Toyota Tundra OWNERS: Rate your truck!

rooster9

I'm a new user to this forum. I was wondering if you can get a remote keyless entry system on a Toyota Tundra. I was looking through their brochure and didn't see anything about one.

rs_petty

rooster9, I believe the factory alarm has a remote key fob that will lock and unlock the doors. There is no option for keypad on the doors like a Lincoln TC.

bg4dg

That is a dealer installed option. As long as the truck comes with power locks, you can get it.

rooster9

When I went looking for a truck, I wanted to be fair. I test drove them all. I drive my parent's '98 Chevy K1500 whenever I can, and it drives really nice. They are leasing it, and I'm glad they leased it, due to the small rear seat. Only problems it had was needed 3rd door handle adjusted, squeak on drivers side seatbelt, (which they replaced the whole seat belt assembly in fear of a safety issue), and a sensor in the steering wheel replaced. Have over 20,000 miles on so far. I don't think that's bad at all. I really don't care what truck I end up with, as long as it's the one I feel the most comfortable with or in, and it suits my needs. I want a truck that a fourwheeler will fit in the box, without having to drive over the wheelwells, or even touching them, and the tailgate can close. This eliminates the Dodge Dakotas. If I didn't test drive them all, then how will I ever know how the one or ones I didn't try compared to the one I end up with? That's why I'm shopping unbiased, it makes for the best decisions. Also, there is no law in effect that says you only can like one brand of pickups.

tundraowner1

I recently took delivery of a 2000 4x4 Access Cab.
The color of the truck is Thunder Metalic Grey with a light charcoal cloth interior. The options on the truck are TRD Off-Road Package, Towing Package, Anti-Lock Brakes, Towing Package and other interior features (captain's chairs, CD etc).
Yesterday I went over 1000 miles and will be changing my oil now that I have reached the break-in period. So far I am pleased with the vehicle and have had no problems.
My wife and I have a 3 month old and I find the Access Cab model convenient for an infant seat.
The only gripe I have is at the time of delivery, I was told that I must use premium fuel for the 4.7 L V8 engine. That was the first time I had learned of this. The dealer explained to me that the Tundra motor is used in other vehicles like the Landcruiser and Lexus S.U.V.'s. With the rising cost of fuel, I find it expensive to fill my truck with gas. It's been costing me between $30 and $35 a week. The owner's manual advises to use a fuel with a 91 octane rating or higher.
Other than the mandatory use of premium fuel, I am pleased with the vehicle. If other problems arise, I will keep this site posted with my findings.

quadrunner500

Are you sure about that? Was just about positive everyone said 87 was recommended.

Premium is about $6 a fill-up more expensive than what Lone Ranger puts in Hi Ho Silverado.....

tp4unc

No need for premium fuel...87 octane is fine and recommended.

ferris47

My Tundra has had 87 octane on almost every tank and it likes it the best. I was told by the salesman and service department and most independent mechanics that 87 is more then enough unless it knocks, which it does not.

Good luck with your new Tundra

z71bill

How can one person have 91 and another have 87 octane in their owners manual?? I had to use premium in my last Toyota (Cressida) and vowed to never own another car/truck that requires it.

quadrunner500

Because it shatters the esteem I hold for Tundra owners if what they are reporting for octane required is just their interpretation based on personal experience, or dealership advice versus the literal wording in the owners manual.

The post from Tundraowner1 states: >>>>"The owner's manual advises to use a fuel
with a 91 octane rating or higher."<<<<<

My question is very simple. What are the words stated in the manual?

tp4unc

My manual(p.167) states: "Select Octane Rating 87(Research Octane Number 91) or higher."

Hopes this helps someone.

quadrunner500

87 octane. I can sleep again.

tp4unc

My pleasure

vocus

I drove a 2WD V8 Access Cab Tundra and loved it! I want 4WD, but it is too expensive and reduces fuel economy. Is the traction of the 2WD good in the rain or what? Also, about how much gas does the truck use and how much to fill it up? Also, what kind of driving do you do on that gas?

One thing: As far as the octane thing, you should never use higher than recommended. Not only is it a waste of money, but it lets carbon build up in the engine, which is not good for it.

