First Gen Tacoma Mods - How Can You Make it Go Better?

First released in 1995, as a replacement for the Toyota Hilux, the first-gen Toyota Tacoma is a classic mid-size truck. Despite its age, the Tacoma is still seen as one of the best trucks on the market, thanks to its size, reliability, and versatility.

Car mods and upgrades highlights

• Commonsystems:engines, interior, exterior, suspension
• Average prices:$1,500 - $7,000
• Average waiting time:7 - 21 days
• Commonreasons:higher speed, power, and visual improvements
• DIY mods:just minor visual changes
• Level of satisfaction:high

Why modify a car?

Many drivers associate the word 'modification' with cheap and faulty add-ons which take away, rather than add, to your driving experience. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Done properly, modifications will dramatically improve both a car's performance and aesthetics, helping it to stand out on the road, and provide consistent performance at all times.

Modifications don't have to be drastic, and if you're concerned about modifying your vehicle, then start with something small. As your confidence grows, you'll be able to move on to more complex mods, and get more out of your vehicle than you ever could have imagined.

Safety tips when modifying your first-gen Tacoma

Here are some key safety tips to consider when conducting mods on your Tacoma:

• Only fit manufacturer-approved parts:If you install off-brand or incompatible parts to your Tacoma, you will almost certainly do more damage than good. So, make sure you consult with a professional beforehand, to ensure that the parts you want to install are compatible with a first-gen Tacoma.
• Consult a Mechanic if you feel out of your depth:Many Tacoma modifications are incredibly difficult and require extensive experience and knowledge with mechanics. As such, unless you're an experienced mechanic yourself, let a professional install your modifications for you. This way, you can feel safer in your car, knowing that the modification was conducted safely, and properly.
• Wear appropriate safety gear:If you are going to modify yourself, make sure you wear the correct safety equipment, to protect yourself if something goes wrong. Proper shoes, full-length trousers, gloves, and goggles are essential.

Interior First Gen Tacoma Mods

If you're looking to mod the interior of your Toyota Tacoma, here are some of the best upgrades to try:

• PRP Daily Driver Seats:One of the biggest flaws of the Toyota Tacoma is the seating, and many have complained that entering and exiting the vehicle can be a real pain. To stop this problem, consider fitting some PRP Daily Driver seats. Their high back and comfy design will make entering and exiting your vehicle a breeze. Such a modification is a great choice for anyone with mobility difficulties.
• Switch Panel:If you're looking to make your Tacoma even more user-friendly, consider installing a switch panel. A switch panel will give you easy access to all of your vehicle's controls and is one of the cheapest, and easiest modifications to purchase. It's a great choice if you dislike the standard infotainment cluster and want something a little more personalized.
• Sound Deadening:One of the biggest problems with the first-gen Tacoma is the interior noise. Because of a lack of soundproofing, the engine noise tends to seep into the cabin, which can be incredibly uncomfortable, especially for longer journeys. Sound deadening is a quick and easy modification, which will seriously reduce interior engine noise, allowing you to go about your day in peace.
• Car Mats:Simple modifications are sometimes the most effective. All-season car mats will protect your Tacoma's floor from any dirt and grime that happens to enter the vehicle. They're cheap, easy to install, and a no-brainer for many Tacoma enthusiasts.
• LED Interior Lights:The first-gen Tacoma's interior lights are mediocre to say the best, which can make night-time tasks a real hassle. To fix this problem, consider installing some LEDs around the cabin. These LEDs will give you greater visibility at night, allowing you to find your house keys without fumbling around in the dark!
• Leather Steering Wheel:Some Tacoma drivers have stated that the steering wheel feels slippery and can become uncomfortable when driving for long periods. To fix this problem, simply wrap the steering wheel in leather, which will provide better grip and comfort.
• Repaint the Interior:If you've just purchased a first-gen Tacoma, chances are the interior has seen better days. A simple coat of paint can go a long way toward masking your Tacoma's history and is one of the most impactful, yet cheapest, modifications you can perform.
• Bluetooth Installation:The first-gen Tacoma doesn't come with any Bluetooth connectivity, which can be a real hassle if you don't carry CDs around with you. Luckily, you can purchase Bluetooth adaptors that are compatible with a first-gen Tacoma. These are very cheap and can seriously improve your time in a Tacoma.

