2005 Toyota Tacoma used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Sudden unintended acceleration40 owner complaints, usually around 61,000 miles

  Check that the car accelerates smoothly, without hesitation or surges, and that cruise control works.

• Airbag warning light27 owner complaints, usually around 73,105 miles, owners paid about $600

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

• Jerking or lurching20 owner complaints, usually around 50,000 miles

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• SuspensionRecall number 14V604000, Sep 29, 2014
• Seat beltsRecall number 13V337000, Aug 7, 2013
• Air bagsRecall number 12V092000, Mar 7, 2012
• EquipmentRecall number 10V035000, Feb 3, 2010
• EquipmentRecall number 10V036000, Feb 3, 2010
• Vehicle speed controlRecall number 09V388000, Oct 5, 2009
• EquipmentRecall number 09V223000, Jun 15, 2009
• Air bagsRecall number 06V096000, Apr 3, 2006
• Air bagsRecall number 05V302000, Jun 28, 2005
• Parking brakeRecall number 05V050000, Feb 11, 2005

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical...Dec 6, 2024
• To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used...Dec 6, 2024
• The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix...Dec 6, 2024
• Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal...Dec 5, 2024
• Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad...Dec 3, 2024
• Condition in which a musty odor is presentJul 29, 2024

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.