I want a Tundra, but have a Protege now and would replace it. I pay $15 to fill up from empty now at $1.33 a gallon. Still like the Tundra though.

z71bill

Or LS 400 use premium gas? I thought they did. What changed in the Tundra engine to allow regular unleaded?

arkie6

A simple change in compression ratio will change the fuel requirements. Also, the engine fuel and timing management system can have an affect. I suspect that the LS/GS400 engine has higher compression ratio than the Tundra since it's rated somewhere around 300 HP. Not bad for a 4.0L.

Regarding required octane, the Tundra owners manual states to use 87 pump octane and it has the equivalent research octane rating of 91 in parentheses. This is probably what's confusing some people on the issue. The Tundra 4.7L runs fine on the 87 octane.

effie1

I'am interested in purchasing a Tundra but am unsure which' maybe someone can help. Interested in the v6access cab 4x4 are there any pros and cons to this vehicle (sr5model) I hear alot about defrosting problems any comments? I'am interested in getting this vehicle loaded, captains chairs or bench seat? ck,cq,lf,al,dz. I'am married with 2 kids one 6 and one 3 one on the way, I have looked at the chevy silverado 3dr. and f150, I currently own a chevy s10 extendcab4x4 and would like safer, quality and reliability, I'am in construction and love trucks. Can anyone tell me more about this v6 accesscab 4x4 sr5 other then what a dealer can tell me?

jted

I owned a Toyota T-100 with the v-6, Nice engine and plenty of get up and go, not bad MPG.The Tundra Rides like a car and the only thing I don't like about the truck is the Gas Mileage with the V-8. But It is still a GREAT truck. I think you would be very happy with this truck.

mikem21

Pulling a 25 ft. trailer,approx. 6,000 lbs., trans won't stay in 3rd gear, with converter locked up or not. shifts to 2nd @ 60mph at a steady throttle. With my experience, I would not recommend a Tundra for towing.

ferris47

I have a 2wd Ltd and the traction for me has been phenomanal(sp). The other trucks I have owned have had limited slip and this truck does not but still handles the rain, snow, ice etc. as good if not better then the others. I have said this before though, if you plan on using your truck on boat ramps get the 4wd or look for another truck that offers some type of LSD. I don't know how the Tundra would do on a boat ramp but I have seen a 2wd get a bit wet when sliding back into the waters so I would be wary there.

Gas mileage......well.....a....Its a TRUCK, with a V8. Coming out of a protege it ain't gonna be pretty. It costs about $27.00 to fill up with gas at about 1.39 or so. I get an average of about 14.5-15.5 mpg around town and a solid 18 or so on straight highway.

Hope this helps a little. My first car was a Scoupe that on occasion got 40 mpg. I then got a truck, it was a shock, but now I wouldn't have it any other way. Once you buy a truck there is no going back.

effie1

I'am now interested in where I can find a Tundra with a v6 auto. alum. wheels, 3 in 1 stereo possibly captains chair and fog lights (convenience pkg.) I have been told alot of different things by alot of different people and salespersons.I hope that this can be accomplished then it would be my dream truck ( with a sweet price tag to go with the truck)I live in Vermont and would appreciate any help and knowledge from anyone. Thank you!

jted

I would call a few Toyota Dealers around your area and see if any dealers can find a V-6 Tundra and go from their.

edbo

Hey, all you fellow Tundra owners (and the rest of the world), In my first time browsing thru all of the posts about Tundra experiences..I was kinda overwhelmed. I bought my 2000 Tundra back in June of '99 and have never looked back! As a 7 time Toyota owner, I never gave it a second thought about buying a first year model vehicle, given the track records I experienced with my other "Toys"..and I wasn't disappointed. Apparently, one can find a lemon in almost any line of things manfactured these days, even Toyota! Reading the horror stories from t100todd, I could hardly believe that SO MANY things could possibly be wrong with ANY new vehicle so early in ownership. Almost sounds like an act of outright sabotage to me..or a really bad day at the factory. I have 14,000 miles on my V8 SR5 Access Tundra, and can say I've never been happier with a vehicle (even my previous 'Toys' which even included a rock-solid 4-Runner.) I've just changed the oil, rotated the tires, and hit the road. Other than the lowish gas mileage which I fully was aware of, and the little extra maneuvering length that I picked up moving from the 4-Runner, I have felt like I've been driving a tall Lexus with a bed!!! Over and over, passengers comment about the quality and quietness of the Tundra's ride, both on and off road. Only two wrinkles I've had: 1. The safety recall I received the other day (seems the stop lamp socket housing plastic is moulded a little high and can cause the bulb to pop out occasionally (has NOT happened to me in 9 months of ownership!) 2. When ordering the factory plug-in trailer towing wiring harness, I found that I need to buy an extra protection fuse block for $39. Two things of very small potatoes consequences I think. Simply speaking, my Tundra is in all ways, FANTASTIC. I can only offer these folks who are having extraordinary difficulties to give another Tundra a chance..I'm sure Toyota will help out..I believe it will be well worth their while..it's truly a great truck!!

