OK to buy? Higher mileage Tacoma

Hey all,
I am looking for a Tacoma for my first vehicle. I would like an access cab, v6, 4x4, automatic(not a necessary if the deal is right) and under 120k miles. My budgets around 12k.
Anyways I found a 2005 with a v6 automatic, 4x4, SB, with 130k miles for $11k? Little steep miles, should I hold off and are there anything I should look out for when buying one of these?

 

That's low mileage for an 11 year old truck. And it's a Toyota. Have a mechanic check it out...but that mileage wouldn't scare me for an '05.

 

Gotcha, would a 2007 with the same options but apprently it's a trd off road with 100k miles for $13.5k be a better deal?

 

Is the 05 an SR5 or TRD Off Road? The two are different. I would personally go for the TRD OR, but the general consensus here is it depends on what you plan to do with it.

If you're gonna fully build it out...get the SR5 for cheaper and upgrade everything.

 

I have an 05 with 172k. I wouldn't worry about the mileage.

 

Scottlippy4

Welcome to Tacoma World. The mileage, 100-130 K, engines and drive train should be just fine, assuming reasonable care and regular maintenance / oil changes. Largest issue with the Tacomas in your price range would be the frames. Toyota Motor Corporation USA is currently replacing frames on some 2005-08 Tacomas on a selective basis at minimal cost to the owners. Strongly suggest having any vehicle you are considering to purchase checked out by a reputable mechanic who is familiar with that specific make and model. As for me, it would be worth the price to have it/frame inspected at the local Toyota dealership and should the frame not having been replaced then get in writing that it is good to go (receipt for the inspection.) Personally, I would favor the TRD Off Road model between the two you mentioned (it's two years newer), however, it depends on your intended use, as operating costs should be similar.

Again, Welcome to Tacoma World, an exciting and fantastic place to get many great ‘gotta-have’ ideas to eliminate all of that green stuff from your wallet.

 

I intend to daily drive it and occasional go on some trails/offroading. Use it to tow a jon boat occasionally. Put a small lift and some bigger tires, but no bigger then 33s. So what do you guys think would be good for me?

 

Get the trd off-road (assuming they are equal condition) for the use you described - similar to my intended use and the functionality of the trd OR stock will suit your needs

 

Just remember to check the frames.

 

Agreed. If all you're really looking to upgrade mechanically is the lift and tires...go with the TRD. If the TRD comes with a tow package, definitely go with it. You'll get the oil and transmission coolers as well as the upgraded alternator. As for the lift, look up Old Man Emu on TW. There's a mega thread with all the info you need. Budget friendly, and you'll be able to fit 33s.

 

I'm trying to decide between 30's and 33's and how much lift. Thanks everyone

 

What's the need for checking frames? Even if its stock? What should I look for?

 

Rust. Structural integrity.

 

Before you commit to buy even a "stock" vehicle check TW:

Do a TW search for "Rust Prevention/Treatment Consolidation Thread"

Also search for "Frame rust recall" and "2nd Gen Frame Rot"
You might, check out this thread, (109 pages of information)https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/frame-rust-recall.263311/

"BTW, an oil change is included with the frame swap. The dealership actually makes money when you use their rentals, Toyota Corp is paying for it, it doesn't come out of their pocket. It doesn't matter if you are the original owner or not...."

There may be a time limit on getting the frame inspected for rot and for TMC replacement.

 

All of this makes me somewhat Leary of getting a Tacoma. Especially since I won't have much time to inspect if I go through a private dealer auction.

 

Yeah I have a 2007 with 124k. And 11k is a good price. Little bit on lower side but what I'd be more worried about is the rust on frame(if there is any).

 

There is only one problem with 2 gen tacomas other than they only come with slush box in the dclb. And thats the frame rust issue. But they have the replacment program. All you have to do is crawl under the truck and look.

 

What's the absolute highest mileage for a 2005-2007 v6? Because my budget isn't high enough to get one under 100k miles.

 

My 2010 has 140k on it -- Toyotas ain't scared of no high mileage.

 

Really surprised nobody has mentioned to check the motor mounts. The 2005 and 06 Tacomas had known issues with mounts breaking. Other than that I would have no worries with a 100k mile Tacoma. My '06 Taco has 254k miles now. My wife still DDs it.