1998 Toyota Tacoma Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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The 1998 Toyota Tacoma saw a number of changes, including the addition of several new trims and the discontinuation of the SR5. New standard equipment was also offered in all models.
The 1998 Toyota Tacoma was available in nine different configurations: the Regular Cab, Xtracab, and Xtracab V6 in 2WD or 4WD, Limited Xtracab 4WD, PreRunner 2WD, and PreRunner V6 2WD. The PreRunners come equipped with 4x4 tires but is a 2WD. The base engine was a 2.4 liter 142 horsepower four cylinder. The 4WDs came standard with a 2.7L 150 horsepower four cylinder. The V6 has 3.4 liters and 190 horsepower. Fuel economy was about 17/20 mpg.
Drivers of the 1998 Toyota Tacoma love it for its off-road capabilities, compact size, and good gas mileage. Owners do complain that the Tacoma doesn’t offer much room in the extended cab, and that the seats are uncomfortable.
Published Aug 9, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 1998 Toyota Tacoma
Write a reviewUser rating:
by Tony R
Jan 10, 2024
Best trucks ever built, hands down!!
Reliable and holds value.
Jan 10, 2024
by Mark G
Nov 07, 2022
My 1998 Tacoma has over 400,000 miles and still runs great. I have no complaints! I currently own three of these first-generation Tacomas and love them. I do my own maintenance on these vehicles and for the most part they are pretty easy to work on. If you take care of them, theyll just keep running. I would never purchase any other vehicle with over 200K miles and be willing to pay $10K or more for it. I would only do this on these first-generation Tacomas. You will get your money out of it. The V6 3.4 L engine in these trucks are awesome!Nov 07, 2022
by tom h
Sep 22, 2020
Hood plain Jane vehicle. Runs smooth, shifts smoothly. Sep 22, 2020
User rating:
by Tony R
Jan 10, 2024
Best trucks ever built, hands down!!
Reliable and holds value.
Jan 10, 2024
by Mark G
Nov 07, 2022
My 1998 Tacoma has over 400,000 miles and still runs great. I have no complaints! I currently own three of these first-generation Tacomas and love them. I do my own maintenance on these vehicles and for the most part they are pretty easy to work on. If you take care of them, theyll just keep running. I would never purchase any other vehicle with over 200K miles and be willing to pay $10K or more for it. I would only do this on these first-generation Tacomas. You will get your money out of it. The V6 3.4 L engine in these trucks are awesome!Nov 07, 2022
by tom h
Sep 22, 2020
Hood plain Jane vehicle. Runs smooth, shifts smoothly. Sep 22, 2020
by Jamie G
Mar 03, 2020
Everything went great couldn’t have asked for better very nice truck Mar 03, 2020
by Anonymous
May 24, 2012
I always liked the simple look of the truck, white exterior and gray interior. For a truck, it gets really good gas mileage and maintenance was always so simple, I did oil changes and tune ups myself. I also have never had trouble passing smog, that's a huge plus. I've never tried towing with the truck, so I just gave a 3 star rating since the power is there.May 24, 2012
by Colleen K
Nov 28, 2011
I hardly ever see a limited on the trucks, I wonder why? My 1st Toyota was the 4wd 90 that blue the head gasket said i would never buy another Toyota but I did. I also wonder why 1/2 of the 98's use a timing belt and the other half use a timing chain did they use what ever thay had left?? Thanks ColleenNov 28, 2011
by Arturo J
Feb 26, 2011
I have no dislikes about it the only thing i have to say about it is that it has a lot of miles :( but as long as i take care of it and do all it services on time it will last long :)Feb 26, 2011
by Karl S
Sep 28, 2010
it's sweet! the harder I drive it the better it runs. 25 miles a gallon. never had a never had a break down. peaty cheep hell yea you can do anything to. hell yea not one bit. no not at all Sep 28, 2010
by Spencer M
May 27, 2010
well its a good truck and it gets ya from point A to point B its a nice shade of red and its LOUD!! it also has some good stereo in the back for when i want to crank on my hank williams jr.May 27, 2010
by Lauren M
Dec 01, 2009
