New Tacoma owner..what to look for

I have a 2018 Tacoma TRD Pro with 16k miles being delivered on Saturday. I get to do a walk around and 15 min test drive prior to taking ownership. Outside of the normal, anything I should really look/listen for?

 

Run it through a car wash and check for leaking

 

I would check it like any other used vehicle.

 

Up and down the both sides looking for signs of repair such as over spray, paint tape edges, sand scratches under the paint etc. Climb underneath and look for excessive rust,, oil leaks, etc.. check tire wear. Check inside for wear and smells such as cigarette or mildew, look under the hood to see if it is clean, and make sure to kick the tires several times and look the salesman in the eyes when doing so.

 

Check the fuel door for proper alignment, body gaps, turn everything on and off make sure everything works, look at the timing chain cover for leaks and power steering pump.

 

I would get underneath and look for rock dents on the lower control arms and rear differential. If you see them, it's been 4-wheeled and maybe pretty hard.

I would also check the engine bay for mud/high water marks. It may have been driven through a pond or river, which can be a huge problem with water getting into the intake or other components.

Could be a nice truck! Good luck.

 

Might be a good idea to ask if it's had the warranty repairs for the failing fuel pump or TSS/PCS issues.

 

never hurts to put a black light on the backseat

 

Starts 30 seconds in.

Most importantly, scan tool it, wreck damage, leaks for any fluids, suspension. Test all buttons, bells, whistles.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rks40ng2C2Y

 

Not only that, but pop the backseat and check for mold

 

Leaking "power steering" (timing cover) at the front passengers side of engine. Check radiator level for signs of a popped crossover tube.

 

Should have said earlier truck is coming from carvana

 

You have 7 days to return it I thought?

 

I’d look out for terms that overwhelmingly favor the seller.

 

Also that’s not the pro shift knob , it’s for a stock Tacoma , look for the little things

 

Ask for the CarFax. It isn't all encompassing, but it is a good reference. My guess is at 16k and a 2018, it is probably off a lease. They usually have to take pretty good care of those and fix the issues so CarFax should note that

 

Toyota says this is normal

 

Rear bumper alignment

 

Rear main seal leakage.

 

Have you run the VIN to see if it's actually a pro?