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    Top 20 Mods & Accessories Under $200 For 2nd Gen Tacomas

    Top 20 Mods & Accessories Under $200 For 2nd Gen Tacomas

    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.

    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 use 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

    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)

    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 ($50)

    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 ($60)

    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 Headlights ($160)

    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)

    Back-up cameras are almost becoming 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 ($178)

    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 $30)

    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.

    Center Console Light (About $10)

    Again, lighting is super simple and effective. Adding lights to your center console gives a touch of luxury to your truck.

    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/eBay 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.

    The Ultimate Guide To Deleting your Tundra’s Exterior Chrome

    The Ultimate Guide To Deleting your Tundra’s Exterior Chrome

    Chrome can be nice sometimes, but let’s face it… Chrome is pretty much the worst. We've already covered how to black out your Toyota Tundra, but you’ve still got a lot of chrome on the exterior with the bumper caps, grille, etc.. If you want to learn how to get rid of the chrome on your Toyota Tundra, you’ve come to the right place.

    Let’s take a look at two options: buying everything new and potentially ready to go, or painting everything yourself. Regardless of which route you go, these are some of the most common, no-brainer accessories you can buy for your Tundra.

    BUYING THE REPLACEMENT PARTS

    Buying the parts already color matched, or at least ready to paint, is a good option if you have the extra money. One, “plug and play” is always easier. The part comes to you, and you put it on. You don’t have to worry about your truck being in pieces while parts are being painted.

    On top of that, if you plan on selling your truck (I know… who would do that?), you might be able to get some more out of it if you give the new owner the ability to return the vehicle to stock.

    Bumper Caps/Ends

    Getting these color matched to your truck will knock out two BIG chucks of chrome that sit at the front and rear of your truck. Unfortunately, Toyota does not offer a color match option when you order them. This means that you will have to do one of two things...

    First, you could buy overlays that are already color matched, or buy caps take them to your local body shop, or paint them yourself. If you're going to pain them yourself, I recommend using paint from Automotive Touchup for some great results!

    If you're going to go with overlays/bumper covers (which I highly recommend as it's way easier), we sell them here at Empyre Off-Road and you can check them out here.

    Tundra Front Bumper Covers/Shells - $139

    Tundra Rear Bumper Covers/Shells - $119

    If you're going to order brand new end caps, make sure you get the right ones! Here are the OEM Toyota parts that you will need. Make note of the sensors!

    Front Bumper Caps ($115)

    Rear Bumper Caps ($133 - $140)

    TRD Pro Grille with Included Surround

    Like most trucks, the Tundra comes with a large grille. For us, it’s a large, ugly chrome grille. Through Toyota, you can get a color matched TRD Pro grille and surround, however it's incredibly expensive and unfortunately, you do have to order the grille and surround together. If you find that Toyota does not have the color that you are looking for, you will probably have to go the body shop or DIY route.

    2019+ TRD Pro Grill ($315)

    If you're looking for just the TRD Pro Grille without the surround, you can buy it here on our site.

    Alternatively, as with the bumper covers, you can order a grille surround overlay/shell and hood bulge overlay/shell (discussed next) here at Empyre Off-Road. These are a quick and easy way to cover up that awful chrome. You can buy them here and run $259.

    Hood Bulge

    If you’re going for a custom grille, you can’t forget about the hood bulge. I mean, that would look silly. Thankfully this part is painted from the factory, but they offer quite a few different paint code options (12, to be specific.) The cost on this is $200

    Mirror Caps 

    If you want to add a little extra flair to your ride, mirror caps are a great option. Having them color match your Tundra is easy since you can get them factory color matched directly from Toyota. You can find them here: All Color Options for Tundra Mirror Caps. The cost on these is $83.

    Door Handles 

    If you have chrome door handles, you know they stand out. Not only that, but your fingerprints and grime REALLY show up well. Toyota also allows you to get these painted from the factory, so no more worries! You can find them here: All Color Options for Tundra Door Handles. The cost on these is between $115 and $233.

