Help with deciding what to buy

Hey guys, I'm 18 and looking to buy my first vehicle. I have been wanting a Taco for a long time, and have enough savings to buy one. I am looking for one in roughly the 13k price range, but have had difficulty finding what I want. Ideally this is what I am looking for:

09
Black
4x4
Double Cab
6ft bed
~160k miles
~$13,000

Is this even really reasonable? I have been searching for weeks and have not found what I am looking for. I did find something close, but it had some issues with the steering system. I found an 05 silver double cab 5ft bed, 4x4, 170k miles, $12,2. This seems like a really good deal, and I wouldn't mind spending a little less. Plus I do like the silver. I am not in a super big hurry to get a truck, but I'm gonna need one here within a month or two. Is this a steal of a deal assuming it is in good condition, or do ya'll think it's likely I'll find something better?

Thanks!

 

05-06’ have had some issues with the head gaskets.
I’d pass on those years unless they have been done.

INSPECT the Frame on any year models.

DC is going to be harder to find in your price range.
I would think an AC would be easier to find in your price range?

 

Use suggestions from this site as guidelines, but, the advice is above could save you a lot of heatburn.

 

Thanks guys! yes, I am doing all I can to avoid a salvage title @whatstcp!

 

I had been looking at one for a little while, but then I thought more reasonably abt it. lol

 

My friend who's a retired mechanic is gonna go with me to check one out. I'll keep ya'll posted.

 

I did extensive research when truck shopping. I chose access cab, v6, manual transmission 2 wheel drive. The Tacoma used market is already pretty small, those options further shortened what can be found.

I agree with what others said about frame & mechanic inspection. The peeling clear coat suggestion cracks me up. I’ve had a few, the added bonus is an additional theft proof feature. I guess they don’t want to steal or break into something ugly.

 

Where are you located? I'm happy to help you search through some options.