Many Toyota 4x4 Pickup owners report reliability, longevity, off-road excellence and ability to tow other vehicles as the positive aspects of their purchase, but there are inevitably problems with this model of vehicle as well. The main problems are with the engine head gasket, the brake fluid reservoir and cylinder, and rusting to the bodywork and undercarriage.
The 1988 Pickup was recalled in March 2006 for a problem with exterior lighting, as reported by Internet Auto Guide. Certain corner lamps, turn signals and headlights were sold as a replacement for faulty originals. In vehicles that still have this problem, the owners will find they have poorly illuminated road surfaces in the dark. This problem has been linked to accidents as a result of the lighting failing to comply with federal motor regulations.
This arises in 1988 Toyotas with a V-6 engine. Historically, the gaskets blew up and destroyed the engine entirely. The problem is difficult to diagnose early by the ordinary driver, and unfortunately, when it is found, it can have already caused lasting damage. Even when the faulty gasket is replaced, there is evidence the same problem can reappear, and 1988 models are no longer covered by the previous recall. Toyota does not repair second-stage gaskets (this means gaskets that have already been repaired or replaced in the same vehicle). But according to Auto Parts Warehouse, a replacement gasket costs only $50.
Leaks are often the source of this problem, and they can be so small and gradual that, again, the owner of the vehicle does not notice, or just thinks the reservoir needs topping up. If you notice you are continually having to top up your brake fluid reservoir, you may have a leak, and it's advisable to take the car in for expert evaluation.
Similar leaks cause brake cylinders to fail, but thankfully, once they are repaired or replaced, there are generally no further problems.
Rust is common in the truck bed and rear wheel wells of this car, but the cab area seems unaffected. Some owners have concluded that because the rusting is so pronounced in one area of the car than another, the two sections are made of different materials, as reported in Car Survey. Sanding and repainting can adequately repair the damage or, with more severe rusting, sections of the bodywork may need replacing.
This is reported as a common problem that needs repairing on many Toyota 4x4 Pickup trucks. When treated, this problem seems to resolve completely.
