Buying a 2004 Tacoma, Need Advice!

Hi Tacomaworld,

First time poster here. I sold my 2015 TRD Sport double cab Tacoma previously and I really regret it. This time, however, I want to get into a first gen.

I have been doing a lot of research and from what I can tell, frame rust is the main thing to look out for. I've checked the buyers guide and checked for the VIN ranges that were affected by the recall (here is the link: http://www.showstop.org/images/truck/rust_warranty/warranty-policy.pdf)

Problem is, that link in the buyers guide doesn't show VINs for 2004 models. Were all 2004 Tacos susceptible to frame rust? I am looking for clean, low mileage ones, so most likely will be buying out of state. I'm looking at two tacomas, and running their VINs show that no recalls were associated with them. In fact, most 2004 Tacoma VINs that I run on https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls show no recalls associated. Now I'm cynical on whether or not that site is accurate, or if in fact most 2004s had a good frame.

Thanks for the help everyone, I can link the two tacomas that I am interested in if that helps anyone.

 

Try this site

https://www.toyota.com/recall

I was in a similar boat as you. Had a 2015 and really loved it, sold it, and regretted it. Just last week I got a 2005 Tacoma as a second car to have as a play toy. I found a great deal and the truck had a new frame put in just a few months ago. Just be patient in your searching and don't compromise in what you want.

 

Thanks for the site! I ran the VINs for the trucks I'm looking at and same response. So is it safe to assume that these frames were made in good order (not as susceptible to rust as the others?)

I guess towards the end of the 2004 models they adjusted for the frame rust?

 

I doubt it, because second gens were susceptible to frame rot as well. Mine is an '05 and had the frame replaced under recall. It's really nice having a new frame, but some other things are still rusty which can cause headaches. Nothing serious though, just rusty bolts here and there that an impact will take care of.

 

I'm not sure if the frame replacement was a recall, I think it was a "service campaign" because you had to do certain things to qualify for a new frame

 

even if you are buying out of state you still need to look it over good don't do what I did brought one in FL got it home in GA went to put a Reese hitch on it

 

Ah man that is disheartening. I don't have the time/luxury to look over it in person and decide to not pull the trigger. I'm in Texas and most models I'm looking at are in the North East, which I know is known for salt..

I could try to set up a PPI or have a toyota dealership look over it...

 

Save yourself the headache and don't buy one from the NE unless it had the frame replaced already

 

Yeah if you're planning on buying out of area, aim for a place like Arizona or California. No humidity and no snow, so the frame will be great.

 

Man, why are all the low-mileage Gen 1s in the North East! I guess I will keep looking.

Sounds good.

What do you guys think about this one? Assuming I could lower the price a bit.

https://austin.craigslist.org/cto/6175994090.html

Though I am thinking I shouldn't compromise. I really want the 3.4 engine with preferably manual transmission.

 

Welcome to the forum!

I echo the good advice above. Don't worry about the lists because every Tacoma is susceptible to frame rust. Also, a truck in AZ now could've spent most of its life in NJ and could have swiss cheese for a frame. You have to check every truck.

What are you looking for? Double cab 4x4?

 

Don't compromise. I had a few configurations in mind for my truck, but one thing that wasn't negotiable was that it had to be a manual.

That's a nice looking truck but way over priced. Just be patient and more deals will come along.

 

Thanks! Wish I knew of this forum when I had my '15. Thanks for the advice. Double cab isn't necessary but 4x4 is a must. Preferably manual transmission and V6 or I4... I would take an auto V6 over an I4 though because I do plan to tow my motorcycle a bit. I'm sure the I4 can but I would just like the extra power.

Thanks for the advice. I will keep searching. Not going to lie, I thought it would be easy finding a gen 1 in the configurations I want. Seems to be actually pretty rare

 

That's because everyone else wants one too! Also I wouldn't throw away the idea of the I4 with a 5 speed. They're bullet proof engines and towing a motorcycle wouldn't be a problem with it.

 

If you see something in the northeast maybe someone on TW can take a look for you.? They (I) have done it before for someone. good luck with your search.

I am in NH if you see something.


https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/new-england-b-s-thread.204874/page-5411

 

I definitely second that post. The NE, and even some Southern states (like Georgia) have snow, and salt corrosion there can be a problem. There are more low-miles Tacos for sale in the NE probably because they're rusty and the owners want to unload them ASAP. Limit your search to your area. Texas trucks should be pretty rust-free. Be Patient. The truck you are looking for will come along. Good Luck.

- JAMES

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/2003-tacoma-trd-4-door-8-700-tx.493344/

Are you located in TX?

Nevermind, I just noticed it's a prerunner.

 

Good recommendation. Ask in the regional area forums if you find one that looks good. I am sure someone will check it out for you.

 

Thanks gentlemen. Wow from the response of this thread I love this community so far. I can't wait to be a part of it again.

Here are some of the trucks I'm looking at. I'm just using autotrader and cars.com. I will take a look at the classifieds here as well.

This one is in MA
https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/704099298/overview/

These two are in VA, one is I4, the other V6, but both manual
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-...chRadius=0&makeCode1=TOYOTA&modelCode1=TACOMA

http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-...chRadius=0&makeCode1=TOYOTA&modelCode1=TACOMA

And then this one is in WA
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-...chRadius=0&makeCode1=TOYOTA&modelCode1=TACOMA

That one above spent its whole life in El Paso, TX which is near the border, I would hope there are no rust issues with it.

Unfortunately, I am located in TX, and all the ones I've seen here are beat to hell :\

Did most of you buy local or did you expand your search nationally?

 

I bought locally because I didn't want to deal with the logistics of getting the truck registered before driving it home. The truck was about an hour and a half away but in the same state, so registering it on the spot wasn't an issue. If you haven't already, check craigslist too. That's where I found mine, as well as some other great deals.