🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Toyota

Model:

Tacoma

Year:

2008

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2008 Toyota Tacoma is a highly regarded mid-size pickup truck known for its reliability, durability, and off-road capabilities, often competing with the Nissan Frontier, Ford Ranger, and Chevrolet Colorado.

Key Features:

Robust construction, proven powertrain options, available TRD (Toyota Racing Development) packages for enhanced off-road performance, comfortable interior for its class, and strong resale value.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Format:

PDF Download

Language:

English

Access Period:

1 Year (with renewal options)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, repair of all engine components (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing systems).

Engine Performance:

Detailed troubleshooting and repair of engine performance issues, including misfires, poor acceleration, and rough idling.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, injectors, throttle body, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system diagnostics and repair.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, cooling fan operation and repair.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, oil passages, oil pressure diagnostics.

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, ignition timing, ECU control of ignition.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors, emissions control.

Drivetrain Manual Transmission:

Clutch system, transmission overhaul, gear shifting mechanisms, transmission fluid specifications and replacement.

Drivetrain Automatic Transmission:

Automatic transmission operation, hydraulic control, transmission fluid, torque converter, overhaul procedures, diagnostics.

Drivetrain Driveshafts Axles:

Front and rear driveshafts, universal joints, CV joints, differential service and repair.

Suspension Front:

Struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, steering knuckles, wheel alignment specifications.

Suspension Rear:

Leaf springs, shock absorbers, rear axle, suspension geometry, alignment.

Steering System:

Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering fluid, troubleshooting steering issues.

Brake System Front:

Front brake calipers, rotors, brake pads, brake lines, hydraulic system diagnostics.

Brake System Rear:

Rear brake calipers/drums, brake pads/shoes, brake rotors/drums, parking brake system.

ABS System:

ABS control module, wheel speed sensors, ABS pump, hydraulic modulator, ABS troubleshooting and bleeding procedures.

Wheels Tires:

Wheel specifications, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), wheel bearing replacement, lug nut torque specifications.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood, tailgate, bumpers, exterior trim.

Body Interior:

Dashboard removal, seating, interior trim panels, headliner, carpet replacement.

Electrical System Charging:

Alternator, battery, charging system diagnostics, wiring diagrams for charging circuit.

Electrical System Starting:

Starter motor, starter solenoid, ignition switch, starting system diagnostics.

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, wiring diagrams for lighting circuits.

Electrical System Gauges Instruments:

Instrument cluster, speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights, diagnostics.

Electrical System Accessories:

Power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, cigarette lighter, 12V power outlets.

HVAC System:

Air conditioning compressor, refrigerant system, heater core, blower motor, climate control unit, HVAC diagnostics.

Infotainment Audio:

Radio, speakers, amplifier, antenna, auxiliary input (if applicable).

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, grounds, and signal paths.

Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, tire rotation, fluid checks and replacements, spark plug replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement, battery maintenance.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon vehicle problems, symptom-based troubleshooting charts.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor vehicle components, including disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly.

Overhaul:

Complete rebuild procedures for engines and transmissions.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II system diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), on-board diagnostic system information.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic data.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, factory-level technical information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, easily printable pages.

Searchability:

Searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Compatibility:

Compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, and tablet via web browser.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

2.7L 4-Cylinder (2TR-FE)

Displacement 1:

2694 cc

Horsepower 1:

159 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque 1:

180 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm

Fuel System 1:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Engine Option 2:

4.0L V6 (1GR-FE)

Displacement 2:

3956 cc

Horsepower 2:

236 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque 2:

266 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel System 2:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard 4Cyl:

5-speed Manual

Transmission Standard V6:

6-speed Manual

Transmission Optional 4Cyl:

5-speed Automatic

Transmission Optional V6:

5-speed Automatic

Drivetrain Options:

RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive), 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short Bed:

127.2 inches

Wheelbase Long Bed:

140.6 inches

Bed Length Standard:

60.3 inches (Short Bed)

Bed Length Long:

73.7 inches (Long Bed)

Curb Weight Approx:

3800 - 4200 lbs (Varies by configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver 2008:

5 Stars

NHTSA Frontal Passenger 2008:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Driver 2008:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Rear Passenger 2008:

5 Stars

NHTSA Rollover 2008:

4 Stars (RWD), 4 Stars (4WD)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) - standard on V6 models, optional on 4-cyl.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front seat side-impact airbags (optional), front and rear side-curtain airbags (optional), three-point seatbelts, LATCH child seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Options:

Standard AM/FM/CD player with 4-6 speakers. Optional premium audio systems with subwoofer and auxiliary audio input jack may be available on higher trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

Standard ABS, EBD, BA. VSC and TRAC often standard on V6, optional on 4-cyl. Backup camera availability varies by trim and options.

Connectivity:

Auxiliary audio input jack present on many models. Bluetooth connectivity was not widely available or standard for 2008 Tacomas; aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using conventional oil). 10,000 miles or 12 months with synthetic oil and specific conditions.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:

100,000 miles (Iridium-tipped spark plugs).

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

100,000 miles (Iridium-tipped spark plugs).

Engine Oil Type 4Cyl:

API Certified SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific Toyota recommendations).

Engine Oil Type V6:

API Certified SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific Toyota recommendations).

Coolant Type:

Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (Pink) or equivalent (ethylene glycol based).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Toyota ATF WS (World Standard) or equivalent.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron III ATF or Toyota Genuine Power Steering Fluid.

Frame Corrosion:

Certain model years, including 2008, have been subject to recalls and service campaigns related to frame corrosion, especially in areas exposed to road salt. Inspection and potential replacement or treatment may be necessary.

Leaf Spring Cracking:

Rear leaf springs can sometimes develop cracks due to heavy use or corrosion. This manual will provide inspection procedures and replacement steps.

Clutch Wear:

In manual transmission models, clutch wear is a common maintenance item and the manual details replacement procedures and clutch component specifications.

📚 Vehicle History

Second Generation Start:

The 2008 model year is part of the second generation of the Toyota Tacoma, which began in 2005 and lasted until 2015. This generation introduced significant updates over the first generation, including improved styling, larger dimensions, and more powerful engine options.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Reputation:

The Toyota Tacoma consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction and reliability surveys from organizations like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, making it a benchmark in the mid-size truck segment.