Thinking Of Buying A Used Tacoma

I am thinking about buying a Tacoma, probably between an 06-13. Just curious as to any problem areas common to them that I should check when looking at them? Also, I am curious as to what kind of "real world" gas mileage everyone is getting out of their Tacomas? Any info world be greatly appreciated.

 

There are dozens of MPG threads here. You'll find all kinds of answers. A search will fill your day with reading.

My experience has been that since the last EPA revisions, their numbers at www.fueleconomy.gov are very accurate for a normally driven stock vehicle. Good guideline. Expect reductions from those numbers based on driver, fuel quality, lift and tire modifications, etc.

If you want something for MPG, don't buy any truck. Buy an econobox.

Although I will admit my un modded 5 lug base 2.7 does quite well. Most folks around here turn up their noses at such a creature, but for me it does exactly what I want it to. I get over 20 in town, AC on, and high 20s at legal hwy speeds. I can haul my kayaks, bikes and other needs just fine.

If you want or need a truck, the Tacoma is one of the better MPG models out there.

The biggest problem area I read about around here is rusted out frames and lousy rear leaf springs. Frame issues tend to be more in snow/salt country, but can happen anywhere. So, a frame inspection should be part of any basic pre purchase inspection.

Good luck shopping!

 

I will gladly hijack the info in this thread as well.

But to somewhat contribute, I know motor mounts were an issue in the earlier years.

 

check out www.fuelly.com

 

If you're in the rust belt, check the frame for rust. Especially the area of the inner boxed section on the left side.

 

I will check the fuel mileage links (thanks). From what they advertise on the new ones and what I have read they don't seem all that bad for a 4wd truck. I am going to try and find a shorter one like the access cab or the 4 dr short box. Maybe a slight weight savings...not that I expect it will get much better fuel mileage because of it though. I am definitely in the snow belt (NS Canada) so checking the frame will be a must. Hoping to find something only a few years old so the frame shouldn't be an issue hopefully.

I had 2 out for test drives recently and they both drove quite nice. Although I passed on both as one was an 06 that was in pretty hard shape underneath and the other was a 2010 but had too many miles on it for the price they were asking.