2003 Toyota Tacoma Review
Price Range: $15,999 - $16,499
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Price & Payment
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Average price: $12,138
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Price
Toyota Tacoma model years
Toyota Tacoma types
- Double Cab
- Xtracab
- Regular Cab
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Flexible and refined drivetrains, competent off-road, multiple body configurations.
Cons
- High price, most convenience features are optional, no third or fourth door on Xtracabs.
What’s new
The 2003 Toyota Tacoma compact pickup is upgraded with standard antilock brakes on all models. Additionally, child restraint system lower anchors have been added to the front passenger seat on Regular and Xtracab models, and to the rear outboard seats on Double Cab models.
Edmunds says
A capable compact pickup with a variety of body styles to suit most buyers. Has a reputation for reliability, but value in question due to high asking prices.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
66 listings
- 136,413 miles
- No accidents, 3 owners, personal use only
- 6'3” bed, 3.4l, 6cyl
- Dotcom Auto (8 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Rear Bench Seats
- 6ft Bed
- Crew Cab
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
Close
Located in Chantilly, VA
Visit Dotcom Auto online at dotcomauto.net to see more pictures of this vehicle or call us at 703-327-9779 today to schedule your test drive.
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
16 Combined MPG (15 City/18 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 5TEHN72N03Z178615
Stock: A178615
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 01-01-2026- 133,862 miles
- Frame damage reported, 3 owners, personal use only
- 6'3” bed, 3.4l, 6cyl
- Dotcom Auto (8 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Rear Bench Seats
- 6ft Bed
- Crew Cab
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
Close
Located in Chantilly, VA
Visit Dotcom Auto online at dotcomauto.net to see more pictures of this vehicle or call us at 703-327-9779 today to schedule your test drive.
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Issue reported
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: Yes
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
16 Combined MPG (15 City/18 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 5TEHN72N63Z193698
Stock: A193698
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 06-21-2025
Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
The 2003 Toyota Tacoma is celebrated for its impressive reliability and versatility. Many owners praise its competent off-road capabilities, asserting that it tackles rugged terrain with confidence, especially the TRD Off-Road package. This truck’s robust build earns it a reputation as a reliable companion for adventures, whether it's maneuvering through snowy mountains or tackling sandy beaches. Buyers appreciate the strong reputation Toyota trucks hold, often expressing unwavering brand loyalty. The Tacoma’s V6 engine receives commendation for delivering enough power for towing and hauling tasks while maintaining decent fuel efficiency. Owners frequently highlight the vehicle’s ease of maintenance as a major benefit, with routine upkeep keeping their Tacomas healthy over long lifespans. A number of enthusiasts report racking up high mileage without significant mechanical failures, a testament to the truck's durability. Its functionality as a utility vehicle is enhanced by multiple body configurations, catering to a variety of needs, from casual driving to demanding load-bearing tasks. Many owners are pleasantly surprised by the truck’s fuel economy, describing it as favorable for the pickup category. Tacoma owners acknowledge the utility of the vehicle’s manual transmission, particularly valuing the engagement and control it offers. Those with manual variants often highlight their enjoyment in driving these models, noting that they are regretfully becoming a rarity in the automotive market. The Tacoma’s interior, while simplistic, is appreciated for its straightforward design and adequate comfort for extended drives. The compact dimensions of the Tacoma make it manageable for tight urban parking, yet spacious enough to feel comfortable on long road trips. Child anchors and enhanced safety features add to the appeal for families, providing peace of mind. Owners highlight their satisfaction with the truck’s practicality, often using it for a range of activities from commuting to versatile hauling. The truck’s ability to handle a variety of outdoor recreational equipment—such as kayaks, bikes, and trailers—enables a flexible lifestyle. Many report a low cost of ownership, noting that even with occasional repairs, the Tacoma remains an economically smart choice. Enthusiasts appreciate the truck’s classic styling, stating that its design holds up well and earns compliments even years after purchase. Despite its age, the 2003 Tacoma’s features like the double cab are valued for their spacious, family-friendly layout, which is both practical and comfortable. The Tacoma’s reputation for reliability is consistently reinforced, with many owners determined to drive theirs for as long as possible, often without foreseeable plans to upgrade. The truck's strong resale value is another draw, with many noting the high demand for used Tacomas. Owners express a deep-seated satisfaction with their vehicles, often stipulating they have no regrets despite the initial expense. Many consider the Tacoma to be a trusted long-term investment, providing them with virtually worry-free driving and trusty performance year after year.
