The 2009 Tacoma can last over 350,000 miles with only some radio and light problems. At $10,031 – 16,960 it’s expensive, but worth the money for such a capable truck.
The Good
Performance is excellent for a truck, the build quality is higher than rivals and it’s safer than other trucks.
The Bad
The V6 engine is noisy, the driving seat is low and the 4WD models are difficult to climb into.
Is the 2009 Toyota Tacoma a Good Used Truck?
Yes, 2009 is a good year. Owner reviews praise the four wheel drive system, long-lasting engines, and power.
Reliability ratings are great. Models from 2006–2015 are all good with a surge in problems for 2016.
Performance is poor from the base 4-cylinder, but the V6 offers decent power.
The Tacoma is a very safe truck, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
Fuel economy is acceptable for a truck, at up to 22 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Katherine L
Overall, happy with my Tacoma
I purchased my Tacoma used about two years ago. Other than the expected maintenance, I haven't had any issues. The suspension is a little stiff but that is to be expected with a truck. This is my daily driver and it's overall a comfortable ride, long distance however can be a little uncomfortable because the lack of lumbar support. The only other issue I have is the size of the bed, it is neither wide enough or long enough to transport a sheet of plywood, for example.
Ted S
Great truck, great gas mileage.
My Toyota Tacoma has been the best truck ever! Seven of my co-workers have bought Tacoma's on my recommendation! None of them have had any issues either! Just, under no circumstances buy your Tacoma from a Preston dealership in the western Pennsylvania or eastern Ohio area!
Tim S
It's paid off and I should be able to get at least five more years out of it.
It's safe it's in great shape and it's very versatile.
Angie w
It's reliable and needs little service.
It is reliable. The truck can go through snow. No complaints.
stacy m
I love my little Toyota Tacoma!
I love my 2 door small pickup truck. I refer to it as "light and zippy" as it maneuvers easily and quickly. I've had it for 9 years without any major problems. It did need to have the water pump replaced on it right under the 7 year mark. Other than that, just normal wear and tear and maintenance. I love this truck, would recommend it to anyone. I consider it my "starter" truck as I plan to own slightly larger Toyota trucks in the future.
Billie D
Toyota Tacoma review. It's a great vehicle!
I really hadn't had that much in the way of problems, which is great. I like the feel of the ride in it, not choppy like most trucks. It fulfilled all my needs when I went to buy it. It had just enough features to make me happy without paying more for things I didn't need.
Cali P
2009 Toyota Tacoma - reliable & comfortable.
The 2009 Toyota Tacoma has been a very reliable vehicle so far. I have had it for three months. I have had no problems other than a tiny rear differential leak that is very common for a Tacoma of this age. I am pleased with the safety rating and plan to keep this truck when my husband and I start a family. It is a smooth ride with a comfortable interior that makes road trips even more relaxing.
Katie A
It is tough and the four wheel drive is awesome. Love the tint on the windows.
Love the look and 4 wheel drive. Seats could pull up a little more to fit items behind seats. No electric window roll down.
Negative Owner Reviews
Harold Peach
Rust
I purchased 2009 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-road Access Cab (new) in April 2009. At that time, I did purchase "rust proofing" and "protection plan". It ran well when it was new, now (145 000 km) however, it is ready for "scrap yard". I have replaced exhaust three times, replaced rear shocks, replace two manifolds, and replaced transmission (lost transmission due to rusted transmission line). Now it is showing extreme rust on the undercarriage, including brake lines and rear bumper. I had hoped that a Toyota product would serve me better than any domestic vehicle (Ford, Dodge, Chev or CMC products). I guess I was wrong!!
Gina M
Good for our family road trips!
My vehicle is great, I use it for work. I do need a bigger ride since my family is growing rapidly. Have not had any problems with this vehicle so far. I love the inside very relaxing and beautiful blue color. It runs very nice and gets me to where I need to go on a road trip.
Chris W
Decent on gas and handles well in snow for a 2wd.
Very reliable vehicle with low maintenance. I have 140,000 miles on it. Basic maintenance has been done over the years I have had it. I would recommend Toyota to consumers. Only issue for me personally is it is difficult with children because of the size.
RIKKA B
It is a very safe vehicle and rides smoothly for traveling long distance.
NO COMPLAINTS. THIS IS MY HUSBANDS CAR AS MY MAKE AND MODEL WASN'T IN THE DROP DOWN LIST
Javier P
Tacoma review, for any individual that may consider a Tacoma prerunner.
