The Good
The 2005 Tundra boasts legendary Toyota reliability, appealing to practical buyers. Its comfortable ride and available V8 power provide a pleasant driving experience, satisfying emotional needs for performance and enjoyment. Strong resale value and durable construction further enhance its appeal as a worthwhile investment.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2005 Tundra include frame rust issues, particularly in areas with road salt. Some owners have reported premature ball joint wear. Fuel economy is also not a strong point compared to some newer trucks. Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial.
2005 Toyota Tundra: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 4.0L V6: Produces around 245 horsepower.
- 4.7L i-Force V8: Produces around 282 horsepower.
- Horsepower:
- V6: 245 hp
- V8: 282 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- V6: 16 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
- V8: 14 mpg city / 17 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- V6: Around 9 seconds
- V8: Around 7.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity (depending on configuration): Up to 7,100 lbs.
- Trim Level Features:
- Base: Standard features include cloth upholstery, air conditioning, and a basic audio system.
- SR5: Adds features like upgraded upholstery, chrome exterior trim, and alloy wheels.
- Limited: Top-of-the-line trim includes leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, premium audio system, and wood-grain interior accents.
- All trims were available in 2WD or 4WD configurations.
- Cab configurations include Regular Cab, Access Cab (extended cab with rear access doors), and Double Cab (crew cab with full-size rear doors).
2005 Toyota Tundra Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2005 |
| 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 | 3965 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5500 pounds |
| Overall Height | 70.50 inches |
| Overall Length | 218.30 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 | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $16,055 |
| Invoice Price | $14,529 |
| Delivery Charges | $565 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2005 Toyota Tundra Have?
How long will the 2005 Toyota Tundra last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2005 Toyota Tundra Prices and Market Value
2005 Toyota Tundra Cost of Ownership
2005 Toyota Tundra Fuel Efficiency
2005 Toyota Tundra Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2005 Toyota Tundra Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2005 Toyota Tundra Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2005 Toyota Tundra Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
Ranks #50 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★) |
| 50 | 2005 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Toyota Tundra a Good Pickup Truck?
donald james on June 27, 2023
best truck everi have had 3 tundras they are great trucks the best i towed a trailer over 10000 lbs up into the mountains no problems love these trucks
Robert Ginn on February 25, 2021
Toyota doesn't stand behind their products anymoreI own a 2005 Toyota Tundra and brought it in for a frame inspection in March 2014. They told me everything was fin. The transmission went and I put about $5,000.00 into that. I heard a noise in the front end took it to the mechanic and he tells me the frame is rotted through. Talked to Toyota and they said they wouldn't do anything for me and I was looking to buy a Lexus. Not anymore I'm switching to Acura. I haven't heard that Honda's frames are rotting out. My vin
Malibubill on May 11, 2020
Best Truck Ever!I bought this truck with 6K mile on it. It now has 265K and is as strong as the day I brought it home. I've owned a lot of vehicles, but this Tundra has been, by far, the most reliable, comfortable and easiest to maintain. Highly recommend this truck, from 2000-2006 range only.
kalidescopemind on March 13, 2020
This 2005 Tundra 4x4 Limited Access cab Rocks!A tight high ride, but the motor purrrrssss! The "Salsa" paint job is sweet! The 05-06' were right before they got too large. Also can tow 7000lbs!
notsure on March 12, 2020
2nd tundraI bought the 05 because it had all the options I wanted and low mileage. I paid a little more than I had planned. I also own an 01 tundra. The 05 drives more like a car than a truck. Both vehicles are V8/4x4. The newer ones (2nd gen) are too big in my opinion. It's gonna be hard to part w/the 01.
Kristi on December 17, 2019
Most reliable truck I've ever ownedThis has been a great truck. I love Toyota's and will never buy anything else. Reliable, and I would drive it anywhere. Trustworthy truck.. Will run forever
BS on December 16, 2019
Awesome rideI just bought this 2005 toyota tundra dbl cab limited SR5. The interior is awesome great leg room front and back. the only thing I've had to do is replace the front hub assemblies and wheel bearings 7.5 hr project. I put new front shock and spring assemblies with a 2.5" lift on the truck to level the truck dramatic ride and handling improvement. This truck has 160000 miles should get well over 300000. Great truck so far
David on September 22, 2019
Love my TundraDespite the massive rust problem on the frame that I have had to deal with (Toyota screwed me) and related issues, I will drive my 2005 Tundra until the wheels fall off. Mechanical systems are solid as a rock. Has 160,000 miles and has had routine maintenance and the expected maintenance. Love this Truck.
Justin24 on September 16, 2019
Best car I’ve owned so farThis truck is a beauty, meets all needs. Tow’s very well. Has backup camera for easier backing up. Beautiful interior ( although used ). Great truck overall and never had any issues.
Cruiser on August 20, 2019
I would buy it again.I think its a good truck. The bench seat could be a little better, if it was adjustable. The power with the V6 4.0L engine is enough for what I do with my truck.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.