Anybody here own the six cyclinder tundra? Don't know too much about it. Just need a cheaper than 20K work truck thats reliable. I am not too picky just want some opinions on the six cyclinder and maybe some more on automatics versus stick shifts.
I am about to buy a Tundra in the year range 2002 to present ideally. Still running through the archives on this site, but any more would help. Again, just want a reliable truck. Thanks.
really I am wondering if you're satisfied with the V6 and any complaints you could add. Have you had any problem with the engine or tranny while carrying a large weight?
I guess those are my main concerns. Curious on MPGs too.
I have a 2004 3.4 stick six Tundra regular cab "work truck" that I use for
visiting my grandchildren (about a 60-mile round trip) and for taking trips
across the country to catch up on all the things I missed out on when I
was younger. For me, the Tundra V6 was the right choice -- never had
a problem of any kind and it averages over 20MPG. This week the truck
turns three (I bought it new in 2003) and I have put on 43,000 miles.
really I am wondering if you're satisfied with the V6 and any complaints you could add. Have you had any problem with the engine or tranny while carrying a large weight?
I guess those are my main concerns. Curious on MPGs too.
I probably average 19 and less in the winter using the remote start (which can waste a lot of gas). I'm always hauling around my camper shell as well so that will affect mileage. I do a daily round trip commute of about 45 miles and the V6 is fine for that purpose. If you're going to do any heavy towing I'd go with the v8.
Just as an FYI - some other differences to consider - the v8 comes with a "comfort group" that includes power windows and power door locks that the v6 does not. My understanding is that it is easier on certain years to install cruise control on the v8 (someone once posted that everything was already installed but the steering column controller). I've seen posts of v6 trucks going brand new for as low as $15,500. V8's tend to run about $3k more. I would think that you could get a brand new 2006 v8 for under $20k (2wd).
Bottom line - v6 gets better mileage and will save you a few thousand and is adequate if you're not going to tow heavy loads. Getting a v6 stick would also improve performance and lower the price ($800 for auto trans I believe). Depending on your location you may or may not have a stick option (CA and SE are stick areas). I did not have the option of getting a stick.
__________________ 2004 Toyota Tundra V6 Reg Cab 2wd Auto (Phantom Gray)
I probably average 19 and less in the winter using the remote start (which can waste a lot of gas). I'm always hauling around my camper shell as well so that will affect mileage. I do a daily round trip commute of about 45 miles and the V6 is fine for that purpose. If you're going to do any heavy towing I'd go with the v8.
Just as an FYI - some other differences to consider - the v8 comes with a "comfort group" that includes power windows and power door locks that the v6 does not. My understanding is that it is easier on certain years to install cruise control on the v8 (someone once posted that everything was already installed but the steering column controller). I've seen posts of v6 trucks going brand new for as low as $15,500. V8's tend to run about $3k more. I would think that you could get a brand new 2006 v8 for under $20k (2wd).
Bottom line - v6 gets better mileage and will save you a few thousand and is adequate if you're not going to tow heavy loads. Getting a v6 stick would also improve performance and lower the price ($800 for auto trans I believe). Depending on your location you may or may not have a stick option (CA and SE are stick areas). I did not have the option of getting a stick.
I use my 03 tundra ac sr5 v6 for work and it does fine. i have had over 2500lbs in the bed and had no problems, im averaging over 20mpg except when carrying a load obviously, and for your information the v6 does come with the option of power window and locks, even keyless entry, its part of the sr5 trim package.
I have an 02 V6-5speed Access Cab that just turned over 100,000 miles with absolutely no problems. I still have the original brakes. It has been a fantastic truck. My brother just bought a new 06-6speed Access Cab through Carsdirect.com with power everything (except cruise) for $18,000 not including tax and license. I drove his and the new 4.0 V6 is just as powerful as my 3.4 V6 with the supercharger.
He had a hard time finding a V6 6speed Access Cab in Northern California, so he used an LA area zipcode in Carsdirect (90745 works fine) and they found one right away. He flew down on a Saturday morning to LAX, took a cab to Miller Toyota, and the truck was waiting for him. The whole deal took 15 minutes and he was back home in Concord by 3:30 in the afternoon. The rebate in LA was $500 more than in Northern California, so that paid for his trip down South. I would love to replace my truck with one like his, but with only 100,000 miles, mine is just getting broken in.
Something else to consider - v6's up to 2004 are the 3.4l engines using 87 octane gas. 2005 and after are the 4.0l engines that Toyota recommends 91 octane for but many run using lower octanes.
2004 and below use a 4 speed auto tranny. 2005 and above have a 5 speed auto tranny.
__________________ 2004 Toyota Tundra V6 Reg Cab 2wd Auto (Phantom Gray)
I have Toyota's most basic "work truck". Tundra, V6, auto, long bed, regular cab, no frills at all. Actually I've got intermittent wipers, floor mats, tilt wheel.
I've only got like 6000 miles on it, but it's been great. When empty I average more than 20mpg per tank, achieving nearly 23mpg one tank. I drive it very gently.
Last weekend I towed my 2300 pound VW gti, on a 2000 pound U-Haul trailer for 330 miles (round trip). It handled it well, although the RPMs were a little high for my liking with O/D off. (75 mph)
During the trip I averaged 13mpg. The truck used no oil, and handled the load well. Granted, the roads here in arkansas are fairly flat.
I always put 87 octane in, I probably would have gone to 89 or 93 to tow, but the temps were low, around 40 degreed in the morning, 55 in the afternoon.
EDIT: I'll add if it's not obvious that I have the '06 w/ 4.0. I purchased for $16k brand new. That's with rebates and a bit of give on their end.
Thats a sweet rig H20 Man. You guys have given more info than thought would be expected. I looked into one Tundra 05 with 4K on engine for 15K. It was a V6 long bed. Now the only part that is pulling me apart from buying it is the insurance costs I have to eat up for this thing. Thats something new to me. It would hike up the cost quite a bit if I kept the car I already have and bought this truck.
RSLAND, that sounds like the ideal truck. The V6 access cab 6speed. I may look into that instead if I can bite the bullet with the insurance. Thanks for the posts. Can't wait to read more.
...I looked into one Tundra 05 with 4K on engine for 15K. It was a V6 long bed...
You should be able to pick up an '06 for that price by now. My insurance on the thing is cheap, I don't remember exactly what it is for just that vehicle because I have 3 total on the policy. I'll tell you that it is cheaper than my '05 Rav4 is.
Just picked up the Saturday Wheels secion in the Union Tribune. 2006 Tundra Regular Cab V6 Auto with Power door locks and windows for $13, 654 i think. I know for sure it was under $14,000
V6 Tundra Work Truck
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