    PAINTING THE PARTS YOURSELF

    Painting the parts yourself cuts down on the cost of buying yet another part to add onto your truck, and I’m sure that will please your significant other. However, your truck has to be in pieces, which is not attractive. The cost of getting parts painted can be more than the parts, unless you are getting them painted all together.

    If you decide to tackle the actual painting yourself, there is some stuff you need to know.

    Disclaimer: Painting parts and having them look good takes a lot of skill and some good equipment. I would personally suggest having this type of work done by your local body shop, this is what I did with mine and it cost about $600. There is no way I am going to make you a professional painter in a couple of paragraphs. The following steps are literally the bare basics of a skill that take a lot to master.

    First off, you need some supplies…

    • Sandpaper ($11) - You’re going to use this to scuff up the surface of what you’re intending to paint.
    • Automotive Masking Tape ($5) - This is to mask off the parts of your vehicle you don’t want painted, IF you choose to leave the part on your truck.
    • Masking Paper - With this tape, this will cover the parts of your truck you don’t want painted. Personally, I just use the newspaper/flyers that show up in my mailbox all the time.
    • Primer ($10) - This goes on before your paint.
    • Color Matched Paint ($23) - This is pretty self explanatory.
    • Clear Coat ($10) - This goes over the color base coat.
    • Time (Cost can vary…)

    Now for the real quick and dirty to painting:

    1. Start by either removing the part you want to paint, or masking off the rest of the nearby truck if you intend on leaving the part on.
    2. Sand the entire surface of the part you want to paint. Start with the roughest sandpaper first, then work to the smoothest ones.
    3. Clean the area well to remove any leftover paint or dust from the sanding
    4. Spray the area in an even coat of primer (follow the directions on the can for best results)
    5. Sand any problems areas again with a high grit sandpaper to get a smooth surface to paint on
    6. Clean the area again from all dust and debris
    7. Start spraying the base color coat on the surface (follow the directions on the can for best results). You will probably want to spray a few light coats.
    8. After you have painted the number of coats you want and the paint is ready (consult the directions on your can for that information), follow the same procedure with a number of clear coats
    9. After the paint has cured, reinstall the part, and/or remove any masking

    Pro Tip: Take your time and keep it clean. Prep work is extremely important to a good paint job. If you rush the sanding, cleaning, or drying times, it will show in the final product. If it doesn’t show right away, it will over time as the paint ages and is exposed to the elements. 

    Whichever route you decide to go, deleting the chrome on your Tundra and lead to a very impressive looking truck. Of course, what you do and how you do it depends on your style and budget. Regardless, go make your truck yours!

    Image Credits

    Bumper Caps - Courtesy of ADV Fiberglass

    TRD Pro Grille - Courtesy of Clavey’s Corner

    Hood Bulge - Courtesy of Tundras.com user turkeycreek29010

    Mirror Caps and Door Handles - Courtesy of Tundras.com user chadh1972

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

    3rd Generation Toyota Tundra DIY Maintenance Reference Guide

    3rd Generation Toyota Tundra DIY Maintenance Reference Guide

    If you want to save some money, working on your Toyota Tundra yourself can be a good way to do it. On top of the extra cash in your pocket, you will start learning some very sought after skills that will be with you for a lifetime. This guide will give you some helpful tips and Tundra specs to help you get the job done.

    It is best to be sure about what you’re doing. Trying is a good way to learn, but it can also be a bad way to mess up your truck if you make a mistake. A mechanic may cost more, but they know what they are doing, and they generally warranty their work. If you decide to tackle the jobs yourself, here are some much-needed tools that you will use again and again.