Bed is to small, great truck to get around. Ok in gas, comfortable seats, great cabin space. Small to fit on most parkin buildings. Great towing power. Keeps about 80 percent of exterior noise out of cabin. It is a very popular size pick up.
Andrew D
Very good running and comfortable.
No problems run good. I have had it for five years and it seems to be running very well. Had the transmission replaced a couple years ago running good since. The ride is comfortable and sits a lot of people on the inside. I would not want to ride in another vehicle since it has been so good.
What Do Critics Say About the Tacoma?
Consumer Reports says the Tacoma has secure handling with very high owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds rates the Tacoma 4.1/5, liking the excellent build quality, but disliking the spongy brakes.
Kelley Blue Book users give the Tacoma a 4.7/5 and enjoy the off-road driving, but dislike the rough suspension.
What Common Problems Does the 2009 Toyota Tacoma Have?
Problems found in the 2009 Tacoma are fairly minor including radio issues, parking lights cracking, and peeling paint.
Radio problems are the most common complaint from owners in the first 20,000 miles. The stereo system freezes up and turns off without warning. Replacing the head unit costs about $400.
Cracked parkinglights are mentioned by owners at around 45,000 miles. Replacing the entire headlight housing fixes the problem, costing about $500.
Peeling paint, especially on the roof and hood, shows up on a lot of trucks in their first 50,000 miles. Paint peels when it’s left out in the sun and not properly cared for. Repainting the affected areas costs about $1,000 per panel.
There are 13 recalls on the 2009 Tacoma, with the most serious one being for the leaf springs which can puncture the fuel tank.
How Long Will the 2009 Toyota Tacoma Last?
A properly maintained 2009 Tacoma can last over 350,000 miles, which is 150,000 more than top rated competitors like the Nissan Frontier. Regular annual maintenance costs are affordable for a truck according to Repair Pal at $454 per year.
Most Tacoma models from 2009 will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace suspension control arm bushings for $700, transmission oil cooler lines costing $250, and the transmission mounts which cost $200.
How Much Is the 2009 Toyota Tacoma Worth?
Blue book values range from $10,031 – 16,960, making the Tacoma about $2,000 more than a Ford Ranger or Chevy Colorado. When new, the price range was $15,170 to $27,075. Depreciation is better than average, only losing about 3% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Tacoma?
There are three models of the 2009 Tacoma available. Technology was just updated for the 2009 model year, and the next major update comes in 2012 with a new radio.
The base engine is a relatively weak 2.7L 4-cylinder making 159 horsepower, which gets up to 22 MPG combined.
An available upgrade is the powerful 4.0L V6, which makes 236 horsepower and gets up to 18 MPG combined. The towing capacity is up to 6,500 pounds with the towing package.
What Colors Does the Tacoma Come In?
How Big Is the Tacoma?
The 2009 Tacoma is an average sized compact truck similar to the GMC Canyon and Nissan Frontier. There are three cabin configurations including a 2-door regular cab, 4-door access cab, and full 4-door double cab. There’s not much passenger room in the backseats of any model.
Two bed lengths are available, there’s a 5-foot short bed found on the double cab models, and a 6-foot standard bed is used on the regular and access cab versions.
How Does the Tacoma Compare to the Competition?
The Ford Ranger is a popular competitor, which costs about $2,000 less. Passenger room is slightly better in the Ranger, but the Tacoma is more capable off road. We recommend the Tacoma since they’re more affordable to own long term.
The Honda Ridgeline is another rival in the same price range. Interior materials and ride comfort are better on the Ridgeline, but the Tacoma tows more and has a better 4WD system. We recommend the Tacoma since the Ridgeline is more of an SUV with a bed compared to a truck.
It has a great engine hasn't broke down if you take care of it it will take care of you.
We love our truck it has had several recalls like rust protection on the frame , replaced the drive shaft but all have been resolved we've traveled a lot with this truck and when it's time to trade it in i will get another Toyota
Dan T
on April 1, 2021
It's the perfect size - big enough to haul some things, but not so large as to be unmaneuverable. Very minor problems (gear for automatic door lock stripped.) Fairly easy on gas. Could use a bit more power, but it rides/drives well as is.
I have the access cab, which basically means it's a two-passenger vehicle, and the space behind the seats is better for storage than for riding.
Lillian R
on April 1, 2021
Our Tacoma works well for us as a trick that fits our family but doesn't cost a fortune in gas.
