'01 I4 XCab 4x4

So, I'm about to check out the Tacoma I posted about a few days ago and was wondering what I should look for when inspecting the vehicle. It's a 2001 I4 extracab 4x4 with automatic transmission. I'm also looking to see if anyone has feedback on what power is like on this particular model. I was hoping for a manual, but for $5,500 (101k miles)...can't really be choosey.

Tried looking for a "buyer's guide" thread or something, but couldn't. Thanks in advance!

*EDIT: When they say it's "too good to be true", it most likely is. Check out the reply I got from the seller of this killer deal:

Hello again,
Now I work as a photographer for National Geographic and for the next couple of moths I will be in Tibet. I would preferred as well to talk to you on the phone but in this assignment we are using satellite phones only to communicate with our headquarters. Lucky I have internet connection with no restrictions .The reason that i am selling my baby is that for time being i do not need it and i need money urgently.
The total amount that you will pay is $5,580 with shipping and transfer fees included . First payment is $2,580 and the rest of payment($3,000) you can make after you receive the car and decide to keep it.
Shipping will be done via DAS and it will take no more then 2-3 days top (depending on your exact location).
I will try to tell you in few words how the process works through Google Checkout.
Google Checkout services accept and hold payment from the buyer until the buyer receives and approves the merchandise. Only then do they forward the payment to the seller. You will send the payment to Google Checkout .
You will receive all the original documents and keys with the car. I signed all the paperwork and the clear title is ready to be transferred to the new owner.
They will hold in trust the funds and advise me to ship to your address. You will get the car and test drive it, inspect it etc for 5 days. After that you will have to confirm with Google Checkout that you like it and I will get paid at that time.
If you don't like it you will get your money back in full and I will get my car back and try to find another possible buyer. This will be at no cost for you so it's your decision.
If you are really interested in the purchase please get back to me asap with your full name,phone number and shipping address so I can forward them at Google Checkout in order to open a case and they will guide you through the rest of the process so we can complete this deal successfully and in the best manner.
They will contact you with all the instructions step by step on how to complete the transaction.

Thank you,
Janine

 

Check for frame rust

Make sure the timing belt and water pump were replaced

I always like to look at the tires and the wear. Is it wore evenly on all 4? And weird wear patterns? Someone who takes care of their tires is more than likely someone who takes care of their truck.

 

Which I-4 engine has a timing belt?

 

Heres a buyers guide I threw together:
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/1st-gen-tacomas/156943-1st-gen-tacoma-buyers-guide.html

 

My bad.

Obviously I do not know as much about the engines as you.

Next time I'll make sure my response will be more worthy of your reading.

 

Thanks for the responses! The person hasn't replied back in a couple days. Hoping she does soon. Though, it may be a scam.

 

Might be. I dont think I've ever seen a 01-04 1st gen go for 5500 regardless of mileage.

 

And I don't know as much about engines as some others. I don't post what I don't know.

Your post was worthy of my reading, I need a good laugh every now and then.

 

Ha! I edited my original post and pasted the email SCAM the seller sent me.

 

Yeah I had a feeling it was a scam 5500 seemed way to low for a 01. I dont think you can even get a non prerunner regular cab with 150k miles for that price in Socal.

 

SCAM.....

 

My friend bought a 2003 prerunner access cab v6 auto with 120k for 5400...and later sold it for 8k with 140k on it. Said they guy he bought it from had NO idea what he was talking about or what he even had.

But ive had people try to scam me with saying they will be gone to other countries and shit like that so i know its a scam, just thought id throw my friends experience out there.