    INSPECTING AND ADJUSTING FLUID LEVELS

    Engine Oil (0W-20 Synthetic oil - Toyota part # 00279-0WQTE-01)

    1. Check with the engine warm, over 5 minutes after shutting off the engine
    2. Tip: Leave the dipstick out while waiting 5 minutes to allow the oil in the dipstick tube to drain back down. It makes it easier to read.
    3. With a fresh filter, the engine has a capacity of 8.5 quarts

    Coolant (Toyota SLLC - Toyota part # 00272-SLLC2, 50/50 pre-diluted, Canada is 55/45)

    • Between LOW and FULL lines with the engine cold

    Brake Fluid (FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 or SAE J1703)

    • Between MIN and MAX (should be near or at max with fresh pads)

    Power Steering Fluid (Automatic transmission fluid DEXRON® II or III)

    • Between min and max (cold and hot lines provided)
    • Cold - Not driven in the last 5 hours (50-85 degrees Fahrenheit fluid temp)
    • Hot - Driven 50 MPH for 20 minutes (140-175 degrees Fahrenheit fluid temp)

    Automatic Transmission Fluid (Toyota Part Number 00289-ATFWS)

    ROTATING TIRES

    • Tires should be rotated every 5,000 miles or 6 months.
    • Front to back or back to front on each side
    • Lug nut torque:
      Steel wheel: 154 ft·lbf (209 N·m, 21.3 kgf·m)
      Aluminum wheel: 97 ft·lbf (131 N·m, 13.4 kgf·m)
    • Retighten the wheel nuts within 100 miles (160 km) of driving

    REPLACING ENGINE OIL

    Toyota recommends using synthetic oil, so replace it every 10,000 miles or 12 months. Severe use and excessive idling might be every 5,000 miles or 6 months.

    Torque specs:

    • Oil pan drain plug - 30 lb-ft (14mm)
    • Oil filter cap - 216 lb-in/18 lb-ft (TOY640 with 15/16" or 24mm socket)
    • Oil filter drain plug - 120 lb-in/10 lb-ft (3/8" square drive)
    • Skid plate - 21 lb-ft (5 12mm bolts, and 3 10mm fasteners)

    Parts:

    • Oil - 8.5 qts 0W-20 Synthetic Oil - Toyota part # 00279-0WQTE-01
    • Oil pan drain plug gasket - Toyota part # 90430-12031
    • Oil filter element kit - Toyota part # 04152-YZZA4

    Special tools:

    Tips:

    1. Requires removing skid(s) for access.
    2. The oil filter has a permanent housing. The oil filter element kit includes a new filter cartridge, two new gaskets, and the temporary oil filter drain pipe.
    3. The hose for the oil filter drain pipe (if used) should be 5/8” ID (15 mm). You can find it at your local hardware store’s plumbing section for around one dollar.
    4. Proper torque of the oil filter cap and oil filter drain plug should help prevent the cap from coming off before the drain plug on the next change, which can be a lot cleaner.
    5. When you remove the filter drain plug, give it a little impact. If you're too smooth, the plug and housing will try and move together.

    Here's a great video on how to do change the oil.

    LUBRICATE PROPELLER SHAFT and RE-TORQUE PROPELLER SHAFT BOLTS (2018 and newer)

    Toyota recommends doing this at every major service interval as well as after driving through flooded roads. However, with 2018 and newer models, that doesn’t make much of it user-serviceable, and Toyota does not suggest doing it yourself.

    RE-TORQUE LEAF SPRING U-BOLTS

    Torque spec:

    • 74 lb-ft

    REPLACE CABIN AIR FILTER

    You should do this every 20,000 miles or 24 months.

    Parts:

    Tips:

    You can find how to do this in your manual or you can watch this video:

    REPLACE ENGINE AIR FILTER

    This should be done every 20,000 miles or 24 months.

    Parts:

    • Filter - Toyota part # 17801-0P010, but like the cabin air filter, I'd highly suggest this K&N filter.

    Tips:

    Easy job, but ensure there are no holes or rips in the new filter and make sure the airbox where the filter will be going is clean. Double-check that you have a good seal so no air can get in around the filter.

    You can check out this video if you need some help!

    FRONT BRAKES

    You should visually inspect them every 5,000 miles or 6 months and measure them every 30,000 miles or 36 months.

    Torque specs:

    • Brake caliper mounting bolts - 73 lb-ft 

    Parts:

    • Rotors - Toyota part # 435120C020
    • Pads - Toyota part # 0446502440

    REAR BRAKES

    You should visually inspect them every 5,000 miles or 6 months and measure them every 30,000 miles or 36 months.