We needed a truck with a backseat but didn't want a large one with poor gas mileage. We got everything we wanted with this truck.
Tracy I
on March 8, 2021
Runs very well for its age (260k miles) and should last at least till 300k miles.
I love absolutely everything about my Toyota Tacoma. It is smooth riding. Love the body style & reliability.
Katy V
on March 2, 2021
Reliable and easy to maintain.
I have had almost no problems with my vehicle and I feel very confident making frequent trips to Colorado. It is very reliable and easy to maintain and work on myself. I love the 5 speed transmission paired with the 4WD. This combo is becoming hard to find now.
Steve L
on March 2, 2021
My truck has great Great reliability and great style.
I like the reliability of my truck. I like the look and style of my truck. I like the gas mileage of my truck.
Cynthia F
on February 9, 2021
Tacoma my Toyota Tacoma trd truck is bright red trd in white stands out. .
101000 miles on this vehicle no major problems to date. Reliable best car I ever have owned. Toyotas are very dependable cars will definitely buy another. I have owned Camrys Corolla have never gone wrong with any Toyota product by far this truck is the best one I have owned.
Demetrios S
on February 7, 2021
Ease of use. Compact size. Automatic transmission with stick on center floor
Automatic transmission with stick on center floor. Compact size. Easy to operate
Mary S
on January 25, 2021
Toyotas hold up great and run forever.
Toyotas are great, but I hate the jump seats in the back and prefer a four-door model with regular seats in the back. Very awkward loading anything.
Javier P
on January 9, 2021
Tacoma review, for any individual that may consider a Tacoma prerunner.
Bed is to small, great truck to get around. Ok in gas, comfortable seats, great cabin space. Small to fit on most parkin buildings. Great towing power. Keeps about 80 percent of exterior noise out of cabin. It is a very popular size pick up.
Lea Ann O
on January 4, 2021
Toyota is a trusted vehicle.
I have had no problems with my vehicle. It is a great truck. I would recommend Toyota to anyone who is looking for a vehicle. I have always liked and trusted Toyota and they have great customer service whenever I have to go in for anything. Don't think I would look anywhere else for a vehicle.
Ted S
on December 23, 2020
Great truck, great gas mileage.
My Toyota Tacoma has been the best truck ever! Seven of my co-workers have bought Tacoma's on my recommendation! None of them have had any issues either! Just, under no circumstances buy your Tacoma from a Preston dealership in the western Pennsylvania or eastern Ohio area!
James H
on December 16, 2020
It isn't great for hauling stuff like a full sized truck but has plenty of interior room.
This is a great mid sized truck. It gets pretty good gas mileage for a truck because it is a 4 cylinder. It runs great but recently the air conditioning went out.
Lea Ann O
on December 6, 2020
Toyota is a great vehicle to have.
Like- reliable and dislike- not enough room for storage space inside the truck. I like it because it gives me no problems but think I need a car.
Corey W
on November 23, 2020
One of the best midsize trucks you will ever own, period.
I like the steering control, and handling. I like the gas mileage. I like the interior layout and the overall style and performance of the vehicle.
Laura S
on October 22, 2020
That it is reliable and when ever i need to go somewhere i can count on my car.
Fast and reliable love the truck. Runs very good has the power i need.
Lauren R
on October 13, 2020
Blue 2009 Toyota Tacoma double cab with short bed. Four wheel drive.
I have had this truck since it was brand new. The truck has almost 200,000 miles on it and is still going strong. Toyota customer service is wonderful and the truck has given me almost no problems over the last 10 years.
Sarah G
on October 7, 2020
Small capable truck that meets all my needs.
I really like my Tacoma. It is a small truck and is able to fit everything that I need to put in it. I haven't had any major repairs to do on it - just regular maintenance! I got the manual transmission and this has made it a fun vehicle to drive. The only thing is that I wish I had more passenger room.
Sandra A
on October 7, 2020
The 2009 Toyota Tacoma is the perfect vehicle for males, females, and families. Up to five passengers can safely and comfortably fit in this sporty, yet economical, truck.
I absolutely love my truck. It comfortably seats 5 passengers safely. It gets great gas mileage during day to day travel. It has plenty of room in the truck bed to haul things. When I am needing to merge with traffic, once I push the accelerator, the truck is ready to go....no hesitation whatsoever.
Chris W
on August 28, 2020
Decent on gas and handles well in snow for a 2wd.
