Toyota Tacoma 2000 Do-It-Yourself Maintenance Guide

Quick guide from the manual

This document provides essential do-it-yourself maintenance procedures for the 2000 Toyota Tacoma. It covers routine checks for engine fluids, tire maintenance, and wheel safety. Always perform these checks on a level surface with the engine turned off and cooled down where specified.

Checking the engine oil level

Ensure the vehicle is on level ground and the engine is at operating temperature. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to drain. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to check the level. If low, add oil in small quantities, checking the dipstick frequently to avoid overfilling.

• Engine oil selection: Use API grade SJ, Energy-Conserving or ILSAC multigrade oil.
• Recommended viscosity: SAE 5W-30 is preferred for fuel economy and cold weather starting.

Checking the engine coolant level

Check the coolant reservoir only when the engine is cold. The level should be between the F and L lines. If low, add ethylene-glycol type coolant to protect aluminum components. If the level drops frequently, inspect the radiator, hoses, and water pump for leaks.

Checking brake fluid

Monitor the fluid level in the see-through reservoir; it should be between the MAX and MIN lines. If the level is low, add SAE J1703 or FMVSS No.116 DOT 3 brake fluid. Use only newly opened fluid to prevent moisture absorption.

Checking power steering fluid

Check the fluid level on the dipstick. If the vehicle has been driven, the fluid will be hot; otherwise, check it when cold. Add automatic transmission fluid DEXRON II or III if necessary.

Checking tire pressure

Check tire pressure every two weeks or at least once a month when tires are cold. Incorrect pressure can lead to excessive wear, poor handling, and reduced fuel economy. Always use a tire pressure gauge and ensure valve caps are reinstalled.

Checking and replacing tires

Tires have built-in tread wear indicators. Replace tires when the tread depth reaches 1.6 mm (0.06 in.) or less. Toyota recommends replacing all four tires or at least both front or rear tires as a set. Always balance wheels after replacing a tire.

Rotating tires

Rotate tires approximately every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) to equalize wear and extend tire life. Check for uneven wear and damage during rotation.

Installing snow tires and chains

Snow tires should be installed on all wheels. When using tire chains, install them on the rear tires only and retighten after driving 0.5-1.0 km. Do not exceed 50 km/h (30 mph) when using chains.

Replacing wheels

Replace wheels if they show signs of bending, cracks, or heavy corrosion. When replacing, ensure the new wheels match the original load capacity, diameter, rim width, and offset.

Aluminum wheel precautions

Check that wheel nuts are tight after the first 1,600 km (1,000 miles) and after any tire rotation or repair. Use only Toyota-designed wheel nuts and wrenches, and use plastic or rubber hammers when balancing.