Shifterati

6th gen Toyota Truck

Buyer's checklist: 6th gen Toyota Truck 1989–1995

This checklist comes from a draft dossier that has not been approved yet, so read it with care.

What to look for on this generation, worst first. Tick each line as you check it.

Free while the site is being tested. Every line comes from the dossier and keeps its source, and the dossier itself stays free.

Inspection sheet Mark up every panel, what is underneath and how it drives.

Look for 2

Known problems, and how to check for each.

V6 head gasket failureAll yearsAsk for proof the head gaskets were replaced, and look for coolant loss, overheating or oil mixed with coolant.¹
Worn clutchAll yearsOn a test drive, feel for a clutch that slips or bites high, and ask when it was last replaced.^2,3

Recalls to ask about 1

Recalls filed for these model years. Not every car is covered; check the vehicle identification number with NHTSA.

Recall 05V3890001989–1995Turning the wheel to full lock again and again, as when parking, can crack the steering relay rod, which may break. The rod is replaced. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^{4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11}

What buyers avoid 1

What owners and the press say to steer clear of.

3.0L V6All yearsOf the two IH8MUD members who prefer the four, one says the V6 burns more fuel and costs more to fix, and the other hates working on it for lack of room. Toyota ran a head gasket campaign for it.^12,1

The boxes are for you: nothing you tick is sent or kept.

Sources