    Brake caliper mounting bolts - 70 lb-ft 

    Parts:

    • Rotors - Toyota part # 424310C011
    • Pads - Toyota part # 0446602340

    REPLACE DIFFERENTIAL OIL

    Inspect your rear diff every 15,000 miles or 18 months. If severe, replace the oil every 15,000 miles or 18 months.

    Torque specs:

    • Rear diff drain plug - 36 lb-ft (24mm or 15/16")
    • Rear diff fill plug - 36 lb-ft (24mm or 15/16")
    • Front diff drain plug - 48 lb-ft (10mm hex)
    • Front diff fill plug - 29 lb-ft (10mm hex)

    Parts:

    • Toyota Genuine Differential gear oil LT 75W-85 GL-5 or equivalent - Toyota part # 08885-02506
    • Front - 2.2 qts; Rear - 3.8-4.9 qts (varies with model)
    • Rear drain plug gasket - Toyota part # 12157-10010
    • Rear fill plug gasket - Toyota part # 12157-10010
    • Front drain plug gasket - Toyota part # 90430-24003
    • Front fill plug gasket - Toyota part # 12157-10010

    Tips:

    1. Perform while your vehicle is level
    2. Ensure you can remove the fill plug before draining
    3. Proper level should be within 5 mm of the bottom of the fill plug opening
    4. Re-check the level after driving
    5. Save the new fill plug washer until the final check
    6. You will need to remove the skid plate and may need a bottle pump for front
    7. Gasket kit for transfer and differential
    Here is a good video on how to replace the differential fluid in your third-generation Tundra

      REPLACE TRANSFER CASE OIL

      Inspect your transfer case every 30,000 miles or 36 months. If severe, replace the oil every 30,000 miles or 36 months.

      Torque specs:

      • Drain plug - 26 lb-ft (24mm or 15/16")
      • Fill plug - 26 lb-ft (24mm or 15/16")

      Parts:

      • 2 qts SAE 75W Toyota Genuine Transfer gear oil LF or equivalent - Toyota part # 08885-81080
      • Drain plug gasket - Toyota part # 90430-A0003
      • Fill plug gasket - Toyota part # 90430-A0003

      Tips:

      1. Ensure you can remove the fill plug before draining
      2. After filling, leave the plug out and let sit for about five minutes and recheck. Add more fluid if necessary.
      3. Rear Diff and Transfer Case Gasket Kit

      REPLACE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID 

      Visually inspect the oil every 30,000 miles or 36 months. If it’s severe, replace it every 60,000 miles or 72 months.

      Torque specs:

      • Drain plug - 180 lb-in/15 lb-ft (14mm)
      • Overflow plug - 180 lb-in/15 lb-ft (5mm hex)
      • Fill plug - 29 lb-ft (24mm or 15/16")

      Parts:

      • Toyota ATF WS fluid - Toyota part # 00289-ATFWS
      • Drain plug gasket - Toyota part # 35178-30010
      • Overflow plug gasket - Toyota part # 35178-30010
      • Fill plug gasket - Toyota part # 90301-15004

      Special tools:

      • Toyota SST 09843-18040 (basically, you just need a wire to jumper two OBD ports)
      • Bottle pump (to use for filling)

      Tips:

      The quantity of fluid will depend on what you do. Per the TIS repair manual, it directs three drain/refill/circulates for a replacement, so it will probably be somewhere between 10-12 quarts.

      REPLACE ENGINE COOLANT

      Inspect the coolant every 15,000 miles or 18 months. You should replace it at 100,000 miles or 120 months, and then every 50,000 miles or 60 months thereafter.

      Parts:

      • 4-12.6 qts Toyota SLLC - Toyota part # 00272-SLLC2 (50/50 pre-diluted, Canada is 55/45). The quantity depends on the model. Consult your manual.

      Tips:

      Be careful. There is a special sequence to fill the system and remove all the voids without damaging or overheating anything.

      Maintenance is an important part of owning a vehicle. Doing it yourself can be rewarding and save you a lot of money. However, mistakes can cost you quite a bit. Be careful, take your time, and get learning!

