Toyota really nailed it with the third generation Tundra. It’s big, it’s mean, and the options from the factory and aftermarket are almost endless. Despite the factory options, the Tundra is a tad colorful. Colored trim, chrome, and more. Sometimes that’s a little much, but thankfully there is a solution: blacking out.

Blacking out something means exactly what it says… Taking whatever is there, and making it black: matte, gloss, semi, textured, or whatever. Just like Henry Ford said, “as long as it’s black.” Let’s take a look at some options to see how you can take your Tundra from flash to, well, not flash.

EXTERIOR

If you want to make a statement and show off your unique style, exterior mods are a must. This is the first and last thing you see when you get in and out of your Tundra, but this could be the only thing other people see, so it’s worth getting it right. Of course what is “right” is up to you. Here are some exterior blackout options for your third gen Tundra.

Window Tint

One of the most obvious blackout mods is tinting your windows. It’s cheap, so many people can do it (including yourself), and the results are very gratifying. Not only do they transform the way your truck looks from all sides, but it also helps protect your interior from the sun. That will also keep the temps down during the summer. If you want even more reasons to tint your windows, it also helps keep the wandering eye off who is driving the best looking Tundra in town. Just keep in mind your local laws and don’t go too dark!

Smoked Headlights, Tail Lights, and Third Brake Light

The newly redesigned headlights and tail lights on the Tundras are sleek and modern, but if you want to spice them up, blacking them out is an option. When referring to “blacking out” lighting, it could also be referred to as “smoked” headlights and tail lights, so both may be said from here on.

The easiest, but most expensive method would be replacing the entire tail light or headlight assembly. Thankfully modern vehicles make this pretty easy to do, and the plug and play nature of the replacement ones make it hasslefree. Replacement smoked headlights and tail lights come tinted right out of the box, so no need to worry about fading, shrinking, or peeling over time.

Aftermarket options generally also come with more features like upgraded lighting, sequential turn signals, and more. Tail lights can be found for about $200-$700, and headlights are more from $300 to $1700. Generally speaking, these are usually going to be DOT approved, so you don’t have to worry about going too dark and getting tickets.  More on that later…

If you don’t feel like spending that much, you can get pre-cut vinyl film, or you can get sheets of it and cut yourself. For those who like to be more crafty, this could be a good option. It’s also only around $30-$50 for pre-cut pieces. They are pretty easy to install if you know what you’re doing, but if you mess up, well… you could be out that piece. If you cut your own from a sheet, it can be a bit more difficult, but you can get exactly the tint you want, and maybe even only do the sections you want.

If you decide to go this route, keep in mind that vinyl will degrade over time. Yes, we’re talking years, but it will still happen. The UV rays from the sun will make them brittle over time, and the cold temperatures don’t help either. Eventually they will shrink, peel, and crack. Removing them at that point to start over will be a pain.

An even cheaper option would be spraying them or “dipping” them. This involves taking a can (hopefully one designed to tint lights) and spraying it on the lights. For the best results, remove the lights, and then follow the directions on the can. This, like vinyl, will eventually fade, peel, and crack over time. However, a can of this can cost around $12, so for quick results without much investment, this could be it. Just please don’t use spray paint…

I want to finish this part up with a suggestion. While I encourage people to be crafty and try things, just remember two things: longevity and laws. My vote will always be for replaceable headlights and tail lights that are already tinted/smoked. These will last incredibly longer compared to vinyl and sprays (pretty much forever). Also, with these being DOT (Department of Transportation for the US, or your country’s equivalent) approved, you won’t run the risk of going too dark. If you do it yourself, you could get some tickets. Remember that tail lights and headlight are designed to be seen and allow you to see.

Oh… Did you think I forgot about the third brake light? The short version is the same applies: replacement, vinyl, or spray.
Emblems

There are a lot of emblems and logos on the third generation Tundra. While it might be nice to have them stand out to show off what you drive, let’s face it… It doesn’t need to be THAT flashy. Blacking out the emblems makes a huge difference. Like the lights, there are a few different ways to do this.

The cheapest way is to paint or “dip” them. Dipping them involves using something like Plasti Dip and spraying a few layers on them. The best part is being able to peel off the overspray for an easy result. For painting, you would have to take the emblems off.

Your other two options would be replacing them entirely with black ones, or placing overlays over them. Overlays or covers are black versions of the factory logos and emblems that stick right over the OEM ones. It is the fastest and easiest way to get blackout results. There is a kit from Rave Off Road for $195. Just make sure that you select your correct trim level.

Tailgate TUNDRA

The “TUNDRA” on the tailgate of your truck looks sleek with its recessed lettering, but if you’re blacking out your ride and want it to pop like your blacked out emblems, letter inserts for the tailgate are a must. The kit on our site for $40 comes with individual letters that fit perfectly into the factory ones. Regardless of the color of your truck, these will make a huge difference. Even if your truck is black, this change in color will make the letters stand out. It’s an inexpensive and easy mod to do, so it’s a no-brainer.

Wheels

There is no hiding the fact that wheels can get very expensive very quickly, but they are a very eye-catching part to your truck, and if you’re serious about blacking out your Tundra, you can’t leave your wheels alone. While many factory wheels are actually black, there are some that are unfortunately not, so let’s talk about some options.

Like the inexpensive method of tinting your headlights and tail lights, you can dip or wrap your wheels. Dipping wheels a matte black with Plasti Dip is a very popular option with vehicle modders of all years, makes, and models. It’s cheap, fast, easy, and easy to touch up or remove after. Keep in mind if you go too fast and cheap, that’s what it will look like: fast and cheap. Take your time, carefully apply it, and it will look as good as it can.

