The 2002 Tacoma is more reliable than other cars from the same model year.
The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2002 Toyota Tacoma owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.
AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.
"had to repalce control head"
Anonymous, UT (2002 Toyota Tacoma Base 2.7-L 4 Cyl)"Heater controls on dash no longer work."
Anonymous, KY (2002 Toyota Tacoma Base 3.4-L V6)Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.
"Rust on frame never told truth about frame until too late. Trying to find weld shop to put on safety T cap."
Anonymous A., IN (2002 Toyota Tacoma Base 2.4-L 4 Cyl)"frame rusted out"
Anonymous, PA (2002 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner 3.4-L V6)"All tank seals were replaced so it could pass SMOG."
Anonymous A., CA (2002 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner 2.7-L 4 Cyl)Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.
"Rear differential noise was noted. Disassembled differential and replaced all bearing and seals. Front pinion bearing was bad which is a known failure point."
Anonymous, AZ (2002 Toyota Tacoma Base 3.4-L V6)"Both rear axle bearings failed due to leaky axle seals and the use of the wrong grade of real axle oil. Replaced both bearings and axle seals."
Anonymous, AZ (2002 Toyota Tacoma Base 3.4-L V6)Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.
"right front wheel came off the ball joint as I was turning into a parking lot"
Anonymous A., TX (2002 Toyota Tacoma Base 2.4-L 4 Cyl)Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.
"Truck has never been garaged. So exposed to all weather for 23 years. I need to have the truck re-painted and plan to do so end of this year."
Anonymous, (2002 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner 2.7-L 4 Cyl)Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.
"It started the day after I returned from a local campground. I was making a short drive and noticed the brake pedal seemed low and then I saw the brake problem indicator light on. I still could brake and drove home slowly. I drove to the nearby Toyota dealer the next day. They diagnosed the master cylinder was leaking into the brake booster. Master cylinder and brake booster were replaced. Front brake pads replaced, rotors machined, and rear brakes cleaned and adjusted. Cost $1549."
Anonymous, CA (2002 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner 3.4-L V6)Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.
""Ongoing. Most noticeable when idling. We have good mechanics, they have never been able to locate/isolate problem.""
Anonymous A., FL (2002 Toyota Tacoma Unsure 2.4-L 4 Cyl)Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.
Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.
Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.
Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.
Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.
Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.
Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.
Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.
Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.
Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.
Toyota Tacoma
Dodge Dakota
Ford Ranger
"A/C controls on dash no longer work."
Anonymous, KY (2002 Toyota Tacoma Base 3.4-L V6)