Advice on buying my first Tacoma

Looking at picking up this Tacoma in AZ. Seems like all the big services have just been completed which saves me some big maintenance, so that being said, is it a good price? Besides the general buying guide, which I've read, does anything look out of place in these pics that I should investigate?

Thanks!

http://tucson.craigslist.org/cto/5614686833.html

 

Looks like a nice truck, but be sure to get as much info as you can about what kind of aftermarket mods he's done. It's definitely lifted but he doesn't say how or what brand he used, that's definitely something you'd want to check out. A poor lift can have a negative effect on a lot of other components.

Also, he doesn't include any pics of the frame which is probably the biggest concern for these trucks; the frames are notorious for rust. However, this is an Arizona truck so as long as it was born and raised there I'm sure it's fine. My '04 spent it's life in Arizona and the frame still looks brand new.

Overall I'd say it's a good price considering the truck is in as good condition as he says it is. Just be sure to be thorough when you check it out.

 

Doesn't look bad to me. I'd want to know exactly how it's lifted though.

 

I hadn't even thought about how it's lifted. I'll definitely find that out.

 

Yeah definitely look into it. Doesn't look like it's got a body lift but if it does I'd steer clear. I'm not too savvy on aftermarket lifts so someone else will have to chime in, but I do know that Bilsteins, Old Man Emu (OME), Icon, Fox, King, etc. are all great lift setups. I've heard less than good things about Rough Country, Daystar, and a couple others.

 

Buy that sucker.

 

Of course, after you read up on checking a Tacoma's frame integrity.
Might bring a mechanic friend?

 

From what I gather on here, when trucks are lifted beyond 2 or 3 inches a differential drop kit and high angle cv boots are good to have to keep added strain off of the components, especially if it's being used off-road. Might want to ask him if he's done those mods too. I wouldn't necessarily consider it a deal breaker if not, but if you get it you might want to look into doing those first thing.

 

Get proof that the timing belt was done. Check for rust, carfax and run the VIN on here http://www.toyota.com/owners/. Actually strike that get a 5sp. I drove my gf's auto 1st gen back in the day and it was pitiful. Just my opinion ;-)

 

The v6 auto isn't so bad, though I do agree that the 5 speed is a lot more fun to drive, especially supercharged

 

Check the frame extra carefully in the front. Whenever I see aftermarket bumpers, I feel like their old bumper got jacked up in a crash.

 

Just missed a nice 2002 5spd this weekend. I was out of town and the guy sold it before I could go offer on it today (found out a few hours ago). This one I'm looking at now was my second choice, and I'm not really seeing much else in AZ at this price range. Just bought the wife a new car, so I can't go much higher in price.

In the automatic world, this is another one that crossed my mind, but I am trying for the lowest miles possible:
http://tucson.craigslist.org/cto/5596262078.html

 

Good point. Adding that to the list. I was already planning to take a close look at the frame in the back for rust. Front damage would be good to look for.

 

I think thats a really good price, but definitely check into all the mods he's done

 

Also the seat cover is broken. Not a big deal, but it's not a plus.

 

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Check for frame rust

 

I think the white one is kinda a rip. The black one is a TRD with the locker and it's cheaper and power windows AND v6 AND less mileage.

 

The black one is a way better deal but I don't think the white one is a rip off. You aren't going to find many deals as good as the black one

 

States it is a TRD model which would have a rear locking differential.
True TRD trucks came with TRD decals on the bed and if you were sitting in the driver's seat, look above your left knee. You should see a button saying "RR DIFF LOCK".
If it doesn't have that button, it isn't a true TRD truck and I'd inquire why they are no decals on the bed.

That was really wordy.

 

The button is shown in one of the pictures. I checked that too.