The Good
The 2004 Tundra excels in reliability and durability, appealing to practical buyers seeking long-term value. Performance is adequate, and the ride is comfortable for a truck of its era. While not the most fuel-efficient, its reputation for dependability offers peace of mind, a feeling that resonates emotionally with buyers seeking a trustworthy workhorse.
The Bad
Common weaknesses of the 2004 Tundra include potential rust issues, particularly in areas with road salt. Some owners have reported issues with the lower ball joints and occasional transmission problems. Fuel economy is not a strong point. Be sure to inspect the frame for corrosion before purchasing.
2004 Toyota Tundra: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.4L V6: 190 hp, 220 lb-ft of torque
- 4.7L i-Force V8: 240 hp, 315 lb-ft of torque (later increased to 282 hp)
- Horsepower: 190-282 hp (depending on engine and year)
- Fuel Economy:
- V6: 16-19 mpg city / 19-22 mpg highway (approximate)
- V8: 14-17 mpg city / 17-20 mpg highway (approximate)
- 0-60 Times:
- V6: Around 9-10 seconds
- V8: Around 7-8 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,200 lbs (depending on configuration)
- Trim Level Features:
- Base: Standard features included cloth upholstery, air conditioning, and a basic audio system.
- SR5: Added features like upgraded upholstery, chrome exterior trim, and alloy wheels. More options were available.
- Limited: Top-of-the-line trim featuring leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, premium audio system, and wood-grain interior accents.
2004 Toyota Tundra Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Tundra |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 2WD |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | PRINCETON |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3955 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5500 pounds |
| Overall Height | 70.50 inches |
| Overall Length | 217.50 inches |
| Overall Width | 75.20 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 128.30 inches |
| Standard Seating | 3 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.7-L V-8 DOHC 32V |
| Engine Size | 4.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $15,955 |
| Invoice Price | $14,438 |
| Delivery Charges | $540 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2004 Toyota Tundra Have?
Recalls for the 2004 Tundra have included issues related to the spare tire carrier and potential problems with the fuel system. Check the NHTSA website for a complete list of recalls and ensure any outstanding recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability concerns revolve primarily around corrosion and the wear and tear of aging components. Maintenance is key to mitigating these issues. Specific model year variations in problems are not as significant as overall aging and environmental factors.
How long will the 2004 Toyota Tundra last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Optional features included things like power windows and locks, cruise control, and keyless entry. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) are available for the 2004 Tundra. Results typically show decent performance for frontal impacts, but side-impact protection was less impressive. Always consult the NHTSA website for specific crash test data and ratings for different cab configurations and model years. Given the age of the vehicle, safety standards were less stringent than today.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2004 Toyota Tundra Prices and Market Value
2004 Toyota Tundra Cost of Ownership
2004 Toyota Tundra Fuel Efficiency
2004 Toyota Tundra Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2004 Toyota Tundra Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2004 Toyota Tundra Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Toyota Tundra Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
Compared to the Tundra, the F-150 might be a better choice for those prioritizing engine variety and modern features (in later model years). The Silverado could be a good alternative if towing capacity is paramount. However, for overall reliability and potentially lower long-term costs, the Tundra holds its own. Similar alternatives would be later model years of the Tundra or Tacoma, depending on size preference, or a well-maintained Nissan Titan from the same era.
Ranks #52 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 52 | 2004 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Toyota Tundra a Good Pickup Truck?
RalphG on March 25, 2023
My Tundra is a wonderful truck.Bought new in San Diego area 2/'04 for $23,056 OTD. V-6, 5-speed, SR-5 Access cab. 91,000 miles as of 3/'23. I Completely standard. Seats are hard on the back, but I use a "McCarty" metal frame orthopedic seat and that fixed the problem. The manual gearchange is notchy, not as good as most others I've driven. First gear a bit higher than I like. I have driven it with the bed full of equipment and towing a Buick LeSabre and never felt underpowered. The 3.4 V-6 has adequate power and is very smooth. I average 20 mpg. No repairs, and never in snow and almost never in rain. I do my own maintenance and the truck has proven very inexpensive to own. It's beautifully made, in Gary, Indiana. I wish it had had the option of a 4-liter Diesel. A wonderful truck and great value for the money.
OldSubieFan on January 31, 2023
Great truck, just watch out for balljoints.2004, purchased with 130,000 miles, now has 198,000, miles. Only major repair was ball joints. Watch out for those, that is this trucks only major Achilles heal. Consistently hauls its max or close each week in water, only for a short distance, but still. Pulled my 88' Toyota 40 miles on a two lane highway. Deserves the hype.
Mike on August 1, 2022
242,000 miles and no major repairs.Have 242,000 miles and never had a major repair. Only tires, brakes, batteries, and the required timing belt. Runs like a champ! The most reliable vehicle I've ever had.
Old xxxxxxx on February 28, 2020
By far the best truck I've ever ownedBought this truck in early 2005 with 5000 miles on it. It now has 374,000 miles and it's been through just about everything. Long/short trips, on the farm, in the city, hauling and towing. Other than regular maintenance with brakes, ball joints, water pump, and timing belt, the engine and transmission have been just about as good as it can get! And found out that because this year/model truck has been so good, it is next to impossible to get any used parts for it!
Dave Peters on February 26, 2020
130,000 miles and still going strongGets me from point A to B with no worries! Could get better mileage but it’s a truck. Has a good payload. Moved a lot of furniture. Great truck
ScottLaRoc on January 7, 2020
Great truckDefinitely recommend this truck. Never had a problem with the truck. I've owned it for 2 years. I am going to upgrade the rims and tires to 20 inch from 17 inch.
Bill C. a Toyota fan on December 13, 2019
Good for over 110,000 milesFor a truck nearly 16 years old and over 110,000 miles, it is in very good condition. I think it was somewhat over priced but as a Toyota I expect it will still go many more miles fairly trouble free. So far I'm happy with the purchase. My primary use is for hauling things, not necessarily having "Fun."
Sasilanc on June 14, 2019
Only will own Toyota truckLove it! Change water pump and timing belt very 100,000 miles. Great truck with over 200,000 miles. Cheap to maintain. Won’t own anything but toyot
Jerry on November 23, 2018
Frame is rusted so bad I can't drive it.My first Toyota i bought 1 1\2 years ago and now I've been told the frame is rusted so bad it's unsafe to drive. And I still owe on it.
tom on November 11, 2018
yikes mine was a xxxwas in the shop every month I owned it. Then said goodbye after 16 months. all mechanical issues. second worse truck I have ever owned
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.