Checking out this 2003 tomorrow...thoughts

Here it is. Kind of high miles for a 2003. 226,492

I've always owned Toyotas and my 99 Tacoma V6 I sold it with 200 original clutch.

How are these auto transmissions? Any major problems?

http://www.etradeautosales.net/2003_Toyota_Toyota_Chantilly _VA_195433494.veh#

 

I gotta say I love my truck ands have had zero mechanical issues, I tend to take it in for regular maintenance. I think I have about 108K on it now. That being said, that truck averaged about 22K a year on driving. I would have a trusted person/mechanic look it over real fine like, maybe check out the bearings, joints, TRANSMISSION, etc of other things that would/could possibly be going out with the mileage. The price isn't too bad but I betcha could get them down another $2K. Don't forget to negotiate the price NOT THE PAYMENT.
Good luck on the hunt.

 

Seems a bit high for a stock Xtra cab w/ 227k miles. 4x4's are worth more but you should try to talk him down a bit. If he's not willing to budge then, if your able, keep looking.

 

Price is too high for that kinda mileage on an xtra cab. Knock em down to 6 or 7. Dealerships are sometimes kinda sketchy, make sure it's a clean title, everything works etc.

 

I like Auto on truck and daily driver I've always been driving manual since I started and still drive manual on my summer car a mustang but automatic is just so easy to drive in traffic, offroad, sand, mud and just enjoying the trail. I mean you're not going to downshift rev match toe heel and all that stuff in track with a v6 truck are ya?

If the rust aren't bad I'd say go for it, I am happy with mine its an 04 parts are more expensive compared to say F150 but they last alot longer

 

That is a bunch of miles....do a CarFAX and ask the following....was the water pump replaced around 100k and then after 200K
Was all recall issues fixed or reviewed by a Toyota dealer?
Was the frame, spare tire lifter, seat belt anchor bolt, lower ball joint...examined?

Check to see if the frame is bent under the bed....this is a common issue for trucks that either have a tire carrier on the bumper or been off roading really hard.

It should be in the $5,000-$6,000 range for a non-TRD/Limited version.

 

A few observations:

1.)The mileage is too high for the price, regardless of if it has 4x4. It should be at least $1,000-$1,500 less.

2.) It looks like it has a Check Engine Light on or they took the picture with the keys in on position in the ignition.

3.) Judging by the tail, it probably has some signs of rust underneath. Make sure to check out that frame.

4.) The truck may have been involved in a front end collision. That chrome upper bumper looks "off" and there are no holes, or license plate for that matter in the front lower valence.

Overall when you check it out. If something doesn't feel right trust your instincts and don't be afraid to walk away.

 

whatever the previous owner was towing kept hitting and scraping the chrome coating off the bumper causing it to rust like that so the frame may be ok but definitely check it out for soft rust spot. Mileage is high should be around 150K miles for that price. Used Tacomas are actually quite expensive in the state compared to Canada...I know I know we have a lot more snow and salt here

 

X2

 

Again-trust your instincts-do not be afraid to walk away.
Call the previous owner-they should have his number.
Car salesmen do not always tell the truth! LOL
A little old lady owned it and had long travel days to the DR.
She had her "scooter" in the trailer hitch--that is the reason for the wear.

 

You should also check the rear diff locker.

If they're using that as a selling point, check it.

With that many miles and unknown usage, you might not get it to lock.

Just my .02 along with all the good suggestions above me ^^^

 

PMd!

 

Thanks guys....I went to look at it and walked away. Dealer was legit, A rating on BBB and another independent review from customers...

but this truck had MAJOR rust on the frame, the hitch, bumper, etc....I've never seen so much rust in my life. Even still, he would only go down to $8500. No way, Jose!! Supposed to look at a 2001, 5spd, much better condition tomorrow. We'll see!