Wrapping your wheels with vinyl will take more time, but can end up looking better. Like with most vinyl, you can get a pre-cut kit, or a sheet and do it yourself. Pre-cut is faster to apply, but much like the tail lights, if you mess up, you might need to replace the kit. This kit from TVD Vinyl Decals for $40 allows you to choose between matte or gloss black. The one linked is the Limited 20” wheels, so make sure you get the right one.

Regardless, when it comes to the DIY methods, I would avoid spray paint at all costs. It will not come out good, and you will hate the results.

For the longest lasting and most professional looking results, you might want to look into new wheels. You can get the all black TRD Pro wheels from Toyota, but for $760 each. That’s over $3000 for all four! I would suggest looking for used ones if you really want OEM, or look into the dozens of aftermarket options.

Grille Surround

While the days of big chrome grilles seem to thankfully be a thing of the past, some Tundra trim levels still have a shiny surround flanking three sides of the large grille. Bumpershellz offers a solution with their front grille surround chrome delete kit which you can find on our site. This acts as an overlay, and is placed right over your existing trim. To fit the nature of this article, you can get them in matte black, gloss black, or textured, but… you can also get them in a bunch of different factory colors.

Of course you can always do the wrapping or dipping method that we have talked about for plenty of other areas. If you choose the dipping (or even painting) method, just make sure you take your time as these are long flat areas where imperfections can really shine (even when blacked out…)

Bumpers

The new Tundra has thankfully toned down the amount of chrome bumpers on their trucks, but some trim levels still have a bit in the rear. In some instances, it might look good, but they sort of look out of place on these trucks. The quickest and easiest fix would be to cover them with these rear bumper covers by Bumpershellz. Much like their front grille surrounds, you can get them in matte black, gloss black, or textured. Of course there are a bunch of factory colors as well, but we’re not here for that.

You can of course go the paint, dip, or wrap route on these, but if you do choose one of those, I would personally recommend the wrap. The sections of the bumper that are chrome don’t have many crazy angles, and would be easier to learn to wrap something on if you are not comfortable. Dipping it might have good results as well if you take your time, but painting chrome could look very, very bad.

Door Handle Covers

Depending on your trim level, your door handles (including your tailgate handle) look like something a 1990s rap artist would wear around their neck. If you want to tone it down a bit, there are… Wait for it… Covers! I found one on Amazon that’s gloss black for $40 that has all the handles, but with no reviews, beware. I just wanted to plant the seed.

I would avoid wraps, paint, or dips on this. Handles take a lot of abuse: gloves, fingernails, kids, and so on. Oils in your hands can degrade these things over time, and when they start to fail, it will look disgusting, and so will your hand.

Window Trim

If you have some chrome on your Tundra, chances are you have the chrome window trim too. While this looks great on 1950s Cadillacs, I think it has overstayed its welcome. If you’re here, you do too. Anyway, there are pre-cut wraps that can take care of this for around $50. If you want to spend the extra money on something more long term, the Yota Garage window trim overlays are available for $405. Honestly, that’s a little steep, and would suggest vinyl for this.

Like the door handles, I would avoid paint for this since they are so close to the body and glass. However, dipping them could work out well since the pieces are thin, and overspray can be easily removed.

INTERIOR

While the outside may be the first and last thing you see when getting in and out, the interior is where you are going to spend the most time. It’s important to make it the way you want, and if that happens to be blacking it out, you’re in the right place. Let’s take a look at some options, however pictures and even products will be a little light in this section. Here is where things get a little tricky for us Tundra owners… Since the third gen is still pretty new, the interior blackout options are more on the limited side. You might have to get creative.

Steering Wheel Surround and Logo

The steering wheel has two big chrome/satin pieces glaring at you in addition to the emblem in the center. Meso Customs allows you to easily mask the surrounds with an overlay for $50. When it comes to the emblem, we have an overlay right here on Empyre that fits right over the emblem safely for only $20! Both of these together will really subdue your steering wheel. Both of these may not be something the average Toyota owner would think about right away, so when you see it, it will truly be unique. You might be able to get away with painting the emblem, but the other trim will come in contact with your hands quite a bit, so best to avoid that.

Door Handles

If you’re truly going for the blacked out look, you might have to tackle your door handles yourself. There are a couple eBay specials that will take care of this, but your best bet in this case may be vinyl overlays that you have to cut yourself. I know this goes against what I have said about things you need to touch, but in this case, options are limited. Just avoid paint and dipping please!

Center Console Border Trim

One of the biggest non-black trim pieces on the new Tundra is the main border piece around the center console. While there are plenty of overlays for everything in the middle of that, there doesn’t seem to be anything for the main border. However, if you have vinyl, some paint, or some Plasti Dip, you can tackle this on your own. Since this section is not touched that much directly, these options might actually work pretty well for you. Take your time, remove and mask what you can, and enjoy the one off creation you’ve done to black out your interior.

AC Vent Trim

The AC vents on the new Tundra stand out quite a bit, and while there is no overlay yet that covers the whole outer surround, there is an overlay that will cover the extra shiny parts in the middle. The included image from TUFSKINS shows carbon fiber, but you can get black as well (and yes.. Other colors too…) While it’s not much, it is a subtle touch that will set your interior apart from others.

Start Button Surround Overlay

The trim around the start button is a thin piece of chrome, and that’s quite pesky if you’re trying to black out your interior. You have the usual suspects at this point about how to black it out, and once again the guys over at TUFSKINZ have provided a vinyl overlay solution as well. Once again again, the image shows carbon fiber, but they offer black. Sometimes these little changes make all the difference.

