Takuache trucks are flashy pickups that are customized by adding lifted suspensions or oversized wheels. Chevy Silverados are the most common Takuache trucks & cost approximately $5,000 to $20,000 to modify.
If you get it professionally done, the estimated labor costs range between $1,000 & $3,000.
You might have heard about the Takuache trend that’s grown significantly in popularity in Texas. If you’ve never heard about it, don’t worry!
This article covers aspects like its design, costs, and maintenance, perfect for auto enthusiasts to explore this automotive trend.
What is a Takuache Truck?
A Takuache truck is a modified pick-up truck usually built for show & performance. Takuache trucks have really emerged as a hallmark of the trokiando subculture, with most Takuache trucks being Chevy Silverados.
But some include GMC Sierras and Ford F-150s.
“Takuache” is a name that refers to a wild marsupial in Spanish; a “tlacuache”, or translated as a “possum”.
The style of Takuache trucks is uniquely bold & often quite flashy! Their design features a lifted truck frame to fit massive wheels.
These wheels could be 20 to 24 inches or larger, and the body is lowered to mimic a low-slug profile (similar to lowrider vehicles). Some trucks have hydraulic systems installed, so they might bounce up & down.
Whether you spot a Takuache truck at a truck meet or on the highway, the low profile and high wheels make it eye-catching.
Trokiando Roots and Takuache Trucks
Takuache trucks embody the Trokiando subculture, a Texas-originated phenomenon that celebrates truck passion with Mexican-American youth.
In Mexican-American Slang, takauche is used to describe a young Hispanic man who drives a customized pickup truck.
The takuache trucks, also known as mamalonas, are an essential and recognizable part of all things takuache & trokiando culture.
For takuaches, trokiando is definitely a DIY experience, one that showcases their pride with clean, tight detailing. Takuache trucks stand out & are often painted different colors.
Some use paint color as their signature scheme, while some keep repainting their trucks frequently.
Cost of Building a Takuache Truck
Starting the Takuache truck hobby involves an extensive amount of money. A base used Silverado starts around $10,000, and that can range to $20,000 with modifications.
Below is a cost breakdown based on automotive modification data & industry trends:
| Modification | Description | Cost Range |
| Lift Kit | Raises chassis for big wheels | $1,000-$3,000 |
| Oversized Wheels | 20–24 inch rims & tires | $2,000-$5,000 |
| Body Drop | Lowers body for stance | $500-$1,500 |
| Hydraulics | Adds bouncing capability | $1,500-$4,000 |
| Paint Job | Bold custom colors | $1,000-$3,000 |
| Decals/Stickers | Brand or crew logos | $100-$500 |
Professional installation can add another $1,000-$3,000 due to labor costs ($75-$150/hour). Used parts or doing your own work can lower costs, but the quality risks being compromised.
Does building a Takuache truck change its resale value?
Usually, building a Takuache truck can decrease its resale value even if you care properly for the truck. On top of that, heavily modified trucks have limited buyers.
Since modifications are a double-edged sword, it’s hard to say. Some modifications might appeal to a niche market of buyers and add resale value, but other than that, buyers prefer vehicles with near-stock condition.
Typically, takuache truck owners use their signature paint, so most likely they would pass it down rather than sell the truck.
Key Features & Modifications
Takuache trucks have an impressive, bold engineering that makes them stand out. Their unique design is due to the lift kit & oversized, low-profile wheels. The body drops it to the ground, creating a sleek look.
The owners often put impressive paint colors such as red or metallic blue on their Takuache. They often have smooth detailing with the paint job and take pride in their Takuache.
Some repaint it every year to keep things fresh. They may also include decals & stickers on the windows to show which companies they support, such as brands, crews, and show wins. This can turn a Takuache into a rolling billboard!
Owners sometimes install hydraulics for bounce when they are at the meets. Hydraulics are optional and similar to the technology used in lowriders.
The modifications require structural rigidity. Thus, the shock absorption must be regarded prior to completion.
How to Choose The Right Takuache Truck
Choosing a base truck matters the most. You want to choose an affordable truck, as you need to bear extra costs for modifications later. Also, the truck needs to be flexible enough for modifications. The clear leader for most people is the Chevy Silverado because of its low cost and mod-friendly design.
If you focus on used trucks within the time frame of roughly 2010-2020, modifications just got easier. GMC Sierras and Ford F-150 trucks are also good options.
The key is to check that the frame is strong enough for the weight you will be adding to the truck. In the case of older trucks, you will likely want to reinforce parts of the frame with the modifications.
It’s important to take the stock trucks on a test drive to see how they handle, as heavy modifications can impact stability.
Work with a pro to make the final chassis choice, assessing both the costs ($10,000 starting point) and modification potential down the line, and avoid paying more in the process to fix things.
Can any truck be a Takuache truck?
Almost any pickup truck made in the United States can, although it will depend on the strength of the frame and modification compatibility.
How long does it take to modify a Takuache truck?
It can take 2-6 weeks with a professional, depending on complication of the work.
Maintenance Tips for Takuache Trucks
You need to give your Takuache truck a good amount of attention to keep it in top shape. Various combinations of aftermarket parts have an impact on the stock build, lift suspension, and added weight on tires that contribute to the strain on the frame.
Be sure to inspect the frame for cracks or wear every 6 months. The hydraulics must be inspected for fluid maintenance and seals every year to avoid leaks.
The tires wear faster due to their size & durability. Be sure to rotate them every 5,000 miles or sooner, and budget $500-$1,000 for the tires.
If you have been to a truck meet, you will notice all of the dirt & rubber that can build up on the paintwork. It is recommended to wash the truck regularly to protect the paint. The truck should be waxed every few months to remind its new shape & showroom shine.
Also check: Average Cost to Maintain A Car
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