So, you’ve got a 3rd Gen Toyota Tacoma, and you’re itching to go 35s or larger tires, that is. You’ve trimmed the fenders, stuffed those massive wheels in, and yanked out the wheel well liners to make it all fit. But now, you’re staring at your fully exposed Tacoma intake hole, and it’s like leaving your engine’s front door wide open. Let’s talk about why this matters and the one solution that’s got your back.
When you ditch the wheel well liners to clear those beefier tires, the air intake hole in your Tacoma’s fender well is left naked. That hole is part of the intake system, pulling in air for your engine to breathe. Without protection, it’s sucking in mud, water, and trail debris like a vacuum cleaner gone rogue. Ever wonder what happens when grit gets into your engine? Spoiler: it’s not pretty. You’re looking at clogged filters, reduced performance, or even a pricey rebuild if things go south.
This hit me hard on a muddy trail last spring. My newly upgraded Tacoma was tearing it up until I noticed a sluggish response. A quick check showed my air filter was caked with dirt, all because that exposed intake hole was playing dirt collector.
Here’s the kicker: there aren’t many solutions out there. You could rig up some duct tape and hope for the best, but that’s not exactly trail-ready. After scouring forums and parts catalogs, I decided I to create my own filter. It’s a purpose-built cover that friction fits into your intake hole. It's double mesh net shields the intake hole while still letting air flow.
Purchase here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/4302592390/3rd-gen-toyota-tacoma-intake-hole-cover
Installing it is a breeze:
Step 1: You’ve already got the liner out, so you’re halfway there.
Step 2: Insert the larger filter in first at an angle before straightening it out.
Step 3: Once the first filter is in, insert the second filter into the first.
Step 4: Hit the trail and breathe easy knowing your engine’s protected.
With spring mud and dust kicking up, now’s the time to protect that intake hole. I learned my lesson the hard way, and I don’t want you to. Those bigger-than-35s look killer, but they come with a catch. That exposed intake hole is a ticking time bomb unless you act.
There’s nothing like the roar of your Tacoma with oversized tires tearing through the wilderness. But that thrill comes with responsibility. Get that Tacoma intake hole covered and keep your engine as tough as your new setup.
