Used 2002 Toyota Tundra Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
2002 Tundra Limited Edition
I have owned this vehicle for nearly 7 years and have been very pleased with the overall quality. I work in the construction service industry and thought I would regret not buying 4WD. Glad I did not waste my money this truck handles very well off road with the 2WD. The ride is very comfortable both on and off road, could be the TRD package assisting with this? My overall gas mileage is approximately 16-17 mpg (this is using cruise control and driving a little over the speed limit). I have 133K miles on this truck and have never had to replace anything major on the engine (just routine service i.e. timing belt and bearings). My only complaint is how touchy the O2 senors are. Very dependable!
02'tundra limited 4x4
I,ve owned an 02' tundra (access cab) 4x4 for 10 yrs. I bought it with 40k miles, mint condition. I have 328,500 miles on it now. no that is not a miss-print. I put 35k a yr. religiously. I replaced the timing belt and water pump at 125k(cause the manual says to) and was about to have it done again. But, a deer took my baby out 4 days ago. Ive owned 5 chevy,s , 1 ford, and 1 dodge. never have I gotten over 189k on any one of them. Shopping for another Yota 02' 4x4( 4.7L). I'm buying another in a couple days with 190k miles and I know I wont have a problem with it. (p.s. the ride is a little rough on hard surfaces but it's a 4x4. But,Tracks really straight/tight on wet narrow dirt rds )
- Limited Access CabMSRP: $12,888102 mi away
- Limited Access CabMSRP: $17,250313 mi away
- SR5 Access CabMSRP: $7,999315 mi away
thank Heaven for my tundra
This is by far the best truck I have ever owned. I have 233,000 miles and only brakes, shocks and o/2 sensors been replaced.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great truck
I purchased this truck new about 8 years ago. I love my truck. V-8 is always responsive, no hesitation, a/c works great even in south Mississippi summers. Transmission is as flawless as the day it was born. The interior has held up wonderfully, only one temp control knob has split on the inside, looking for a new one! On long trips, it's good for about 8 hours before my back gets sore. Exterior has also held up well due to frequent oil changes, tire rotations and wash and wax frequently and this truck will last. No rust. Bed is smaller than a full size pickup, but this is great for parking and moving small loads. Big loads I use the trailer hitch and find a trailer.
Incredible Truck!!
I bought this truck in 2006 with 43000 miles on it. Powerful without being bulky, smooth engine that purrs really well, The only thing this truck did was burn out some 02 sensors and warped some rotors. (just changed rotors when I did pads and it can be a easy job for someone who knows a little bit) Some people upgraded to a larger brake/Caliper package too. This truck was the love of my life, I felt safe, comfortable and loved. It was always there for me no matter what. I work at a Toyota Dealership and even the co-workers liked it. I had just had the timing belt,water pump, tires, brakes, rotors, transmission service, differential service, radiator flush, new battery done then on 6/12/19 was hit and rolled over, The truck flipped landed on its tires and was still running. It only had 125.000 on it. I found one with 147.000 on it am getting it next week. I am heartbroken to lose this truck, it was the most wonderful thing I have ever owned.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
2002 Tundra SR5
Very reliable truck. I have had problems with front brake rotors warping. Currently on my 4th set of rotors. Other than rotors warpping the build quality has been excellent. The truck is 5 years old and still is in excellent condition. Current mileage is 86,000.
Great Pickup!
I got the stripped model 2DR V6, A/C, roll-up windows, no cruise control, approx. $18,500. This is really a fantastic vehicle except for one nagging problem. The front brake rotors consistently become warped from overheating about every 20,000 miles. The so-called fix is to buy new star adjusters for the rear drum brakes. This does not solve the problem, and Toyota refuses to issue a recall notice or assist owners with this problem. They just sell the star adjustors which do not solve the problem. In standing behind their product, Toyota is becoming more like the U.S. auto producers!
As A Commercial Truck!
