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 31 through 40 of 48.00

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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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  Most basic truck - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By dexyuen - September 17 - 9:34 am

  Maybe my truck is just having its time and I probably would have rated higher if I had it earlier but Its been Ok truck I bought it with 237,000 miles and I have 320,000 on it since Ive 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 Im working out there.

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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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  Disappointment for a Toyota - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By Josh C. - January 10 - 10:16 am

  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 Ive repaired the transmission linkages 4 times and had numerous electrical problems. Very disappointing for the reputation of a Toyota.

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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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  Tacoma - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By tacoaLX - March 15 - 8:13 am

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

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  Runs till it Rusts! - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By Taco Owner - January 5 - 8:26 am

  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.

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  Yota - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By ryan lock - December 10 - 2:00 am

  Very reliable, if maintained properly

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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.

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  Tacomas really are indestructible - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By haus - May 11 - 7:23 am

  I love my Tacoma. I dont think there is any other truck that can do what this has. I have 185000 miles on mine and havent replaced anything except for the brakes and timing belt.