5 Cool Tacoma Mods For Under $500
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If you're the proud owner of a Toyota Tacoma and you've been itching to make some modifications to your ride, then this guide is perfect for you. Whether you're looking to enhance your truck's looks, performance, or both, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available. Best of all, most of these upgrades won't break the bank—everything on this list costs under $500!
*Image Credit: BlackCOTaco*
We’ve put together a collection of easy-to-install modifications that can be done by anyone with basic mechanical skills. These tweaks will not only improve your Tacoma's aesthetics but also its functionality. So, let’s dive into some practical upgrades!
### 1. Leveling Your Truck
Most trucks come from the factory with what’s known as “rake,†where the front sits slightly lower than the back. While this helps with fuel efficiency, it might not be ideal for everyone. To achieve a more balanced look, consider installing a leveling kit. These kits lift the front of your truck by about an inch or so using spacers placed between the spring and its mount. Installation is straightforward and relatively inexpensive, making it a great starting point for any mod enthusiast.
### 2. Installing a TRD Performance Air Intake System
Boost your Tacoma’s engine performance without emptying your wallet. An aftermarket air intake system is one of the simplest yet effective ways to increase horsepower. By replacing the stock air filter with a high-performance cold-air intake, you allow cooler, denser air to flow into the engine, resulting in improved combustion efficiency and more power. Toyota’s Racing Division (TRD) offers reliable performance air intakes specifically designed for Tacomas. Plus, shopping directly through authorized channels ensures you receive genuine parts at competitive prices.
### 3. Adding a Bed Cover
Enhance your Tacoma’s utility with a durable bed cover. Not only does it shield cargo from rain, UV rays, and dust, but certain models even include locks to deter theft. From flexible roll-up designs to rigid folding panels, there’s something for every style preference. Prices vary depending on material quality and features, so it shouldn’t be hard finding one within your budget range.
### 4. Lighting Up The Truck Bed
Nighttime adventures require visibility! If you frequently load/unload items after dark or simply want better illumination inside your pickup bed, consider adding aftermarket LED bed lights. These lights attach easily onto the interior walls and rear end of the cargo space, Casting bright yet non-intrusive beams onto key areas. For those driving 2016-2019 Tacomas, Toyota offers official OEM kits priced affordably at around $120 instead of typical dealer rates closer to $140.
### 5. Customizing Your Shifter Knob
Finally, don’t overlook smaller details like swapping out the standard shifter knob for something more personalized. Available in various materials such as leather, aluminum alloy, or wood grain finishes, these accessories add both comfort and flair to your cabin setup. As an added bonus, some exclusive TRD-branded variants may match perfectly with existing interior trims found in select trim levels.
By combining these five suggestions above, you'll create a truly customized experience tailored exactly how YOU want it while staying well below typical modification budgets. Happy tinkering!
*Written by Jason Lancaster*