This truck has a GemTop Cap with side tool doors and ladder rack. It is carrying about 450lbs of tools and equipment. It was a bid truck against a Chev 4x4 extended cab PU and came in $120 less. We like the V6, 5 Speed, and manual 4x4 transmission. To make this truck move you have to shift...and to get mileage keep a light foot on the throttle. This IS NOT a heavy duty construction type truck...better get a C20 or F250 for that. We bought this truck for the Toyota quality name and better fuel economy.
high miles
best truck ever made, Mine has 453,000 miles and runs great.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
2001 V8 Tundra
If you want the best mid- to full- size pickup this is it for regular use, this is it! If you want an oversize truck for towing extra large loads (above 7500 lbs.) and are willing to compromise on quality/reliability buy a Chevy, Ford, or Dodge. This vehicle is clearly superior and is an excellent tow vehicle for loads under 7500 lbs. The Lexus derived V8 is amazing. Unlike a previous reviewer, always test drive before you buy. I am 6'1" and seating is very spacious.
Very Happy w/ My '02 Tundra
When Toyota first advertised the new '00 Tundra, what interested me was the emphasis placed on the Tundra’s new I-Force V8 engine. After waiting two years and tracking the success of the Tundra, I decided to test drive this truck and immediately knew that this was a well build truck. I’ve driven this truck across the USA with no problems. I also have used this truck to haul wood and for towing. The 4X4 works well both off- road and on wet/snow covered pavement. The anti-locking brakes also works well on icy and gravel roads. I highly recommended the anti-locking brakes. I’m very pleased with this truck and will buy another Tundra.
The best truck
This is my third Toyota, but my first toyota truck and the truck is a dream. I plan to buy the truck at the end of my lease and do a few things to it. Like suspension upgrade to TRD. But overall Toyota has never failed me with over 120000 on average that I sell my toyotas and they are still running like a top. No service needed just oil change. Get one.
No brakes, no help from Toyota
This truck is my first Toyota lemon. The rotors warp every 3000 miles, a common problem on all Tundras now. Don't buy one used (or new). Toyota has learned well from U.S. car corporations. Stall, stall, deny. Just do a web search for " Tundra Brake Problems".
Good Truck
Truck handles great and I have damaged it a lot and never any damage to the tough frame. Toyota has made a very reliable truck, I have put 80000 miles on it and have had no damage to any parts or engine, all damage has been cosmetic due to me. The only thing you have to do is change the oil and brakes. I would recommend this truck to anyone.
Count me out of the Toyota Love Fest
Bought my 2002 Tundra new in Dec 2001. Currently 119k miles. Nothing but problems. I'll keep it because I live in a low rust climate, it's paid for and I am 73 yrs old. Let's talk about the legendary Toyota quality. Countless dead batteries in the warranty period. Dealers didn't want to touch an intermittent problem. Independent shop finally fixed it after warranty. Rebuilt rear differential clutches ($1,000) @ 65k hwy miles. Now rear diff needs another rebuild because it took on water. There is a $5 kit that raises the vent above water line when boat launching (why didn't the factory do this?). Throttle position sensor ($500), power window ($400), two O2 sensors ($400), three brake jobs (I know maintenance, but I got 93,000 on orig brakes on my '98 Grand Caravan), rear axle seals twice, pinion seal once, and finally let's not forget sun visors, I'm on my 4th driver's side and they cost $128 each. This is such a POS that I have probably forgotten a few repairs. Shoudda bought a Ford or Dodge. 2020 Update: The beat goes on. Another $2,300 for a transfer case actuator. This truck is so bad that I am beginning to consider trading for something US built. Actually mine was built in Ohio.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Good Value, Great Ride for a Truck!!
This truck drives and rides great, much better than most in this category. I use it for light hauling, mostly yardwork and home remodeling supplies. It really fits this need very well. I would not want to tow a very big trailer with the V6 though. Interior is great, good design, fit and finish. Plenty of room for my family of 3.
Love This Old Truck
Edmonds does not show the 2002 Toyota V8 SR5 Access Cab Tundra so I am putting it in with the 4X4 version.