devil1

It's nice to hear a positive post for the Tundra. It seems I keep hearing bad things and it makes me very skeptical of the quality of this truck. The worst to me is the paint chip problem I keep hearing. I don't want a 30K truck with an Earl Shibe paint job!

z71bill

Toyota has an option that includes anti-chip paint. I would get it. I guess this makes the regular paint job easy-chip. This is not a made up joke - Tundra really does have this option - look it up on endunds. I think it is part of the weather guard package, it also includes a heavy duty starter or battery (would anyone want a light duty one).

emruzek

Anti-chip is on the bottom only. I have it on mine. Paint still chips.

z71bill

Have you taken your truck into the dealer to complain about your paint? I would recommend telling them about the problem ASAP. If they will not fix the problem I would remind them every time I took it in to the dealer -even for your normal maintenance, this way you build a service record that documents the problem. In 24-30 months when the paint looks really bad - a manager will look at the file and see that it has been a consistent problem and you will get a new paint job. Just my opinion, but having paper work to support your problem is always an advantage.

What color is your truck - is the paint problem limited to just a few colors?

wlb

I am particularly interested to hear from people who tow trailers with their Tundras. I tow a 22' travel trailer weighing app. 5000 lbs. loaded. If their are people with similar trailer weights, I would like to know how well the Tundra handles the trailers. We do a lot of towing in mountainous country. Does the Tundra have the power/torque to get the job done?

geezer3

SR5 Access cab 4x2... Just took a trip and now have about 1200 miles. 80% was highway driving at 65-70MPH.. Worst mileage was 15.2 using ARCO that was oxygenated. Best was last fill-up (and I topped it) 19.4mpg... In between was 17.5 to 18.6 which included hills and Mountain passes. No problem with 87 octane. No shakes or vibrations yet, and is in fact one of the quietest vehicles I have ever owned. So far, a 'smooth mover' in all respects. Have the 265.70 Dunlops and running recommended tire pressure. No compaints yet, but they could certainly improve on that 'Cheesy' horn. If their is an easy retrofit,plan to correct that annoyance. Based on many of the posts, I wonder if the early production runs had some problems ? Mine was built in mid or late January of this year. Biggest problem I've had so far is trying to judge speed by sound. Think I'm doing 35mph in town,and have on occasion been doing 50+.. Smooth and quiet ! Any significant problems and I will post for the benefit of others.

arkie6

I agree with the speeding issue. I am constantly running 10-15 mph over the limit if I don't set the cruise or consciously watch the speedo. By the way, my Tundra 4x4 was manuf. in mid January and have had none of the vibration problems mentioned by others. My gas mileage has not been as good as yours though. Last tank was 16.1 MPG, but I've got the 4x4 with the big tires and that is a mix of in town and relatively short highway runs (<20 miles).

sean_nc

Thank you.
I appreciate the comments that I've found so far in this Edmunds column; comments of those experienced with Toyota, it's trucks, and other Makes as well. I don't have anything interesting to add about the Tundra other than the fact that I stepped onto the Toyota lot today to check out one and it's pricing without salemen (it's Sunday)hovering about.

I've never owned a truck and only have experience with my dad's '72 Dodge PowerRam that has yet to die; although I cross my fingers for that blessing daily. Sorry, but no vehicle should be made to drive the streets of the city looking so disheveled with such a puke green hue - let alone the fact that I have to ride in it from time to time.

