tacoma has very good gas mileage honestly i only find myself spending about 60 a week sometimes more if im driving around alot but it almost feels like im driving a sudan when it comes to gas wouldnt trade it for anything
I just picked up a 2020 Cement SR5 v6 4x4 three weeks ago. I really don't think the transmission hunts too much but I'm on stock tires. I took a trip to the Delaware beaches last weekend, a 3 hour trip each way. At one point the transmission downshifted on its own to provide some engine braking on a down hill. I used the radar cruise and really like it despite the fact that I used to hate cruise control. You can never stay at your speed here in the mid Atlantic and north east. Too many slower drivers are always making you cancel traditional cruise control. With the radar it slowed the truck down and if I changed lanes it would speed up on its own to the set speed. It's so nice, And miles per gallon well I got 23.5 in my beach trip. I was impressed. So far I'm loving this truck. Can't wait to take it camping
I bought the same truck a few weeks after you, only difference, not Premium. I would recommend spending $109 for the Toyota bed mat. Not only will it prevent those dings you were talking about but it will really prevent your gear from sliding around. I totally agree about the shifting, it sucks! Mine is stock and I get 20 mpg. Thanks for the video.
I own an FJ Cruiser and there’re several things I don’t like about it but, in reality it’s the best vehicle I have ever owed. The most reliable by 1000%.
My wife and I both own 2018 Tacoma, hers is a 4x2 DC SB & mine is a TRD SPORT 4x4 with a 3.5" lift and 32" tires. Our transmissions were always hunting gears also. A few weeks back I took both back to the dealer and made them upgrade the transmission computer software and now they drive like a completely different truck. Plus if you use the " ECT" button you can that extra giddy up if needed. I highly suggest you make them upgrade the transmission software and you will notice a big difference. No more hunting gears in drive and manual shift even works better. Bob W.
Until you hit a 3% to 5% grade at 700 ft asl...then it’s back to gear hunting! Regearing is really the only option. They geared the autos too tall at 3:93, but If you look carefully they geared the manuals at 4:30.
I dont off road, off road if that makes sense. I travel to venues in the middle of no where and need the capability but for the most part its a street truck
Unfortunately there are pavement princesses out there. If your gonna do the big wheel thing get the sr5 at least. Just makes me sick seeing the off road with big wheels
I have a Tacoma with the composite bed and I've thrown many things into it. It's plenty durable I've never put a hole in it and I've hauled construction waste in -30 weather.
I love my 2012 had it since new just hit 160,000 have all the options on it . I will never let it go. It's my baby. I have also lifted it like yours and have similar tires and rims. If I'm easy on it I can get 22mpg It's the 4.0
You don't have to slide your finger on the door handle to lock, you just have to touch the spot. Just hit 1 year and 30k miles on my calvary blue 2019 OR and probably even more in love with the truck then when I first got it.
Thanks for the door lock / unlock truck. I couldn’t figure out why it was relocking after hitting that spot and I didn’t know about grabbing the handle to unlock.
Totally agree with the dislikes. I have a 2020 Off Road with 2” spacer/block lift. Getting about 16/17mpg combined driving it super soft. I don’t have the shift problem cuz it’s a manual. Also got the bed mat and Cali Raised stiffeners.
Those storage areas become completely useless when you have 2 car seats in and can’t access any of them with any kind of ease. Traded my 18 TRD OR a week ago for a 21 4Runner I am so happy now. Im also so happy to have the 4.0 w 5-speed back I had in my 14 taco. So much smoother. Thanks for the video.
I just did the same trade! 2019 taco dc or TRD man trans, for a 2021 4Runner TRD or premium. KDSS is awesome, the new head unit is awesome, so are the new leds. The 3.5 sucks, the 4.0 is much much better.
Yeah I get 17.5 mpg avg city/hwy combined with 265/75/R16 and 20.5 mpg on my 2017 TRD-OR with 4:88 gears and OVTune 91 Octane 2.0 tune for 4:88 gears. I run a full Dobinson’s suspension with JBA UCA and a CBI T3 winch bumper installed. Get it re-geared and tuned it changes everything.
I have owned 3 Toyota trucks for a total of about 27 years.1993 4x4 extra cab. 2002 Tacoma 4x4 extra cab and my current 2012 4door 4x4, with 3 inch fox coil overs and OME Dakar in the rear. 281/75/17. Get ready for torn inner cv boots and worn Lca’s. In my opinion Toyota is taking a step backwards. They have had a known steering issue, but refuse to fix it or even correct it with newer models. I am in the market for a new truck, but it will probably be a Gladiator. I used to love Taco’s but just can’t bring myself to buy another. And yes the gas mileage sucks, so if I’m gonna get crappy gas mileage, I might as well be able to take the top and doors off and make it worse. Good luck 👊🏻
Ect button... It's like a Built-in throttle commander. There is a debate whether it decreases or improves gas mileage. I believe it improves the gas mileage because the transmission is not constantly searching for gears. With the ECT button on it will hold the RPMS longer when additional power is needed. If you live anywhere where there is rolling hills definitely use it. You won't get all the unnecessary shifting
Get the orange tune. Completely fixes the shift issues. Works great with cruse control. I hated cruise control before. Also I get 1.5 mpg better around town and 3 better on the highway. I am running 33’s and getting 17.2 around town.
I averaged 21 mpg on my 2017 TRD OR. My bed has held up well. It does scratch easily but I put in a mat and that solved that. Overall has held up great.
Don't do a Pedal Commander! Get a KD Max tune instead. We did it on our 2020 and it made a night and day difference. We were running 32's for a while. We are now running 33" BFG KO2's and I couldn't handle how much more sluggish it got so we had 5:29 Nitro Gears installed. That was the best mod so far.
I figured out the shift thing. I got an aFe cold air intake and I run non-ethanol gas only. I can be running at 2000 rpm at 80mph. It rarely does the whole “let’s jump down to 4th gear and 5500RPM” thing. Also, oil. Keep your oil fresh. Big help
I have 2 tacoma's a 07 sr5 and a 20 sr5. The first time i towed my small boat with the 20 i wanted to get rid of it , the shifting was crazy but after a few times i started using just 5th gear and has been a lot better.
