Toyota Tacoma 4wd vs. PreRunner in snow?

Timpala · 21 Sep 2011, 11:24 pm

I am thinking about buying a used 2004 Toyota Tacoma crew cab pickup truck. I live in an area where it can snow a lot. Do I really need the 4wd version, or does the PreRunner 2wd get by alright with the high ground clearance. I used to own a 1987 Nissan 2wd truck that would do somewhat ok with 4 sandbags in the back. I am just wondering if the extra maintenance and less gas mileage is even worth it.

Al · 21 Sep 2011, 11:39 pm

If you want to just move the 4 sand bags onto the new Toyota, yea Prerunner will work. But if you want to get away from the sand bag, I would go with the 4x4. It is an up grade compared to your Nissan. If you don't need 4x4, just switch it to 2wd mode and you are back on regular truck.

Eric P · 21 Sep 2011, 11:55 pm

Although the snow traction can be decent with some weight added to the back, it will easily reach its traction limits, especially in deep snow or while climbing. If you do get a lot of snow, the 4wd will be much more capable. The fuel economy difference between the 4wd and Pre-runner is pretty negligible if I remember correctly. The maintenance is also not much of an issue...the Automatic Axle Disconnect is pretty reliable, and the front drive line does not spin and incur wear while in 2wd. 2wd works well in light snow but if it gets very deep or drifted, you'll need two driven axles on a pickup and possibly tire chains as well.

Kudos on weighing the practicality of 4wd--most people get 4x4's to drive to the mall in perfect weather--but in your case, I think 4wd would best suit your situation.

RyD · 22 Sep 2011, 12:09 am

c'mon man, 4 wheel power is better than 2. As far as extra-maintenance vs. a 2wd pre-runner, there is none. You might get an extra mpg out of the pre-runner but it is gonna be minimal. The real dividing factor here is cost and application. 4wd also provides peace of mind and less white-knuckling when driving on slippery windy muddy roads.

BUT if it is cost you are worried about, the pre-runner can come with an option of a locking-rear differential also. Might want to weigh the difference of adding an electronic diff-lock to the 2004.

Miles · 22 Sep 2011, 12:24 am

Before buying a car you also should estimate insurance rates difference between these cars

Toyota Tacoma 4wd vs. PreRunner in snow?

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