Very reliable vehicle with low maintenance. I have 140,000 miles on it. Basic maintenance has been done over the years I have had it. I would recommend Toyota to consumers. Only issue for me personally is it is difficult with children because of the size.
Betsy A
on August 22, 2020
Its of high quality, made by a well known brand and it handles great.
It's comfortable, easy to drive, easy to maintain. The only thing that i don't like much is that it consumes too much gas.
Cali P
on August 18, 2020
2009 Toyota Tacoma - reliable & comfortable.
The 2009 Toyota Tacoma has been a very reliable vehicle so far. I have had it for three months. I have had no problems other than a tiny rear differential leak that is very common for a Tacoma of this age. I am pleased with the safety rating and plan to keep this truck when my husband and I start a family. It is a smooth ride with a comfortable interior that makes road trips even more relaxing.
CJ A
on August 4, 2020
The truck runs good, gets me from point A to point B.
Like it since it is a small truck that fits in the garage. Don't like it because it doesn't have all the bells and whistles that I would like. Also the headroom in the truck is low.
Tim S
on June 24, 2020
It's paid off and I should be able to get at least five more years out of it.
It's safe it's in great shape and it's very versatile.
Steven K
on May 27, 2020
That it's kinda low mileage.
I like that it's a smaller truck but it has plenty of room. It gets pretty good gas mileage. Overall it's been a great little pickup.
Sherry M
on May 12, 2020
Gets me where I need to go.
I love it. Me and my daughter have Toyota's. So far no issues. Next vehicle will be another Toyota. Great for traveling.
Harold Peach
on May 7, 2020
Rust
I purchased 2009 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-road Access Cab (new) in April 2009. At that time, I did purchase "rust proofing" and "protection plan". It ran well when it was new, now (145 000 km) however, it is ready for "scrap yard". I have replaced exhaust three times, replaced rear shocks, replace two manifolds, and replaced transmission (lost transmission due to rusted transmission line). Now it is showing extreme rust on the undercarriage, including brake lines and rear bumper. I had hoped that a Toyota product would serve me better than any domestic vehicle (Ford, Dodge, Chev or CMC products). I guess I was wrong!!
Malissa K
on May 6, 2020
Pretty reliable vehicle if maintained properly. It drives good and had a good amount of room in the cab
Vehicle is great except the daytime running lights melt the plastic cover around them. No actual recall were made on these.
Karen S
on April 12, 2020
Love the backup camera and sound system drives great and very roomy.
I love this truck is has a lot of room and is very comfortable has nice sound system drives nice has great pickup and is good on gas great air conditioning works great has back up camera and clock we enjoy it very much plenty of space inside compartment are very roomy it is just a all around great vehicle.
Eddie B
on March 23, 2020
It's a truck and it's great for hauling things or driving on dirt roads.
Love my truck. Drives great, gets good gas mileage and is very comfortable.
Gina M
on March 1, 2020
Good for our family road trips!
My vehicle is great, I use it for work. I do need a bigger ride since my family is growing rapidly. Have not had any problems with this vehicle so far. I love the inside very relaxing and beautiful blue color. It runs very nice and gets me to where I need to go on a road trip.
stacy m
on February 25, 2020
I love my little Toyota Tacoma!
I love my 2 door small pickup truck. I refer to it as "light and zippy" as it maneuvers easily and quickly. I've had it for 9 years without any major problems. It did need to have the water pump replaced on it right under the 7 year mark. Other than that, just normal wear and tear and maintenance. I love this truck, would recommend it to anyone. I consider it my "starter" truck as I plan to own slightly larger Toyota trucks in the future.
John R
on February 14, 2020
09 Tacoma is a great truck to own
Truck is great, reliable, and runs like a champ. No issues to report other than regular check ups and oil changes.
steve Y
on February 9, 2020
Never breaks down, great ride, and Toyota stands by their products!
My Tacoma has been as reliable as known for. All I have to do is regularly scheduled maintenance, love my truck! It rides great and is the best vehicle purchase I have ever made.
Calvin N
on February 2, 2020
The Tacoma is a very useful and reliable truck. It's comfort features are pretty good.
My truck is very dependable. I wish it had GPS and a radio that bluetoothed to my cell phone. I had to replace the headlight assembly because the running lights melted the plastic and Toyota should have replaced it.
David M
on January 31, 2020
This truck can serve many purpose with day to day task.
