Buying advice: '06 TRD Off-Road

Hi guys,
I've been in the market for a Tacoma for a bit and here is one that I'm about settled on. The truck is in Michigan. TRD Off-road package, One owner, Toyota Certified Pre-owned, Clean Carfax with 20+ maintenance records. Tow package as well.

2006
Price $17,680
Mileage 80,065
Exterior Color Silver Streak Mica
Interior Color Graphite
Engine 6 Cylinder
Transmission Automatic


My main concern is that there is some rust in the engine bay. The block has a grey discoloration, I believe the technical term is oxidation. A few hose clamps were rust colored and a patch of the right side of the engine bay had a rust color tinge to it. Does anyone know based on this vague description if this poses a big problem? I really appreciate any advice.

 

It's hard to say until you get a look in person. I have an '07 4Runner and some of my hose clamps in the engine bay have a little bit of rust on them and it's been garage kept since day one and exposed to the elements very little. My 4Runner looks as good today as it did the day I drove it home, but I'm sure a Michigan truck has seen its fair share of snow, salt, etc. so I would take a close look at it before I pulled the trigger. Good luck!

 

I'm from TN and was stationed in San Diego for 6 years, so I have 0 knowledge on rust. I see the rust, but I don't know if it's severe enough to warrant looking elsewhere.

 

if you are in doubt then dont do it. There is probably more rust that you dont see on that truck. The price is OK

 

Can the greying on the block be undone? I did some quick searches and it seems like you can eat it off with some product brushed onto the block. Aside from the block discoloration, the only other thing I really noticed was the clips and filter hose clamp were rusted.

I'm trying to figure out if its not bad enough to cause serious damage down the road and use the rust as leverage to lower the asking price. I'll likely be moving to Utah in June where I believe it might be less likely to rust.