      Image Credit

      https://www.redmccombstoyota.com/2020-toyota-tundra-san-antonio-tx/

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

      10 Awesome Toyota Tundra Interior Upgrades

      10 Awesome Toyota Tundra Interior Upgrades

      We talk about the Tacoma a lot, and for good reason. It’s an amazing little truck. Well, if you need something bigger, if you need a V8, and you want it all from a reliable and proven company, the Tacoma’s bigger brother, the Toyota Tundra, is a fantastic option.

      While not as popular as the Tacoma’s, there is still a ton of awesome Tundra mods and accessories for this truck. Vehicle customization is something I very much support because you get the build the vehicle you want, and it separates you from everyone else. While the interior of the Tundra is great from the factory, there is plenty of customizing you can do to make it even better!

      Since you will hear me mention it a lot, check out 10 Awesome Toyota Tacoma Interior Upgrades!

      TRD Shift Knob

      I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: this is one of my favorite mods. It’s one of the first things that you see and touch when you get in your truck. Throwing in a TRD knob gives a touch of elegance, at least in the off-road sense. While not as flashy as the Tacoma one, the styling is pretty sweet.  You can find it on Amazon for about $85.

      Clazzio Seat Covers

      These are perfect on the bigger brother as well! Stock seats can get worn out. Also, if you buy your truck used, you don’t get much say in what options you get. Maybe it’s not the color you want, or maybe your seats are... CLOTH! 

      Clazzio can help you change that. They have almost an endless amount of material options, color options (including body, insert, and stitch color), and they will fit whatever size cab you have. Prices for a regular cab are around $250-$700 depending on options. You can find them here!

      Floor Mats/Liners

      If you truly plan to use your Tundra for some serious work duty, or you play in the mud a lot, you need to ditch the factory floor mats for something more rugged. Husky and WeatherTech both make excellent products including mud flaps and bed liners as well. You can find some Husky ones here, and WeatherTech ones here.

      Under Seat Storage

      If you want a little extra storage that looks factory and is out of sight, ESP Truck Accessories makes a kit with three plastic bins that mount under the rear seats of your CrewMax. While you do have to cut some material out of your truck, the end result is a really useful storage area. You can find the unit here.

      Console Organizer

      While we’re talking about storage and organization, MX Auto Accessories makes a center console organizer that really helps master organization. The pockets are deep enough to hold most of what you would need to, there is a special phone section, and the rubber base inserts keep everything in place. It’s hard to beat at $25!

      Door Sill Decals

      The door sills on the Tundra are pretty boring, but you can easily dress them up and make them pop with some decals! For $15, you can find 8 paint matched colors that are easy to stick into place. 

      Custom Steering Wheel

      This is a pretty pricey upgrade, but you can be sure that you will have something different compared to other people. Vivid Racing offers custom race-inspired steering wheels for Tundras. While it will set you back about $800, everything is completely custom and made to order: shape, material, size, and so on. 

      Painting and Vinyl Black Out

      While there is not a specific product for this, if you want to get a little crafty, you can give your interior a blackedout look (getting rid of the chrome) with some paint or vinyl.  In a previous post, I talk about a lot of options and ways to do this on Tacomas. While there may not be as many kits and precut parts for Tundras, you can do a lot on your own!

      Interior and Bed 110v Outlets with USB

      This one involves cutting, hacking, wiring, and creativity, but if you add it all together, you get something very cool! WARNING: I would strongly advise that you don’t mess around with electrical systems in your truck unless you know what you’re doing. It could lead to many problems.

      That out of the way, user AlmightyCrash on the Tundras forum posted a short writeup about how he took a cheap power inverter and turned it into a permanent installation on his truck! Take a look, and see if this is something you might want to do for yourself! Outlet writeup.

      LED Lighting

      Interior lighting can change the whole feel of your truck. LED lights are brighter and last longer, and with a few lights, you can change the whole look of your interior for less than $50. I love any interior lights sold by Diode Dynamics. Here are some links:

      Stereo And Sound System

      There are so many options here. Every brand makes something that will fit directly or with some vanity. Getting too deep into this would take a few posts on its own. The thing about audio is that there are so many variables: how much do you want to spend, how many speakers do you want, how much low or high frequencies do you want to hear, how loud do you want it, do you want to cut into panels and drill holes? Once you know the answer to all that, you can start mixing and matching equipment.

