Not sure what to do...

So right now I have a 2016 DCSB SR5. Auto RWD 4 cyl. Initially I never intended to go off road or mod the truck really...then I joined this fine forum and everything has changed.

Basically now I want to do some off roading/camping with the truck. I’ve read both sides about people saying 4x4 is needed or PreRunners with lockers do just fine.

I currently have a few mods on my SR5 (3/2 Leveling kit, Method MR306 Wheels, 275/70/17 KO2s, Off road flares, trd pro grill) to name a few. I don’t mind getting better suspension components for the SR5, but don’t want to waste the time and money if it’s better to just trade it in for an off-road. I’m currently on Oahu but will return to MD/VA area in roughly a year so seasonal weather aka snow will be a factor as well.

If I were to trade it in, what would be the best way to go about that? Return to stock before trading in? Not sure how the aftermarket parts would affect trade in value.

Anyways, these have just been the thoughts consuming my brain the past few days and looking for suggestions. Sorry for the text vomit!

 

Get a 4x4. The after market stuff does nothing for resale value

 

Go back to stock wheels and grill then trade it in for the 4x4 v6.

 

4X4 V6 M/T

 

You can most likely get more money back private sale, but either way you're gonna take a little hit.

I'd take sollace in the fact that you'll take a much smaller hit trading in the vehicle with the highest resale value of any car on the road, though!

Go 4x4 and never look back!

 

Well so far it’s been all trade for a 4x4 lol. Was hoping for some reassurance that the rwd was somewhat capable of off roading but guess that isn’t the case. Thanks for the input so far, guys!

 

For off pavement driving and camping a pre-runner should be fine. Don't let 2WD stop you from having fun!
Ultimately, if you want to get into more aggressive off road adventures, upgrade to a 4X4, but in the meantime you can still use your 2X4 taco to have some fun.

 

Yeah I feel like my current one would be fine with what I want to do with it, but knowing how I am, eventually I’m gonna want more! And I think I’d rather jump to the 4x4 now rather than pour more money into this one just to trade later

 

Are you planning to ship your truck to the mainland when you move? That sounds like it would be super expensive.

If I were you I'd stick with the truck you got now, sell it when you move and buy a 4x4 when you get to MD/VA.

 

Sacrafice your current truck the volcanic gods to calm them down Then, go get a Pro

 

I agree, and buying in MD/VA is sure to be cheaper as well.

 

@RocTaco beat me to it. "Suffer" with the 2wd for a little while later and enjoy paradise for the next little while. You'll probably get a nice premium selling your trunk on the island too!

Aftermarket parts won't get you a premium, but I doubt they'll hurt you if you're selling privately over there. A lot of people are going to look at the cost of shipping aftermarket parts and may say "Hey that's not THE lift or THE wheels I wanted but they're nice and they'll do just fine".

When you land at the airport MD just have the cab drop you off at the Toyota dealer and pick up your new 4wd. Good to go!

 

Sell privately in HI. Figure a price with and w/o your mods. Value the mods at 1/3-1/2 what you paid BTW.

Buy your 4x4 of choice when you return.

I have 2wd and am fine with it. It's your requirements that lend themselves to having a 4x4.

 

If you are already looking at unloading it for an OR, I'd say keep it as is, return to stock (if you want to get the most back from what you put in it) when ready to sell/leave island, sell privately (vs trade-in) and get a new one when you get to the mainland.

No point in shipping it IMHO...

 

Hate to say it OP, but you'd just be constantly jealous of the guys with 4x4. Even the basic SR/SR5 trucks with 4x4 are extremely capable. I try offroading with 2wd for shits and giggles and I always get stuck. Click it into 4hi and I can basically do whatever I want.

 

I 100% agree with others suggesting selling it in a year when you're getting ready to leave and buy once on mainland.

However, if you MUST have one now, the best way is to post an ad yourself as a private party sale, but specify that the buyer must purchase from the Toyota dealership. Then "trade it in" and have the buyer buy it from the dealer. You can then take advantage of the tax benefits from the trade in, which hopefully helps the sting of depreciation.

But really, you have a nice truck. Just wait a year.

 

That’s really true actually. Don’t know why I didn’t think of this. This is probably what I’ll end up doing now. Thanks man!

Still willing to hear more suggestions though!

 

Honestly, with a locker on RWD on Oahu you’ll probably be fine. You’ll always want 4WD but depending on what you’re doing in most situations you’ll be good. I’d definitely buy a 4WD when you get back to the mainland if you’re not shipping it home. If you do keep your 2WD add a winch

 

Definitely don’t need it now since I don’t plan on going off-road here on Oahu. It’s more planning for fishing/camping trips once going back to the mainland. This is sounding like the route I’ll take

 

You could just leave it at longterm parking at the airport so all your tacomaworld buddies from the mainland could have a nice truck to cruise around in when they go on vacation.