Looking at a Tacoma

On Friday, I'm driving up to New York to look at a '01 Tacoma. One owner, 70000 miles, SR5, V-6. I'm pumped.

It had the ball joint replacement, but I'm getting conflicting stories on the frame rust "recall". One dealer said to bring it in for the free inspection (in New York, where the truck had been serviced regularly). Another said it didn't qualify, based on the VIN (my local dealer in Delaware)?!?

Any comments?

 

I suggest you crawl under the thing and look at the frame. If you can pick pieces of rust/metal off of it with your fingers, it's JUNK. Pay special attention to welded connections where frame parts meet. The price of 2001 Tacomas has fallen HARD because of frame rust issues. Check out the Kelly Blue Book value and take another 25% off of that. I have a 2001 4x4 regular cab and it's a rot box (frame). I'd pass on a 2001 NY Tacoma. The reason the deal is so good is because they have no resale value.

Contrary to what you hear on this forum, Toyota is dragging their feet in regards to the 2001 and later models when it comes to frame rot. I'm fighting them right now and it's no fun. The VIN number thing your dealer gave you sounds JUST LIKE the run-around I'm dealing with. Take a pass and buy something else. I was a huge Taco fan and still like them but this frame issue really sucks.

 

Good for you bud! Hope all goes well. Happy Thanksgiving

 

ol rusty?