Uh-oh 2002 taco: Toyota frame corrosion program

So, I WAS in the process of purchasing new wheels and tires when the shop I was at noticed abnormal rust on my frame. He advised me that he heard of a recall and that I should contact Toyota.

Well, I called Toyota (800-331-4331) and they did a VIN search and YES my 2002 Toyota Tacoma SR5 PreRunner Double Cab is included in this recall. Aint that a B&%CH. The representative was very professional, took all of my contact information and opened up a case. He claimed that a Case Worker would be contacting me within 1 business day to discuss my options. Nevertheless, I will not be spending any additional cash on my Taco until this is resolved.

I'm kind of leary allowing them to replace the frame in fear of damage happening to other things or the truck not being put back together properly. It seems that is a TON of work. Basically, stripping the entire truck apart and putting it back together. OUCH!!!!

Has anyone ever gone through this? What were your options? Did they cover the cost of a replacement car while they did the work? How long did it take? etc......

Any advise would be appreciated.

Mike

 

Is having Toyota buy it back not an option? I seem to remember them being quite generous with the amount they were paying out.

 

Yeah I thought it was 1.5 x Blue Book.

 

That was only the the 95.5-00 trucks. As far as I know, frame replacement is the only option on the newer ones. I know Bassetdad had this done, maybe others.
Look here. http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/1st-gen-tacomas/6549-95-2k-rust-help-toyota.html

 

yup they will buy it back if you fail the inspection

 

This is one of many reasons why I love living in the PacNW... No salty roads! Damn... Sorry about the loss, hopefully you will get the choice of 1.5x KBB. Good luck!

 

Buy back for only 95.5-00 while frame replacement or corrosion protection (at dealer's discretion) for 01-04 models.

 

Appearently, they have to inspect it and the dealer will make a recommendation to Toyota. The case worker claims that on 00-04 Tacos it's their descretion rather then my preference.

Considering, the frame breaking upon hard enough impact could be serious to my family I will press very hard and possibly seek legal advise.

Make sense?

Thanks!

 

Man - sounds like KrazieSC has some serious issues to work out. Attitude bro....take a deep breathe and say Oooooommmmmmmmm! Exhale!!!

Geez!

 

huh

 

i think he is refering to my sig?

 

Nah, I'm just having fun with it. I meant no offense. I live in Minnesota now but I am originally for Northen Cali. Stockton, Cali actually. They don't like Tacomas much there. I believe the majority there prefer 65 Chevy Impalas with wire wheels. LOL! Oh wait, they might actually like Toyota's too considering the get stolen a lot. LOL!

Have fun everyone! I'm just tripping off of this corrosion thing. Having had nothing but frustrating experiences with dealers I assume this will be a drawn out process in which I have to get pissed off to get resolved. I hate when that happens.

Why can't things be simple like .....

"I'm sorry, we sold you a bad product and will replace it or simply make it right!" but I expect it to go more along the lines of...."I'm sorry but the corrosion isn't bad enough yet so drive it for 90 days and if you're still alive come back in 90 days for another inspection!"

Any thoughts?

 

I hope you're right Tiger. If it went that easy I'd be very satisfied. However, it always seems like I'm getting the short end of the deal whether it buying a new vehicle or getting one serviced.

It's like WHOOOOAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Oh my eyes! I've been thru the buyback process, they were very helpful and the process went smoothly. Mine was a 97 though. I've read on this forum about at least one truck that had the frame replacement done. He got a free rental while the work was being done and was completely satisfied with the finished truck. I don't think you'll have to get mad, they really seem to be bending over backwards to help out people with bad frames. Good luck with it, and keep us up to date.

 

Well well, I'm back. My Tacoma was just dropped off at the dealership in Burnsville, Minnesota. They are doing the frame inspection as we speak. Upon arrival, they were aware of the "Frame Corrosion Program" and claimed that I was the first to bring in the truck for inspection and that they were "excited" to go through the process.

Question, If for some reason they come back and say that the frame is fine and offer no replacement and or buyback would you get an independent third party inspection or just trust them to do the right thing?

I don't mean to be so skeptical but we all know that they will do what's in the best interest of the dealership and Toyota rather then what's best for me.

Thanks again for everyone's feedback.

Mike

 

WOW, THAT WAS FAST!

They have completed the inspection. They claim to have found NO perforated rust and just a little surface rust. They also said that Toyota is sending them a sealant kit that I will get applyed for free once they recieve it.

Any thoughts?