Canadian vehicle now in the U.S

Ok, so I'm planning to purchase a 2008 TRD sport double cab 4x4. I recently discovered the frame rust service campaign and everything so I am concerned. I talked to a dealer and gave them the VIN. They said the only recall was on the leaf springs but the vehicle originated in Canada so they cannot perform the recall. I'm confused by this. Also, I live in OH which is part of the 20 state "salt belt" that was supposed to get frames replaced. I just don't know now whether or not to purchase this vehicle. I'm wondering if anyone has had similar experiences and how they were resolved. If I am to get recall work done I wouldn't want to have to have it done in Canada. Can someone please give some help/advice/guidance?

 

You really should be able to get it done anywhere, try calling another dealer?

 

I personally would not buy any truck that was in the years effected by the frame problems. Sorry but I don't want to deal with it. It is asking for a freaking headache. Especially if this will be your only vehicle. Even if you have to frame swap, it can take months.

 

Remember, frame replacement only happens if they find large rust holes. Otherwise the dealer sprays a corrosion-inhibiting compound and typically does a very sloppy job (because warranty work pays little). Due to poor application, the spray may do more harm than good.

Get the truck inspected before buying. If frame is in good shape, buy it. If there's significant rust, walk away. Note the rust starts from the inside, so the shop should use an endoscope to check the frame (suspect areas are next to the catalytic converters).

 

You won't enjoy crossing the border to have work done if that is the case. It's not a Canada thing, it's a border crossing thing. That could get messy and complicated for you. I'm from Cleveland originally and used to live in Toronto...it is 3 plus hours to the Peace Bridge in Niagara or about the same to Detroit.

Find a different truck!

 

When I had my frame inspected for the rust, they didn't apply anything over the frame. Of course TN doesn't apply road salt very often, but my dealer sent me on my way without any "anti-rust spray".

 

Ok thanks guys. Aren't like nearly all years of Tacomas affected by the frame problems except for new vehicles? I will be buying this truck used most likely with no warranty so will that affect me trying to have the leaf springs that were recalled replaced and if needed the frame sprayed/replaced? I can't afford a brand new vehicle at this point so I was really hoping this would work out.

 

The frame rust campaign currently covers 2005-2008 models , but I expect its only a matter of time before it is expanded

 

Just got off the phone with Toyota Canada and they indicated service could be performed in the U.S. but the dealer will have to call Toyota Canada to confirm it can be repaired and falls under recall. They also told me according to the VIN that the vehicle already had been serviced in regards to the frame corrosion but could not tell me whether or not it had been replaced or just sprayed. He also said it has a 15 year warranty on corrosion to the frame because of the service campaign

 

There's a lengthy thread here about the frame rust treatment (68 pages) continuously updated with new information. Read through it all and be familiar with the campaign. There are both success stories and disgusting workmanship issues reported: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...aign-for-corrosive-resistant-compound.329708/

As with any used vehicle purchase, have it inspected top-to-bottom, including checking the frame for severe rust. If you see severe rust, walk away and find another used Tacoma (plenty out there). Don't buy a heavily rusted truck and attempt to get the frame replaced by Toyota - too many potential roadblocks and potential problems down the line (effectively a single mechanic taking apart your truck and putting it back together).

Leaf pack replacement, even if you have to get it done out of pocket at an independent shop, isn't cost-prohibitive (~$400). Work scope is relatively small considering the number of people here who have installed lift kits.

 

bypass the dealer and call toyota.com

 

there are some good points brought up regarding your query
here's more.
I live in Canada and just sold my 07 to a guy in Washington state.
the importation was easy. He did send me the following link that I had not been aware of.
http://www.tacomahq.com/2629/driveline-vibration-expand-tsb/
over all get the truck checked out properly as any prudent buyer should.
Unfortunately I've had some less than great experiences in pre purchase inspections. i.e. they did a lousy job.
Don't go to the sellers shop. Find your own and find out what they are going to inspect.
shops here charge $100 an hour so you don't get much for $100. Also I have not been happy with CAA (automobile assoc) pre purchase inspections.
Toyota will cover Canadian truck warranty in the states. If you go through with the sale register yourself as the new owner with Toyota.com

re leaf springs, mine lost spring at 100,000 miles and I put in Firestone Ride Rites. Same price as new springs and I feel did a better job.
good luck.