Toyota Trundra 4x2
Valve train start-up is noisy. Harsh ride even being a 4x2. Smaller interior than the other makers; 90% of a Chevy or Ford. Body squeaks. Fuel mileage averages around 17 mpg. Lacks stopping power. Horn sounds the same as a subcompact. If you want a full-size pick-up, buy American.
check vibration
Toyota tundra has vibration issues in floorboard thru the arm rest.. Do a thorough test drive before considering purchase. Different vehicles vibrate in the driveshaft at different speeds. V6 more at low speds and V8 more at high speeds.
big bang
Had my Tundra struck from behind while stopped at a red light. Causing complete destruction of the offending 2002 Chevy Envoy. The Tundra had to have a new bumper and and the bed repaired, but no damage to the heavy frame or the rest of the truck. You could not imagine that these two vechicles were in the same accident. As the state trooper said...I'm going to by a Tundra next time I need a truck.
Not as good as past Toyotas
I've had 2 Toyotas in the past, and the new ones are living on that reputation. It's still a great truck compared to the other low quality trucks on the market, but still not even close to the same quality as past Toyotas. The 18 MPG really stinks, especially for a V- 6, the cargo light has to be turned off before getting out of the truck to keep from running the batt. down., the seatbelts seem really cheap, the paint seems very thin, and brittle, the cheap plastic tailgate handle broke and costs a fortune to replace. It's still a good truck, but like others here I just expected a heck of a lot more out of Toyota than this. IMHO we keep buying higher $$$ for cheaper quality. Will we learn?
toyota tundra 4x4 ltd acess cab-
MY 2002 tundra LTD access cab 4x4 seemed solid . The vehicle developed a pronounced vibration in front axle. This would vibrate floor boards and control pedals. The vibration would go away after vehicle was driven for 10 minutes or if 4 wheel drive was engaged. The dealer said problem was tires (bf goodrich rugged trail265/70/16). I told him to replace tires , he said this would not help- huh? The vehicle would wander all over the highway at 60mph and over! The seats were very uncomfortable (leather captains chairs) little or no lumbar support. The fold down armrests were too short - my arm kept falling off.
We love our Truck!
My husband wanted a truck to help with his construction business. I wanted a second family car. The Toyota Tundra meets both our needs. He uses the truck to carry equipment. We use the truck for home improvement projects and shopping trips. We had a Jeep that I was not comfortable driving. However, I feel very comfortable driving the truck. Sometimes, when I can sneak it away from him...I get to take it to work!
Tundra 2 Dr Longbed
I enjoy my Tundra Longbed because it's a basic pickup with no frills with just excellent quality in everything. Toyota' interior design and ergonomics are great. It's a good long distance vehicle also with great pulling potential and long bed capacity.
Best Truck Made
I have had my Tundra for 2 years. Smartest buy I ever made. It will even outlast my wife :). I was skeptical buying a used truck from a lot but the Tundra really is a great ride. It has power. You really feel safe in the truck in the TX storms. I've never brought it for service except for one recall and oil changes. If your in the market for a reliable used truck that can do the "job" then the Tundra should be on the top of your list. You wont be disappointed.
Typically Toyota
This is a "Limosine in Trucks Clothing" The Tundra is typically Toyota in quality and reliability. It does everything you expect it to do, and does it very well. The Tundra has one of the highest crash ratings in the light truck industry, and that proved to be very important to me, when another driver passed out at the wheel and hit me nearly head on. I walked away from the almost totaled Tundra, and immediantly bought another one. Thanks Toyota for making it "one tough truck".
A fine truck
Overall, a very fine quality product. Fun to drive. Very solid. Have 5500 miles on it. 4.7 V-8 is very quiet,powerful;I get 15 mpg around town (the same as my old '94 Nissan 4X4 3 litre V-6 pickup. I have TRD, but prefer a more "taunt - supple" -ride. Very roadable and stable tho in cross winds. Very quiet at highway speeds; But where my left elbow and left knee rest on door is cheap fabric. Already shows wear. Right armrest is fabric and will soil easily. Wear areas shold be vinyl. Tranny, or driveline, "bumps" on downshift coming to a stop, even 3 - 8 seconds after stop. Dealers say "they all do it". Hope it's durable!
