4 Star Reviews for 1996 Toyota Tacoma

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.52/5 Average
48 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For the 1996 Toyota Tacoma, Regular Cab 4WD models can be equipped with a new Off-Road Package.

Pros:
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 48.00
  • Good basic truck - 1996 Toyota Tacoma
    By -

    For a reliable basic truck the little Tacoma is tough to beat.

  • Tacoma wish it were a trophy truck - 1996 Toyota Tacoma
    By -

    2.7 169,000 on it. I purchised this truck from an air force full bird col. that told me he never did anything maintenance wise, but put 31 bfgs ats, but the first week I noticed a fuel leak in the #4 injector bank bad o-ring was the problem but replaced all 4 along with other related parts. Then I noticed during the summer when the engine was hot it was hard to start, mass airflow was dirty cleaned it with b-12 works great. Then came the front wheel bearing that went, i never seen one as hard as this the best way to tackle this is to take the spindle off and take it to Toyota service department, be sure not to damage the brass bushings you have to buy a new hub for $168.00.

  • Not sure these trucks can be killed. - 1996 Toyota Tacoma
    By -

    I have owned 2 vehicles since 1985, my whole driving life. My 1st truck at 15 was a 1980 toyota pickup, I ran it to 550k miles before giving it to my brother in 1998. I purchases this 1996 Tacoma as a replacement. Was hoping for half the life of my 1st. It did not disappointed me yet. Just turned over 350k miles and is still my daily driver. Would not even think twice about heading cross country. I have replaced a starter, clutch master cylinder, and all bushings and ball joints (only one failed but I changed them all). Have yet to even replace the clutch but it is starting to slip I will buy another one if this one does give it up.

  • Amazing! - 1996 Toyota Tacoma
    By -

    My ratings are based on this trucks performance in its best days. 4cyl, 4 spd, basic model. Sadly, at 310,000 miles its begining to decline. I bought it with 4500 miles and since then all thats been replaced other than the usual things is the starter - NOTHING ELSE! Clutch began to slip at 290,000; AC broke at 295,000 but thats it! Im having to downshift a lot to get it up hills but its been a phenomenal vehicle. I just sold an 03 fully equipped 4wd CrewCab Tacoma with almost 100k that looked and performed like new. Sad to see it go but I didnt need a fancy commuter anymore. Hope our 01 Sequoia will perform as well even with all its fancy stuff.

  • I Love My Toyota - 1996 Toyota Tacoma
    By -

    I bought my Toyota at 118,000 , and after replacing little things here and there, it still runs like new and looks good. It has seen mud and water door high and have not got it stuck yet. I will have this truck restored and give it to my son (maybe) I do love my truck..

  • For a little truck, I love it. - 1996 Toyota Tacoma
    By -

    This truck has been great. The truck was bought with 40k miles,and now has 267k. The only problem has been the catalytic converter, I am now on my 3rd. Beyond that, everything has been great, just regular maintenance. I am starting to feel a slight slip in the transmission when I shift from reverse to drive. The ride is not the most comfortable, ever since I bought the truck, I have felt every bump and crack in the road. I love this truck and feel it has gone well above and beyond what was expected of it.

  • Tacoma Tough Club - 1996 Toyota Tacoma
    By -

    Bought my 1996 Tacoma in 1999. First owner really drove the truck hard, but still it is in great mechanical shape. Ive continued to drive the truck hard and have never had any problems with it. I wholeheartedly recommend this vehicle to anyone in the compact pickup market. You cant beat Toyota quality.

  • Tuff Yoda - 1996 Toyota Tacoma
    By -

    Wow, this has been the best vehicle i have ever owned. I feel it has a very attractive body style compared to other small trucks, and I can overtake every small truck I race (V-6). I have gone on multiple road trips across the US with no problems. This truck has NEVER left me stranded. I would certainly buy another one, however gas is getting a little expensive. Overall, a darn good buy!

  • Reliable little truck - 1996 Toyota Tacoma
    By -

    I am the original owner of this truck with 100k. The only non maint. item was the starter. 30mpg, tight turning radius. Downside: bland looks, cramped interior, terrible seats. Also has high wind/road noise and is easily blown about by high winds.

  • 240000 mile and going - 1996 Toyota Tacoma
    By -

    A few experiences with this - 1. the frame broke while going 5 miles per hour. Toyota fixed it and gave us a loaner till the repairs were complete. 2. Front tie rod separated at Sams while getting tires. Both event 1 and 2 would have probably involved a injury if going faster than 5 miles per hour. The battery to starter cable seems to be a occasional problem. The suspension is shot. The seats are worn out. The insurance is high on this vehicle.

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