Something seems fishy...Help Please

Hi,

I'm trying buy my first Toyota Tacoma and I wanted someone to look over this to make sure I'm not missing something or getting taken. Here is a link with photos:

Used 2010 Toyota Tacoma in Los Angeles, California | CarMax

2010 Tacoma Prerunner
5TETU4GNXAZ723527
V6 Auto

So my concern is that it says it's just a 2010 Tacoma Prerunner, but It has a SR5 badge and TRD decal on the side. Also, it doesn't look like it has the TRD airbox on it.

What should I be concerned about and what should I look for when I'm going over the truck during the test drive?

I'm really excited to get a Tacoma, any help would be greatly apricated, and thank you for your time!

Thanks,
Jeremy

 

You could get the SR5 and TRD OR packages in a prerunner for that year. You can see it does have the RR Diff lock button on the dash. The TRD airbox to my knowledge never came stock and was either a dealer add on, or something the owner would add at a later date. Also to note that the TRD CAI will not net any performance gains.

Being a Cali truck there probably wont be an issue with rust, but it could still be there. Check the frame especially around the front catalytic converters. And you may regret not having 4x4 in the future, but ultimately up to you and your needs.

 

Hi there, looks like a legit TRD off-road to me. TRD seats, rear diff locker (at least the switch is there), bed power outlet are all there. TRD airbox is a useless gimmick for fools and it didn’t come stock either.

 

If it lived outside by the beach there could be a crap load of rust

 

The seats are TRD seats (perforated grey cloth) and the steering wheel controls,etc match up as well. It has the rear diff lock, etc...

I’d say that it’s a TRD Off-road trim pre-runner, I.e. two wheel drive.

 

Yes, absolutely still possible. And they salt all around Shasta too.

 

It is a TRD off road. It has the rear locker and inverter. They do not come factory with the TRD cai. That is aftermarket. Look at the frame extremely well and look for rust. Check if it has maintenance records. Other than that looks like a solid truck. I wouldn't pay over 17k though

 

Here's some detailed info for you.

 

Here is the service history of it. It looks like it's only seen the dealer for warranty work.

 

This might help

 

For sure! I just passed through there Saturday and the roads were wet at 21 degrees lol. They also salt in Big Bear!

my 2007 frame has a bunch of surface rust from spending so much time by the ocean. Passed inspection though. Probably not as bad as road salt that gets lodged in the frame rails for all eternity but it ain’t pretty. Stopped it with fluid film and I guess eventually I’ll beautify it too

 

First, ignore the badging. Who knows what the PO did for bling or bravado.

Take it to a mechanic of YOUR CHOICE. Pay for a pre-sale inspection. Have the mechanic write down any needed repairs or maintenance.

Sign nothing, do not give a deposit until you have test driven to check all the vehicle functions.
During test drive, let go of the steering wheel. Does the truck drift? It will drift to the right some due to road crown, but the drift should be gradual.
Do a hard panic stop to force the ABS system to actuate.
Do a WOT run. Does the engine stumble or hesitate?
Are all the recalls completed? Run the VIN through the Toyota Service. Maintenance records?

Open the hood. Look for leaks, check the fluid levels (PS fluid, engine oil, brake fluid), belt condition (cracks, glazing).
Check the tire date codes, the tread condition and sidewalls (cracks, cupping, uneven wear).
Slide under the truck, look for leaks. Wiggle the driveshaft, U-joints tight, been greased? Brake line leaks

If CarMax won't allow you to inspect, then say 'Thank You' and walk away.


These are just a few things I check when looking at a used ride. So much can be learned during the test drive. If you have to, politely ask the ride along salesmen to be quiet.

 

Has one open recall for the rear leaf springs still open.

 

Ahhh.... I see Recall and Maintenance records have been posted.......

My 10 fingers are a bit slow today.

 

Did you buy it already? The listing says "This car is currently unavailable."

 

Hey,

Thank you all for your help and info, I can't wait to put it to use.

@3JOH22A I'm waiting for it to be transferred still so I can test drive and look it over.