4:05. Pro tip: If you run cruise in "constant speed" vs "variable speed" the sporadic shifting is a big better. Pro tip #2 if the sensor is dirty or you live where there is snow and it won't let you use cruise, "constant speed" cruise will always work. I also disagree wholeheartedly with your comment on the composite bed. For $100 you can get a rubber bed mat and throw all the crap back there you want. Toss a shovel in any unprotected bed and it'll dent. Don't forget those spray in bed liners aren't free and if they are "included" at your dealer it's on the invoice somewhere. Otherwise accurate video, cheers.
For all 3rd Gen Tacoma owners. I have a 2017 3.5L with 2in Lift and 55lbs tires. This morning on the way to work I got 23.6 MPG and on the way home I usually get 20.7 MPG (this is normal for me driving 70MPH in SoCal). I did upgrade exhaust, TRD Air Box, I had Toyota update my ECU to 04B04, and I have been running the Orange Virus Tune 2.0 Premium 33in Tyre non-THX. My truck drives like a dream now. It stays in 6th most of the time on the highway, acceleration is smooth and has power behind it, shifts points are right on point and predictable. I can not promise you the same results but for me and my truck the setup I just described fits the bill.
@@shannondixon3767 265/75R16. The biggest I could fit without body mount chop. I have the JBA upper control arms, no sway bar, the 650lbs Bilstein springs for the bumper and steel skids. And those Generals which I have taken across the Mojave Road, Big Bear, Gorman all in CA. At 17lbs those tires crawl up anything! Well anything ive tried. Never had a problem or gotten stuck for over 100 in dirt trips now with minor rock crawling. Plus it’s my daily driver. I’ll be buying the same tires next time around.
First mod I did to my 3rd Gen Tacoma was a regear. Best thing you will ever do. Fortunately for me I live a few hours away from Nitro Gears so I took the plunge and got it done. Stock it would jump into 4th all the time going up the slightest of inclines and most likely never made its way into 6th gear unless I was pointed downwards going 70. With stock tires I am getting 25mpg highway and 21 in town. I went with 488’s since I won’t go larger than 33’s but would recommend 529’s if you are running 33’s or bigger with a lot of other heavy mods. Nitro gears, check em out.
as a high school student I keep my ratchet straps behind the seats and on the bigger compartment keep all my books and school supplies! super great storage, can even fit my hats under the seat
@@SC_XOLOs hahahah I got mine used, it was a 2 year lease so the miles were low and it was well kept, 26.5K was a hell of a deal so we couldn't pass it up
I was impressed that the lane departure and pre collision stuff came standard on my sr5. Not sure if it's on the SR but the sr5 comes with an impressive amount of tech
all new toyota’s have radar now. And yes SR5 is a fan favorite, perfect daily if you need for both work and play. Oddly enough i’m really enjoying the auto dimming rear view mirror lol
totally agree with the 1,2, 3 negative points. What is up with the MPG...I mean seriously its 2020 and toyota builds a prius....get it together and build an efficient friggin' motor. For the bed liner get the SMARTLINER Truck Bed Rugged Rubber Liner Mat on amazon. Best $130 you will spend. Nothing rolls around and its think so it won't ding the bed. Great video!
Do the OVTUNE...I love my truck but hated how my truck was always looking for gears..the OVTUNE helps with engine and transmission in better sync..Helps with your MPG...I was going to re gear but I’m happy with just the OVTUNE
My 2016 tacoma was shipped with low transmission fluid. After my mechanic changed and properly filled my fluid the transmission finally feels normal to me. I've read other tacomas shipped with low fluid so something to try of your having issues
Can’t believe they don’t come with them from the dealer but, bed mat. Composite bed is awesome for light work but the thick ass rubber Toyota bed mat is a must.
Regear....doin next summer since Ive done some expensive mods this summer...but can't wait to do 5.29's. But for right now...ECT/S mode tricks...as well as the lil bump on the accelerator in cruise when she decides to down shift and rev up everything for like u said..."for no reason"...I have a 2020 TRD Sport...premium everything..3 inch coilover lift amongst other things...she has just turned 2k miles. While I miss the engine/transmission of my 2012 superwhite Sport..I do love my 2020 cement...will love her more after the regear.
Pedal commander doesn't help mpg. Does kind of help smilespg. It doesn't help shift points either. It just changes your throttle sensitivity. Only thing that helps me is to not use cruise control. Trucks are just underpowered.
My 2020 stock SR5 access cab gives me an average of 20.6 MPG. I wanted to get bigger tires but now I might just keep it stock. Thanks for the info! I use mine for work and it does well.
I got real AT tires, 3 peak rated for winter stock size, Method wheels with 0 offset and the factory lift going on this month. MPG only changed about less than .5 mpg. Plenty of ground clearance and traction.
one of the most durable beds lol composite is equal to fiberglass but wayyy stronger. sought out for and used heavily for pool guys down here in florida because the chemicals will never rust and degrade the bed! You won’t ever ding composite plastic it’s impossible, you can crack it but that would take a lot my friend.
Good video just bought my taco 2 weeks ago. So I’m trying to buy a rear bed cover and I’m having a hard time finding one. Which one do you have and do you like it ?
Oz Mechanics I had a 17 sr5 crew cab. Great truck as for the bed cover the best one I found was the actual Toyota one that came from the dealer. It strong doesn’t rattle or squeak on bumpy roads like some of the aftermarkets. Keeps the bed dry and the locking mechanism is pretty stout. Stood up my 3 yrs constant abuse. Turned truck in with 64k miles I’m a Hvac contractor def happy with it.
T-Rick, to solve your gas milage issue, you are going to need to re-gear. 4.88s if your not off-roading and towing or 5.29s if you are off-roading and towing. Spend the money and get it done right before getting a bigger lift or bigger tires. Oh, and hood struts will allow you enjoy the engine bay even more!