An awesome truck has never let me down. Good interior, gas is not even an issue, the 4. 0l engine works great Tacoma will run forever if you take care of and I know this truck will crank every morning. Also great for transporting. The seats are ok but not the best. Plenty of power, great handling and always feel safe to ride in.
Angie w
on January 3, 2020
It's reliable and needs little service.
It is reliable. The truck can go through snow. No complaints.
Raquaela I
on January 1, 2020
Durable power that can climb hills and is useful for hauling
I love how durable this car is. It's perfect for driving up hills and around San Mateo county
eddie G
on December 7, 2019
It is very dependable and is a pleasure to drive.
Love my truck. Is great to drive and gets good fuel mileage.
chris m
on December 1, 2019
It has an excellent safety record along you to drive confidently.
I have a 4 door Tacoma Forerunner with AT tires. My drive terrain is around town/interstate driving as well as driving on backroads and off roading (fields, dirt roads, through rivers & creeks) I never fear my truck will break down in the middle of nowhere leaving me stranded. My ride is comfortable and simple- just like I like it. For a 2009, it has up to date features to make your ride easier. Lastly and most importantly, it has excellent safety rating to keep my entire family safe.
Huy T
on October 10, 2019
That I can ram people's car with it so they have to be careful driving
I can off-road in my truck, my truck is very high so i can see ahead,and my truck is white
Katie A
on October 8, 2019
It is tough and the four wheel drive is awesome. Love the tint on the windows.
Love the look and 4 wheel drive. Seats could pull up a little more to fit items behind seats. No electric window roll down.
Katherine L
on September 23, 2019
Overall, happy with my Tacoma
I purchased my Tacoma used about two years ago. Other than the expected maintenance, I haven't had any issues. The suspension is a little stiff but that is to be expected with a truck. This is my daily driver and it's overall a comfortable ride, long distance however can be a little uncomfortable because the lack of lumbar support. The only other issue I have is the size of the bed, it is neither wide enough or long enough to transport a sheet of plywood, for example.
Britt P
on September 8, 2019
Small issues with my 2009 Tacoma.
Body rust. Seemed to start rusting sooner than other vehicles. Electrical system. Headlights keep going out and are not easily replaced. Have had electrical system issues with other Toyota trucks especially wiring harnesses. Front steering. When making tight turns in either direction, there is a noticeable clunking from the front end. Changing to 4WD. Sometimes there is a definite thud when switching to and from 4WD.
Connor B
on June 21, 2019
Terrific, excellent, dependable.
My Toyota, Tacoma is a great vehicle that takes care of a lot daily duties. Its comfort is great, I have never been a fan of leather. Period. So having a truck that doesn't have leather at all (or nearly) is so very nice. The seat are reliable and well rested, the clearance of the vehicle is quite satisfying as well.
Brad B
on June 19, 2019
The 2 gen Tacoma, best truck out there.
The 2nd generation Toyota Tacoma is the most reliable truck you can get. Not only is it easy to work on, such as oil changes and brake jobs, but they are super reliable. Along with being easy to work on, they are awesome to customize to your own liking. Great for off roading, great for bad weather and snow.
Stephanie N
on June 1, 2019
The drivable and reliable taco.
Not very many problems. I haven't had any difficulties or need major parts to be. Probably have put $500 total since I have had it just to do tune up and fluid changes. It is incredibly reliable and super comfortable and roomy. The performance is amazing. So much power for a v6. I love my Tacoma! No matter what year it is it will run forever. The engine is still strong and perfect for off-roading.
Debbie C
on May 26, 2019
It's a pickup but the interior is just like a car. But its a truck.
My Tacoma always starts even in the worst winter conditions in Illinois winters. The 4 wheel drive is great in our winters. It's very comfortable with lots of room in the back seat as well as the back bed.
George S
on May 24, 2019
Dependability is the most important thing to me when talking about the Tacoma.
I have owned my Tacoma for 9 years and I love it. I have never experienced any major mechanical issues. I have just made sure that I had the recommended services performed at the appropriate intervals. We have two kids and we have never had a problem with the whole family traveling together. So, space is not an issue. I do not plan on replacing my Tacoma any time soon, but when that day comes, I will definitely be shopping for another Tacoma.
Ed K
on May 14, 2019
That it is like new and it gets service per schedule in owner's manual.
I like everything about it except that I wish I had opted for v6 engine rather than a 4 cyl engine. I have over 50k miles on the vehicle and it is still running and looking like new.
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist.
Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.