Common Issues
The 2003 Toyota Tacoma comes with its fair share of owner frustrations. Many drivers report experiences of rust issues, particularly affecting areas like the rear bumper and bed, often attributed to exposure to road salt and humid environments. It's a common gripe that these rust problems develop unexpectedly, despite attempts at preventive care. Some owners note a persistent rattle or creak emanating from the dashboard, an annoyance even when driving over relatively smooth surfaces. The Tacoma's interior, while generally durable, occasionally suffers from cramped conditions, especially uncomfortable for taller drivers and passengers. The clock placement is a frequently mentioned inconvenience, awkwardly positioned behind the steering wheel and difficult to view at a glance. Turning radius is another shortcoming, cited by owners as unusually wide for a vehicle of its size, complicating navigation in crowded parking lots and tight turns. Some owners experience intermittent pop-outs of gear during cruising, necessitating a quick reengagement—a particularly unwelcome hassle on longer drives. Electrical issues arise occasionally, with some complaints about dash and headlight failures despite fuse replacements, contributing to maintenance headaches. While off-road prowess is a strength, the Tacoma’s on-road presence can feel a bit rough and bouncy, especially on highways. Comfort isn't the Tacoma's strong suit, with many drivers pointing out that the seats don’t provide enough support during extended trips. The ride quality tends to lean towards rough on uneven roads, a factor that detracts from an otherwise strong build reputation. Transmission concerns surface, with some models exhibiting clunky shifts that impede overall driving pleasure. Air conditioning issues, such as compressor failures, have been reported around the 150,000-mile mark, sometimes requiring costly repairs. For manual transmission models, some owners experience difficulty shifting into reverse without needing to nudge the vehicle forward first—a notable inconvenience. The appearance of paint chipping in unusual spots comes up, leading to concerns over the vehicle’s long-term visual appeal. While fuel economy generally receives praise, it varies significantly, with some owners finding it lacking during city commutes. Despite its strengths, disappointment arises from limited storage options within the cabin, making it challenging to store personal items conveniently. Brake performance can waver when hitting bumps, with the antilock system occasionally causing unexpected slides instead of the anticipated stoppage. The Tacoma’s aging audio system and interior design sometimes leave owners yearning for modern upgrades and better-built materials. In rare cases, mechanical failures such as engine overheats and mysterious clunks while accelerating lead to frustration. Despite regular maintenance, some owners encounter persistent radiator leaks and sensor malfunctions, raising questions about long-term reliability. However, even with these concerns, many find the truck’s reliability on balance outweighs these inconveniences, maintaining its status as a favored vehicle choice.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2003 Toyota Tacoma earns its place as a trusted ally in everyday driving. Owners often highlight the truck’s steadfast reliability, reporting few major breakdowns despite high mileage. It’s common to hear drivers express their intention to keep their Tacomas running indefinitely, illustrating a deep-seated confidence in the vehicle’s longevity. Many admire its robust off-road capabilities, finding that it performs admirably whether towing, hauling, or simply navigating rugged trails. Despite occasional comfort issues on long drives, Tacoma owners trust it to handle daily commutes and diverse terrains without a hitch. Fuel economy stands out positively when compared against other trucks, offering savings for those who regularly hit the highway. The vehicle’s straightforward and minimalistic design appeals to those who value function over form, while still receiving nods for its enduring style. Everyday practicality shines through in its ability to manage both utility tasks and recreational outings, serving diverse needs with equal capability. Enthusiasts appreciate that maintenance feels manageable, with many only attending to routine necessities even after years on the road. The sense of attachment owners feel toward their trucks is palpable, with numerous stories of Tacomas clocking impressive mileage without faltering. There’s a collective trust in Toyota’s build quality, evidenced by owners who also speak positively about previous models. For those who have concerns, such as dashboard niggles or rust spots, these appear minor compared to the truck’s overall serviceability and endurance. Despite having a relatively compact design, it has earned the affection of families who prioritize safety features like the child anchors. The truck’s adaptability, with its multiple body styles, attracts drivers from different walks of life, each finding use for the Tacoma’s capabilities. Lifespan and resale value frequently come up as decisive factors in purchase decisions, as owners know they can rely on a solid return if they choose to sell. Handling is generally praised, with the Tacoma managing to retain maneuverability while offering the strength expected from a pickup. Compliments on the Tacoma’s steadfast nature and its ability to still turn heads years later are common, underlining its appeal beyond mere utility. For those who enjoy hands-on driving, manual transmission models provide an engaging driving experience, though these are cherished as a relic becoming rare in modern lineups. Mechanical issues seem to fade in importance when faced with the continued performance and trust this truck inspires. Routine service keeps the Tacoma running smoothly, and its reputation for durability is well-earned. As owners continue to rack up miles, there’s a consistent reassurance that their Tacomas will remain faithful at each new start.
Reliability
The 2003 Toyota Tacoma has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 5 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
5 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 12V542000
- Manufactured from:
- 2000-08-28 to 2004-08-27
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 150000
- Defect Description:
- Toyota is recalling certain model year 2001 through 2004 Tacoma light trucks manufactured from August 28, 2000, through August 27, 2004, and originally sold, or currently registered, in the following cold climate states with high road salt usage: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. The spare tire in the subject vehicles is located underneath the rear of the vehicle and held by a spare tire carrier. A lift plate on the carrier is used to help raise, lower and retain the tire. During its manufacture, the lift plate may not have been sufficiently coated with anti-corrosion materials. If the plate is insufficiently coated and the vehicle is operated in cold climate regions where road salts are frequently used, road spray can reach the carrier assembly and corrode the lift plate.