CONCLUSION

Blacking out your third generation Toyota Tundra can be something you do just a little of, or as you can see by the list here, get very carried away with. Lots of this you can DIY with some paint, Plasti Dip, or vinyl. That will keep the cost down, and the uniqueness up! Of course there are plenty of aftermarket parts that allow you to just stick it and forget it.

Whichever direction you decide to go, this is not an exhaustive list by any means, but a mental seed planted to point your creativity in the right direction. Make sure you stop by Empyre Off-Road again to learn more about what you can do with your Toyota 4Runner, Tacoma, and Tundra. Don’t forget to check out our growing list of parts available to spice up your Toyota.

Image Credits
Window Tint - Courtesy Allout Offroad

Headlights - Courtesy Alpharex

Tail Lights - Courtesy Slick Mod

Emblem Overlays - Courtesy Tundras.com user Jkeown

Tailgate Overlays - Right Here At Empyre Off-Road!

Wheels - Courtesy The Drive

Grille Surround - Right Here At Empyre Off-Road!

Rear Bumper Covers - Right Here At Empyre Off-Road!

Handle Covers - Courtesy XtremeAmazing Amazon Store

Steering Wheel Emblem - Right Here On Empyre Off-Road

AC Vent Trim - Courtesy TUFSKINZ

Start Button - Courtesy TUFSKINZ

If you own a 2nd gen Tacoma, chances are you’ve done something to modify it to make it truly unique. This could be something free, or it could have cost you thousands or dollars.

After scouring the Internet and the Tacoma forums, I’ve put together a list of the top twenty mods under $200 for your second generation Toyota Tacoma build out.

TRD Pro Grille ($139)

One of the quickest and best looking mods for a 2nd gen Tacoma is a TRD Pro grille. These full inserts can be easily swapped out with no modifications to your truck in about twenty minutes. Add raptor lights and you'll be off roading in style. You can buy them right here on our site by clicking on of the links below.

• 2005-2011 
• 2012-2015

Hood Struts ($130)

While it may seem like a no brainer, many manufacturers these days don’t make their cars or trucks with hood struts. Perhaps it’s to save money, or perhaps ensure longevity, but let’s face it: hood struts are cool. They assist in opening your hood, and give you more room when you need to work with that prop not being a thing of the past. You can get them cheaper, but this is a good kit from Redline Tuning that many people are happy with.

Blacked-Out and LED Tail Lights ($180)

A great way to give your truck a mean look is to black out the taillights. While you could do it ghetto with a spray can, going the extra mile with a replacement kit is the best way. Incandescent bulbs might not shine as well through the tint, so why not bring your truck up to modern specs with LED lights while you’re at it? This will be to taste, but the kit here is a nice aggressive look, and will give you a good starting point.

LED Interior Package ($25)

Incandescent bulbs are classic, but LED bulbs are much brighter. For cheap, you can replace your map, dome, vanity, license plate, and reverse lights in this one kit. This is one of the best 2nd gen interior mods available.

Tint (About $30)

While tint may be a little more expensive, it has two functions: it looks good, and keeps your truck cool on those hot summer days. Look around for a place by you that does it. It’s best to find a place that offers some type of warranty on their work in the event the tint starts to bubble. Check your local laws to see how dark your tint can legally be.

Painting or “Dipping” Chrome Parts (About $15-30)

Chrome looks good, but when you want that blacked out look, you can get expensive replacement parts, or you could get a couple cans of black spray paint, or Plasti Dip. This route may not be the most durable, but it will give you quick custom results that you can touch up any time. The benefit to using Plasti Dip is that you can peel it off if you ever get bored with it, or want to sell your truck. (But, why would you ever sell your truck?)

12V Plug in the Bed (About $15)

This one does involve some tools, skill, and elbow grease, but if you want some extra power to your bed, then adding a 12V plug might be a great option. While the 110V plug is great, many things we get for our vehicles come with 12V plugs. This guide will show you the cheapest way to add the socket to your bed, should you need it.

Bed Extender ($179)

For a fraction of the cost of a new pre-made one, you can extend your bed with some wood, paint, screws, and a couple extra pieces. You can make a really good looking and effective piece of hardware. I would not suggest leaving it on 24-7 if you don’t need to. Even if you get treated wood, it may warp during extreme weather over time.

LED Bed Lights ($32)

Lighting is probably one of the most noticeable, effective, and cheapest modifications you can do to any vehicle, as I’ve shown on a few mods already. Your bed is no exception. While this may be more expensive than putting fog or driving lights in the side pockets by the cab, this method looks great, is very bright, and will give your trucks a very nice custom and unique look. 

Projector LED Headlights ($160)

Especially with this age of truck the lights start looking old and foggy. This is the easiest facelift you can give your ride. You can’t leave your headlight stock after getting those smoked LED taillights. Projector headlights are what you find on high-end cars and trucks. Smoked ones will give you that mean look, but with the power of the light behind them, you won’t have to worry about visibility issues. This is just one of the options out there.

Tailgate Backup Camera ($102)

Obviously, back-up cameras are now standard on newer vehicles. While you can get aftermarket ones that mount on your license plate, those look cheap and might not give you the best view. This kit emulates the camera on the new Tacos, but at a fraction of the cost. It’s something to look into to give you the feel of a newer truck, and to assist with seeing what’s behind you. You will need to get a display of some sort.

Bed Mat ($110)

If you want to keep your stuff from sliding around, you need a bed mat. It’s also a great way to protect your bed, which would cost much more to replace if it gets damaged. OEM is the way to go!

