2017 Toyota Tacoma: Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios

Transmission Gear Ratios

The 2017 Toyota Tacoma was available with two different automatic transmissions. The 2.7L 4-cylinder engine came with the AC60E 6-speed automatic, while the 3.5L V6 was paired with the Aisin AC60F 6-speed automatic.

AC60E (2.7L I4)

AC60F (3.5L V6)

Available Axle Ratios

Toyota offered a few different axle ratios for the 2017 Tacoma, depending on the engine, drivetrain, and optional packages.

How to Identify Your Axle Ratio

For Toyota trucks, the easiest way to identify your axle ratio is by checking the Vehicle Identification and specifications sticker on the driver-side door jamb. Look for the "A/TM" (Axle/Transmission) code. The four-character code starting with a letter denotes your axle ratio and differential type.

• A04A: 3.909 ratio
• A04B: 4.300 ratio

If the sticker is missing or illegible, you can also use a VIN decoder service or contact your local Toyota dealership with your VIN.

Towing vs. MPG Impact

Understanding the trade-off between axle ratios is crucial for tailoring your truck's performance to your needs. The concept is straightforward:

• Numerically Higher Ratios (e.g., 4.300): These are often called "shorter" gears. They multiply the engine's torque more effectively, making it easier to get a heavy load moving. This is ideal for towing, hauling, or rock crawling, as it provides better off-the-line acceleration. The downside is that the engine has to run at a higher RPM at any given speed, which leads to lower fuel economy.

• Numerically Lower Ratios (e.g., 3.909): These are known as "taller" gears. They don't multiply torque as much, but they allow the engine to spin at a lower RPM at highway speeds. This is beneficial for fuel economy, making it a better choice for daily driving and long-distance commuting with minimal loads.

For the 2017 Tacoma, the 4.300 ratio is the clear choice for maximizing the truck's towing capacity and off-road capability, while the 3.909 ratio provides a more balanced performance with an emphasis on better MPG.

Common Issues

While the third-generation Tacoma is known for its reliability, some owners have reported a "howling" or "whining" noise from the rear differential, particularly between 50-65 mph. This is often attributed to the gear seating and contact pattern of the ring and pinion. In many cases, Toyota has addressed this under warranty by replacing the third member (the complete differential assembly). If you're experiencing a persistent noise from the rear of your truck, it's worth having it inspected by a qualified technician.

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