How old can I rationally go?

Hi guys! I have been actively looking for a tacoma for about a year, but I am beginning to realize that trying to spend around 22 and have a 2015 or later model might not be possible. I know the older guys are super reliable, but my current vehicle is a 2015 model so I'd feel a little dumb trading my newer Honda for an older Toyota. Any anecdotes or facts about reliability that could justify going back a few more years as a rational choice? Any advice about choosing a year besides the earlier issues with frame rust? Also if anyone has seen Tacomas for sale or is selling one- I am looking for a double cab with 100,000 miles or less and black or dark wheels if possible. I am open to most colors and my budget tops out at about 22k!

 

Welcome to the world of stupid resale value. It can make finding a cheap one difficult

 

"Reliability" can go out the window if you aren't the original owner of the vehicle and took care of it yourself--is the unfortunate truth...

It's a higher risk $22k gamble...vehicle could break down or show up with sudden needed repairs after a short while...

 

Welcome & good luck. Tacoma and low resale value are 3 words that just don’t go together.

 

Resale means nothing if you don't sell.

Sucks buying though... It's like the stock market. It's all based on feelings.

Good luck with whatever you do!

 

Welcome aboard new member

 

What is the Honda actually worth? Just a SWAG, but lets say it's worth $12K. That means you'd have to add $10K to buy a Tacoma. I'd strongly consider keeping the Honda as my primary vehicle, and buying a much older Tacoma with the $10K. Or whatever it works out to be.

This way you can keep a newish reliable vehicle that gets good fuel mileage AND still have a Tacoma. It may be older and may need some repairs, but chances are it won't be terrible. And if it needs work you have the Honda to drive. Plus with 2 vehicles you won't be putting nearly as many miles on the older Tacoma. Use it when you want to play or need a truck. Use the Honda for reliable daily transportation and long trips.

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Maybe another consideration is how long would it take for you to recuperate spending $22k on a used truck which could be a dice-roll of you getting a dud 2nd Gen Taco and it only lasting you an additional 30-55k miles if it's already a high mileage vehicle... Think about how many of us who own Tacos 1st, 2nd, 3rd Gens who don't always do normal driving, or who use it for work, or who tinker with them more often than is necessary...also chances are a lot of us keep them until they will die, those who don't keep them could very well be selling them just before they do die for the next person to inherit the problems...

 

I sold my 2013 Civc w/10500 miles and bought a 2005 Tacoma w/ 189000 miles on it.
I have no regrets.

Edit: I do miss the acceleration.

 

Watch out for that frame rust and you should be ok.

 

Good luck finding that unicorn! I don't think there is any question as to the reliability of practically any Toyota. Obviously it comes down to how it was maintained. I have an '09 Taco and honestly the next vehicle I want is a 85-90 model Toyota pickup. You take a gamble with any used vehicle. Just make sure you take it to someone to look over if you can't yourself. You can rationally get as old of a vehicle as you can find if it suits your needs & price is right.

 

Half your age plus 7.

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...-at-47k-miles-in-socal-pictures-added.641416/

Looks like this good ole truck is for sale at the top end of your budget