Securing Your Bet Mat (Pretty Much Free)

Your bed mat won’t move much when it’s installed, but if you want a little peace of mind, three parts you probably have lying around will secure it to your bed.

All-Weather Floor Mats ($150)

Good floor mats are a wise investment. All-weather ones are perfect if you intend on using your truck like a truck. You can find cheaper versions, but they generally don’t last.

Brush Guard ($235)

Yes, I know, it's over $200, but that just a little bit and it's completely worth it! These are a great way to add style and protection to your truck. The aggressive look says, “Get out of my way.” If you are into off-roading, it’s a great way to protect parts like your bumper, grill, and radiator from getting too damaged. There are a few options. This is just one. 

Lift Kit/Lift Block ($154)

I go into pretty extreme detail in a previous post about lifting your Tacoma. Some options are effective, yet pretty inexpensive. Lift blocks, spacers, and leveling kits can be found for under $200. As long as you are not doing any serious off-roading, they look great, and are effective for some extra ground clearance.

Heated Mirrors (About $35)

This involves a bit of elbow grease, but for a few bucks and some of your time, you can create something usually only found on luxury vehicles. It’s a helpful and unique feature that will have people asking about how you did it.

Painting or Plasti Dipping Your Wheels (About $15)

Wheels are a great way to express your style, but they can get rather expensive. Painting them is a cheap way to get the look you want, with only spending a few bucks and a little bit of your time. Just remember to take your time. If you rush, it can turn out looking quite bad. You can always touch them up if they chip, and best part about Plasti Dip is that if you don’t like it, just peel it off!

Custom Lug Nuts (About $25)

I don’t have a link for this one because there are so many options, even though most people tend to overlook this. For generally around thirty bucks, you can get chrome ones, black chrome ones, matte black, different styles, and so on. Like the ideas for the grill and wheels, you can also paint or Plasti Dip your stock ones. Just keep in mind that if you do that, it’s chipping the instant an impact wrench hits it.

Blinking Side Markers (About $5)

With a couple bucks and little splicing, you can add a unique feature and turn your side markers into turn signals even when they are off. Not only is it different, but it’s a great safety feature too.

Not all mods and aftermarket performance parts have to be expensive. Many of these are super cheap, and just take a little bit of your time. Take a look at your truck, and think about what you can do. While money may be the limit sometimes, it mostly just comes down to your imagination and creativity, so I hope this post has given you some good ideas. Now, get out there and mod your Tacoma!

 

* Please note the following:

These mods should fit the following models: 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, & 2015. Please verify with the seller that this is the case before ordering.

Prices fluctuate daily on Amazon  and the prices represented above are accurate as the day of this posting.

 Some of these links are Amazon affiliate links and we make a small commission if you purchase the product.

 

From the factory, the third generation Toyota Tundra (2022+) is proving to be a very capable truck, as expected. They do have a few options from the factory, and have the ability to tow well, go off-roading well, and ride on the highway well. However, what do you do when you want to make your truck more unique?

This could be style or performance. Tundras have always been ready to be modded to fit your lifestyle and needs. The third generation, while still new, is no different. Here are 25 mods and accessories under $500 that you can get for your third generation Toyota Tundra.

Rear Bumper Covers (Estimated $150 - $200)

If you want an easy and cost effective way to spice up the looks of your 2022+ Toyota Tundra, these Rear Bumper Covers by ChromeStoppers will make your Tundra stand out from the crowd. While chrome has its place, these colored covers are placed over the chrome portions of your Tundra’s rear bumpers, completely changing the look from factory to custom in minutes. They are also a good way to cover up any dents, scuffs, or rust that may be on your bumper. With different color options, you’re sure to find something that fits your style.

Fog Lamp Surrounds (Estimated $200)

Much like the rear bumper covers, these are a great way to dress up what everyone sees when they look at the front of your Tundra. Stand out from the crowd with an inexpensive mod that is easy to install. It’s a subtle way to make the front of your Tundra pop!

 

Mirror Covers (Estimated $34)

These Mirror Covers by ChromeStoppers are a very subtle yet effective way to change up your style. With these, you can easily color match your body color, make them sporty with black, or go rogue and throw on whatever color you choose. These are confidently secured with 3M double sided tape. Not only are they great to change up your style, but can also be useful to cover up any damage your stock mirrors may have from rock chips or ignorant parkers.

 

Front Grille Surround ($320)

Break up the same front end you see on every Tundra with this front grille surround. It simply gets placed over your existing grille surround, completely transforming the front end of your truck. Choose from different shades of black, or color match your body! Easy to install, and looks great. What’s stopping you?

 

Headlight Tint ($50)

If you want to easily give your Tundra a sporty look, headlight tint is a subtle, yet effective way to achieve that. This precut ppf material gets placed over your existing headlights. If you find you ever want to remove them, they can be removed in the future. They look good with the lights off, and don’t darken your lights to a dangerous level when they are on.

 

Tail Light Tint Covers ($96)

Much like the headlight tint mentioned above, these polycarbonate covers for your Tundra’s tail lights is a great way to make the rear end of your truck look sleek.  It’s a touch of sport, luxury, and badass all wrapped into one inexpensive package.

 

Bumper Mounted LED Light Bar ($120)

Light bars and trucks just go hand in hand, but sometimes taking the more subtle approach is the way to go. That is exactly what you get with this LED light bar. Rough Country says, “with 20, 5-watt high-intensity CREE LEDs, you'll have plenty of light to take on even the darkest trails,” and you’ll do it in style without a bulky bar mounting to the front of a bumper or your roof. This mod looks like something from the factory, and at $120, you can’t go wrong.