Lexus in a truck
The Tundra is without a doubt the highest quality truck (or car) I have ever owned. The ride is virtually silent - the power is unbelievable. Why would anyone consider any other brand of truck? Make it easy on yourself, just buy one!
Best bang for the Buck!!!!
I looked around for 3 months before buying my Tundra. I went with the Limited version because it would have cost more money to add the same features to an SR5. The build quality is Top Notch. The engine has plenty of power. I towed a large trailer 350+ miles and had to look in the rearview mirror to rimind myself I was even towing something. I am extremely satisfied.
Tundra
Great overall truck reliable and comfortable unless your in the back seat. The motor has ample power but Toyota has improved on that too. You can't go wrong.
Not bad
I've been a Toyota guy for the past 20+ years. I was looking for a vehicle to pull a mid-size fishing boat. Got the base 6 cyl long bed. It's been an okay truck but not on par with other Toyotas I've had. No serious problems-- just not as nice. I've had it for 7 years and it's served us well. Getting about 15 mpg in town...21 on hwy
Tundra Test
I have the basic model of truck. It is very reliable with no mechanical faults to this point.The only thing, which is minor would be the pop-up drink holder stopped working. This seem like a small thing until the Toyota dealership quoted me $170.00 for the replacement part. Overall, I am delighted with the Tundra full size truck. The comfort level over my Nissan truck (the Frontier) is Night and Day.The cupholder upsets me because I am spoiled by the quality and reliablity of my Toyota truck.I would buy another Toyota truck if that time ever comes.That's just the way it is. Best Regards, Sid Smith
Tundra 2002 SR5
Fantastic truck. 240,000 miles and doesn’t use a drop of oil.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Dont buy if TALL
Just purchased the standard cab,Tundra w/ bench seat a week ago and have developed serious pain in rightleg and knee. I figured I was buying a full size truck and need not worry about leg room. I was wrong! I'm 6'5" the truck has plenty of head room but lacks leg room. the bench seat provides NO support for my right leg, I use a pillow to support the leg which helps for the accelerator but not the brake pedal. The brake pedal is the worst! You lose almost another inch when applying the brake because it sits higher. Unfortunatly my test drive was mostly on the freeway in this postion I'm relatively comfortable, but city driving is painfull when applying the brake.
MOST RELIABLE TRUCK EVER
I bought my 2002 tundra with 60k miles for 16k and I just sold it to my cousin $6,500 and it had 168k miles on it and never once did my truck have one problem.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
just the right size
I bought this used, and it now has 20,000 miles. No probems what so ever. This truck has very comfortable front seats, is quiet, and is great on the highway. The only negative, is an uncomfortable back seat, but it is ok for around town and holds alot of stuff.
02 sr5 trd v8
GREAT TRUCK!!! this is my 4th toy truck since 88 and they have all been great. I sell cars so i test drive many and the big3 has NOTHING on the tundra! I replaced the stock 2 1/4 inch pipe with a 3 inch and a magnaflow muffler WOW GREAT SOUND!!!! also k&n drop in filter. 10% more horse i assume (25)
Make Ford owners jealous
I have had a Ford and a Chevy, and I know two many dodge owners to get one my self. In the short time, I have owned my Toyota it beats the others without trouble. The ride is great and the placement of the controls is right on.
Good truck!!
I've owned this truck since new and it probably saved my life in an accident when I ran up on the rear end of broken down snowplow parked in the middle of an unplowed road on an extreme downhill. Get one with ABS and Lmt. Slip if you can. Mileage is ok 11 city / 17 hwy but the engine is butter and I've loaded over a ton of used bricks/construction debris in the back and hauled it to the dump no problem. Not very nimble (turning radius is quite wide) but dependable and well thought out. Has required only routine maintenance and a couple covered TSBs (O2 Sensors) in its 35,000 miles. I'd buy again but I'd have bought an Ex. Cab in hindsight and gone with the 6 cyl.
