Four problems related to rear suspension springs have been reported for the 1996 Toyota Tacoma. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
During PA state inspection, notified by dealer that both rear leaf springs were broken. Dealer wanted $1200 + to replace. I found a local shop to replace them with aftermarket parts for under $800. Toyota knows there is a problem with these springs and yet still tries to milk the owners for more $.
Consumer stated the rear springs were broken and there was a noise coming front the front of the vehicle, dealer checked the front suspension but could not duplicate the problem.
Tapping noise in engine has been going on since 4-12-97. Consumer found out that head gasket was blown, and other problems had been happening, Toyota has not been assisting consumer with any of the vehicles issues, a defective head gasket was not replaced as it should have been, and from one Toyota dealer to the next has found more and more problems. Toyota stated they will not cover head gasket problem regardless ofthe past problem. . Consumer states since head gasket was done the exhaust studs were tightened due to the engine making noise, it sounds like valve rapping, thumbing noise over bumps at left floor area, rear springs were broken and noise from front end and also noise at idle.
While driving, experiences erratic operation in front suspension, when hit pot holes or slight indentation in road, vehicle steering column and front end shakes and vibrates violently, dlr/mfr can't correct problem. Consumer states that manufacturer admitted problem and they were putting out heavier front springs and shocks, however this would be at consumer's cost, consumer states front and rear suspension needs balanced. Speaker had to be replaced. Radiator was replaced due to leaking coolant.