Yep I'm getting a manual for sure when I get a tacoma. Not to mention it should help the larger tires. Btw larger tires effectively reduce your axle ratio and the autos have much higher gears than the lower gears in the manual. I believe the manual has 4:30s from what I read
Change the gears ⚙ in the front and rear ends. Every one put bigger tires on there truck but leave the stock gears in it. Taco's are already under powered. Gears will give your truck its power back and help with the gas mileage. It will also keep your transmission from constantly changing on you on the freeway.
The trucks aren’t under powered, the problem starts at the factory with their tuning and that makes them respond weaker so they can get the gas mileage #’s they need to get good scores. Toyota really slows them down.
Thanks for the vid! I’m trying to decide if I should buy a stock toyota tacoma off road trd in the same color scheme. A lot of great info here and I learned quite a bit. Thanks Rick! I noticed over the years that some people modify their vehicles to make it their own unique ride, “pimp mah ride” 🚗 and it looks great to them. To them it looks good, can stare at it for days and impress other drivers at the red light🚦. And that is what butters their toast🍞, floats their boat🛶, brings a smile to their face😁..etc.. I’m not judging / condemning people who do this…if they can afford it and just care about what it “looks like” and not about whether it is efficient as it operates…hey, you do you bruh or sistah. Now having said that…IMO…I like both looks and efficiency in a vehicle. Mods that just change the appearance but don’t affect performance is fine. Mods that go against what engineers designed it for, I personally stay away from because it will cause bad fuel economy, premature wear and tear on the vehicle and who knows what other negative effects. In regards to spending the money 💵 …I think it is not wise to finance any vehicle, it is a depreciating asset and a lot of your hard earned cash 💵 is going the wrong way…⬇️down. Pay cash instead & about half your take home pay, give or take. Financing and overpaying for a vehicle that is not relatively affordable , adding expensive mods and being in continuous debt (financing cars every few years) is not a path I would want to be in. my 2 pennies Oh! A Couple of things I like about this 2020 Trd is the new power seats and no recalls...well, not yet so far lol 😆...has anyone with previous years models stalled on the freeway yet? Again thanks for the vid!👍🏻
Put rubber mat in bed so stuff doesn't slide around and dent proof, also I use my 360 camera more for drive though's and parking lots than off roading very handy as you can set it for auto and come up on screen below 10 km. Need raptor lights! Put these on my pro grill and they make the front of the truck.
With the larger tires if you want to improve the shift points you are going to have to re gear the front and rear diffs. 4.88 if you are going to stay with that size tIre. Lower if you are going larger. This will bring your mileage and power back .
Yep, they geared it too high from the factory to meet EPA standards. 4:88’s go a long way toward rectifying that issue in a lightly modded or even stock truck. The manual trans models are better platforms for modding as they come factory with lower gear ratios
If you get the TRD OR and save 10k from not getting the Pro, you can still buy Suspension, Rear Cover, Upgraded Heated Claude Not fake leather seat, Jbl sound, and fantastic long road+off road tires...!
I have same truck except manual. I don’t have transmisión issues other that I have to work more . I read reviews before I bought it so I got lucky manual was available in Cenent color. My truck came with a rubber Matt for the bed and beautiful shell like rubber Matt’s and nice LED head lights. I have the birds eye view too. I love it. No complaints Premium package as well I had Chevy trucks prior
A few mods I can think of. Exhaust system, Re-Gear, TRD filter box, Window visors. Maybe do some custom vinyl graphic wrap, raptor lights, Hood pistons, Hood interior light. Interior mods. idk.... there are a lot.
My main dislike about my Gen 3 Tacoma Automatic is the weird shifting which makes me really miss my Gen 2 Tacoma. The only other dislike I have with the TRD Off Road models is that Toyota could have given more clearance for larger tires as far as with the wheel wells and such. Basically you can only run up to 31 inch tires and if you want to put pretty much anything larger then you have to lift and or cut and chop. It could have been easy for Toyota to just do it right so one could put at least 33's on with out having to level/lift/cut/chop. Hopefully Toyota does it right next time.
I had a 2012 Sport...lift and aftermarket wheels and tires...she drove like a dream...the 2020 Sport same set up was an interesting drive home with the cruise on...why would u change something that works!?! Just like taking out the "oh sh#$" handle off the drivers side...but...I do love my new truck even with its whiplash shift points lol...i will ask for the software upgrade but i do want to regear..
I have the same truck made in 2019. The 3.5L is definitely underpowered for the Tacoma. Also, cruise control is essentially useless over 60mph due to uprev and searching for gears, unless you enjoy 3500 rpms while the taco does it's thing. I couldn't imagine going to 285s without regearing... Just my .02, and it means next to nothing.
Its really not the transmission. Its the rear dif gearing. If you leave it stock its not noticable. But when you put bigger tires. It throws off toyotas gear ratio that was design specifically for maximizing performance with the stock size tire. If you look most people do a gearing change and the problem goes completely away because it brings the vehicle back to stock levels.
I tend to actually like the bed on my Taco, even though it scrapes and dings fairly easily to me which shows that I'm actually using the bed. I've had mine about a year and a half and the bed is still in great shape from constant landscaping use. Also, I have to mention how weird this is, so you and I both have channels mainly revolving around our cement Tacoma's (though I do other car reviews) and I have 7.63k Subscribers as of writing this and you have 7.36k Subscribers. What are the odds?!
The trans has a bunch of ways to eliminate some of the excessive shifting such as ECT mode S mode compared to D mode I had the dealer reflash the transmission made a big difference on my 17 offroad.Thanks for your videos good info.
I've heard a lot of negative things with the pedal commander on their website. Seriously, like someone else said here, Regear - 5.29 is the way to go. Someone said that the Pedal commander only tells the computer to push the pedal to the floor, on setting 6. (Which you can already do yourself, it simply gives the illusion of more power) I've heard Nitro Gear say that the Tacoma's engine is under rated, its the gearing which is the problem. Another Tacoma youtube channel re geared to 5.29 recently and they had the pedal commander for a while, apparently the pedal commander did not work for them. I recommend saving your money, put it towards the re-gear.
