My wife is looking to buy a 98-04 prerunner, 4 cyl auto. Any issues I should be aware of (ie; 3.0 headgasket)? Thanks

 

bump.... I'm assuming with no responses there are no known issues.

 

The 98-04 had either the 2.7L 4 cylinder or the 3.4L V-6. I am almost certain the 3.0 wasn't around after 96. I had a Tacoma with the 2.7 and a 4Runner with the 3.4 and I have had no trouble with the motors on either of them. Good luck.

 

yeah no issues with that engine but exhaust header cracking.... but toyota fixed it in the new header!!

 

I was just using the 3.0 headgasket issue as an example, I'm not looking at that engine, but just wanted to make sure the '98-'04 4 cylinders didn't have any issues (engine or trans) Thanks for the replies.

 

I'd say the 2.7L is among one of the best Yota motors- good gas mileage, good power output, dependable, forgiving, no real issues, heck, you don't even have timing chain issues like the 22r(e)!

 

The 2.7 is a stout motor. It is not extremely powerful, but on the other hand, if you drive like a grandparent (I am) you would get 20+ mpg (city/hwy). I consistently get about 22 mpg. As with all Tacoma's, if you look in the dictionary under "reliable"...it's fig. 1. Mine has over 175K miles. The only issue I had was the knock sensor at 110K, which was replaced quickly (after finding the part at some parts counter). Don't replace the trans filter, but do occasionally replace the trans fluid (2-3 qts), which is easily done. Regular maintenance...Other than that, enjoy.

 

Best tacoma to get is the 2001-2004 in my opinion. With toyotas combinations of fixing the exhaust issues, and updating the front end and and interior. The interior just seems to flow the best, without being overly gaudy like the 2005+ style.

They will be a spendy rig, but maintinence is fairly cheap.