The 2013 Tacoma Access Cab layout and seating

The 2013 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab is a mid-size pickup truck with a smaller rear door that opens at a wider angle than a standard door, making it easier to climb into the back seats. The rear seats are narrower and less spacious than a full crew cab, but they fold up to create more cargo space behind the front seats.

This model seats five people total: two in front and three in back, though the middle rear seat is narrower than the two outer seats. The back doors are hinged at the rear edge of the front doors, which means they open in the opposite direction from a typical car door. This design lets you access the rear seats without needing as much space as a full four-door truck would require.

Key Takeaways

  • The Access Cab has smaller rear doors that open backward and narrower rear seats than a crew cab, but still seats five people.
  • Engine options for 2013 include a 2.7-liter four-cylinder or a 4.0-liter V6, with either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.
  • The truck bed comes in two lengths: 5 feet or 5.5 feet, depending on which cab style and wheelbase you choose.
  • Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, air filter replacement, and transmission fluid checks, which you can track through your owner's manual.
  • Used 2013 Tacomas typically show wear on the suspension, door hinges, and bed corners, so inspect these areas carefully when shopping.

Engine and transmission choices

The 2013 Tacoma Access Cab came with two engine options. The base engine was a 2.7-liter four-cylinder that produced 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. The optional upgrade was a 4.0-liter V6 that produced 236 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Both engines could be paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic transmission.

The four-cylinder engine is more fuel-efficient but has less towing capacity. The V6 offers better performance and can tow more weight, though it uses more fuel. Your choice depends on whether you plan to tow frequently or prioritize fuel economy. Check your specific truck's paperwork or the door jamb sticker to see which combination yours has.

Bed length and cargo space

The 2013 Access Cab came with either a 5-foot or 5.5-foot bed, depending on the wheelbase. The shorter wheelbase paired with the 5-foot bed, while the longer wheelbase paired with the 5.5-foot bed. The bed width is standard across all Tacomas at roughly 4 feet 10 inches inside.

Because the Access Cab has folding rear seats, you can create additional cargo space by folding them up when you do not need to carry passengers. This flexibility makes the Access Cab useful if you sometimes haul materials but also need to transport people occasionally. The bed itself has tie-down cleats and a drain plug for water removal.

Fuel economy and real-world performance

The 2013 Tacoma Access Cab with the four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission typically achieved around 20 miles per gallon combined (city and highway). The V6 with automatic transmission averaged around 18 miles per gallon combined. Manual transmissions generally performed slightly better, though the difference was small.

Real-world fuel economy varies based on driving habits, terrain, and load. Highway driving produces better mileage than city driving. Towing, carrying heavy loads, or driving in mountainous areas will lower your fuel economy. These figures are estimates based on EPA testing; your actual mileage may differ.

Common maintenance and wear items

The 2013 Tacoma is known for durability, but certain parts show wear over time. The door hinges on the Access Cab rear doors can develop play or squeaking after years of use. The suspension components, including shocks and bushings, typically need attention around 100,000 to 150,000 miles depending on driving conditions.

Regular maintenance includes oil and filter changes every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, air filter replacement every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, and transmission fluid checks according to your owner's manual schedule. The bed corners and undercarriage can develop surface rust in areas with road salt or high humidity, so inspect these areas during routine checks. Spark plugs typically last 30,000 miles on these engines.

What to inspect when buying a used 2013 Tacoma Access Cab

If you are considering a used 2013 Access Cab, pay close attention to the rear door hinges and latches, as these are common wear points. Check the bed for rust, dents, and whether the bed liner (if present) is intact. Look at the suspension by bouncing each corner of the truck and listening for clunks or squeaks that suggest worn components.

Test the four-wheel-drive system if the truck has it by engaging it in a safe area and feeling for smooth engagement. Check all windows and locks, including the rear doors. Listen for any grinding or unusual noises from the engine, transmission, or differential. Ask the owner for service records showing regular maintenance, which indicates how well the truck was cared for.

Towing and payload capacity

The 2013 Tacoma Access Cab with the four-cylinder engine can tow up to 3,500 pounds, while the V6 can tow up to 6,400 pounds depending on the specific configuration. Payload capacity—the weight you can carry in the bed—ranges from about 1,000 to 1,400 pounds depending on engine, transmission, and wheelbase.

These numbers assume proper setup with a hitch, brake controller (if towing), and appropriate load distribution. Exceeding these limits can damage the transmission, suspension, and frame. Always check your owner's manual or the door jamb sticker for your specific truck's ratings, as they vary by configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fit a full-size pallet in the bed of a 2013 Tacoma Access Cab?

A standard pallet is 48 inches wide and 40 inches long. The 5-foot bed is 60 inches long and about 58 inches wide inside, so a pallet will fit lengthwise with room to spare. The 5.5-foot bed gives you even more room. However, you cannot fit a pallet sideways in either bed.

What is the difference between the Access Cab and the Double Cab?

The Double Cab (also called Crew Cab) has four full-size doors and a larger rear seating area that seats three adults comfortably. The Access Cab has smaller rear doors and narrower rear seats. The Double Cab has a shorter bed (usually 5 feet) to accommodate the larger cabin, while the Access Cab can have a 5.5-foot bed.

How many miles can a 2013 Tacoma typically last?

Tacomas are known for longevity and many owners report 200,000 miles or more with regular maintenance. The key is following the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual and addressing problems promptly. Trucks used for heavy towing or in harsh conditions may experience more wear, while those used for light duty can last even longer.

Is the 2013 Tacoma four-cylinder powerful enough for towing?

The four-cylinder can tow 3,500 pounds, which is suitable for small trailers, jet skis, or light equipment. If you plan to tow regularly or pull heavier loads, the V6 is the better choice. Consider what you actually need to tow before deciding; the four-cylinder is adequate for occasional light towing.

What does the door jamb sticker tell me about my truck?

The sticker on the driver's side door jamb lists your truck's original specifications: engine type, transmission, wheelbase, GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating), and payload capacity. This information is useful when buying used or when you need to know exact towing and payload limits. It is the most reliable source for your specific truck's capabilities.