Does regearing void any warranties? Unless you haul a lot of weight or drive where there are a lot of hills, I believe the 4.88's would be a better match...
I put KO2’s in stock size and I get 20 mpg added an iDrive fixed the shifting thing it runs great and it’s more fun to drive now. I wouldn’t mind going up a few inches
I've got the same model with 18" black rhinos and 32" KO2s minus the lift. I experienced the same thing with the gas mileage until I installed an Injen intake (don't hate). While city mileage was worse (13-14mpg) my highway mileage now hits 21.5 - 22mpg cruising at 75mph.
Really depends on what you plan to do with it. If you want to have it ready to go and leave it alone, the pro has suspension done for you. If you want to lift or change suspension, why pay more for stuff you want to take off to begin with?
4.88 re-gearing will change everything. Better gas mileage, no more searching for gears. I have a 3 inch lift 285 70r 17 tires on the freeway I average 22 mpg on the street average 18 mpg
I just hit 10k as well in my manual trans. wish it didnt have the radar system or the sos system. You have to account for tire size calculation on mpg, they are striding further therefore the mpg gauge will be off at min 2mpg. When you hit 100k it will actually be like 120k. O gawd, dont do raptor lights.
I suggest looking into the OVTune and re-gear it. There are some videos about the 2 different ratios that are mainly used. And the tune will help with the shifting the delay in the throttle
You will like the Pedal Commander. It noticeably changed the 'shifting'. In the Sport Setting, it'll give you whiplash. I didn't like the $400 price tag and I'm not sure that I can justify the cost but the shifting is annoying. BTW...like the video. I have a 2017.
The majority of the reason it shifts so much is 5th and 6th are basically both overdrives, so it'll go from 6 to 5th, but that'll still be too high so it'll go down into 4th.....they should have only put a 5-speed in it
I hear the nitro gearing can help a lot. There is a place in spokane Washington that specializes in it and claim upwards of a 3 mpg recovery over stock gearing with aftermarket wheels/tires.
How does your 275/65R18 ride comfort over the stock tires. I have 04 Tacoma and was looking at 18” wheels. Should I be better with 17” I like the 32” tires you have
I have a 2020 Predator XP TRD Off Road..no issued 20 to 22 mpg no issue. I love my shit stock.... definitely the Cruise control needs work but I don't have any issues driving with my foot.
I love how people who drive tacos cry about gas mileage , you don’t get a truck to save gas. Trade it in for a Prius
I do. And man do I get amazing MPG! 39 MPG highway! Man, I love my 3rd Gen Tacoma!!
Lol seriously, if you wanted good mpg, why are you getting a truck?
tacoma has very good gas mileage honestly i only find myself spending about 60 a week sometimes more if im driving around alot but it almost feels like im driving a sudan when it comes to gas wouldnt trade it for anything
exactly
I will say this though, you would think that the tacoma would get better mpg for its size
I just picked up a 2020 Cement SR5 v6 4x4 three weeks ago. I really don't think the transmission hunts too much but I'm on stock tires. I took a trip to the Delaware beaches last weekend, a 3 hour trip each way. At one point the transmission downshifted on its own to provide some engine braking on a down hill.
I used the radar cruise and really like it despite the fact that I used to hate cruise control. You can never stay at your speed here in the mid Atlantic and north east. Too many slower drivers are always making you cancel traditional cruise control. With the radar it slowed the truck down and if I changed lanes it would speed up on its own to the set speed. It's so nice,
And miles per gallon well I got 23.5 in my beach trip. I was impressed. So far I'm loving this truck. Can't wait to take it camping
I bought the same truck a few weeks after you, only difference, not Premium. I would recommend spending $109 for the Toyota bed mat. Not only will it prevent those dings you were talking about but it will really prevent your gear from sliding around. I totally agree about the shifting, it sucks! Mine is stock and I get 20 mpg. Thanks for the video.
With my DJ gear I actually like that it slides. Makes getting stuff in and out a lot easier. I never put like on or two things back there.
have you tried using s mode or ect..
Everyone with the Tacoma needs to buy the rubber bedliner. Solves all your problems
That's what I did.
100% agreee...such a crucial addition
That's the first thing i did. Fully agree!
Why?
@@carlosg3320 because the composite bed is super slippery and anything your place back there will slide around like it's on ice
I own an FJ Cruiser and there’re several things I don’t like about it but, in reality it’s the best vehicle I have ever owed. The most reliable by 1000%.
My wife and I both own 2018 Tacoma, hers is a 4x2 DC SB & mine is a TRD SPORT 4x4 with a 3.5" lift and 32" tires. Our transmissions were always hunting gears also. A few weeks back I took both back to the dealer and made them upgrade the transmission computer software and now they drive like a completely different truck. Plus if you use the " ECT" button you can that extra giddy up if needed. I highly suggest you make them upgrade the transmission software and you will notice a big difference. No more hunting gears in drive and manual shift even works better.
Bob W.
So I should do this to my 2020? Not happy with the transmission
Took my to the dealer for the same thing and they said it was up to date I was pissed, however ever since I took it there it shifts fine.
Until you hit a 3% to 5% grade at 700 ft asl...then it’s back to gear hunting! Regearing is really the only option. They geared the autos too tall at 3:93, but If you look carefully they geared the manuals at 4:30.
@@DMHal01 how much better does that feel and operate?
The word 18 inch rims and offroad dont go together
I dont off road, off road if that makes sense. I travel to venues in the middle of no where and need the capability but for the most part its a street truck
So what he’s saying is that he spent a lot more money for something that he doesn’t need. 🤣
Unfortunately there are pavement princesses out there. If your gonna do the big wheel thing get the sr5 at least. Just makes me sick seeing the off road with big wheels
Let the brotha do what he wants to do.
Ben Taganile I’m not stopping him from doing what he wants to do, I’m just stating that he spent a lot more money on something he doesn’t need. 🤣
You need to re-gear the differentials to 5.29’s. That should improve shift points and improve gas mileage
Also change the upper control arms
Juan Velez I’ve got Icon Delta Joints UCA once I can get Fox to send me some 2.5 Remote Reservoir Coilovers !
