To buy or not to buy?

Hey guys I have a question and need some help!

I've got an opportunity to purchase a 2001 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner V6 Dual Cab with 209,000 miles for $5,750.

It's got some dings and scratches. The check engine is on and am told that its due to a faulty 02 switch. The external passenger door handle is broke, you can open it but the plastic is broke off, the tires are in pretty bad shape, the hood rattles some at higher speeds and there is some water in the headlights.

Carguru rates the VIN as a 96/100 with two owners. With all that being said is this a deal you would make? Or is she on her last legs?

Any suggestions/information would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,

Jason

 

Sounds ridden hard and put away wet. I'd double check the codes it is throwing. Hood rattle could just need adjustment...door handle cheap fix and headlights have plenty of options.

Price doesn't seem bad, but what area are you in? Make sure to check the frame for rust. 209k is higher miles, but with some Tacoma, that's probably middle aged if taken care of mechanically.

Give it a good look over and double check that code is throwing. If it is an o2 sensor your looking at $100...but if it's cat converter related, obviously going to be looking at a lot more.

 

I think you can do better. Certainly doesn't sound like a steal of a deal anyway.

 

If check engine codes were reasonably cheap to fix, the owner would have done so prior to selling.

7 grand [when you add tax, plates, tires, repairs ect] doesn't seem like a good buy for a vehicle with 200K + miles that has neglected repairs.

 

stay away or talk him down.. if he cant even fix a door handle, he probably hasn't kept up with maintenance..

 

I would not pay 5800 for a PreRunner like that.