2nd vs 3rd Gen reliability

Looking at a 2nd or 3rd Gen 6 cyl and preferably a manual.
Are the 2nd Gen really that much more reliable ?
i definitely like then3rd Gen looks.
Plan to buy used and keep awhile so reliability into 250-300000 miles is important.

 

Given that a lot of 2nd gens left are probably around/at 200k mi by now (unless you find a unicorn), your best bet would be a 22 or 23 3rd gen.

Do a search for high mileage thread and you'll see that 3rd gens can last as long or longer than 2nd gens. Everyone has their love/hate thoughts about either but both are solid vehicles if you take care of them. You're posting this question on the 3rd gen side so you'll naturally get answers skewed towards the 3rd.

Edit: here's one such thread: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/400k-club.721719/#post-25695260

 

I'd go 3rd gen. Better looking inside and out. The newest 2nd gen is 10 years old at this point. I'll take the newer, pretty reliable truck, over the older pretty reliable truck any day.

Having said that the 3rd gen isn't without its flaws. Drive one and make sure the engine/trans is for you. For me the only major problem I've seen on here that is concerning is the valve burning but that's been pretty rare. Others such as leaking timing cover (also a 2nd gen issue) and leaking coolant crossover are on the radar but something I'd deal with if they happened.

I know long term reliability is your end goal but if I were buying right now I'd take a hard look at the 4th gen.

 

I don’t think you can go wrong with either provided they were taken care of. Look for maintenance records and beware of rust!

 

The drivetrain is essentially the same, the gearing is a little funky from 1st to 2nd due to EPA noise limit shenanigans, the 3rd gen does have more electronic limiters, especially when in 4lo, which, kinda sucks, but helps keep you from digging the truck down to its frame, you do get ATACS and eLSD on the higher trims. It is a much more complex machine over the 2nd gen, especially in the power plant side of things.

In the end, durability I'd say is no different, but reliability is lower. And I am using the words durability and reliability in the classical sense. They will both handle the same obstacles similarly without breaking, but the 3rd gen is not as field repairable friendly in a sense, you have more sensors, more complex systems such as VVT, high and low pressure fuel pumps, Direct injectors and all that jazz which take more tools, more parts, etc.

3rd gen is a nicer truck on and off the road if you have the money, they are just as durable as the 2nd gens, they are more complex machines however.

 

Ultimately I think you should be open to both as you shop. as far as going 250k miles.. I think they both have similar odds, from new. In reality 3rd gens are just going to be not as old and therefore less exposed to the elements, lower mileage, etc,.
The 2nd gens technically have a more proven record. But the 3rd gen has showed virtually no signs of being any less reliable overall. Plenty of cases of them going 300k+ already. Again this is my 2nd hand experience but I’m just trying to drive home the point that if your truck is going to go over 250k, it’s going to because of routine maintenance and overall care, not dependent on 2nd vs 3rd gen.

I have a 2013, if I were to buy another Tacoma today.. I would be looking at 12-15. But that’s due to my preferences and bias. Test drive both if possible. My 2nd gen is outdated on many comforts and features by modern standards, but that’s partially what I love about it. Hypothetically, if you were looking at an identical (good) condition 2013 vs 2018, and the interior of the 3rd gen is not a strong preference to you over the 2nd gen interior. I’d probably take the 2nd gen considering it’ll cost about 10k less and get the same mpg ! These trucks are much more similar than they are different. Good luck !

 

The 2nd gen is a better truck. A clean one would be the best option

 

3rd gen with 2nd gen engine and trans...
If only, all day, any day..

 

Allow me to stir the pot a bit. I have two neighbors that drive 1st Gen Tacomas and love them. When you buy any vehicle used, make sure it appears well maintained and well cared for.

 

Is there really anyone out there that doesn't?

 

The only thing better than a 2nd gen

they are tiny inside tho

 

Brake controlled "LSD" is on all 4x4 3rd gens no matter the trim

 

What does “that much more reliable mean”?
They are essentially the same truck and one is almost a decade newer.

 

Massive difference between the 4.0 and the Atkinson 3.5.

 

You mean they both have four wheels and a bed?
That's about where the similarities end.

 

And same engine and trans.

 

Short of the dual injectors nope. Same understressed pos

 

Negative...

 

Sounds like you have more than one priority; looks and reliability

Lol, there is always some bargain hunters out there looking for the most beat up piece of shit they can find!

 

lol. Sure man