6 Toyota Tacoma Suspension Upgrades Worth Getting

The Toyota Tacoma platform is incredibly easy to customize to your preferences and has phenomenal aftermarket support. No matter your vision for your truck or how you intended to use it, there is a company making the parts you need to make that dream come true. From complete truck transformations to subtle tweaks to enhance the performance of your Tacoma, there’s no end to the possibilities, regardless of how involved you want to get.

If you’re on the hunt for the best Toyota Tacoma upgrade or wondering what you should upgrade on your Tacoma in general, you’ve come to the right place. Nothing revolutionizes your truck’s aesthetic, capability, and performance like changing your suspension. Upgrading your Tacoma is key to making it uniquely yours and transforming it from an average truck to a good-looking beast. In this piece, we’ll look at what upgrading your suspension does and give you the top 6 Toyota Tacoma suspension upgrades worth getting.

Why is Upgrading Your Suspension Important?

Toyota Tacomas are exceptionally capable directly from the factory, especially when properly equipped. With features like four-wheel drive, Multi-Terrain Select System, electronically locking rear differential, and more, some stock Tacomas can perform impressively on and off-road while looking great. However, if you want to improve off-road capability, improve on-road handling, increase payload capacity, and make your Tacoma look like a beast, you’ll want to upgrade your suspension.

As the foundation of the vehicle, the suspension is arguably the most impactful Tacoma upgrade you can make. It will affect your driving experience, comfort level, ability to add larger tires, and more. So, whether you make small changes and keep your suspension upgrades budget-friendly or go all-out and opt for a complete switch to the best system on the market, you’re bound to appreciate the difference upgrading your suspension makes.

As one of the flashier upgrades you can make to your Toyota Tacoma suspension system, shocks are more than big names and cutting-edge technology. They can make a huge difference in how your Tacoma handles, rides, and performs, even if you keep the rest of your suspension stock. Better still, there are practically endless options, giving you the opportunity to choose shocks that will fit your needs and enhance your Tacoma in the ways you desire.

Shocks

As one of the flashier upgrades you can make to your Toyota Tacoma suspension system, shocks are more than big names and cutting-edge technology. They can make a huge difference in how your Tacoma handles, rides, and performs, even if you keep the rest of your suspension stock. Better still, there are practically endless options, giving you the opportunity to choose shocks that will fit your needs and enhance your Tacoma in the ways you desire.

Front Springs

Whether you opt for new front springs or coilovers (which include shocks), upgrading the main component of your front suspension can provide noticeable improvements. Not only can you use this upgrade as an opportunity to level your truck, giving it a new appearance, but you can also improve the suspension travel and performance. This means better off-road performance, new driving dynamics, and a higher degree of comfort in many cases.

Leaf Springs

The rear suspension of the Toyota Tacoma centers around leaf springs. Upgrading these leaf springs can increase the payload capacity of your Tacoma, improve the droop possible in the rear (which is important for wheel travel when off-road), and otherwise increase the capability of the truck.

There are two basic ways of upgrading your leaf springs. The first is budget-friendly but very effective adding a leaf to the factory leaf pack. Doing so provides increased ride height and carrying capacity. The second option is to replace the factory leaf packs altogether. This route changes every aspect of the rear suspension dynamic, giving you more control over the results, including height, carrying capacity, wheel travel, and so on.

Bump Stops

Whether you’re blazing through the desert or hitting a speed bump in the parking lot a little too fast, there’s a good chance you’ll engage your bump stops. Depending on your truck's suspension travel and the type of bump stops you have installed, hitting your bump stops can be a jarring experience. Unless, of course, you upgrade them. Upgraded bump stops provide an extra layer of dampening, creating a more comfortable ride, especially in scenarios where your suspension might bottom out.

Control Arms

When upgrading your Tacoma suspension, the control arms seldom get the same attention as the flashier components like shocks and springs. They are, however, very important to a comprehensive suspension system and can help push your Tacoma to the next level of performance. Aftermarket control arms, both upper and lower, are designed to be stronger and more durable than their stock counterparts. They also have different joints that provide benefits such as increased strength and articulation, as well as reduced bind. The result is better performance and improved ride quality.

Suspension System

Upgrading your Toyota Tacoma suspension one component at a time has advantages. It allows you to choose precisely which parts you prefer, gradually upgrade your suspension to the level you desire, and create a totally custom system that fits your exact needs. For many people, however, the one-and-done approach is the better choice.

Opting to upgrade your suspension system in one go ensures that you are getting the components you need for a comprehensive, functional system in one purchase and installation. With a variety of manufacturers and kits to choose from, you can find the right system for your Tacoma and your budget with ease. Whether you opt for a budget-friendly kit or the best-of-the-best, a complete suspension system is a surefire way to upgrade your Toyota Tacoma.

Upgrade Your Toyota Tacoma Suspension with TacomaBeast

In many ways, your truck’s suspension system defines it. Upgrading your suspension gives you control over how your truck looks and performs. It’s one of the best ways to make your Tacoma truly yours, whether the goal is a stealthy off-roading beast or a flashy showstopper. Armed with the knowledge of what you should upgrade on your Tacoma, you’re ready to take your truck to the next level.

Whether you know exactly what you’re looking for and are ready to start modifying your Tacoma or you’re looking for a little more guidance, TacomaBeast is your one-stop shop for all things Tacoma. Feel free to peruse our store to find the perfect parts for your Toyota Tacoma upgrade, or reach out to us to have an expert answer your questions and help you reach the vision you have for your build.

Along the way, be sure to check out our blog and YouTube channel. They are both packed with Tacoma content, tips and tricks, and valuable information for Tacoma owners.