With 1st gen prices...

I’m considering trying to find a 2nd gen to purchase. I had a then new 2006 SR5 Tacoma way back in 2006 but that was a lifetime ago and I didn’t keep it long. I had no complaints however.

I’m comfortable and used to my 1st gen platform but I’d like some insights into the 2nd gen, specifically it’s life expectancy. My truck is an auto and I’m missing manual, badly.

I’d like to find a 4.0 w/manual. I’ve done some looking about which years of the 2nd gen are ideal. I’m not too concerned about the secondary air 2012 stuff, or the front grill facelift, etc. I plan to tinker on it so it probably wouldn’t stay unmolested for long.

I suppose my question is, what are dealbreakers in this search? What mileage is “too high”? Frame rust is a given to look for.

Best example I found so far locally (I’m in Sacramento CA) was a 2011 TRD OR 4.0 manual with about 147,xxx miles for $22k. Sounds alright to me, but 2nd gen is foreign to me.

Thanks all!

 

The frame is a deal breaker.
I wouldn’t want an 05 or 06 unless the head gaskets have been replaced.
As for mileage. I’d say 250k/300k is getting close to the time when you start seeing timing chain stretch and/or wear. If you have the correct tools, you can check it yourself. But most people don’t.

I’d go with an 09+ (Or 07’-08’ OR if you like simplicity)

 

This listing looks good to me but I'm wondering why it's been for sale so long. I found listings back in 2020 for $1,000 less than it's listed price now. If I tried to acquire this truck I would absolutely negotiate down to below $20k, period. I don't pay markup just because.

How does this look to the discerning eyes of this forum?

https://sacramento.craigslist.org/ctd/d/sacramento-2011toyota-tacoma-v6-4dr/7308064429.html

 

Get the VIN and check the records. My bet is a history of accidents. There was a 07 near me when I was looking, seemed good until I checked the VIN and saw 5 accidents, 3 of which were considered severe. That thing sat for a few months.

 

I actually did just that from a few different free sites. All came back as one owner, no accidents. Recalls done, etc.

Sort of seems too good to be true, still though. And it's been listed since late 2020. I'd rather find a single OWNER to deal with directly. Dealerships/used car lots make me extra skeptical by default.

 

Sorry, I can not wrap my head around spending 20k for a 10 year old truck w/ 150k miles. I get that you're in Cali but still.....

 

Forgive me for I am about to blaspheme. Who has an opinion on the current Wranglers? I know, I know. I've read some less than stellar things about steering issues and flex plates over heating. Seems they solve those things with software updates. Flex plate over heating is "fixed" by software essentially nerfing torque potential. Steering is also fixed via software updates.

Even if I did end up buying a Wrangler I am not parting ways with my Tacoma, period. It's a known entity and I trust the hell out of it. Don't miss not having a car payment for years either. But dammit I DO miss having a manual transmission. Buying or finding a used manual trans vehicle that fits my criteria isn't happening. A Wrangler Sport S is pretty close to the bottom of the trim level but still pricey at around $38k. That's the model I am eyeing.

 

I don't know my jeeps, but general consensus around work seems to be they haven't been good since they ditched the YJ.

 

I scheduled a test drive on Saturday so we shall see how it drives. 4 door Sport S, 6 speed manual.

If nothing else it’ll make me appreciate my Tacoma even more, if that’s possible.

 

30 year old Ford F350s are selling for 20k-30k !

 

supply and demand. Nobody wants to spend 80k on a truck when you can get an RV for only a little more lol

OP. Stay away from earlier year 6 speeds, they were redesigned due to some issues. Same thing as mentioned with head gaskets, motor mount issues on early on 2nd gens. 08 is the right year before the electronics started. 2011 is the right year before the air pump and face lift.

 

Thank you for those specifics!

 

You’re welcome. Here’s a very detailed post describing the changes. And an very informative thread on the 6 speed in general!

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...smissiom-write-up.338840/page-8#post-22265867