 

Ditch Lights ($189)

If you do plan on doing some more serious off-roading, or just want that more aggressive off-roading look, ditch lights will achieve that. They are easy to install mounting without modification behind your hood, and when pointed off at an angle, they will help illuminate what your headlights can’t see. They will do wonderers off-road, or even on country roads at night.

 

Bull Bar with LED Light Bar ($400)

Bull bars and push bars are perfect bumper protection when it comes to off-road driving (or bad parkers). They are designed to take the impact before the more delicate plastic bumper cover does. This one is more minimalistic to help give a more sleek look, but with the integrated LED light bar, you’ll get protection AND more visibility at night on the trails.

 

Tailgate Letter Inserts ($40)

If you’re a proud Tundra owner, you may want to show off the name a bit more. The imprinted letters on the tailgate are nice, but if you want to accentuate TUNDRA, these inserts are perfect. They are coated in thick polyurethane to give them a unique 3D look and feel. They are easy to install, long lasting, and make the name pop at an inexpensive price.

 

Bed Side MOLLE Storage Panel ($249)

If you want to maximize the storage space in your Tundra, panels like this are key. Small items can slide around, get covered, or misplaced. The MOLLE panel not only gives your truck an off-road and tactical look, but it offers an incredible mounting solution for an otherwise “useless” space in your Tundra. Made from steel, this will be durable for almost anything, and when it comes to mounting, only your imagination will be the limit. Victory 4x4 offers more panels for the rest of the bed and plenty of other locations as well!

 

Pedal Commander ($300)

If you’re tired of lag and slow acceleration, Pedal Commander is here to help. This simple product plugs into your gas pedal to help eliminate that nonsense. Gone are the days of a physical wire opening and closing your throttle when you press your pedal down. Now, everything is electronic. When you press your pedal down, it tells your Tundra’s computer that you’re doing so, and how hard you’re doing it. The problem is that it will still only open the throttle as fast as it’s programmed to. Pedal Commander will amplify the signal your foot provides to open the throttle faster.

 

Center Console Organizer ($24)

The Tundra is great for hauling big things, but what about your little stuff? Even the storage compartments end up being a large void of no return. This center console organizer for your Tundra will help keep your small items at hand, right where you need them. It’s little things like this that make big differences. You won’t hurt your wallet with something like this either!

 

Center Console Overlay ($100)

This TUFSKINZ Center Console Overlay applies directly over the interior trim of your Tundra. You can choose between 14 different colors including carbon fiber and factory paint colors to match your exterior! While this is for the center console, CaliRaised offers many different overlays for different interior panels. Add one, two, or all of them to completely transform your interior into a sporty, sophisticated, or off-road look.

 

All Weather Floor Mats ($129)

Regardless if you use your truck for off-roading, live in a snowy or muddy area, or just have kids or pets, your floor mats will get dirty. All weather floor mats are made out of durable rubber that will not only be long lasting, but are easy to clean. Simply take them out, hose them down, and you’re done! This kit is directly from Toyota, so you will have no fitment issues like you may have with those universal ones. Sure they say TUNDRA right on them, but they have that Tundra quality as well.

 

Seat Covers ($200)

Same thing as the floor mats… Not covering your seats is for rookies. Seats wear out, you drop chips and spill coffee! Protect your seats. These are great for those weekend camping or beach trips. If that’s not enough, you can go all out with precise fitting ones to take your boring seats to fancy stitched leather ones! Not only will they look good, but they will protect your factory seats, increasing your truck’s resale value. Prices vary depending on what you decide to go with.

 

Leveling/Lift Kit ($145)

Lifted trucks look good. Simple as that. Lift kits for serious off-roaders can cost thousands of dollars, but leveling kits or lift blocks are an inexpensive option for some extra ground clearance. This kit from lifts BOTH the front and rear!

Catalytic Converter Shield ($270)

The catalytic converters on your truck are important for emissions and expensive to replace if they are damaged from off-roading, or missing due to questionable parking decisions. It’s worth protecting them if you are concerned about either situation. These are a direct bolt on, and will shield the expensive cats. While it won’t stop a determined thief, it will dissuade someone looking for a quick buck, and slow down others.

 

Muffler ($475)

While the mighty V8 is gone in favor of a more efficient 3.4L V6, that doesn’t mean you still can’t make it sound good! This MagnaFlow exhaust is a good way to not only change the sound to something more aggressive, and the increased airflow will give you a couple more ponies as well! This is the best bang for your buck in the exhaust world. While you won’t be thrown back in your seat, every bit counts. Prices range from not a lot to a bit more, and each one is going to sound a bit different, so make sure you watch lots of videos to find the one best for you!

 

Running Boards ($380)

What good is a truck without running boards? It’s not. Running boards not only help you get in and out of your truck, but look good, and if they have built in sliders, they can help protect your truck from obstacles when off-roading. Not every running board offers that protection though! This kit from Rough Country offers a wide and beefy design that’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

 

Bed Mat ($120)

A bed mat is a must for anyone who plans to make use of their bed. Not only will this help protect the finish of your bed, but it will help stop things from sliding around as much. Much like the all weather floor mats, it’s easy to clean! Pull it out, and hose it down. This one is from Toyota, so fitment, quality, and Tundra branding will be no problem.

 

Bed Extender ($470)

If you find yourself using your truck bed a lot, especially with longer items, you might want to look into a bed extender. You can make one for cheap, but since we got yelled at by our viewers on YouTube for suggesting that, now you can buy this one right from Toyota! It looks good, gives you extra secured length in your bed, and allows airflow. Like the bed mat and floor mats, this will come with Toyota quality and a perfect fit!