Terrible Tundra Turmoil
You would think Toyota means "problem free" for at least 4 years, BUT NOT TRUE. At 2 years, gear shift malfunction ($1134.59 repair),defective rear leaf spring ($1239.99). At 3 years old catastrophic transmission malfunction ($3449.59). In a 3 year peroid a total of $5824. 17 repairs for someone that uses it to commute to work. OH WHAT A FEELING IT IS ! TOYOTA $$$$$$$$$
not so hot
I bought this used 6mo ago with ~65k mi on it and in apparently excellent shape. So far I've had to deal with grease spitting cv boots, worn out tie rod ends, recalled lower steering ball joints, and I just found out my steering rack is shot and requires replacement! I've owned several other trucks and never had this much trouble in this short a period. Lemon? Abused by the previous owner? Maybe both, but I expected more from a Toyota. Oh, the mileage is terrible, almost never get above 14mpg for mixed driving. Otherwise it's a great truck... I guess.
Great Truck
The reliability and quality of Toyota stands out in this truck.
Typical Toyota
The V8 runs very well, but a little underpowered. Needs VVT valve technology to get the power up. Heater system inadequate. Not enough air, and to the wrong places. Build quality typical Toyota (very good). Needs a little help with transmission logic. 2 to 1 downshift at low speeds annoying, especially on slipery surfaces. Overall, a good reliable pickup, if you're not doing "full sized" chores. This is NOT a full size pickup. But then again, I bought it because it wasn't full sized.
Not a bad truck
I bought the truck with 45,000 miles on it and currently have 65,000. So far it hasn't needed anything besides the routine PMs. I change the oil every 4,000 and flush the trans fluid every 20,000 because I'm a freak about my drivetrain, I wrecked a lot of my GMs from hurting those. I haven't had any problems with my rotors warping but my brakes are pretty spongy, lots of travel in the pedal. It can haul the equipment youll need unless you get crazy with it. Acceleration is not bad but it hauls on the high end. Fuel mileage is 13 to 16 mpg so you can pass the pump that often. Otherwise not a bad truck.
It fits in my garage!
I've had this truck for 2 years now. It's been flawless with the exception of the front brakes which Toyota upgraded under warranty. Excellent ride and drivability. Built to last (unlike my last F-150).
2002 4X4 4.7LITER TUNDRA EXTRACAB
I TRADED IN A 1999 Z71 CHEVY SILVERADO EXTRA CAB ON THIS TUNDRA IN LATE 2001. IN MY EXPERIENCE THE CHEVY HAD A SMOOTHER RIDE AND MORE ROOM (MUCH NICER BACK SEAT) BUT IT WOULD NOT FIT IN MY GARAGE. THE TUNDRA IS SOMEWHAT SMALLER ALL AROUND WHICH IS AN ADVANTAGE FOR CITY DRIVING AND IT IS EASIER TO PARK THAN THE CHEVY. BOTH ARE/WERE FUN TO DRIVE.I ALSO AM MORE COMFORTABLE WITH TOYOTA'S RELIABILITY (THIS IS MY 5TH TOYOTA)THAN CHEVY. TUNDRA COULD USE A LITTLE MORE ROOM IN THE BACK AND BETTER SPEAKERS BUT OTHER THAN THESE MINOR ISSUES I AM VERY SATISFIED WITH THE TUNDRA AND EXPECT GOOD RELIABILITY/DEPENDABILITY.
Tundra review
I recently purchased the Tundra and it's a quality made truck. It's not as roomy as the Dodge 1500 Quad Cab or the GM/Chevy Silverado XCab. The engine is smooth, extremely quiet,and has lots of power-245hp. A supercharger should be available by Toyota Racing Development(TRD) that will boost the horsepower to 345 hp.
Unhappy
I cant believe Toyota. I have 22000 miles on this truck. It needs front brake pads,tires And there are five TBS On the truck.If I should happen to stop quickly The transmission does not downshift properly.When appling the brakes in reverse There is a sound coming from the front brakes.I give up!
Long term dependability
My truck was bought used with 56K miles for son's college. I traded my new truck in 2012 and now at 239K the only thing not original in the coming belt. Awesome truck, runs like new.
- Safety
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
Not Bad but could improve
The vehicle is strong, quick and quiet. The feel is very solid. Put in a good stereo system and you will enjoy driving this vehicle even on the long trips. This is a very dependable and quiet truck.