Should have bought the manual transmission
Def regear, it’ll help your mpg and gear hunting
5.29’s for 32’s?! Sheesh. That’s not a “big, heavy” tire. Toyota needs to update that transmission if you need to gear to that level to push 32” tires
Shift points are totally the biggest gripe I have with mine as well. Love your truck and keep up the videos. 👉🏾
I have a Tacoma with the composite bed and I've thrown many things into it. It's plenty durable I've never put a hole in it and I've hauled construction waste in -30 weather.
360 camera is my favorite thing about 2020 Tacoma for parking
I love my 2012 had it since new just hit 160,000 have all the options on it . I will never let it go. It's my baby. I have also lifted it like yours and have similar tires and rims. If I'm easy on it I can get 22mpg It's the 4.0
You don't have to slide your finger on the door handle to lock, you just have to touch the spot. Just hit 1 year and 30k miles on my calvary blue 2019 OR and probably even more in love with the truck then when I first got it.
Yeah works better on the slide though
Thanks for the door lock / unlock truck. I couldn’t figure out why it was relocking after hitting that spot and I didn’t know about grabbing the handle to unlock.
Totally agree with the dislikes. I have a 2020 Off Road with 2” spacer/block lift. Getting about 16/17mpg combined driving it super soft. I don’t have the shift problem cuz it’s a manual. Also got the bed mat and Cali Raised stiffeners.
Drive it with ECT on. It will fix shifting, make it more peppy and I get better gas mileage. My 2018 is stock and I get 21 mpg.
Those storage areas become completely useless when you have 2 car seats in and can’t access any of them with any kind of ease. Traded my 18 TRD OR a week ago for a 21 4Runner I am so happy now. Im also so happy to have the 4.0 w 5-speed back I had in my 14 taco. So much smoother. Thanks for the video.
I just did the same trade! 2019 taco dc or TRD man trans, for a 2021 4Runner TRD or premium. KDSS is awesome, the new head unit is awesome, so are the new leds. The 3.5 sucks, the 4.0 is much much better.
Yeah I get 17.5 mpg avg city/hwy combined with 265/75/R16 and 20.5 mpg on my 2017 TRD-OR with 4:88 gears and OVTune 91 Octane 2.0 tune for 4:88 gears. I run a full Dobinson’s suspension with JBA UCA and a CBI T3 winch bumper installed.
Get it re-geared and tuned it changes everything.
Don't forget you can also remote start the truck with the FOB by pressing lock 3 times and holding in at the 3rd time until lights blink
Is this just on the 2020? I have a 2019 - thanks
@@rootedrotor525 It should work on the 2019 as well as long as you have remote connect
Works on 2021 OR with tech package
I have owned 3 Toyota trucks for a total of about 27 years.1993 4x4 extra cab. 2002 Tacoma 4x4 extra cab and my current 2012 4door 4x4, with 3 inch fox coil overs and OME Dakar in the rear. 281/75/17. Get ready for torn inner cv boots and worn Lca’s. In my opinion Toyota is taking a step backwards. They have had a known steering issue, but refuse to fix it or even correct it with newer models. I am in the market for a new truck, but it will probably be a Gladiator. I used to love Taco’s but just can’t bring myself to buy another. And yes the gas mileage sucks, so if I’m gonna get crappy gas mileage, I might as well be able to take the top and doors off and make it worse. Good luck 👊🏻
Ect button... It's like a Built-in throttle commander. There is a debate whether it decreases or improves gas mileage. I believe it improves the gas mileage because the transmission is not constantly searching for gears. With the ECT button on it will hold the RPMS longer when additional power is needed. If you live anywhere where there is rolling hills definitely use it. You won't get all the unnecessary shifting
Get the orange tune. Completely fixes the shift issues. Works great with cruse control. I hated cruise control before. Also I get 1.5 mpg better around town and 3 better on the highway. I am running 33’s and getting 17.2 around town.
5.29s made a huge difference. I get 18 mpg on the highway with 35s. It also cruises nicely in 6th gear.
How much did the change cost?
@@robertcortez2749 About 2k including install
I averaged 21 mpg on my 2017 TRD OR. My bed has held up well. It does scratch easily but I put in a mat and that solved that. Overall has held up great.
Don't do a Pedal Commander! Get a KD Max tune instead. We did it on our 2020 and it made a night and day difference. We were running 32's for a while.
We are now running 33" BFG KO2's and I couldn't handle how much more sluggish it got so we had 5:29 Nitro Gears installed. That was the best mod so far.
I figured out the shift thing. I got an aFe cold air intake and I run non-ethanol gas only. I can be running at 2000 rpm at 80mph. It rarely does the whole “let’s jump down to 4th gear and 5500RPM” thing. Also, oil. Keep your oil fresh. Big help
I have 2 tacoma's a 07 sr5 and a 20 sr5. The first time i towed my small boat with the 20 i wanted to get rid of it , the shifting was crazy but after a few times i started using just 5th gear and has been a lot better.
it tells you in the manual, ect on and gear lock to 5th gear when towing
4:05. Pro tip: If you run cruise in "constant speed" vs "variable speed" the sporadic shifting is a big better. Pro tip #2 if the sensor is dirty or you live where there is snow and it won't let you use cruise, "constant speed" cruise will always work.
I also disagree wholeheartedly with your comment on the composite bed. For $100 you can get a rubber bed mat and throw all the crap back there you want. Toss a shovel in any unprotected bed and it'll dent. Don't forget those spray in bed liners aren't free and if they are "included" at your dealer it's on the invoice somewhere.
Otherwise accurate video, cheers.
For all 3rd Gen Tacoma owners. I have a 2017 3.5L with 2in Lift and 55lbs tires. This morning on the way to work I got 23.6 MPG and on the way home I usually get 20.7 MPG (this is normal for me driving 70MPH in SoCal). I did upgrade exhaust, TRD Air Box, I had Toyota update my ECU to 04B04, and I have been running the Orange Virus Tune 2.0 Premium 33in Tyre non-THX. My truck drives like a dream now. It stays in 6th most of the time on the highway, acceleration is smooth and has power behind it, shifts points are right on point and predictable. I can not promise you the same results but for me and my truck the setup I just described fits the bill.
