The 2013 Tacoma Access Cab is a mid-size truck with a smaller rear door and limited back seat

The 2013 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab is a pickup truck configuration that sits between the regular cab (two doors, no back seat) and the crew cab (four full doors, full back seat). It has two full front doors and two smaller, rear-hinged doors that open only when the front doors are open. The back seat is narrower and less spacious than a crew cab, making it better suited for occasional passengers or cargo storage than daily commuting with rear passengers.

Toyota offered the Access Cab on both the standard wheelbase (127.4 inches) and long wheelbase (152.4 inches) Tacoma in 2013. The truck came in three trim levels: base, PreRunner, and TRD Off-Road. Engine options included a 2.7-liter four-cylinder (158 horsepower) and a 4.0-liter V6 (236 horsepower), with either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.

Key Takeaways

  • The Access Cab has two smaller rear doors that open only from the outside and only when the front doors are open, limiting rear passenger comfort.
  • A 2013 Access Cab typically costs between $12,000 and $18,000 used, depending on mileage, condition, and whether it has the V6 engine or four-cylinder.
  • The truck bed is shorter on Access Cab models (5 feet on standard wheelbase, 5.5 feet on long wheelbase) compared to regular cab versions.
  • Common maintenance issues include timing chain wear on the V6 engine and rust on the frame, especially in areas with road salt exposure.
  • Fuel economy ranges from 18 to 21 miles per gallon with the four-cylinder and 16 to 19 with the V6, depending on transmission type and driving conditions.

How the Access Cab layout affects cargo and passenger space

The Access Cab design trades rear seat space for a longer bed than a crew cab offers. On the standard wheelbase model, you get a 5-foot bed; on the long wheelbase, a 5.5-foot bed. A crew cab on the same wheelbase would have a 5-foot bed on the short wheelbase and no long wheelbase option. This makes the Access Cab useful if you need to haul materials regularly but also need to transport passengers occasionally.

The rear doors are narrow and open at an angle, making it awkward to install car seats or strap in children. The back seat itself has minimal legroom—roughly 28 inches—so adults cannot sit comfortably for long trips. The rear windows do not roll down, and the back seat does not recline. If you plan to carry passengers regularly, a crew cab is a better choice; if you rarely carry passengers, a regular cab with a longer bed may be more practical.

Engine options and fuel economy on the 2013 model

The 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine produces 158 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. It is the base engine and the more fuel-efficient choice, returning 18 to 21 miles per gallon depending on transmission and driving conditions. The five-speed manual version is slightly more efficient than the automatic. This engine is adequate for light towing (around 3,500 pounds) and everyday driving but feels underpowered when fully loaded or towing at highway speeds.

The 4.0-liter V6 produces 236 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, making it significantly more capable for towing (up to 6,500 pounds with the right setup) and hauling. It returns 16 to 19 miles per gallon. The V6 is more expensive to own—both in fuel costs and in maintenance—but holds its value better on the used market. If you plan to tow regularly or carry heavy loads, the V6 is worth the extra cost; for light use, the four-cylinder saves money over time.

Common mechanical issues and maintenance concerns

The 4.0-liter V6 in 2013 Tacomas has a known issue with timing chain stretch and wear. The timing chain can become loose or fail, leading to rough idle, check engine lights, or in severe cases, engine damage. This typically occurs around 100,000 to 150,000 miles. Preventive maintenance—regular oil changes with quality synthetic oil and using the correct oil viscosity—can slow the process, but many owners eventually need timing chain replacement, which costs $1,500 to $2,500 at a shop.

Frame rust is another common issue, particularly on trucks in areas with road salt or high humidity. Toyota issued recalls for frame corrosion on some 2005–2015 Tacomas, but not all trucks were covered. When inspecting a used 2013 Access Cab, look underneath for orange or brown discoloration on the frame rails. Surface rust can be treated, but deep pitting or structural rust significantly reduces the truck's value and safety. Transmission issues are rare but can occur; the five-speed automatic is generally reliable, though some owners report hesitation or delayed shifts in cold weather.

