The Toyota Tacoma is the perfect truck for any high school or college-aged person. It’s light, compact, and extremely reliable. The Arcata High parking lot would not be the same if it were not scattered with these light pick-ups.
Taj Stevens drives a 1989 Toyota Pickup (pre Tacoma, same specs), 5-speed manual with 294,000 miles
Danillo Fanti drives a 2004 Toyota Tacoma Prerunner four-door with 210,000 miles
Elijah Lantelme drives a 2010 Toyota Tacoma TRD four-door with 196,000 miles
Brady Rains drives a 2014 Toyota Tacoma with 184,000 miles
I personally drive a 2004 Toyota Tacoma 5-speed manual with 313,000 miles
Even with age and high mileage, these trucks keep pushing the limits of what people think is possible in older vehicles.
These trucks all run perfectly with no issues, minus an oil leak here and there. And it is virtually impossible to get them stuck anywhere, as they are so light and responsive.
Stevens said, “One time I was out in Samoa and got stuck all the way up to my doors in sand…I just put ‘er in four-wheel drive and just backed right out.”
Stories like this just show what these trucks are capable of. Think about how mighty these little machines are. Stevens’ truck was able to complete such a feat with bald tires and with no real off-roading experience, and no one around to help him.
It is difficult to understand the love for these vehicles if you don’t own one or haven’t ever been in risky situations with these mini-trucks.
OVERVIEW
One reason these trucks last so long is their simple and durable design. Many Tacomas come equipped with a 3.4-liter V6 engine and optional four-wheel drive, a combination known for reliability.
These first and second-generation Tacomas have a standard extra cab and four-door option as well. In addition. An accident in the back seat can lead to a problem, and a problem in the back seat can lead to an accident, so I recommend the extended cab, in my opinion. They also look cooler.
Tacomas are also incredibly easy to work on, which just adds to their popularity for young and old drivers who may not have the budget for expensive repairs. Basic maintenance tasks such as oil changes, brake service, and suspension work can be performed in a driveway with a set of simple tools and some patience.
Because of this, many people learn to fix and mod their trucks themselves, which only creates a stronger passion and connection to their vehicle.
Parts are also super easy to find, and the trucks can easily last past that 300,000-mile point with proper care and attention.
In a place like Humboldt County, where outdoor adventures are part of daily life, these compact, lightweight trucks prove themselves awesome time and time again.