- Defect Consequence:
- Corrosion of the plate could cause it to break, which could result in detachment of the spare tire from the vehicle. Detachment of the spare tire could result in a road hazard which may increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Corrective Action:
- A remedy for this defect is currently being developed. Toyota will notify owners when a remedy plan has been finalized. The recall is expected to begin during December 2012. Owners may contact their Toyota dealer or the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.
- Recall Number:
- 06E065000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 3593
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Defect Consequence:
- LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.
- Recall Number:
- 06E026000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 61944
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Defect Consequence:
- WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Corrective Action:
- PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Recall Number:
- 05V225000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 50J
- Manufactured from:
- 2001-07-31 to 2003-12-23
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 768379
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, DUE TO A MANUFACTURING ISSUE IN THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINT, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE SURFACE OF THE BALL OF THE JOINT MAY HAVE BEEN SCRATCHED. THE BALL JOINT MAY EVENTUALLY EXPERIENCE EXCESSIVE WEAR AND LOOSENESS, RESULTING IN INCREASED STEERING EFFORT.
- Defect Consequence:
- THE LOWER BALL JOINT MAY SEPARATE FROM THE KNUCKLE CAUSING LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 5, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Recall Number:
- 03V189000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- SSC 30H
- Manufactured from:
- 2000-09-19 to 2003-02-27
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 123360
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, DURING SIDE IMPACT NCAP TEST (I.E. LINCAP TEST), A FLANGE AT THE REAR END OF THE DOUBLE CAB BODY DEFORMED AND INTERFERED WITH THE FUEL INLET HOSE THAT CONNECTS THE FUEL FILLER PIPE AND FUEL TANK, RESULTING IN DAMAGE TO THE FUEL INLET HOSE.
- Defect Consequence:
- THIS DAMAGE COULD RESULT IN FUEL LEAKAGE, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A FIRE IF IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUEL HOSE PROTECTOR ON THE BODY FLANGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 3, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Warranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 5 years / unlimited miles
Toyota Tacoma Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(70%)
4(22%)
3(7%)
2(1%)
1(0%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Great Truck, 10 years till my next one!
4.75 out of 5 starsJeff Miles, 11/21/2007
2003 Toyota Tacoma 2dr Xtracab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl 5M)
I have to be honest that this is the best truck that I have ever owned. It does great on gas. I never have any problem with it. I use it for hauling, loading kayaks, mountain biking. And driving all over the country. In 5 years I have put 100,000 miles on it with no problem. I plan to put another 150,000 miles on it. I just keep the oil changed brakes and tires every two years and … she runs like a champ. Great looking truck to. Next time though I think I am going to buy the v6. Better for towing my motorcycle!!
TACOMA 4WD 2.7L 5 SPEED
4.63 out of 5 starsKEEP-ON-TRUCKIN', 07/01/2004
2003 Toyota Tacoma 2dr Xtracab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl 5M)
I've always wanted a Toyota 4wd
pickup, and I bought one about a year
ago. It took me a while to get used
to the 2.7L engine and the 5sp. But I
was used to high reving engines, and
this one almost runs like a diesel.
Keep the revs low and change gears
early, and she runs great. This is
definitely a truck engine. You can
feel the torque on the low end. I had
an … old Mazda B2000 and Nissan
Frontier, and liked them both. But
they would bottom out if I carried a
heavy load. Not this baby! The
Tacoma is made for haulin'! But don't
get the 4 cyl if you're always in a
hurry. It has plenty of power to haul
and tow, but its not a race engine.
MPG: 21-22
Good combination of features
4.75 out of 5 starsmaxwellhammer, 04/08/2009
2003 Toyota Tacoma 2dr Xtracab Rwd SB (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2.4L automatic, extended cab 2WD SR5. So far, I'm getting 25 mpg. The smallest engine available, but has perfectly adequate power. This is the first year for standard ABS, which was a hard to find option. I searched forever for these features in a used truck, really glad I found it. I hear the '05 and newer Tacomas don't have as good build quality, they're larger and don't offer the … 2.4L. If you're looking for great reliability and mileage, I'd get an '03 or '04.
What do I fix
4.63 out of 5 starstoyotajeff, 11/21/2010
2003 Toyota Tacoma 4dr Double Cab PreRunner V6 Rwd SB (3.4L 6cyl 4A)
I purchased this truck when I was looking for a 4x4 and ended up being happy even though it is a 2wd. Other than general maintenance I have yet to repair anything ( in fact most mechanics I've talked to have yet to make repairs on this model). I love my taco and I never had any problems with the interior but I think they had an access of clocks cause they used the same one in my 87 … 4runner.
2003 Tacoma Highlights
Double Cab
PreRunner
| Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $18,410 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $188/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
| Max Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs. |
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalAcceptable
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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