Recently bought an auto. Would like to trade into to a manual. Looking for Advice.

First of all, please don't make this an auto vs manual debate. I just want advice on how to move forward. I can understand all the complaints about the auto trans, but honestly they don't really bother me. For me it is just simply more about the fact that I enjoy driving sticks. I didn't think I would miss it (I didn't miss it at all for the first week or so), but as time goes by, I really, really miss driving a stick.

I've gone back and forth multiple times between severe regret and acceptance (and even convincing myself a few times that the auto might actually be better for me), but have come to the conclusion that I simply just need to do what I need to do in order to get back into driving a stick. The auto trans definitely has some upsides and while there are days where I am glad I have an auto, I just don't feel right unless I have a stick.

So anyway. Here are the facts:

• Truck is 2018 TRD Off Road AT w/tech package
• Current miles are only 2,000
• Currently financed via Toyota at 0%
• 0% not available via Toyota anymore, but could probably get 1.9% via local credit union
• KBB value of my truck for dealer trade is currently 30-32k
• I was originally quoted 32k for a 2018 manual (with no packages or add-ons) that I almost bought instead of the AT. I imagine I can probably get pretty close to that price on a 2019 one if I really work the dealerships. There are currently a few in the area being listed for $34k right on the website.

With the good resale value of Tacomas and the fact that I am actually downgrading in terms of price (a manual with no packages is a fair bit cheaper than an auto w/tech package), I am not in a terrible spot really. I could sell it privately and maybe even come out even, but the KBB value is literally MORE than what I even paid for the truck. It seems that you can get a better deal for a brand new one at the dealer. My biggest issue is that I got the 0% via Toyota, and I wouldn't be able to get that until they offer it again, so even if I got back to my original financed amount, I would still take a hit on the payments from losing the 0%.

So, not sure if it is best to take the hit and trade it ASAP to mitigate my depreciation, or wait a bit to make the trade. I could always wait for the 2020 models to arrive since they have some pretty decent upgrades.

 

Personally I think your best bet is to sell it privately before you buy the new truck. Timing all depends on if you have another vehicle and can take your time both selling this one and buying the next one.

And as for the new truck, I think the 2020 is worth the wait. The lights and radio headunit would be worth it just themselves.

Good luck!

 

You could buy a used MT

 

Just wait till 2020
That will give you time to make some payments and get some use out of it
Your state offer tax credit on trade in value? This could help
I wouldnt sweat 0% much unless your getting 10% interest rate outside of 0% ?
There might be some financing offers later on when 2020 is out
And dont downgrade in options, get what you want in manual

 

Yep I get tax credit on trades, so if I build up some equity and trade it in when the 2020 models are in, then I should be in a pretty good spot and also take advantage of the next gen updates.

Probably will go that route. I can live with the auto for a year or two.

 

Two words: Jeep Gladiator

 

One word........ ugly

 

Haha, yeah. A bed just doesn't work on a Jeep IMO.

 

I went this route from my ‘18 2wd SR5 to ‘18 TRDOR 6MT.. it wasn’t too bad. I got close to what I paid in trade and got the MT for 32 flat. I had good equity in the first one so I got a decent tax credit as well. Do what makes you happy.

 

If you are reverse nickel and diming yourself than maybe you just live with the auto and buy a stick next time. How much more enjoyable will it really be? Is that worth the hassle and depreciation? If “it’s not the money”, than just do it and don’t look back. If you have the disposition to not look back than maybe do so now with your top of the line awesome truck with its pseudo stick.

 

Start shopping dealers now and you may be surprised what deal they will make...
If not your just out some time.

Doubt there will be any deals on the 2020 until it’s been out for 8 months or more.

But......personally I’d wait for the 2020

Whatever you decide the switch to three pedals is worth it

 

I would just go to the dealer and see what kind of deal they can make you. The interest isn't a big deal payment around 559 @ 1.9% vs. 533 @ 0% (60 months 0 down). From my experience even though manuals are harder to find, dealers were more willing to negotiate on them if they have somebody ready to make a deal.

Just be upfront with the dealer tell them what you would like to do and what they need to do to make a deal with you. Do not settle for less or fall in love with the truck if they can't make the deal just wait it out till you find the deal that is right for you.

I wouldn't be afraid to buy a used low mileage Tacoma especially if it's certified it extends the warranty to 7 year 100,000 and had it's service done at the dealer (which all toyotas should have) so that is something to consider. check out truecar.com

 

I vote wait for the 2020 as well, unless the '19s go fire-sale pricing once people see the updates coming.

 

Less attractive... more everything else.
Believe me. Im disappointed to say it. I really wanted the Taco to be a long-termer but the power, acceleration, towing capabilities, behavior and versatility of the Gladiator all trump it. Maybe OV Tune's work will change my mind but as it is, I wish Jeep's new truck had come out two years ago.

 

No Jeep hate here. I’d own another.......
Two doors please