 

Tonneau Bed Cover ($490)

Bed covers tend to be on the more pricey side, but we managed to find this one just under the $500 mark on Amazon. Bed covers are perfect for protecting your cargo from weather and wandering eyes. Hard folding tonneau covers offer extended durability and life over simple cloth covers. While new trucks are expertly engineered to be as aerodynamic as they can be, this will also help reduce a bit of drag, which can help improve fuel economy.

 

Carbon Fiber Fuel Door ($90)

While the last few mods offer some type of performance or utilitarian improvements, this is just for looks. Want to add a unique bit of sportiness to your Tundra? This carbon fiber fuel door will take care of that. This will stick right on top of your factory fuel door making installation a breeze. Sometimes you just need something that looks cool, and this can help.

 

Mud Flaps ($180)

Mud flaps can be basic, by why? Sure… They are great for protecting the finish of your truck and those less fortunate behind your impressive Tundra, but why not go a bit more? These mud flaps by RokBlokz give you the option of two different sizes, eleven colors, and six logo colors. Options upon options will allow you to get the mud flaps you want. Protect your ride and those around you, and look good while doing it!

 

Final Thoughts

Trucks are meant to be modded. From looks to performance, and everything in between, if there’s a will, there’s a way. There are tons of Tundras out there on the roads and trails, and for good reason… They are some great trucks. Why let your third generation Toyota Tundra look, feel, handle, perform, and sound like all the other ones? Make your truck yours! Don’t forget to check back on Empyr Off-Road for more parts and information for your Toyota Tundra, Tacoma, or 4Runner.  Be safe, and mod on!

* Please note that some of these links are Amazon affiliate links and we make a small commission if you purchase the product. 

 

 

The Toyota Tundra is an extremely capable truck that is designed to take a beating and be very reliable. There are documented cases of these things going over 1,000,000 miles! However, if you plan on doing any serious off-roading, rock climbing, or overlanding, you better be prepared. 

Not only are there plenty of expensive components under your Tundra that can get damaged, but paint and body work is not cheap either. How do we help stop this from happening? Skid plates and body armor! Let’s get into what it takes to protect your Toyota Tundra from the great outdoors.

What is a skid plate?

Skid plates are panels made of a tough and abrasion-resistance material that are bolted (usually) onto the bottom side of a vehicle to prevent damage from occurring to the underside of a vehicle when it makes contact with the ground.

As the name suggests, the goal is to protect your truck by not only taking an impact, but allow you to “skid” off your obstacle. Ever looked under a vehicle? There are lots of nooks and crannies for something to get wedged in. That can lead to an expensive mistake. A long flat surface in the form of a skid plate is a much better solution.

Where do skid plates go?

There are a lot of places under your Tundra you will want to protect. These include the engine and front accessories, transmission, transfer case, fuel tank, and the door sills. Each section has its own skid plate that you can purchase, and some manufacturers offer skid plates that connect together to allow you to keep the whole undercarriage of your truck protected. Add sliders to the frame under the door sills, and you’ll basically have a tank.

How much do they cost?

Skid plates are not the cheapest things, especially if you start getting some for all different areas. Your average lowest price for one component will be around $350. However, depending on the quality of material, brand, and which part it covers, prices can be well over $700. Keep in mind that while this may seem like a lot, serious off-roaders will tell you that it is far less than the cost of replacement parts and labor to fix damaged parts that you didn’t protect.

Different Types of Skid Plates

Now that you’re an expert on what a skid plate is, where do they actually go? What exactly does it protect? How much of my Tundra can I protect? These are all valid questions! While these Toyotas are designed to be durable, they shouldn’t have mountains scraping against them, so let’s get into it!

FRONT SKID PLATES

These skid plates mount directly behind your front bumper and offer a front line of protection from whatever you throw your Tundra into. Generally they make use of your truck’s existing mounting points, so no extra drilling is required. There are of course expectations to that depending on manufacturer.

Even mild off-roaders can benefit from a front skid plate. These offer a level of armor to parts such as radiators, A/C condensers, oil pans, engine accessories, and more. These are one of the panels that can be easily seen from anyone outside your truck (even if your Tundra is not lifted), so it’s also a great opportunity to get something that looks good as well to show off that you mean off-roading business! TRD makes one that shows off that logo!

TRANSMISSION SKID PLATES

No one likes transmission issues. They are expensive, and any issue with them will render your Tundra undrivable. While Toyota does make a very robust transmission, you don’t want to take advantage of that and come crashing down on a bolder. Enter the transmission skid plate. 

Designed to secure the transmission from the wild trails, a transmission skid plate will generally also mount up underneath your Tundra with no extra drilling required. While great on their own, they are even better when paired with a front skid plate and transfer case skid plate. Adding all three together will effectively armor the whole front and mid section of your Tundra in one (almost continuous) go.

TRANSFER CASE SKID PLATES

Your transfer case is designed to provide power as needed to your front and rear wheels. It is an absolute must to keep this crucial part protected during your off-road adventures. Directly behind your transmission (and transmission skid plate, if you get one), this skid plate will mount to existing factory mounting points.

While best to pair with a front and transmission skid plate due to its small size, this plate will ensure a better chance of survival of your transfer case during your next rock climb.

COMPLETE FRONT/MID SKID PLATE

If you don’t want to worry about individual components, there are companies that make one long skid plate that will cover the front, transmission, and transfercase. This is great for a one stop shop solution for covering some of the more expensive parts of your Tundra.