      There are so many things you can do that didn’t make this list. For what did make the list, there are so many more choices out there. Find what works for you and your budget and get customizing! 

      Image Credits

      Seat Covers - Courtesy of Tundras user “xtyfighterx”

      Seat Storage - Courtesy of ESP Truck Accessories

      Door Sill - Us! Empyre Off Road

      Console Organizer - Courtesy of MX Auto Accessories

      Steering Wheel - Courtesy of Tundras user “hypa”

      Black Out - Courtesy of Tunrdas user “JoshuaA”

      110v Outlets - Courtesy of Tundras user “AlmightyCrash”

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

      The Ultimate Guide To Blacking Out Your Toyota Tacoma

      The Ultimate Guide To Blacking Out Your Toyota Tacoma

      The Toyota Tacoma is known for being easily customizable. From a vast amount of combinations and options from the factory, the almost limitless amount of aftermarket add-ons, there is almost nothing you can’t do. Sometimes you might want to get a little creative. Henry Ford said that you can have the Model T in any color you want, as long as it’s black. Let’s face it: black looks good. Here is how you can black out your Tacoma, or as the cool kids call it the "Tacoma chrome delete".

      To get the obvious out of the way, you don’t actually need your truck to be painted black to “blackout” your Tacoma. Blacking out could mean a certain part or all parts that are not painted the color of your truck’s body.

      EXTERIOR BLACKOUT OPTIONS

      Blackout "Limo" Window Tint

      One of the most common first moves is window tint. Window tint is cheap and easy to have installed, and it’s one of the most common modifications on any vehicle. Not only does tint add to the sleekness of your ride, but it also provides security from wandering eyes and the sun! Keep in mind that some states in the US and other countries may have some very strict laws regarding certain tint percentages. Check your local laws before spending the money!

      Smoked Headlights, Taillights, and Third Brake Light

      Bright red taillights and chrome headlights can really take away from the look of the Tacoma. “Smoked” is a great way to change that. Generally the term “blacked out” is not used for headlights and taillights since you legally can’t do that (I’ll cover that in a second). With all modern vehicles designed to have interchangeable and easily replaceable parts, you can buy already smoked taillights ($150-$300) and headlights (around $350) that replace the old ones completely!

      If you want a cheaper approach, you can tint the factory ones yourself. There is film/vinyl available for around $60 that simply sticks over the plastic, spray coatings for around $20, and tinted plastic covers for around $40-$80 that go over the factory lens.

      Using film can be tricky and takes a lot of extra time, but it can save you money. Here is a video of it being installed by an average tinkerer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8_cQhR4IDo

      Personally, I would advise a complete swap for a pre-tinted unit for multiple reasons. One, it will last longer. Film will shrink over time, especially if you live in a very hot a sunny environment like Florida. Incandescent bulbs also throw off a lot of heat. Thin film and spray coatings will also crack and potentially start flaking off depending on the quality and thickness. It’s a major pain to get off when it starts doing that.

      Another reason is light brightness, which leads to legalities. Smoked headlights and taillights/brake lights look cool, but they are lights for a reason. They are to help you see the road, and help other drivers see you! In the US, we have the Department of Transportation (DOT). They decide what is legal and what is not. Pre-tinted units are generally DOT approved. Doing something yourself, it may not be. New units also generally have LED lighting which is brighter than incandescent bulbs.

      Blackout Door Emblems

      The TACOMA badge on the side of our doors is sharp and really looks good, but blacking it out can make it look better against any paint color! You can find blacked out emblems to replace your factory ones for around $22. You can buy them here at Empyre Off-Road. If you want to be a little more creative, you can get a can of black Plasti Dip for around $6 and spray them down (easier than you think).

      You can also do what I did and go for vinyl replacements decals. For $17.99, you can really give your truck a clean look. The TACOMA badge sticks out, but these replace them giving your door a clean and painted on look. 

