Off-Roading on a Budget: Essential Mods for Your 3rd Gen Tacoma

Taking your bare bones 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma off the pavement doesn’t mean you can’t get where everyone’s going, and it doesn’t mean you’ve got to spend a fortune on a TRD Pro. While high-end off-road Tacomas like the TRD Pro come with factory-built capabilities, they also come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, with a few well-chosen upgrades, you can transform your base-model Tacoma into a trail-ready machine at a fraction of the cost.

One of the things that always strikes us as interesting is how seemingly modest builds can tackle tough terrain with ease. A few well-thought-out upgrades now can let you hit some great trails and gain the experience needed to know what “big” upgrades might be worth investing in later.

Take the factory limited-slip rear differential in many Tacomas—it’s helped countless trucks navigate rugged paths for years. Yes, a locking differential is an upgrade, but a smart driver with some experience can make a factory limited slip work in challenging terrain.

Your Dad’s 1983 solid axle SR-5 did it with open diffs!

For the budget-minded wheeler, there’s little need to dive into major drivetrain modifications just yet. Here are our top five upgrades to get your 3rd Gen Tacoma off the beaten path without emptying your wallet.

1. All-Terrain Tires – The First Step to Better Traction

The biggest advantage of factory off-road models like the Tacoma TRD Pro is their aggressive tire setup with some additional lift. However, you can get similar capability by swapping out your stock tires for a quality set of All-Terrain (A/T) or Mud-Terrain (M/T) tires. Brands like Nitto Trail Grapplers and Toyo Open Country A/Ts offer excellent durability and grip across various terrains.

• Why It Matters: Stock tires are designed for pavement, not rough trails. Upgrading provides better traction and durability.
• Budget Tip: Slightly larger tires with more aggressive tread patterns can improve your Taco’s off road performance without requiring major suspension work.

2. Leveling Kits – Affordable Clearance and Better Stance

The TRD Pro Tacoma comes with a factory lift for added ground clearance, but that doesn’t mean you need to splurge on a high-end trim package (and payment) to get similar benefits. A leveling kit raises the front of your Tacoma to eliminate factory rake, allowing for larger tires and improved off-road performance.

• Why It Matters: Prevents bottoming out on obstacles and improves approach angles.
• Budget Tip: Spacer leveling kits are affordable, while coilover replacements offer even better ride quality.

3. Skid Plates – Protecting Vital Components

The Tacoma TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro come with factory skid plates, but if you have a lower trim, you’re likely missing crucial underbody protection. Installing an aftermarket skid plate will help shield your oil pan, transmission, and differential from rocks and debris, preventing costly damage.

• Why It Matters: Protects vital components from off-road hazards.
• Budget Tip: Steel skid plates provide the best protection, but aluminum options are lightweight and still effective. In a pinch? Then hit up the pick-and-pull and snatch the factory plates off a totaled Taco. The mounting holes are already punched on your frame.

4. Tow Hooks & Recovery Gear – Be Ready for Anything

The Tacoma TRD Pro comes equipped with reinforced recovery points, but base models often lack them. If your truck didn’t come with front tow hooks, adding a set of D-ring shackles along with some other recovery accessories ensures you have a safe way to get unstuck—or help others do the same. Truth be told? There’s not a single factory tow hook we really like – they’re all kinda wimpy, and barely adequate to begin with.

• Why It Matters: Essential for self-recovery and aiding fellow off-roaders.
• Budget Tip: A basic recovery strap and traction boards are cost-effective alternatives to a winch setup.

5. LED Light Bars & Fog Lights – See Clearly at Night

Off-road trims like the Tacoma TRD Pro feature enhanced lighting for nighttime trail riding. If your truck lacks adequate auxiliary lighting, an LED light bar or upgraded fog lights can make a huge difference. Brands like Rigid, Baja Designs, and Diode Dynamics offer high-performance, low-power-draw lighting solutions.

• Why It Matters: Better lighting means safer night-time trail riding and improved visibility in adverse conditions.
• Budget Tip: A 20-inch LED light bar or high-lumen fog lights provide significant improvements without requiring a full electrical overhaul.

Final Thoughts

While factory off-road models like the Tacoma TRD Pro come packed with premium features, they also come with premium price tags. Instead of spending tens of thousands on a new (or lightly used) off-road-ready Tacoma, you can build your own capable rig with smart, budget-friendly upgrades. Whether you're just starting your off-road journey or looking to enhance your current setup, these modifications will help your Tacoma tackle the trails with confidence—without breaking the bank.

Looking for the best off-road mods? Check out our top-rated accessories and upgrades at Stage 3 Motorsports!