Which tires are you running?
@@shannondixon3767 General Grabber ATX
@@Donkarnage223 what size and how do you like them... I'm considering the same size lift
@@shannondixon3767 265/75R16. The biggest I could fit without body mount chop. I have the JBA upper control arms, no sway bar, the 650lbs Bilstein springs for the bumper and steel skids. And those Generals which I have taken across the Mojave Road, Big Bear, Gorman all in CA. At 17lbs those tires crawl up anything! Well anything ive tried. Never had a problem or gotten stuck for over 100 in dirt trips now with minor rock crawling. Plus it’s my daily driver. I’ll be buying the same tires next time around.
@@Donkarnage223 Do you feel like you could fit 275/70R17s without rub? A little over a 32” tire but narrower than the 285s most people run.
First mod I did to my 3rd Gen Tacoma was a regear. Best thing you will ever do. Fortunately for me I live a few hours away from Nitro Gears so I took the plunge and got it done. Stock it would jump into 4th all the time going up the slightest of inclines and most likely never made its way into 6th gear unless I was pointed downwards going 70. With stock tires I am getting 25mpg highway and 21 in town. I went with 488’s since I won’t go larger than 33’s but would recommend 529’s if you are running 33’s or bigger with a lot of other heavy mods. Nitro gears, check em out.
About how much did it run you?
David collins about $3400. Well worth it and I’m glad that was the very first thing I did.
as a high school student I keep my ratchet straps behind the seats and on the bigger compartment keep all my books and school supplies! super great storage, can even fit my hats under the seat
Damn, as a high school student, I would walk to school.
@@SC_XOLOs hahahah I got mine used, it was a 2 year lease so the miles were low and it was well kept, 26.5K was a hell of a deal so we couldn't pass it up
I love my manual 2020 trd sport premium Tacoma I shift when I want to the gear I need.
Literally, was lol’ing hearing him talk about shifting problems, like ope shoulda gotta manual 🤷♂️
I got the Sprint Booster , same as the Pedal Commander. eliminates the Constant Gear shifting on my 2021 TRD Pro
I was impressed that the lane departure and pre collision stuff came standard on my sr5. Not sure if it's on the SR but the sr5 comes with an impressive amount of tech
Standard on all models
all new toyota’s have radar now. And yes SR5 is a fan favorite, perfect daily if you need for both work and play. Oddly enough i’m really enjoying the auto dimming rear view mirror lol
totally agree with the 1,2, 3 negative points. What is up with the MPG...I mean seriously its 2020 and toyota builds a prius....get it together and build an efficient friggin' motor. For the bed liner get the SMARTLINER Truck Bed Rugged Rubber Liner Mat on amazon. Best $130 you will spend. Nothing rolls around and its think so it won't ding the bed. Great video!
Composit bed is tougher than steel and lighter. Doesn't rust and lasts forever.
Yes, Like I said my wife and I both have 2018 Tacomas and after the transmission software upgrade they run like a completely different truck.
Could you Send me a link or tell me a little about the transmission reprogramming I have a 2019 TRD off road
Do the OVTUNE...I love my truck but hated how my truck was always looking for gears..the OVTUNE helps with engine and transmission in better sync..Helps with your MPG...I was going to re gear but I’m happy with just the OVTUNE
My 2016 tacoma was shipped with low transmission fluid. After my mechanic changed and properly filled my fluid the transmission finally feels normal to me. I've read other tacomas shipped with low fluid so something to try of your having issues
It’s crazy how much these tacos cost this is a supreme taco
honestly worth it the tacoma 2020 is a weapon nomatter what model u get
I'm glad I have a 6 speed manual.
Me too
Can’t believe they don’t come with them from the dealer but, bed mat. Composite bed is awesome for light work but the thick ass rubber Toyota bed mat is a must.
Regear....doin next summer since Ive done some expensive mods this summer...but can't wait to do 5.29's. But for right now...ECT/S mode tricks...as well as the lil bump on the accelerator in cruise when she decides to down shift and rev up everything for like u said..."for no reason"...I have a 2020 TRD Sport...premium everything..3 inch coilover lift amongst other things...she has just turned 2k miles. While I miss the engine/transmission of my 2012 superwhite Sport..I do love my 2020 cement...will love her more after the regear.
Same. You described to a t the little bump on the gas to get it to shift. Lol
Awesome Video ! Awesome truck color ! Thanks for the great advice .
Pedal commander doesn't help mpg. Does kind of help smilespg. It doesn't help shift points either. It just changes your throttle sensitivity. Only thing that helps me is to not use cruise control. Trucks are just underpowered.
I have a 2020 TRD pro and I've changed all the interior lighting to Cali Raised LED lights, huge difference vs the stock bulbs.
Same. I actually over looked that I even did that. It was like the first thing.
The shift point issue has been a problem lol. My 3rd gen 4runner does the same. I would recommend using ECT, it helps a ton with my 4runner.
My 2020 stock SR5 access cab gives me an average of 20.6 MPG. I wanted to get bigger tires but now I might just keep it stock. Thanks for the info! I use mine for work and it does well.
I got real AT tires, 3 peak rated for winter stock size, Method wheels with 0 offset and the factory lift going on this month. MPG only changed about less than .5 mpg. Plenty of ground clearance and traction.
Great Honest review! Thank You.
Everything works as a system. If you change a part, you must not forget about the inter connected part's of that system.
one of the most durable beds lol composite is equal to fiberglass but wayyy stronger. sought out for and used heavily for pool guys down here in florida because the chemicals will never rust and degrade the bed! You won’t ever ding composite plastic it’s impossible, you can crack it but that would take a lot my friend.
Good video just bought my taco 2 weeks ago. So I’m trying to buy a rear bed cover and I’m having a hard time finding one. Which one do you have and do you like it ?