Never having owned a truck before I have no idea what I should expect as far as performance from a future truck as far as power, torque, ride quality, etc. offered in today's list of available trucks versus what I foresee my use for this type vehicle. I've only owned cars up to this point. I'm a sort that enjoys assisting stranded motorists stuck in ditches, snow, dead batteries, etc. Hence, my future truck must be 4x4 and able to be equipped with a winch. (Want to help someone that is stuck in a ditch and needs pulling out during a snowstorm? One tends to think twice when owning a BMW and you instead hand him your car phone.) It should also be able to tow a two-horse trailer to the mountains or a 26' boat to the beach or local lake - and be aggressive in appearance. (Although Ford has a "soft" front appearance it gets high ratings. Only by this does it still remain in my runnings.) That's basically it. Now to sift through all the advertisements, specifications, likenesses in appearance, etc. and make my decision on just which truck to buy. So far it's between Dodge, Ford and, as of today, Toyota. Chevrolet is out due being antiquated in both exterior and interior styling. So, write on as you will. I'm reading.



Again, thank you.
Raleigh, NC

modvptnl

I also am a boater and have a Ford bias. Being on the west coast(actually Nevada) and you being on the other side of the world a 26' boat could be two totally different animals. My guess with double axle trailer is anywhere from 5000 to 10000 pounds which IMHO rules out the Tundra even though I think it's a great truck. You want aggressive looking? Look no farther than the Super Duty Fords. A lot of people think the Tundra resembles the F-150 front end but that is an objective finding. Haven't checked Edmunds in a while but my F-350 Super Duty Crew cab, 4x4, V-10, XLT, 5 speed, Short bed invoices for under $29,000 I have a dealer who will go $500 over invoice when I'm ready to order, which I think puts it in the ballpark of the price of a Tundra. Yes, the Tundra would be a better commuter vehicle; easier to park, gas mileage etc. but I don't know what your priority is in that regard. There is no doubt which is more of a truck though, with no disrespect intended to the Tundra.

bud_light_dude

No need to announce your Ford bias Lvstang. It is very apparent in your posts......:)

modvptnl

Everyone knew it was you. Why do you still deny it zbadbrentunixgomer2sly4noonebudlitedude?

bud_light_dude

You got me all wrong. I knew you from reading all the posts between you and frizzle nuts.

I still want to know why people think I am the zbad man. I knew you from how you talk about Fords.

Happy Ford'in.

modvptnl

I had my doubts at first because your posts were trying so hard to be non-threatening(except when you called Rocle's truck girly looking) Then when you got upset it was right to homosexual flames just like Zbadsly1....Then you started calling people lvstang who was z's arch enemy. It sort of just adds up. Don't matter either way, I'm just here for the entertainment and maybe to learn a thing or two.

dogster

Limited 4x4 Access Cab w/cap, 4.7 V8/automatic, 3600 miles, bought 10/99.

So far I'd rate my Tundra all 5's. I haven't had chipping paint or any other problems some have griped about here. You have to discern the real posts from the misinformation owners of other makes love to post here. I took a recent trip from LA to Phoenix, including getting caught in a dust/sand storm with winds of 50-70 mph and the paint looks fine. I averaged 75-80 mph in CA and got 16.66 mpg. In AZ I ran 85 mph + and got 15.55 mpg. Around town I get 12-14 mpg since I only drive 1-4 miles per trip. This is all on oxygenated fuel. I've towed my 4700 lb. boat (460 lbs. tongue weight) 20 miles a few times to the launch ramp and the truck performed fine. It was stable, handled and accelerated well. I expect no different this summer on my LA to Vegas/Lake Meade runs. My T100 towed the same boat without as much as a hiccup 360 miles each way in the summer desert heat with the AC on. Trailer Life tested the Tundra 4x4 SR5 in the Feb. 2000 issue towng a 6300 lb. camping trailer from 0 to 9000 feet and loved the truck. Check out the article if you have any doubts about towing with a Tundra. By the way, I have the Toyota Class IV hitch on my Limited. While I'm at it, I've worked in and out of the auto industry for 25 years, including several years as a wholesale buyer. Consumer Reports reliability ratings are, in my experience, extremely accurate and unbiased. My other choice would have been the F250 Super-Duty Crew Cab 4x4 Lariat but I would be hating life right now, like one friend, who only gets 7-8 mpg around town with his V10. Both he and my friend with a Z71 Chevy love my Tundra after riding in it! My only gripe with the Tundra is I now have three or four recently purchased Tundras within a 5 block radius of me.

trucksrme

Got the sound of the lucky one for sure. Most tell of troubles on them ones for sure. Heard tells on chipin paint, vibratin, door popin, rattlin, and some poor fella lost em the whole engine quick now for sure. Yep, ya must a got ya one of them few good ones for sure. There always be a few good ones in a batch now. Best be keepin them fingers crossed on this one now. Good luck on this one now!

tundrasaursrex

I guess lots of us got lucky! Had mine 2 months P-E-R-F-E-C-T! And I love it!