Build quality is amazing as usual with Toyota's. Love the performance, it takes off and handles like a little go-kart. Cost of ownership would be almost nothing if I didn't customize it as much as I did/will do. Really happy with the appearance as I love the color. I LOVE driving it! Hoping to add a lot more too it in the future; 33 inch tires (that I don't have to steal off our Tundra), sliders, stinger bumper, rear offroad bumper, and who knows what!Dec 01, 2009
by Kurtis T
Sep 29, 2009
got nothing bad to say about it once supercharger makes it alot more fun to drive it is everything in 1 vehicle its fast and can go anywhere i point the wheels to go and still beat hondas in a race Sep 29, 2009
by Austin S
Sep 20, 2009
Performacnce was great with acceleration, breaking not so much, great handling. It only needed repairs when I totaled the car, and it was still golden even after the wreck. The appearance of the car is well, a truck and is cool. The inside of the truck was well maintained, and it is still in great condition. Gas mileage was not too great, 18mph on average, and maintenance was not bad, only the required maintenance was ever needed besides the wreck. The car was great to drive and if I ever buy a pick up again, I'm going straight to the Toyota Tacoma.Sep 20, 2009
by John B
Feb 02, 2009
After the k&n air filter, it really helped the top end acceleration in emergency situations. i threw some wax on the body then the white dragon was lookin like sugar on the freeway. man i can't help myself im so U.G.K. the bed is too small to do real work but if i need to bring some smelly ass flip food somewhere thats where you might find itFeb 02, 2009
by Josh S
Jan 14, 2009
The truck works. Good on gas mileage, and only have to do regular maintenance to keep it working. Cost is rather low, performance is alright. I like driving it, but I'd like to have something else. Appearance is alright, nothing great but nothing bad.Jan 14, 2009
by Nikki M
Jan 05, 2009
Performance – acceleration, braking, handling OK
Build Quality – has it needed repairs?NO squeaks/rattlesNONE
Appearance – both interior and exterior styling AWESOME
Cost of Ownership – gas mileage, maintenance 23AVG,MIMIMAL
Fun Factor – is this car fun to drive? YESS
Would you recommend this car to a friend? If not, why?YESSJan 05, 2009
by Jessi B
Aug 01, 2008
The Taco is a great, great truck - functional and reliable. My only reservation (and the reason that I'll probably have to sell it soon) is its gas consumption. Even though it's very good for its class (18-20 mpg mixed driving), it's still not good enough for all of the driving that I do.
However, it is one of the best compact trucks out there. It can tow, carry large amounts of stuff, and is great off-road. The V-6 engine gives it enough torque to feel lively enough when merging on the freeway, though you'll never mistake it for a sports car. Handling is ok - once again, it's a truck.
Where it really shines is in its reliability. I bought it with 120K miles, and have had no problems or expenses other than normal maintenance costs. Just like other Toyotas, it will keep running forever.Aug 01, 2008
by Joshua F
Jul 17, 2008
Great truck. always down to work, and always down to get me to work. over 175000 miles on this rig and it drives like it has 75000 on it. couldnt ask for more from it. why do i have to give a minimum of fifty words on this stupid review.Jul 17, 2008
by Tait R
Jul 02, 2008
This one has a little trebbling problem but handled well and has good acceleration.Jul 02, 2008
by Shaun E
Apr 19, 2008
Its great they are making me write more. I don't know why. It's a Tacoma what more do I have to say.Apr 19, 2008
by Russell M
Apr 11, 2008
I had a blast with this truck while it lasted!Apr 11, 2008
by Steve S
Apr 04, 2008
I love this truck! One day it will be show qualityApr 04, 2008
by Matt T
Mar 18, 2008
It's a good vehicle to start out with. Mine is a manual trans. It has good gas milage, and good performance.Mar 18, 2008
by Caleb T
Dec 24, 2007
98 tacoma with a few mods, most noticably, the Konig Tuner II 18'sDec 24, 2007
by Anonymous
Sep 18, 2007
what bed size does the 1998 tocoma have?Sep 18, 2007
by Anonymous
Aug 12, 2007
only had it 6 wks. So far I like it fine. There isn't nearly as much interior room or as much torque (feelable power) as in the "83" Mitsubishi it replaced, but I'm trying to get used to it.Aug 12, 2007
What users have asked
Has my truck been tampered with?
