Advice on buying a 2006 w/a replaced frame?

Hey there folks. I'm in the market for a used vehicle right now, and I came across a decent looking 2006 Tacoma with 135k miles for just (?) $7,000. It's one of the more basic models, no cab, RWD, and the 2.7L engine and automatic 4-speed. But I don't need it for work, towing, or anything beyond the occasional dirt or gravel road, so that's not a problem. Based on the research I've done and the other listings I've seen while shopping around, it sounds like a pretty good deal (although I still need the vehicle history report, perhaps its been in some accidents). I'm assuming it will need some combo of new timing belt/new tires/various new filters?

But the main thing that stands out is that it had the frame replaced under warranty by Toyota. I know that this was a common issue for a number of years, however I don't know a ton about vehicles and I'm wondering if the new frame is typically viewed as more of a net positive or net negative? My instinct is that the frame is a bad sign and part of the reason it's priced so low, but I feel like most of what I'm reading online is that a new frame is typically a good thing, and that there may have been additional repairs at the time of the replacement as well. The vehicle is on a used car lot rather than a dealership, which gives that classic too-good-to-be-true feeling (although it has resoundingly good reviews across a number of sites). Assuming it otherwise has a clean maintenance history, should I have snagged this deal yesterday or should I pass on what is likely to be a problem vehicle?

 

It may have a new frame but all the other parts may be as rusty as the Titanic. Be careful, be very careful.

 

It’s not necessarily a bad thing. Good in the sense that you don’t have to worry about a rusted out frame one day (well, at least not for a long long time). However the rest of the vehicle should be inspected independent of this nice new frame. I don’t think frame replacement means anything else “is bad”. If truck was well cared for, maintained and no leaks or major repairs needed, might be fine.

Speaking for my truck - obviously I am biased toward it - I bought it without a new frame because it was well cared for, maintained, leak free, no accidents, etc. I performed a lot of remaining easy maintenance (all fluids, plugs, filters, etc) and replaced worn shocks.

But my truck’s frame was a big question mark, in spite of not seeing more than surface rust. I ended up qualifying for a new frame, and now it’s even better with new bushings and extra work done while frame was replaced. So I’d say if I was selling mine it’s a net plus to have a new frame.