Tell you what, You give it a drive you won't be whistlin' dixie anymore!

tundrasaursrex

Why'd ya change your logon name?.......you get caught fibbing again???

quadrunner500

You really had me going, until you got to the part about how your friends love your Tundra after "riding" in it. I don't think they will be asking to car-pool with you, any time soon.

geezer3

Welcome back ! This has been a truly boring site without your input. Your words of wisdom and depth of knowledge about all things mechanical have been sorely missed. Unlike the rest of these 'ingrates' I look forward to your posts and may have to rethink my purchase of the Tundra based on your findings.

Keep up the good work !

An Admirer

trucksrme

Cant be takin that credit for Rube, he be my Grand Uncle for sure, done taught me all on these here trucks too. He got the toss, some say for tellin the truth on these things. Heard tell my cousin Franklin be tryin to get that rubluetoo handle back now, but gettin the push on it. That factory got them long arms now for sure. He says to say hey to ya, so hey from rubluetoo! He be startin on them fields now anyway, wont be havin that time to be keepin folks true on these things no how. Figurin that I should be gettin on this here one now, givin my tell on these here things, so here I be now. If any folk got a tell for rubluetoo, I be happy to pass it on now. Good luck on this one now!

dogster

My friends rode at separate times. My backseat has child seats in it. I wouldn't want to ride in the backseat of any truck unless it was a crew cab and I wouldn't want to be feeding the gas appetite of a crew cab right now.

geezer3

Glad your picking up the torch for 'old Rube' and keeping us informed. I too have a small farm, and grow mostly carrots,peas,and Zuchini squash. Called my dealer today and asked if they had any farm implements for the Tundra. Would you believe their are no plows,discs, or nuthin'for this thing,and furthermore might void my warranty if I try and use it in this manner. Now they tell me !

Well I'll tell you what,my wife can have the Tundra for going to the grocery store and attending bridge club, but I'm going shopping for a Chevy so I can get some work done around here.

Tell Uncle Rube hello and I hope he has a long growing season, with a bountiful harvest !

You take care now,

Geezer

PS: What in the heck are "snap beans"..

trucksrme

Franklin be usin his Chevrolet too fifth wheel the massey about. We got us an oldin one (52 model) for haulin the tank here and there, as not too run down Franklin's newin too much. As for them snap beans, they be good eatin for sure. Good luck on this one now!

rubins

lets hear from all you tundra owners....2wd and 4wd....what kind of mileage are you getting?

redfox1

I received my Tundra on 25 May, 1999 and now have just over 10,000 miles on it and have an average of just over 17.1 mpg. This mileage includes two out of state trips of about 3,000miles.I live about 7 miles from the center of town,(little town) so I usually drive at 55-65 mph going to and fro from town. The other problem I have is keeping it under 70-75 on freeways. The Tundra loves to cruise at 70 and it is so quiet. Good luck.

rwellbaum2

Last tank I got 18.47 hwy and 14 in stop and go traffic. The people I work with gave their HWY mileage estimates. The Dodge 4X4 is the worst @ 12 MPG then the Ford 4X4 @ 14 MPG. The chevy 2WD is best and it's getting 18.8 (even better than the 6 cyl exterra @17.8). The Chevy owner is constantly asking if I'll trade trucks with him. I rate my Tundra perfect except for gas mileage and interior materials. I'd like the thicker, softer plastic for the dash and heavier cloth for the seats. The gas mileage needs to increase above 20 MPG.

budlitedude

It also needs a locking differential, choice of v8 engines (one that doesn't crap valvetrain parts all over the highway like KRobertson's did), longer and deeper bed, more interior room, heavier sheetmetal, a long bed option with access cab, 4 wheel anti-lock disk brake system, a payload capacity that compares to ANY of the big three full size trucks and a tow capacity of the same, how about real lumbar seats, anything but that cheesy junk they call a stereo, has a more reasonable price tag (and it isn't even union made), how about access doors that don't come open while driving down the road or have a door ajar light come on, how about giving it heavy duty ignition and cooling systems like the big three trucks, and most of all,

IT NEEDS A BIG GOLD BOWTIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yeeeeeeeeeehaaaaaaaw!