So I have a 98 tacoma and it seems lower. I may seem paranoid and whack but my X is a sociopath and parted out my last truck. To the point that it would not start, I donated it. With that said i'm extremely suspicious of somethng happening to this truck. Im aware of the creeps jacking catalytic converters and flipping trucks so im kinda losing my mind over it. I just got it back from mechanics for a tune up and o2 sensor sitch. and ws driving when something slammed up under either the hood or the floor board passenger. It sounded like I imagine a bungee cord slapping. No belts are broke and nothing was in street. And my truck seems lower. He took leaf springs from last truck but I was away so he removed the bed. He couldnt do that now so im curious is there something underneath truck that a dirt bag could get to that would affect the lift and height of truck. Im only 5' tall so Im pretty aware of the the height because I couldnt touch the middle of the hood with out standing on step stool whereas, now i can. I apologize if this all sounds crazy. Welcome to my world. BTW; he and his concubine are mechanics so they are hip to hop on cars and trucks hence, my last truck and have all necessary tools. Any feed back would be appreciated.
35 views
Spark plug gap specifications
Spark plug gap specifications 2.4 l
110 views
98 Tacoma blinker/brake light combo
All my lights work. Blinkers work fine until I hit the brakes, then they start blinking fast. Both sides. And it only does it when the truck is running. The ignition can be in the run position but truck not running and they don't blink fast. But as soon as I start it up they blink fast. Anyone know the solution to this problem?
26 views
why will my truck not start?
1998 Toyota Tacoma 4x4. I left my door open just enough to kill my battery (truck wasnt cranked for around 2 days). Hooked my 4Runner to it with jumper cables and it never would charge enough to even get a click (tried for 40 mins). Got a good refurbished battery and put on yesterday evening, soon as I turned the key the radio came on and dash lights. But, then as soon as I try to crank I get 2 clicks and lose all power- no lights no radio nothing. Take hot side of jumper cable off and put right back on and get the same result- radio and lights good until i try to crank- loss of all power. Done this multiple times and nothing changed. Whats the problem?
35 views
Top Comparisons
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1998 Toyota Tacoma Pricing
Original MSRP
$12,958 to $24,448Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-only
Exterior Features
Bumper color: chrome · Pickup tonneau cover: soft
Seats
Front seat type: bench · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Truck Features
Pickup truck sliding rear window: manual horizontal
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-only
Exterior Features
Bumper color: chrome · Pickup tonneau cover: soft
Rear Seats
Type: jumpseats
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Truck Features
Pickup truck sliding rear window: manual horizontal
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-only
Exterior Features
Bumper color: chrome · Pickup tonneau cover: soft
Rear Seats
Type: jumpseats
Seats
Front seat type: split-bench · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: steel
Truck Features
Pickup truck sliding rear window: manual horizontal
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-only
Exterior Features
Bumper color: chrome · Pickup tonneau cover: soft
Rear Seats
Type: jumpseats
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Truck Features
Pickup truck sliding rear window: manual horizontal
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-only
Exterior Features
Bumper color: chrome · Pickup tonneau cover: soft
Rear Seats
Type: jumpseats
Seats
Front seat type: split-bench · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Truck Features
Pickup truck sliding rear window: manual horizontal
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-only
Exterior Features
Front bumper color: chrome · Rear bumper color: chrome
Rear Seats
Type: jumpseats
Seats
Front seat type: split-bench · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: steel
Truck Features
Pickup truck sliding rear window: manual horizontal
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-only
Exterior Features
Bumper color: chrome · Pickup tonneau cover: soft
Seats
Front seat type: bench · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Truck Features
Pickup truck sliding rear window: manual horizontal
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-only
Exterior Features
Front bumper color: chrome · Rear bumper color: chrome
Rear Seats
Type: jumpseats
Seats
Front seat type: split-bench · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: steel
Truck Features
Pickup truck sliding rear window: manual horizontal
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-only
Exterior Features
Bumper color: chrome · Pickup tonneau cover: soft
Rear Seats
Type: jumpseats
Seats
Front seat type: split-bench · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Truck Features
Pickup truck sliding rear window: manual horizontal
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-only
Exterior Features
Bumper color: chrome · Pickup tonneau cover: soft
Rear Seats
Type: jumpseats
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Truck Features
Pickup truck sliding rear window: manual horizontal
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-only
Exterior Features
Bumper color: chrome · Pickup tonneau cover: soft
Rear Seats
Type: jumpseats
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Truck Features
Pickup truck sliding rear window: manual horizontal
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-only
Exterior Features
Bumper color: chrome · Pickup tonneau cover: soft
Rear Seats
Type: jumpseats
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Truck Features
Pickup truck sliding rear window: manual horizontal
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Exterior Features
Front bumper color: chrome · Pickup tonneau cover: soft · Rear bumper color: chrome
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: jumpseats
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Truck Features
Pickup truck sliding rear window: manual horizontal
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent