Toyota DIY Maintenance & Tech Guides
Step-by-step instructions with difficulty ratings, required tools, and checklists you can print and take to the garage.
Oil & Filter Change — 3rd Gen Tacoma
The 20k-mile service you can do in a driveway. Covers the 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS): drain, filter housing, torque spec and what to check afterwards.
Front Strut & Coilover Install (2–3in Lift)
How to swap front struts for a lifted coilover assembly on a Tacoma or 4Runner, from breaking the upper ball joint to setting preload and checking alignment.
Cab Mount Chop (CMC) for 35s
The cut that stops the body mount rubbing on 33s and up. Includes layout, cutting, plating and the paint step most people skip.
Rear Differential Fluid Service
Drain and refill the rear diff after water crossings or every 30k miles. Includes the fill-plug-first rule that saves you from a very bad afternoon.
Brake Pads & Rotors — Front Axle
Pad and rotor replacement on a Tacoma or 4Runner front axle, including how to compress the piston without destroying the caliper and the correct bedding procedure.