The 2008 Tundra lasts over 350,000 miles with alternator and stereo issues. At $7,169 – 21,731, it’s the most expensive half-ton truck, but worth it for the reliability.
Is the 2008 Toyota Tundra a Good Used Truck?
- Yes, 2008 is a good year. Owner reviews like the luxurious interior, high towing capacity, and good suspension.
- Reliability ratings are excellent. Quality is great across all model years based on reports from owners.
- Performance is average from the V6, but the largest V8 offers excellent power.
- The 2008 Tundra is a fairly safe truck, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
- Fuel economy is similar to other full size trucks at up to 17 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Tundra?
- Consumer Reports says the Tundra is modern and easy to live with while also having high owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the Tundra a 4.6/5 liking the spacious cabin, but disliking the plastic interior.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the Tundra 4.6/5 and like the high towing capacity, but say it’s not very nimble.
What Common Problems Does the 2008 Toyota Tundra Have?
Problems found on the 2008 Tundra are fairly minor and include alternator failures, stereo issues, and bed rust.
Alternator failures are the most common complaint showing up at around 85,000 miles. The only solution is to replace the alternator, costing around $650.
Stereo issues are mentioned by some owners at roughly 50,000 miles. The stereo freezes and in some cases needs a software update, other owners have replaced the entire radio costing about $300.
Rust in the bed is a problem brought up by owners at around 75,000 miles. The bed rusts when it is exposed to excessive salt in snowy areas. Some owners have had the bed repaired, costing about $400.
There are 13 recalls, with the most serious one being for a power steering gear leak which can cause a loss of power steering, increasing the risk of an accident.
How Long Will the 2008 Toyota Tundra Last?
A properly maintained 2008 Tundra should last over 350,000 miles, which is around 150,000 miles more than a Dodge Ram 1500. Regular annual maintenance costs are reasonable for a full size truck, at $514 per year, according to Repair Pal.
Most Tundra models from 2008 will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace the oil pan gasket for $400, radiator hoses costing $345, and the coolant temperature sensor which costs $425.
I have not had any issues with this vehicle. Normal issues such as battery dying and flat tires are about it.
It's very reliable, low maint expenses only normal wear and tear, after ten years in FL sun the paint work start to crack at some places.
It doesn't have and issues and is a very reliable truck that we can depend on. It always starts right up.
How Much Is the 2008 Toyota Tundra Worth?
Blue book values range from $7,169 – 21,731, making the Tundra about $7,000 more than a Chevy Silverado or Nissan Titan. When new, the price range was $22,390 to $42,170. Depreciation is better than average, losing about 5% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Tundra?
There are three models of the Tundra available for 2008. Technology is good for a truck and was last updated in 2007 with the next major infotainment system update coming in 2010.
Base is the entry-level model and comes with:
- 18-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Bench Seats
- Dual-Zone Air Conditioning
- 4-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo System With 3.5mm AUX Input
SR5 is a popular choice and has features such as:
- Cruise Control
- Keyless Entry
- Power Windows & Locks
- Rear Climate Control
- Power Front Seats
- Upgraded 6-Speaker Stereo System With 6-CD Changer
Limited is the most luxurious model and has:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Front Captain’s Chairs
- Power Driver’s Seat
- 12 Speaker JBL Stereo System With Bluetooth
What Engines Come In the Tundra?
- The base engine is an average 4.0L V6 with 236 horsepower and 266 lb.-ft. of torque, which gets up to 17 MPG combined.
- A step up is the more powerful 4.7L V8, which has 271 horsepower and 313 lb.-ft. of torque and gets up to 14 MPG combined.
- The flagship engine is the powerful 5.7L V8, which makes 381 horsepower and 401 lb.-ft. of torque and gets up to 15 MPG combined. The towing capacity is fantastic at up to 10,800 pounds with this engine.
What Colors Does the Tundra Come In?
How Big Is the Tundra?
The 2008 Tundra is similar to other large trucks including the Chevy Silverado and Dodge Ram 1500 and comes with a 2-door Regular Cab, 4-door Double Cab, and larger 4-door CrewMax. Passenger room is outstanding in the CrewMax, but the rest are cramped for adults.
There are also three bed lengths available including a 5-foot-6-inch short bed, 6-foot-6-inch standard bed, and full 8-foot long bed.
How Does the Tundra Compare to the Competition?
The Nissan Titan is a popular competitor costing about $7,000 less. Where the Titan stands out is with a more powerful base engine, but the Tundra has more technology. We recommend the Tundra since they have fewer mechanical problems.
The Ford F-150 is another rival that is about $8,000 cheaper. Exterior styling is better on the F-150, but the Tundra has more power and a nicer interior. We recommend the Tundra since they last longer, but the F-150 can tow a bit more weight if you need it for towing.
Do Owners Recommend the Toyota Tundra?
Yes. It is 11 years old and has never caused any major problems. It is easy to see during the day and night.
Yes, it's safe with very good road handling and turning specs, the engine is strong for towing, have had no malfunction of the truck except one detail the emission exhaust pump has to be replace by warranty at 80000 miles.
Yes very reliable, since we bought it we haven't had to do anything to this truck except for regular maintenance.