1966 Toyota Stout
Toyota’s pickup truck line has been in the US since 1964 when it debuted the Stout. Those early Toyota trucks were compact, four-cylinder work vehicles—the pickup equivalent of Corollas that established a presence on American roads. From the beginning, Toyota pickup accessories allowed owners to enhance and customize their small charismatic trucks.
Toyota Truck Vocabulary
Toyota’s pickups are called Hilux in most global markets. But for some reason, in the US, Toyota went generic after 1976. The Japanese automaker simply dubbed these models as “Toyota pickup trucks.”
1993 Toyota T100
Fast forward to 1992. That’s when we got the T100 crashing a market that many observers thought the domestics had sewn up—full-sized pickups. From there, it’s on to the Tacoma, the Tundra, and even the 4Runner. We know that the last one is an SUV, but early 4Runners (1984 to 1989) were basically Hilux pickups with a fiberglass shell over the bed.
These days, the Tundra competes with the biggest, burliest American-made entries. The Ford F-150 is still king, but the Tundra in recent years has an enviable record of dependability. Toyota lovers take pride in outfitting their trucks to make them ride better, go faster and look cooler.
Shop now for Toyota pickup parts
Glossary for Toyota Pickup Accessories
Black front bumper bar valance for 1989-1995 Toyota pickup
Bumpers
Aftermarket bumpers are sold as dress-up, replacements, and bodywork protection when taken off-road. Old chrome bumpers can rust in a nasty way, but replacing your current units with aftermarket bumpers is not as expensive as you might think.
Engine Swap
Upgrade to 3RZ 2.7-liter?
Many owners with the 1980s Toyota SR5 (or similar 22RE) under the hood are excited at the prospect of an engine swap. Switching to a 3RZ 2.7-liter, as seen in first-generation Tacoma 4x4s, is enticing.
The upgraded mill can use the existing W56 transmission and bell housing, only needing some exhaust work.
That’s just one example of the kind of possible swaps. Some owners drop in GM LS1 or LS3 engines, but that’s more work. eBay has an extensive selection of 3RZs, commonly priced around $2,000. Many of them are from and for Tacomas.
Grille Guard
Tundra bull bar
Heading off-road? The front of your Toyota truck could end up scratched and dented without a heavy-duty front bull bar. A caveat is they add weight if you’re not going off-road.
Headers
Exhaust headers are a great way to ensure a more free-flowing engine at a modest price (typically, $100 to $200). There are units for the Tacoma and the Tundra.
Heavy-Duty Radiators
A beefed-up radiator is a smart move if you’re running your Toyota rig in hot weather or extensively off-road. eBay has three- and even four-row options for Toyota pickups. Before shopping for a radiator, read this: Radiator Upgrades for Reliability and Performance.
Lift Kits
When was the last time you saw a lifted Tacoma? Yesterday? These popular Toyota pickup accessories are for owners who want to take their vehicles over rough terrain. Lift kits are also the answer for commuters who like to sit up high or just because they look cool. Toyota TRD offers complete kits (even including a custom grille), and eBay has many options.
Running Boards
Tacoma nerf bars
One good accessory deserves another. Install a lift kit, and you’ll need help climbing into your rig. Aftermarket running boards are the solution. For the Tacoma, running and nerf boards are available from eBay. Learn about your options: Electric Running Boards and Side Steps for Trucks.
Roof Racks
Roof racks to help extend your load capacity are more usually associated with SUVs (which, after all, have more roof). But great rooftop storage option for the Tacoma are legion. Read this first: Types of Roof Racks: Baskets, Platforms and Accessories.
Tailgate Handle
The tailgate takes a lot of abuse and is likely to look worn out or experience latch failure long before the rest of the truck is ready for the boneyard. eBay has replacements (including for driver and passenger doors). Get more ideas: Best Tailgating Accessories.
Toyota Racing Development Pickup Accessories
TRD has a giant selection of sporty wheel options.
The famous TRD division produces Toyota’s performance accessories. eBay offers a full range of TRD products, both for trucks and cars—from decals to performance-enhancing intakes. Wheels are a great place to start with TRD. Learn more: TRD Wheels Add Style to Toyota Trucks
Toyota truck wiring harness for towing
Winch Kits and Towing Packages
Your truck needs to earn its keep by pulling and towing. One of the most trusted names in that business, Warn has Toyota-friendly accessories in both categories. And there’s a wide selection of OEM options specially engineered for Toyota trucks. Here’s some good advice: Electric Winches, Know the Basics Before You Buy.
And if you need to start at the beginning, check out the Toyota Tundra trucks and numerous Tacomas for sale on eBay.