One of the biggest downsides could actually be its intended solution: taking damage. If you have three separate skid plates, and your transfer case skid plate gets damaged, you can fix or replace that plate. If you have one long one, the whole thing needs to be replaced or fixed. Just something to think about!

FUEL TANK SKID PLATES

Obviously a hole in your fuel tank is bad. Not only do you risk spontaneous combustion, but running out of fuel and potentially being slapped with a fine from the EPA is bad too. While very durable, if you do some serious rock crawling and can afford the extra protection, you might want to look into one of these skid plates. I could go into further detail, but hey… Holes in your gas tank are not good.

SUSPENSION SKID PLATES

While not as common, your suspension could use some love too. These are definitely more specialty products and not something everyone makes or uses, but if you’re around jagged rocks frequently, you don’t want a busted shock. Let’s get into some options.

LOWER CONTROL ARM SKID PLATES

Lower control arms are basically responsible for “holding your front wheels” in place. You can imagine the bad day you could have if you get these hung up on a rock. Thankfully there is a skid plate for that! These are designed to effectively enclose the exposed bottom and sides of your lower control arms to take the brunt of any impacts.

When shopping around, you do want to take note about fitment. Many manufacturers have special notes such as not being able to fit TRD Pro models, or models with a TRD front skid plate. They may also state trimming may be required. Do your research before you buy!

REAR SHOCK SKID PLATES

While not something you would normally think about protecting, your rear shocks are actually pretty exposed to everything. Protecting them can be a bit of a challenge since they are designed to retract and expand as needed, but there are a few options on the market for the serious off-roader who wants every bit of protection. For the reason above, most opt to protect one of the most crucial impact points: the bottom.

Scrapping and impacts to this part of the shocks are common during off-road use, and not only does this degrade the life of the shock, but it could make them challenging to remove when you go to replace them in the future if they get all bent and banged up. This may not be something to overlook! You can check out our rear shock skid plates here.

ROCK SLIDERS

Everything listed previously has been designed to protect the drivetrain and suspension, but if the side of your Tundra slams down on a rock, you can get some serious damage. Not only can your rocker panels be damaged (which will be something everyone can see), if bad enough, you might have a hard time opening or closing your door.

Sliders are designed to bolt to your frame and protect your Tundra’s body. They might have steps built in to make getting in and out of your truck easier, but keep in mind that side steps or running boards are NOT rock sliders, but rock sliders CAN have steps. You can find a selection of rock sliders for your Toyota Tundra right here on Empyre Off-Road!

BRUSH GUARDS AND BULL BARS

While more common in the 80s and 90s, brush guards and bull bars are designed to protect your front end. Depending on the size, they can protect your bumper, grille, headlights, and so on. They bolt to your frame, and extend in front of your bumper. If you hit something or need to push something, they will not only take the damage before your bumper, but will transfer it evenly across the front of your truck, since it’s attached to your frame.

These are not really “in vogue” anymore these days. However, with plastic bumper covers the norm, it’s worth having them protected. The level of protection depends on what you want. These can be a simple and small bar in front, or a much larger and elaborate setup that covers the grille and lights too.

Certain brush guards and bull bars allow the ability to mount light bars as well, which increases the utilitarian nature of them. Do not attach a winch to them. They are generally not rated for that kind of stress.

BUMPERS

A very expensive option, but very durable if you’re serious about off-roading would be bumpers. Stock bumpers look great but offer no protection while rock crawling. Off-roading bumpers are heavy but designed to take a beating. Depending on the design, you can also have the ability to attach light bars and winches. A heavy-duty steel bumper with light bars and a winch will not only protect your Tundra, but will increase its off-road capability by a lot! Let’s face it… It also looks cool. Check out the selection of Toyota Tundra off-road bumpers right here on Empyre Off-Road!

Steel or Aluminum

For a lot of these, you have the option of steel or aluminum. Which is better? Which should you get? This all depends on how you are using your truck. Steel is a very strong metal. It can take a beating and keep on going. If you are doing some serious rock crawling up the side of a mountain, you will want the protection of steel. The downside is that steel is very heavy. Weight affects the performance of your Tundra: gas mileage, acceleration, braking, balance, and so on.

On the other end, aluminum is very light. The tradeoff is that it’s not as strong. If you’re a weekend warrior who goes on a couple of trails that might have a hill or two, aluminum is the way to go. Weight will still be added to your truck, but far less than steel. Don’t be shy about protection: aluminum will get most jobs done the same way steel will, but depending on the thickness and how sharp the rock is that your Tundra just crashed down on, it could be the difference between a scratch, and a full puncture.

Like I’ve said with tires and other modifications countless times before on this blog: know your end goal, and buy accordingly.

Conclusion

Skid plates and body armor for your Toyota Tundra can be rather subjective and situational. What works for you, might not work for someone else. It’s best to just figure out exactly what type of driving you will be doing and what your budget is. Buy accordingly, and have fun while protecting your ride!

 

 

Images

Front Skid Plate - Courtesy of Detroit News

Transmission Skid Plate - Courtesy of RCI Metal Works

Transfer Case Skid Plate - Courtesy of Toytech Lifts

Full Front/Mid Skid Plate - Courtesy of CBI Offroad Fab

Gas Tank Skid Plate - Courtesy of Victory 4x4

Lower Control Arm Skid Plate - Courtesy of Victory 4x4

Rear Shocks Skid Plates - Courtesy of Sheldon Chu Photography

Rock Sliders - Right here on Empyre Off-Road

Brush Guard - Courtesy of Tundra's user "Taco-Spike"

Bumper - Right here on Empyre Off-Road

Welcome, Tacomaholics! If you're pondering between the 2023 and 2024 Toyota Tacoma for your next offroad rig, this detailed guide is for you. Let's dive into a comprehensive comparison, giving you insight into every nuance to help you make an informed decision on which will suit you best!

