What should I watch out for when buying a 2006 Tacoma SR5 4.0L?

Toyota Tacoma SR5 Forum
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What should I keep an eye on with my 2006 Tacoma SR5 4.0L? I just got it with 121,000 kms and I’m really enjoying it. I’ve noticed some driveline clunking, but I greased the slip joint and that helped a lot. I’m hearing a popping noise when I turn right at speed, so I’ll look into that too. I’m also planning to change the automatic transmission fluid and the diff. Any other suspension or driveline issues I should watch for? I want this truck to last and I’m considering a small lift, which means I’ll need to think about the driveshaft as well. I’m just looking to make some subtle upgrades, not going all out off-roading or anything. Any advice would be great, thanks in advance

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I’ve got an 06 SR5 TRD OFF ROAD with 186K miles. If you’re hearing popping when turning, you should check the front axles and ball joints, and also the carrier bearing. I haven’t had many issues with mine besides an alternator replacement. I added a 3-inch Ironman lift, replaced my torn CV boots, and did some upgrades on my axles. When you lift it, you might get some vibrations that can be fixed with a clamshell bushing on the driver’s side of the front differential. I did all the work myself with basic tools and found a lot of helpful videos on YouTube, especially from Kflo’s Tacoma channel. Just a heads up, my adjustable cup holder broke along with the center console latch, but I found replacements cheap on Amazon

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I’ll definitely check out the axles and ball joints. The previous owner took it easy on the truck, so it hasn’t been driven hard. The steering feels great, but I’ll look into the popping noise. I’ve heard the sway bar bushings can wear out too. The carrier bearing seems fine, but I might need to replace it soon. Thanks for the tips, I’ll keep all this in mind for when I lift it

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I’ll share a pic of my truck and list all the upgrades I’ve done

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You really don’t need to do all those drops when lifting, just wanted to clarify that

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I’m just sharing my experience with what worked for me to reduce vibrations and improve flex. I never claimed everyone has to do the same mods

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Well, I think those drops don’t really do much and are a waste of money

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They’re just small spacers that can easily be made at home. Whether they’re necessary or not, they came with the lift kit so I don’t see it as a waste of money

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I suggest checking out The Car Care Nut on YouTube for great tips. Also, carparts.com and RockAuto are good for parts. Don’t forget to get your oil filters from the Toyota dealer and change all your fluids, including the coolant

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Enjoy your new truck. The previous owner barely broke it in for you, and the 2nd gen is the best. Your mods should depend on how you plan to use it. I added heated seats and a new head unit with Apple CarPlay since we go snowboarding a lot. Little upgrades make a big difference

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Thanks, I feel lucky to have found this one. The most important upgrade for me is getting a head unit with wireless Android Auto and Bluetooth. Everything else can wait, but that will really make me happy with it

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Haha, I didn’t know wireless CarPlay was a thing when I got mine, but I actually like plugging my phone in to charge it. Good luck with everything