Got a whole video on mine. Scroll down my channel you will see it. Congrats on the taco
Taco Rick sweet. I’ve been watching about 2 hrs worth of cover videos right now. I’m looking into tonno pro. But let me check out your video
Oz Mechanics I had a 17 sr5 crew cab. Great truck as for the bed cover the best one I found was the actual Toyota one that came from the dealer. It strong doesn’t rattle or squeak on bumpy roads like some of the aftermarkets. Keeps the bed dry and the locking mechanism is pretty stout. Stood up my 3 yrs constant abuse. Turned truck in with 64k miles I’m a Hvac contractor def happy with it.
Manual shift stock tires and I get 20+ mpg and no random shift points.
T-Rick, to solve your gas milage issue, you are going to need to re-gear. 4.88s if your not off-roading and towing or 5.29s if you are off-roading and towing. Spend the money and get it done right before getting a bigger lift or bigger tires. Oh, and hood struts will allow you enjoy the engine bay even more!
Already did that the struts in a recent video
Yep I'm getting a manual for sure when I get a tacoma. Not to mention it should help the larger tires. Btw larger tires effectively reduce your axle ratio and the autos have much higher gears than the lower gears in the manual. I believe the manual has 4:30s from what I read
Change the gears ⚙ in the front and rear ends. Every one put bigger tires on there truck but leave the stock gears in it. Taco's are already under powered. Gears will give your truck its power back and help with the gas mileage. It will also keep your transmission from constantly changing on you on the freeway.
The trucks aren’t under powered, the problem starts at the factory with their tuning and that makes them respond weaker so they can get the gas mileage #’s they need to get good scores. Toyota really slows them down.
Im loving my 2020 tacoma as well. I didn't get the premium pack but I still love all the options that is possible with it.
Get a Prius if u want to get good gas mileage
Yep
Thanks for the vid! I’m trying to decide if I should buy a stock toyota tacoma off road trd in the same color scheme. A lot of great info here and I learned quite a bit. Thanks Rick!
I noticed over the years that some people modify their vehicles to make it their own unique ride, “pimp mah ride” 🚗 and it looks great to them. To them it looks good, can stare at it for days and impress other drivers at the red light🚦. And that is what butters their toast🍞, floats their boat🛶, brings a smile to their face😁..etc.. I’m not judging / condemning people who do this…if they can afford it and just care about what it “looks like” and not about whether it is efficient as it operates…hey, you do you bruh or sistah.
Now having said that…IMO…I like both looks and efficiency in a vehicle. Mods that just change the appearance but don’t affect performance is fine. Mods that go against what engineers designed it for, I personally stay away from because it will cause bad fuel economy, premature wear and tear on the vehicle and who knows what other negative effects. In regards to spending the money 💵 …I think it is not wise to finance any vehicle, it is a depreciating asset and a lot of your hard earned cash 💵 is going the wrong way…⬇️down. Pay cash instead & about half your take home pay, give or take. Financing and overpaying for a vehicle that is not relatively affordable , adding expensive mods and being in continuous debt (financing cars every few years) is not a path I would want to be in.
my 2 pennies
Oh! A Couple of things I like about this 2020 Trd is the new power seats and no recalls...well, not yet so far lol 😆...has anyone with previous years models stalled on the freeway yet?
Again thanks for the vid!👍🏻
I have a first generation second generation 3 generation Toyota Tacoma I think for me is the best truck in the world Medium truck
Great content... agree with your comment on parking sensors. Useless until you hit something backing up. Good luck! 👍
We got same truck color and lift I got 4 inch with 285 70 -17s
Man I thought I was the only one I have a SR I thought the jerking of the transmission was just the fact that was the basic model
Hey Rick, just came across your channel. Good vids. Just subbed. Appreciate your honesty and your maturity for your youth. Keep it up.
one of my favorite truck videos I've seen so far.
You must be new to RUclips
Put rubber mat in bed so stuff doesn't slide around and dent proof, also I use my 360 camera more for drive though's and parking lots than off roading very handy as you can set it for auto and come up on screen below 10 km. Need raptor lights! Put these on my pro grill and they make the front of the truck.
Cameras don’t work good in the rain tho
This dude the type to not roll his straps up, leaving them I a twisted mess. I’ve seen enough here.
Why cus I use them constantly?
With the larger tires if you want to improve the shift points you are going to have to re gear the front and rear diffs. 4.88 if you are going to stay with that size tIre. Lower if you are going larger. This will bring your mileage and power back
.
Yep, they geared it too high from the factory to meet EPA standards. 4:88’s go a long way toward rectifying that issue in a lightly modded or even stock truck. The manual trans models are better platforms for modding as they come factory with lower gear ratios
If you get the TRD OR and save 10k from not getting the Pro, you can still buy Suspension, Rear Cover, Upgraded Heated Claude Not fake leather seat, Jbl sound, and fantastic long road+off road tires...!
FYI, believe there is a package for heated seats with 360 camera sensors
I have same truck except manual. I don’t have transmisión issues other that I have to work more . I read reviews before I bought it so I got lucky manual was available in Cenent color. My truck came with a rubber Matt for the bed and beautiful shell like rubber Matt’s and nice LED head lights. I have the birds eye view too. I love it. No complaints Premium package as well I had Chevy trucks prior
A few mods I can think of. Exhaust system, Re-Gear, TRD filter box, Window visors. Maybe do some custom vinyl graphic wrap, raptor lights, Hood pistons, Hood interior light. Interior mods. idk.... there are a lot.
There is a lot
My main dislike about my Gen 3 Tacoma Automatic is the weird shifting which makes me really miss my Gen 2 Tacoma. The only other dislike I have with the TRD Off Road models is that Toyota could have given more clearance for larger tires as far as with the wheel wells and such. Basically you can only run up to 31 inch tires and if you want to put pretty much anything larger then you have to lift and or cut and chop. It could have been easy for Toyota to just do it right so one could put at least 33's on with out having to level/lift/cut/chop. Hopefully Toyota does it right next time.
