To the high milers...

Hey, guys. In the market for a 6cyl DC, auto 2wd. Trying to decide what my mileage cutoff is. Right now, I think I'd love to get something under 175k, but there have been some 190k-230k trucks come up that drive really well.

Can some veterans give some advice, or just post a mileage and price tag that they find acceptable, such as "185k miles, $9,000." Anybody buy something with 200k+ miles and regret it?

 

I have 250k on mine and it still runs perfect. Price wise your location has alot to do with it. Hi mileage Arizona truck will bring more then a low mileage New York truck. For the simple factor of rust.

 

I have the same as you are in the market for. 6 cyl 307000 miles...still runs strong. Just keep up the regular maintenance and you should have no issues...they are tanks

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/1st-gen-tacoma-buyers-guide.156943/

Read this ^^^

To put into perspective, I bought my truck in Arizona. 100k miles, TRD OR, 4WD, Extracab, Power everything, Lift, Wheels, 33"s for $9k. But first gen double cabs are in a completely different market than extra cabs.

First gen Double Cabs are all auto FYI.

As for the mileage, there's a few members with 300k-500k miles and even one guy with a million. The thing to look for, besides regular maintenance, is to make sure the frame is in good shape. Beat it with a hammer and poke in there with a screwdriver and a flashlight. Another is to make sure the timing belt and the water pump had been replaced every 80k-100k miles. And if it isn't, negotiate/factor that into the price.

 

^^^ great points to consider

 

Thanks. I've read through a good chunk of this, but maybe it's time for some review...

 

200k is kinda pushing it for my comfort level. Sure, some guys make it to 300-400k etc, but it's also not unheard of to see the 5VZ-FE headgasket go after 200k miles. Just be aware of the situation and go into it with that mindset and you'll be OK.

 

Mine has 270k on the clock and runs great. I don't follow the same logic as most people. I have no problem buying a high mileage vehicle. My truck didn't get to 270k because it was poorly maintained. Also, highway miles are much easier and are lower wear and tear than city.

A 15 yr old vehicle with 70k miles is a red flag for me. Lots of short, stop and go trips, wears everything down.

My .02...

 

Could also mean it was garaged

 

That worries me too, vehicles need to be driven. Cars that sit, the oil seals and rubber dry out.

Buddy of mine has a 2005 civic, super low miles. Car is 12 years old , but he won't replace the timing belt because he hasn't hit 105k... that thing is a 12 year old ticking time bomb.

 

Wellll crap. I live two miles from work and almost all of my driving is just to work and back. What would you guys do to combat this? Is it better to make sure I get out for a highway drive once a week, or should I literally take a longer route home from work each day?

 

Cruising down the highway are the easiest miles on any car, but there's no need to deliberately take longer routes to work. Adding unnecessary miles is unnecessary. Maybe just take trips every month or so and just take a cruise and explore your town or nearby towns.

 

Thanks. That's going to have to happen. I always take a celebratory trip with any new vehicle, especially if it's capable enough for some light dirt.

 

Not at all I bought my DC 242k for $5900 best deal I've ever gotten. No issues to start out with, no issues now

 

Yes, I agree, don't add extra miles to your commute, but try taking some longer trips during the week for errands.

When your engine doesn't fully warm up, condensation can build up and oil and water don't mix. The water in the system can wreak havoc over time.

Also, your alternator needs time to recharge your battery and short 2 mile trips aren't long enough.

 

Just like buying horses each one has to be looked at by itself.

You have no way to know how it was treated

You need to take into account the majority of people use their Tacoma to get from point A to Point B do as little maintenance as possible ( like me !!)

While for the most those on forums if they could get away with it take better care of the Tacoma then most anything else

 

If you're commute is that short, I'd feel more comfortable making sure to at least get a weekly fifteen minute drive at 55+ mph. This will keep all necessary parts lubed and also ensure to burn off any moisture accumulation in your engine oil and in the exhaust.

 

I have a 242K on mine. I bought it in December for $750 (practically stole the thing). Mine runs like a top, it had belt squeal but new belts fixed that issue. With regular maintenance they will go forever. I would just ask about maintenance history and stuff like that to make sure it has been well taken care of.

 

What a steal, you lucky SOB

 

Oh I know. Right place at the right time.