Over from the Bimmerfest

Newbie here. Newbie to anything automotive really aside the bimmers. That world I can navigate with ease spending 30 years in it, but I never owned or purchased anything but.

I did drive Hilux all over South America, so, when I found it necessary to drive on the rougher roads in a vehicle with my preferred manual transmission, Tacoma seemed to be the only choice.

That being said, I know nothing about the way to approach ordering a new track and don't want to become a patsy. I can build it online alright, but there is a myriad of accessories, some are "dealer installed". Would I be better off going aftermarket with some, but not the others: for example I am looking to get a 2023 TRD Off-Road double cab with 6spd manual. I presume I need the TRD lift kit ordered from the dealer, but will I save money with aftermarket skid plates and steps?

Then there is a matter of ordering: I read here that one can't really submit the build specs to the dealer to have the truck made just so, but that the dealer needs to "search for it for you". And then there is a deposit charged for the service? Again this would be a very alien experience for me coming from the way I used to purchase cars before.

Perhaps this tread isn't the best to ask those questions. If that's the case I would appreciate being directed to the proper forum.

 

If Electric Lime Green double cabs are your thing. Every dealer seems to have at least one on the lot.

 

I think you need to determine what you'll need the skids/lift/etc for. You can go aftermarket and you'll have more options for spring rates, etc w/ the lift. So if you intend to do all of those things, you might want to just get a base model that fits your needs then mod it from there. Adding thicker and heavier skids, bumpers is going to add weight. Same with the sliders or steps. You can have a bunch of different configurations from aftermarket companies vs the basic steps from dealer which won't do shit for you if you plan to bang up against some rocks.
So yea, just be honest w/ yourself and the intentions of the truck and then go from there based on needs.

 

Welcome to TacomaWorld

 

Welcome!
You'll probably have an over abundance of information to sift through, here, but there's a huge amount of good stuff to learn.
I've also had a few BMWs, and have loved every one (all various generations of 5 series manual transmissions)

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Thank you all for warm welcome!