Engine Evolution: Power Meets Efficiency

Besides the look of the new Tacoma, one of the biggest changes is the engine. Let’s take a look at the difference.

2023 Tacoma:

• Engine Varieties: The 2023 model offered a selection of engines, including the acclaimed 3.5-liter V6, known for its balanced blend of power and efficiency. Ideal for those who value a mix of everyday usability and moderate off-road capability.
• Performance: The V6 engine, with its adequate horsepower and torque, provided a reliable and consistent performance, whether navigating urban landscapes or tackling light off-road trails.

2024 Tacoma:

• Turbocharged Innovation: The 2024 model marks a significant shift, replacing the V6 with two turbocharged four-cylinder engines. The base models feature a 2.4-liter engine delivering 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque.
• Hybrid Power: The i-Force MAX hybrid engine is a game-changer. It combines a 2.4-liter engine with an electric motor, offering a robust 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This translates to enhanced low-end torque – crucial for off-road enthusiasts tackling steep inclines and rugged terrain.

Design and Configuration: A Leap Forward

Outside of a new frame and new cab options, you can expect the same trim levels and configuration that you’ve come to love in a Tacoma.

2023 Tacoma:

• Trims and Configurations: Last year's model was versatile, offering various trims suitable for different needs. However, the design largely remained unchanged, maintaining a familiar aesthetic and functionality.

2024 Tacoma:

• Revamped Frame: The new Tacoma shares a frame with the Tundra and Land Cruiser, resized to fit the Tacoma. This results in improved handling and durability, especially off-road.
• New Cab Options: The introduction of the XtraCab provides a more compact option for off-roaders who prefer agility and maneuverability.

Interior and Technology: A New Era of Comfort and Connectivity

If you are a tech junkie, you’ll love what the new Tacoma brings to the table. Let’s look at the differences.

2023 Tacoma:

• Functional Interior: The 2023 Tacoma offered a comfortable and functional interior, with technology features meeting the basic needs of most drivers.

2024 Tacoma:

• Infotainment Overhaul: The 2024 Tacoma steps up with an 8-inch screen in base variants and a 14-inch screen in upper variants. Toyota's latest interface enhances user experience significantly.
• Digital Key and Connectivity: The digital key feature allows for smartphone-based control over various vehicle functions, adding a layer of convenience and modernity.

Off-Road Capabilities: Conquering New Frontiers

If you are a major off-roader, you will love the upgrades to the new Tacoma. Let’s look at the differences.

2023 Tacoma:

• Reliable Off-Road Performance: The 2023 model was competent in off-road settings, particularly the TRD variants. It offered a solid foundation for off-road enthusiasts but had room for improvement.

2024 Tacoma:

• Suspension and Handling Upgrades: The new multi-link/spring suspension in most variants offers enhanced handling and stability. The TRD Pro variant gets a specialized Fox suspension system, elevating off-road performance.
• Skid Plates and Tires: For serious off-roaders, the TRD Pro's skid plates and 33-inch diameter Goodyear Territory R/T tires mean better protection and grip on challenging terrains.

Trailhunter: The Off-Road Specialist

Check out the new Tacoma trim… the Trailhunter!

2024 Tacoma:

• Overlanding Focused: The Trailhunter variant is purpose-built for overlanding. It features a snorkel-type air intake and a suspension system developed by ARB, indicating its readiness for serious off-road challenges.

Towing and Payload: Rugged and Ready

If you use your truck to tow, you won’t find much of a difference in towing capacity between the two.

2023 Tacoma:

• Towing Capacity: Engineered to balance everyday usability with the demands of heavier loads, the 2023 Tacoma offered a maximum towing capacity that generally ranged up to 6,800 pounds when properly equipped, particularly in the V6 models. This made it suitable for towing small boats, trailers, or recreational vehicles.

2024 Tacoma:

• Towing Capacity: The towing capacity remains competitive, with the i-Force engine models offering a 6,500-pound capacity. This is sufficient for hauling gear, small trailers, or boats, making it a versatile choice for various outdoor activities.

Safety and Driver Assistance: A New Standard

2023 Tacoma:

• Advanced Safety: All 2023 Tacoma models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense TSS P Suite which includes a pre-collision system, lane departure, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beam technology.

2024 Tacoma:

• Advanced Safety: All 2024 Tacoma models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a suite of driver assistance technologies. This includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure alerts, and automatic emergency braking, enhancing safety on and off the road.

Pricing and Value: Investment for the Long Haul

2023 vs. 2024 Tacoma:

• Pricing: The 2023 Tacoma offered great value, balancing cost and features. The 2024 model, with its price range of $30,000-$50,000, seems to maintain this value, especially considering the significant upgrades.

Conclusion: A Decision for the Future

Choosing between the 2023 and 2024 Toyota Tacoma is more than just selecting a vehicle; it's about investing in an experience. The 2024 Tacoma, with its advanced technology, enhanced off-road capabilities, and hybrid powertrain, represents a significant leap forward. It's designed not just for the off-road trails of today but also for the adventures of tomorrow.

Whether you're a seasoned off-roading enthusiast or a weekend adventurer, the 2024 Tacoma promises to be a reliable, powerful, and versatile companion for all your journeys. So gear up, plan your next adventure, and trust that the Toyota Tacoma, especially the 2024 model, will be your dependable partner in every thrilling escapade. Happy trails!

Image Source: Motortrend