I had a 2012 Sport...lift and aftermarket wheels and tires...she drove like a dream...the 2020 Sport same set up was an interesting drive home with the cruise on...why would u change something that works!?!
Just like taking out the "oh sh#$" handle off the drivers side...but...I do love my new truck even with its whiplash shift points lol...i will ask for the software upgrade but i do want to regear..
AWESOME video dude!!!!,💪🏽💪🏽
I have the same truck made in 2019. The 3.5L is definitely underpowered for the Tacoma. Also, cruise control is essentially useless over 60mph due to uprev and searching for gears, unless you enjoy 3500 rpms while the taco does it's thing. I couldn't imagine going to 285s without regearing... Just my .02, and it means next to nothing.
The transmission is a big concern for me. Everyone on youtube is complaining about the same thing. I think I might go with the manual
Its really not the transmission. Its the rear dif gearing. If you leave it stock its not noticable. But when you put bigger tires. It throws off toyotas gear ratio that was design specifically for maximizing performance with the stock size tire. If you look most people do a gearing change and the problem goes completely away because it brings the vehicle back to stock levels.
I tend to actually like the bed on my Taco, even though it scrapes and dings fairly easily to me which shows that I'm actually using the bed. I've had mine about a year and a half and the bed is still in great shape from constant landscaping use. Also, I have to mention how weird this is, so you and I both have channels mainly revolving around our cement Tacoma's (though I do other car reviews) and I have 7.63k Subscribers as of writing this and you have 7.36k Subscribers. What are the odds?!
Thats dope. I am going to expand into other cars soon.
@@TacoRick I Look forward to it!
The trans has a bunch of ways to eliminate some of the excessive shifting such as ECT mode S mode compared to D mode I had the dealer reflash the transmission made a big difference on my 17 offroad.Thanks for your videos good info.
My 2019 manual gets 22.5 mpg using premium, low test about 20 and it knocks and shakes roughly.
I was surprised he said his was an auto. I had thought all TRDs were manual
I've heard a lot of negative things with the pedal commander on their website. Seriously, like someone else said here, Regear - 5.29 is the way to go. Someone said that the Pedal commander only tells the computer to push the pedal to the floor, on setting 6. (Which you can already do yourself, it simply gives the illusion of more power)
I've heard Nitro Gear say that the Tacoma's engine is under rated, its the gearing which is the problem.
Another Tacoma youtube channel re geared to 5.29 recently and they had the pedal commander for a while, apparently the pedal commander did not work for them.
I recommend saving your money, put it towards the re-gear.
Does regearing void any warranties? Unless you haul a lot of weight or drive where there are a lot of hills, I believe the 4.88's would be a better match...
. Good detailed video
Love my 2020 TRD Off Road!
I put KO2’s in stock size and I get 20 mpg added an iDrive fixed the shifting thing it runs great and it’s more fun to drive now. I wouldn’t mind going up a few inches
I've got the same model with 18" black rhinos and 32" KO2s minus the lift. I experienced the same thing with the gas mileage until I installed an Injen intake (don't hate). While city mileage was worse (13-14mpg) my highway mileage now hits 21.5 - 22mpg cruising at 75mph.
Yeah I think my biggest mpg problem compared to most is speed. I am about 85 on the highway here in NC
I had the dealer reflash the transmission,made quite a difference plus it was free
Wayyyyyyy better mileage than my STi.
Definitely still moving forward with the eventual trade in. Still super torn between TRD Off road, and TRD PRO
Really depends on what you plan to do with it. If you want to have it ready to go and leave it alone, the pro has suspension done for you. If you want to lift or change suspension, why pay more for stuff you want to take off to begin with?
Cody Leslie
I think I’m looking at an eventual 3 inch lift, and capping the tires out at 33’s.
Very good points though. Lots to consider!
Not built in Japan, rear drum brakes, and transmission oddities. Sounds like a great argument for the trusty 4Runner.
i'm in a dilemma, tacoma or 4runner daily? pls help
No manual transmission so not an option for me
4.88 re-gearing will change everything. Better gas mileage, no more searching for gears. I have a 3 inch lift 285 70r 17 tires on the freeway I average 22 mpg on the street average 18 mpg
I just hit 10k as well in my manual trans. wish it didnt have the radar system or the sos system. You have to account for tire size calculation on mpg, they are striding further therefore the mpg gauge will be off at min 2mpg. When you hit 100k it will actually be like 120k. O gawd, dont do raptor lights.
I put that into my numbers. The dash reads 12 to 14. In reality its 14 to 16.
Thats a gorgeous truck, i am in awe
I suggest looking into the OVTune and re-gear it. There are some videos about the 2 different ratios that are mainly used.
And the tune will help with the shifting the delay in the throttle
Great video
You will like the Pedal Commander. It noticeably changed the 'shifting'. In the Sport Setting, it'll give you whiplash. I didn't like the $400 price tag and I'm not sure that I can justify the cost but the shifting is annoying. BTW...like the video. I have a 2017.
the 360 cam is great for parking too, not just off roading.
Your stock intake is cold air. Your K&N is actually now a warm air intake.
The majority of the reason it shifts so much is 5th and 6th are basically both overdrives, so it'll go from 6 to 5th, but that'll still be too high so it'll go down into 4th.....they should have only put a 5-speed in it
Agree
I like the look of your Tacoma, it's how I want mine to look!
I hear the nitro gearing can help a lot. There is a place in spokane Washington that specializes in it and claim upwards of a 3 mpg recovery over stock gearing with aftermarket wheels/tires.
How does your 275/65R18 ride comfort over the stock tires.
I have 04 Tacoma and was looking at 18” wheels. Should I be better with 17” I like the 32” tires you have
Smoother in my opinion. The wider tires seem to help absorb more impact and help provide a wider footprint for the vehicle
Love the color of your tacoma!!😉& the wheels and tires too...💙👍
I have a 2020 Predator XP TRD Off Road..no issued 20 to 22 mpg no issue. I love my shit stock.... definitely the Cruise control needs work but I don't have any issues driving with my foot.
Very true about the sound system