First Time Buyer Questions: 2013-2015

Hey Everyone,

First off I'm sorry if this isn't the proper thread. I have been lurking for a few days and decided to create my account and join the discussion. I currently own a civic, but I've been planning a Taco purchase for a few months now. I'll be able to move forward in January or February if all goes well.

I'm going to be sticking in the 25k price range for a truck, but I wanted to know of any major differences in the model years I should keep an eye out for.

2013 moving forward seems to have a solid amount of tech equipped, which is why I choose to start with that year.

What should I keep an eye out for when shopping? Are there any known issues with Taco's that would require a big mechanic bill that I'll need to plan for as well? I'm extremely excited about my future purchase and am looking for any general advice of things new buyers should know.

Thanks ya'll!

 

Don't discount the 2012 model. I just purchased one after looking at 12-15 and chose a sr5 4x4 12 due to one owner, dealer service every 5k miles, low miles and cleanliness of the truck. Plus price was better and there's not much difference in the yrs 12-15 that warranted a newer model. Factor all those variables when purchasing yours.

Good luck with your purchase.

 

I'll definitely keep my options open. What mileage did your 2012 have? I'm just curious what low would be considered.

 

I was just in your shoes a few weeks ago. Answer some questions:

Where do You live?

4x4 or 4x2?

reg cab, access cab or double cab?

Long bed or short bed?

Lets start there, BTW my name is Noah, as well.

 

Hey Noah!

Colorado
4x4
Double cab preferable but definitely no access cab
I like the short bed look, but doesn't really matter too much.

 

Hey Noah, back.

Do you like the body style of the gen 2's?

What about a 2006 - 2012 model?

Mileage, what would you like to be under??

 

So here's my deal.

The reason I initially said 13-15 was simply because I'd like to have the truck for at least 5 years, and I figured they would have some of the lowest mileage, fewest repairs in the near future.

I'm actually a fan of just about every body style and model of Tacoma. I'd like to be in a solid position for resale in 5 years so I can get a newer truck. But having a cheaper truck with more money for mods would be cool too.

There's so much to consider.

 

I have a 2013 and am getting close to 100K miles, it’s been great. The extended warranty was a waste of cash, but I bought just in case something did happen.
The backup camera in the mirror works great for hooking up trailers or parking in tight spots.

 

The backup camera feature is huge for me. I'm become real accustomed to the one I have now (probably trust it too much).

 

4 cy or 6 cy?

 

Either!

 

ok, what's your zip code?

Color choice?

 

80014. Anything but white.

Are you doing some actual hunting for me? That's awesome. I was really just looking for general advice but this works too!

 

https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/inven...d=true&modelChanged=true&filtersModified=true

 

I’d go with V6. Other than that alot of folks will tell you it’s better this or that than not to have it but if you don’t needed or will use regularly then don’t pay for it. Keep your money to spend on things you want and would use on the truck. Just my two cents!

 

The links don't appear to be coming through correctly. It takes me to the site with the proper zip in the search field, but nothing else.

 

I can't get the entire link to work. Try Car Guru and plug in the requested info

 

I had a 2006 SR5 4WD & now a 2013 TRD OR 4WD crewcabs.
The difference we're the seats, backup camera, temp/compass mirror, rear locker. My 2006 had the harsh ride TSB so I basically got the Blistein Shocks all around when they replaced the leaf pack.
My 2013 had only 2+1 leaf pack that I finally upgraded at 75k because I was adding a shell & didn't want sag. They we're basically shot anyway. That is one of my beefs with Toyota. You will see different leaf packs depending on Sport vs OR vs SR5.
Look for that & frame rust.
My 2006 rusted bad. I undercoated my 13 since new & treat it now with fluid film once a year. It looks great even being in Salt country USA.
Both were shortbeds and at times wish I had a 6' bed if that matters to you. The Access Cab and Double Cab are the same length fwiw. You can get a Double Cab SR5 & Sport trim truck with a 6' bed if that matters to you.
Otherwise very happy with both 2Gens. Good luck with search welcome to TW.

 

Definitely, I'll look at some earlier models too like you mentioned.

 

https://www.cargurus.com/