Seven Must-Have Mods for the Toyota Tacoma
If you’re the kind of person who sees your Tacoma as a blank canvas, these are the first things you should change on your truck.
The Toyota Tacoma is an amazing truck, and while it’s getting a little long in the tooth, it’s still the rig to beat in the mid-size segment. That said, it’s not perfect. And while the debut of the next-generation rig is just around the corner, you don’t need a crystal ball to predict that enthusiasts will be modding stock — or nearly stock — models for years to come.
Of course, if you’ve just picked up a Tacoma, you probably have a plan on how you’re going to make it your own. But before you start ordering parts or turning wrenches, check out this list of must-have mods. Because while it might not line up precisely with your dream build? It’ll give you some solid insight into what both folks on the forum tackle first when it comes to their Tacos.
1. Leveling Kit / Suspension Lift
Like most trucks, the Tacoma has a slight nose-down stance in stock form. So if you’re looking for it to sit flat, you’ll want to install a leveling kit. And if you’re looking to go off-road? A lift kit is just the ticket — and basically required for some of the other mods on this list.
Photo: 2-Inch Leveling Kit from Vertax
2. Wheels and Tires
If you’re like a lot of folks, the wheel and tire setup is one of the first things you’ll want to change on your truck. But given the tight clearance of a stock Tacoma, you’ll probably need to do a lift or level first. So that’s why it’s second on our list.
Photo: TRD Style Matte Black 6-Lug Wheel from Extreme Terrain
3. Pedal Commander Throttle Controller
Power isn’t really the Tacoma’s strongest attribute. But you don’t have to void your warranty with a tune, or drop in an LS to make your truck feel peppier. The Pedal Commander offers the ability to easily adjust your throttle settings, and tap into the power that’s already there.
Photo: Pedal Commander from Motoroso
4. Cold Air Intake
It’s a no-brainer: The better your engine breathes, the better it will perform. And while you’re not going to see forced-induction levels of poke from swapping on a cold air system, you’ll likely gain a few ponies. Plus, your engine will sound better too.
Photo: K&N Performance Air Intake
5. Exhaust System
When it comes to power and performance, intake and exhaust go together like chocolate and peanut butter. Volume-wise, there are loads of choices. But if you’re going to use your truck on the street, don’t even consider straight pipes.
Photo: MagnaFlow Street Series Cat-Back Exhaust
6. Side Steps / Rock Rails
Even if you never take your truck off road, there’s no arguing that rock sliders look cool. And if you do wind up going off the beaten path? They just might keep you from leaving any expensive bits of your rig on the trail.
Photo: RCI Rock Sliders from Exit Off-Road
7. LED Headlights
While these are far from the sexiest item on this list, the fact of the matter is that the headlights on most vehicles in the United States are garbage. A proper set of LED lamps will help you see better at night, and some models even have cool sequential turn signals.