Overview & Reviews

The 1997 Toyota Tacoma receives several new value packages that make optioning the truck easier. A locking rear-wheel differential is now available on all 4WD models. Bucket seats can be had on all Xtracab Tacomas this year; not just the SR5. Two-wheel-drive models have new headlamps and a new grille that make the vehicle look more like the T100.

• Powerful, rugged, and reliable.

• Luke-warm about the revised styling. Dangerously close to full-size truck prices.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 48.00

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  It will outlast you - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By AlabamaGuy - November 27 - 5:26 am

  Ive 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.

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  One of the best trucks ever made - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By Brushymount - September 7 - 2:00 am

  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.

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  Very reliable and a great truck - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By Zac Price - November 26 - 2:00 am

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

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  97 Tacoma 4x4 - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By jknutson - March 7 - 10:00 am

  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.

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  1997 Toyota Tacoma - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By jenaka - March 7 - 10:00 am

  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.

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  Unbelievable - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By Bobo - September 19 - 8:10 pm

  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. Ive 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. Dont let your wife use it or youll never get it back.

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  97 Tacoma 4x4, 2.7L - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By knut - November 14 - 10:00 am

  This truck is a great value. Its 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 Ive heard...superior to all others. Right now for small trucks, the Tacoma is the only one Id consider.

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  Best money ever spent! - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By william1969 - June 3 - 1:50 am

  I purchased my 1997 Toyota Tacoma LX V6 Extra Cab in 99 with 67,000 miles on it. Today, it has 272,000 miles. Ive 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 Ive witnessed. Ive been offered by three different individuals on separate occasions to buy it from me. Its not going to happen.

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  Great Truck!! - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By John M. - November 23 - 2:00 am

  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. doesnt burn any oil, and the original clutch still works perfect. I highly recommend the Toyota truck.

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  97 XCAB 4X4 - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By oldster - June 17 - 2:00 am

  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.