New to Tacomas, wondering if this is a good deal?

Hello all, I recently decided I wanted a pick up for various life/work reasons. I’ve decided on getting a Tacoma and I’ve found this 2010 Tacoma with roughly 33,000 miles. I live in Ohio and apparently this one has come from Canada. This is going for $16,500 and I’ve driven it and from my limited knowledge it seems to ride good. But I’m leery given it’s a car lot dealership. They do have fairly good reviews and a good BBB rating, but I’m worried about rust and other issues that maybe long time Tacoma owners can advise me better on. I’ll be honest the frame in person looks a little more “rusty/flakey” if that makes sense. I really appreciate any input as I’m fairly new to all of this. Big thanks in advance!

 

The frame has been coated with something by the looks of it. Sometimes that means it's been protected, sometimes that means they're covering something up. Hard to tell in the pics.

I'd get a 3rd party mechanic to do a pre-sale inspection. And/or get under there with a hammer and start tapping around on the frame. If it's soft you'll know..

And welcome to TW

 

If you’re going to invest in a truck, spend the extra $$ to get what you want. You gonna be satisfied with the basic model or will a 4wd serve you better in the long run? These trucks hold their value.

 

Looks like it may have been Krowned recently. If it's slimey, it's probably Krown. Check for the black plugs around the door jambs etc. Check the carfax for service records. Can't tell if there is any delamination going on with the frame or soft spots near the cat from the pics. Engine compartment and reservoirs look clean. Put it up on a hoist and do a little more digging.
Good luck.

 

Frame looks good, looks recently rust proofed, too.

Engine bay looks cleaner than my 2016

Look for any coolant leaks, I believe that generation of 2tr-fe had the plastic coolant bypass pipe

 

I just sold my 2007 with 165k for 15,000.00.. same access cab but a sport edition. It was well maintained and had some minor modifications. I was it's only owner.

From what I see, you don't have 4x4. But if you never plan on using it who cares..

go find some g3 rims for it please...
I hope that helps you evaluate the price.

 

Welcome aboard!

The photos are welcome, but the best advice is to get an independent inspection. Preferably someone with experience looking at that generation of Tacomas. If you are serious about buying that vehicle, the cost of inspection will pay for itself down the road.