      Blackout Tailgate TACOMA

      The ever present TACOMA name on the back of the tailgate looks really good, but it’s the factory color. If you really want to make it pop, black it out! If your truck isn’t black, it’s an instant stand out. For about $20-$40, you can get raised inserts that stick into the factory indents. While they look great, they do offer extra places for dirt and crud to get stuck, so if your truck isn’t a mud runner, for $13 you can use some vinyl lettering inserts for a clean, sleek, and easy to maintain look. 

      Blackout Wheels

      Wheels are one of the easiest ways to instantly stand out, but also can be the most expensive on this list. The three main ways to do it are Plasti Dip (or similar spray), vinyl overlays, or new wheels. 

      While an easy to use $6 can a Plasti Dip is enticing, you’ll need more than one can, and eventually, it may start to crack or peel off depending on how and where you drive, and where you live. For $55, you can use vinyl decals on your wheels. The ones linked are cut to fit, and while a little more time is needed to install them, they look good and last long.

      For the longest-lasting, yet most expensive option, new wheels are easy to find and install if you have the cash. For around $200 each (without tires), you can retain a factory blacked out look by getting some new TRD Pro Wheels. Don’t be afraid to look online for used wheels. They can be far cheaper, but make sure you inspect them first!

      Black Out Grille Emblem and Grille

      The grille is the first thing many people will see on your truck, so it’s worth making it stand out! Much like headlights and taillights, the best ways to do this would be replace, spray with Plasti Dip, or cover with vinyl. Plasti Dip on the emblem can look great, but on bigger parts (like wheels and the grille), it can start to look “cheap.” That being said, it’s a super fast and inexpensive option!

      Replacement grilles can be found everywhere! The Tacoma Grilles on Emypre Off Road are some of the best if I do say so myself! For around $200-$350, you can transform the look of your truck.

      Black Out Bumpers

      If your bumpers are chrome instead of color matched painted, you can easily cover those up with some overlay/shells that we sell here at Empyre Off-Road. Check out these Tacoma bumper covers for $144.

      INTERIOR BLACKOUT OPTIONS

      Blackout A/C Vent Rings

      Chrome looks good, but it’s not everyone’s thing. If you’re here, you like black. Two easy options would be replacement vent rings that you can get for around $30, or vinyl vent ring decals for $13.

      Blackout Door Handles

      If your door handles are not already back, it might be time to change that. You can go the expensive and labor-intensive route and replace the whole handle assembly. While not the cheapest at around $60 each, it will be the most durable. I mention durability because the other common methods as seen so far on this post would be paint/Plasti Dip or vinyl.

      While those options are cheap and easy, this is a part that you and your passengers will be handling (pun intended) a lot. Plasti Dip will degrade very quickly being touched frequently, and vinyl will start to peel and break down as well.

      Blackout Steering Wheel Emblem

      If you don’t like chrome, you won’t like the Toyota badge shoved in your face on the steering wheel every time you drive. While you can spray it down with Plasi Dip or buy the overlay we sell here at Empyre Offroad.

      Blackout Interior Trim

      There are a few other bits and pieces on the interior of our trucks that are chrome: shifter trim, start button trim, cup holder bezel... Meso Customs offers a kit that will replace all of those pieces for $50! You can go the Plasti Dip route as well, but keep in mind about what I said: interior pieces get touched a lot, and that will degrade Plasti Dip quickly.

      Blackout Climate Control Rings

      The last bit would be your climate control rings. Meso Customs again come to the rescue, and for $30, that chrome will be gone! 

      CONCLUSION

      The black out look is popular and looks good. The best part is that there are so many different cost options to get the look you want. Just make sure to follow all of your local and federal laws, and have at it!

      Image Credits

      Front - Courtesy of Tacoma World user “slowlane”

      Taillight - Courtesy of i1Motor

      Door and Wheels - Courtesy of Tacoma World user “Nightscape”

      No Exterior Chrome - Courtesy of Tacoma World user “20tacoma17”

      Interior - Courtesy of Meso Customs

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