Exterior mods

If you're looking to enhance the performance of your first-gen Tacoma, consider these options:

• Suspension Upgrade:As with many pick-ups, the Tacoma's ride certainly isn't the comfiest. Luckily, you can replace the suspension pretty easily, which will go a long way toward making your Tacoma more comfortable to drive. If you're on a budget, consider the EIBACH lift kit, which costs just under $700. If you're on a bigger budget, consider the BILSTEIN lift kit, which costs a little over $1,000.
• Wheel Upgrade:Upgrading your Tacoma's wheels will improve both its offroad capability, as well as its overall comfort. A Tacoma's wheels are 10.5 inches wide, and there are several options available, depending on your needs. If you're looking for something a little sporty, consider Method's race wheels. If, on the other hand, you're looking to increase offroad capability, you should look into VTX's 'rouge' range.
• Deck Plate mod:The deck plate mod is a modification specific to the Tacoma's 3.4-liter V6 engine. It involves replacing the factory air box with a more efficient one, which allows the engine to breathe more easily. You can expect an increase of around 8 horsepower to the rear wheels. Considering how easy this mod is, it's worth a try.
• Bumper Replacement:If you're looking to turn your first Gen Tacoma into an offroad machine, you should consider replacing the stock bumper. The standard bumper simply isn't strong enough for most off-roading tasks and replacing it will allow you to install a winch onto your Tacoma. A winch can be a literal life saver when you're off-roading, and many Tacoma drivers view this mod as essential if you're serious about going offroad.
• Headlight Swap:One of the biggest criticisms of the first-gen Tacoma is the exterior headlights, which produce a dull yellow beam, which barely lights up the road. Thankfully, headlight modification couldn't be simpler on the Tacoma, and replacement lights are pretty cheap too. We recommend a bulb with at least 2,500 lumens.
• Frame repair:The Tacoma's frame is probably its weakest point. As time passes, the frame becomes susceptible to both rust and small holes forming. Rust can be removed at your local garage, and it's surprisingly cheap for the difference it makes. But, if you find your Tacoma's frame has holes in it, it may be time to replace the frame altogether.
• Recovery gear:Not only does exterior recovery gear, such as shovels and maxtrax look seriously cool, but it can also save your life in a pinch. It's a good idea to keep some handy in your Tacoma, especially if you plan on off-roading regularly.

Looking for inspiration? Some of the most creative first-gen Tacoma mods in the world

If you want to make your Tacoma stand out, but aren't sure where to start, check out some of these unique Tacoma mods from around the world. They will certainly give you some inspiration:

• Portable Hotel:One Tacoma owner decided to turn their truck into a portable hotel. To achieve this, the entire rear of the Tacoma was modified, to accommodate a bed lining and sleep system, which gave enough room for two guests. On top of this, the tires were upgraded to improve comfort and the frame was cleaned of rust, to make the truck look even more special.
• Supercharged Tacoma:One owner decided to replace the standard engine with a supercharged motor. This has given their Tacoma some serious power, and an even nicer noise!

Concluding thoughts

As you can see, you are only limited by your imagination when it comes to first-gen Tacoma mods. Because the Tacoma is such a solid truck, potential modifications are very versatile, and there's plenty of room for creativity. If you're struggling for inspiration, check out online forums, which is where many enthusiasts post their crazy modifications!

If you're looking to modify your Tacoma to make it go better, start with smaller mods that will improve your quality of life, such as a Bluetooth installation. Then, once you feel confident, move on to the more complicated mods and you'll be a serious modification pro in no time!