What to look for when buying a used 2013 Access Cab

Check the service history first. A truck with regular oil changes and documented maintenance is worth more than one with gaps in service records. If the truck has the V6, ask whether the timing chain has been replaced or inspected. Get a pre-purchase inspection from a Toyota-familiar mechanic; they can identify frame rust, suspension wear, and engine condition before you commit.

Test the four-wheel-drive system if the truck has it—engage it on a safe surface and listen for grinding or clunking. Check that all windows, locks, and the bed cover (if equipped) work smoothly. Look at the bed for dents, rust, or cracks in the paint; bed repairs are expensive. Ask about any accidents or flood damage. A clean title is essential; a salvage or branded title means the truck was declared a total loss at some point and may have hidden structural damage.

Pricing varies by condition and location. A 2013 Access Cab with the four-cylinder, manual transmission, and higher mileage (over 100,000 miles) typically sells for $12,000 to $14,000. One with the V6, automatic, lower mileage (under 80,000 miles), and good condition may fetch $16,000 to $18,000. Four-wheel-drive models command a premium of $2,000 to $3,000 over two-wheel-drive equivalents.

Towing and payload capacity

The 2013 Access Cab with the four-cylinder engine can tow up to 3,500 pounds and carry a payload (cargo weight in the bed) of around 1,400 pounds. The V6 increases towing capacity to 6,500 pounds and payload to roughly 1,500 pounds. These figures vary slightly depending on wheelbase, transmission, and whether the truck has four-wheel drive (which adds weight). Always check the door jamb sticker on your specific truck for exact ratings.

Towing a trailer requires a properly installed hitch, brake controller, and wiring harness. The truck's frame can handle the weight, but the brakes and suspension must be in good condition. If you plan to tow regularly, have the transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid checked before towing season. Overloading beyond the truck's capacity voids the warranty and risks frame damage, suspension failure, and brake failure.

Trim levels and what each includes

The base Access Cab came with manual windows and locks, a basic AM/FM radio, and cloth seats. It had no air conditioning as standard on some models, though most buyers opted for it as a package. The PreRunner added a more modern interior, power windows and locks, a CD player, and a slightly upgraded suspension tuned for on-road comfort rather than off-road use.

The TRD Off-Road trim included a locking rear differential, skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a more aggressive suspension setup. It also came with power windows and locks, a better audio system, and upgraded interior trim. The TRD Off-Road commands a premium on the used market because it appeals to buyers who want off-road capability without modification. If you plan to use the truck primarily on pavement, the PreRunner or base model is sufficient and less expensive to maintain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fit a car seat safely in the back of an Access Cab?

It is technically possible but not ideal. The rear doors are small and awkward to use, and the seat belt routing is not optimized for car seats. If you regularly transport children, a crew cab is a safer and more practical choice. Many child safety experts recommend against using Access Cab rear seats for car seats due to limited space and difficult installation.

How much does it cost to replace the timing chain on a V6 Tacoma?

Timing chain replacement on a 4.0-liter V6 typically costs $1,500 to $2,500 at an independent shop and $2,000 to $3,000 at a Toyota dealership. Labor is the bulk of the cost because the engine must be partially disassembled. Some shops offer timing chain kits that include the chain, tensioner, and guides for $400 to $600 in parts.

What is the difference between the Access Cab and the crew cab?

The crew cab has four full-size doors and a full back seat with good legroom, while the Access Cab has two small rear-hinged doors and a cramped back seat. The crew cab has a shorter bed (5 feet on most models) because the longer cabin takes up space. The Access Cab offers a middle ground: more rear seating than a regular cab but a longer bed than a crew cab.

Is the 2013 Tacoma Access Cab reliable for daily driving?

Yes, the 2013 Tacoma is known for reliability and durability. The main concern is the V6 timing chain, which can wear over time but is not a sudden failure. With regular maintenance and attention to frame rust, a 2013 Access Cab can easily reach 200,000 miles. Toyota's reputation for truck longevity applies to this generation.

Should I buy the four-cylinder or V6 for a 2013 Access Cab?

Choose the four-cylinder if you want lower fuel costs and simpler maintenance, and you do not plan to tow or carry heavy loads regularly. Choose the V6 if you tow, haul frequently, or want more power for highway driving. The V6 holds its value better but costs more to own. Consider your actual usage, not just the possibility of future towing.