Toyota Tacoma’s Interior Gets Destroyed In A Fire. Then The Owner Tries To Start It: ‘4th Gen Could Never’

A car catching on fire is something that most car owners think they won't have to experience or deal with. While seeing a vehicle catch fire isn’t usually a thing you typically see every day, it’s not impossible. So when it happens, it's catastrophic and a huge ordeal to repair and clean up. 

Considering the severity of the danger involved, it’s easy to assume the vehicle will be toast after a fire. Well, a Toyota Tacoma owner was pleasantly surprised at what he discovered after his interior got completely destroyed in a fire. 

In a Facebook Reel that’s generated over 9,700 likes as of this writing, Nicholas Anton-Thomas Aasand reveals what happened when he tried to start up his Toyota Tacoma after the fire. One viewer wrote, “That looks like that should be in a commercial somewhere.”

In the brief clip, Aasand showcases the damage that the Toyota Tacoma went through during the fire. Let’s just say the interior has seen better days. Dust and smoke remnants completely cover the interior, with pieces missing from the seats. To put it simply, it's in bad shape. 

The fire was contained inside the truck cabin, and Aasand decides to assess the status of the truck. With the hood open, all mechanical parts seem to still be in check. He then hops into the driver's seat. The dashboard is missing entirely, and Aasand decides to turn the key to see if the engine still works.

Surprisingly, the truck miraculously starts. Even the door-open chime is still intact. While the interior is torn through, the truck engine still runs smoothly. 

“These trucks are invincible,” he captions the post. 

Burnt 1st Generation Toyota Tacoma: ‘Likely Still Worth 4K’

Viewers were left in disbelief when they saw the Toyota Tacoma fire up its engine after experiencing a fire. It’s a valid response considering the car looks like it would be part of a post-apocalyptic environment.  

“Aint no way lol," one Facebook commenter said. 

“Wow looks like all you need to do is replace the interior,” another shared. 

“Thing is still mint,” a third commented.

While other viewers made estimates of how much the truck is still worth, and potential offers that were made.

“Likely still worth 4K,” one commented. 

“$25K OBO, I know what YOU got…” a second added. 

While one viewer took the opportunity to make a humorous indigestion remark. 

“Lay off the Taco Bell, big dawg,” they joked.

How Does the Tacoma 1st Generation Stack Up In Reliability?

This post was shared in the 1st Generation Toyota Tacoma Owners Facebook group, and some members believe the fourth-generation Tacomas would never last this fire.

“Not anymore. All new vehicles are junk,” one wrote. 

“4th gen’s could never,” another added. 

This group gathers proud first-generation Tacoma (1995–2004) owners, and there is frequent discussion around how the first generation is superior compared to newer generations. The simple design with everlasting dependability has grown a passionate following over the years.

The first-generation Tacomas have been known to travel well over 200,000 miles and still earn a five-digit resale value, Tacoma World shares. With this, this generation of Tacomas became known for their dependability, utility, and reliability. 

The fourth generation of Toyota Tacomas was first released in 2024. From here, Tacoma owners debate whether it’s worth maintaining a 20-year-old Tacoma or upgrading to modern features with the new Tacoma. 

The fourth-generation Tacoma has a greater powertrain, more comfort, and modern electronic features compared to the first generation. However, with any new generation launch, growing pains can exist. The 2024 and 2025 Tacomas have reported issues with the battery draining and transmission software issues. 

Now, when it comes to comparing the two generations on reliability, it’s tough to measure, considering there is a longer track record for the first generation. While many have reported and shared the dependability of the first-generation Tacomas, there are nine years of models to look at. Right now, the fourth generation has had fewer than half of the models released compared to the first generation, so time will tell. 

What Causes Cars To Catch Fire?

Seeing a car catch on fire is something nobody wants to experience or deal with, especially seeing a fire around a gas station. Having a car catch on fire is a scary and dangerous experience for all involved. 

Most car fires are started by parts malfunctioning or overheating underneath the hood. However, the simple act of charging your vape can potentially cause a catastrophic fire. 

In addition to electrical issues, cars can catch fire from design flaws, poor maintenance, car crashes, overheating engines and catalytic converters, arson, spilled fluids, hybrid and EV batteries, and fuel system leaks. 

The most common cause for a car fire is a leaky fuel system, Bryant Law Center reports. A fuel leak can occur as the car ages, in a car accident, or due to not being on top of maintenance. Gasoline is highly flammable and can easily erupt into flames if mixed with a leaky fluid.   

What Do You Do After Your Car Catches On Fire?

According to NAPA, the first step to take after the fire has been put out is to notify your insurance company. The claim process should be initiated before determining the repairability of the vehicle. If the car caught fire from an accident, the claim will be processed under collision coverage. Now, if the vehicle caught fire due to a wiring defect, comprehensive coverage should protect you. The insurance company will run through the information and make a decision if the car is salvageable. 

If the car is salvageable, a repair assessment is completed. One thing to consider is the lingering impact of the smoke compounds and fire extinguisher's chemicals, which are corrosive to the car. This can potentially lead to skin irritation if the vehicle isn’t properly vacuumed and cleaned out completely. An odor remover will be needed as well to remove the smoke scent. 

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From here, the repair estimate will determine the next move. The insurance will cut a check for funds minus your deductible to repair your car. When repairing a car that has caught fire, it’s essential to complete all necessary repairs in order for the vehicle to become road-safe again. 

Motor1 has contacted Aasand via Facebook direct message and commented on the post. The post will be updated if he replies.

 

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