEN SCRATCHED. THE BALL JOINT MAY EVENTUALLY EXPERIENCE EXCESSIVE WEAR AND LOOSENESS, RESULTING IN INCREASED STEERING EFFORT.
- Consequence: THE LOWER BALL JOINT MAY SEPARATE FROM THE KNUCKLE CAUSING LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 5, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT
- Summary: CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 209, 'SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES.' THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT HAS INCORRECT MARKINGS.
- Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD.
- Remedy: DEALERS HAVE REPLACED THE SEAT BELTS. NO VEHICLES WERE SOLD TO CONSUMERS.
Negative 2004 Toyota Tacoma car reviews
Positive 2004 Toyota Tacoma car reviews
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This is a fantastic example of a 2004 Toyota Tacoma S-Runner, with a V6, 3.4L engine and 5-speed manual transmission. I have owned a 1997 Chevy 1500 with a V6, 4.3L engine and automatic transmission, as well as a 1999 Ford 150 with a V8, 5.4L engine and automatic transmission, but without a doubt, the Toyota is the best! I cannot find enough good words to describe how well this pickup was made back in 2004 in Japan... the highest Japanese quality! There is only one thing I don't like, not only on my Toyota, but on all vehicles made for the US market, and that is the microswitch for the clutch pedal to start the engine. As a 69-year-old who has been driving vehicles with manual transmission since I was 16, I have never put the stick in first gear or reverse, only in
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The 4-door is great for 4 people, or fold down the seat for storage. I noticed in the reviews that some of us don't like the clock, but I find it amusing to check it at red lights, haha. I really like the way it handles and it's decent on gas (living in Florida with the A/C on a lot causes much lower gas mileage). I appreciate its reliability. The one thing I would like to see is a digital compass on the mirror, like I've seen in some other $25,000 vehicles. I travel a lot with my truck and a digital compass/temperature gauge combo on the rearview mirror would be really helpful. Also, have you noticed that after it rains, the water drips right into the power window controls? Does anyone have a solution for this?
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The Tacoma is a fantastic truck! I recently purchased a 2004 model, which is the last year of this body style. Although it may be getting a bit outdated, it is still a very reliable truck with a proven track record of success. The 2.4L engine provides ample power to haul heavy loads when needed, yet it is still practical enough for everyday driving. In terms of build quality, the Tacoma surpasses other compact trucks such as the Nissan Frontier, Chevy S-10, and Dodge Dakota. If you're looking to maximize gas mileage and hauling capacity, I would recommend opting for the manual transmission. However, I personally went with the automatic transmission due to spending 80% of my time driving in city traffic and not wanting to shift gears.
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I love my Tacoma! It's the perfect size for me since I wanted something smaller that would fit in my garage. I got the Xtra cab which is great for transporting things in bad weather if you don't have a cover over the bed. I haven't had any mechanical problems with it at all, and it had 1 recall which was promptly handled at the dealer. I found out by accident how to get more power out of it when merging in traffic or passing. Just turn off the overdrive and the truck rockets past traffic. Just don't forget to re-engage the overdrive once you sail past the other cars. I would definitely recommend this truck!
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I can tell you're really excited about your new truck! It's always such a great feeling when you finally get something you've been dreaming of for a while. And from what you've said, it sounds like it's a really great truck too!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Toyota Tacoma problems:
Common Tacoma problems I should be aware of? | Tacoma World
Oct 19, 2008 ... Exhaust tends to have minor issues. Mostly gaskets and o2s going bad and cat converters get tired. Rear drum brakes have a problem with the pot ...
2004 Toyota Tacoma Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Problem with your 2004 Toyota Tacoma? Our list of 8 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2004 Toyota Tacoma.
2004 Toyota Tacoma Reliability - Consumer Reports
What Owners Say ... "Early summer,wasnt cooling. Took in to add refrigerant two months ago and still cooling well." ... "hydraulic fluid leak repaired one time fix, ...
2004 Toyota Tacoma Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Feb 9, 2023 ... Kelley Blue Book users give the Tacoma a strong 95% recommendation with strong praise for the truck's longevity, strength, and low maintenance ...
Common Problems with 2004 Toyota Tacoma: Troublesome Shifting
Jun 28, 2022 ... You are welcome. Thank you for holding Garrett! Based on the information provided this type of fault can be caused by a mechanical issue with ...
Other years of Toyota Tacoma
Are you having problems with your 2004 Toyota Tacoma?
Monserrate Rippin 2024-09-24
My Tacoma broke down after a week, but I am confident that the issue will be resolved. The dealership has been working hard to fix the problem, which they believe is caused by interior water leaks that short out the electronics. Although it has been in the shop for 12 days and counting, I trust that they will find a solution. I understand that anyone can make a lemon, but I have faith in the dealership's ability to make things right.
Bailey Stroman 2024-06-03
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2004 Toyota truck. Unfortunately, I was unaware that there was a recall for the frame quality, which resulted in the frame rotting out on both sides. Although I was the second owner and missed the cut off for the recall, I did not receive any notices regarding this issue. I had taken my truck to a local Toyota dealer ship for a spare tire mechanism fix, but they did not mention the frame treatment that was necessary. As a result, I had to junk the truck out to a salvage company as it was deemed unsafe to drive. While I was disappointed that Toyota could not compensate me for this issue, I understand that they have their policies in place. I hope that this message serves as a reminder to always stay informed about any recalls or issues with your vehicle. Thank you for taking the time to read my message.
Jaylin Jenkins 2024-04-13
I recently purchased a 2004 Tacoma 4 x 2 automatic 2.4 cyl SR5 ext. cab. Unfortunately, I have been experiencing some issues with poor power and a clunking sound from the 2 pc. driveshaft when accelerating hard. Despite seeking assistance from the dealer service department, they were unable to resolve the issue. The vehicle is rated at 21-26 mpg, but I have only been able to achieve 21 mpg even on the highway. Additionally, when the a/c is on, the vehicle loses speed going up inclines due to the poor power. Overall, I have not had a positive experience with this vehicle and would not recommend it. Thank you for considering my feedback.