Test driving used Taco tomorrow. What should I look for?

This is my first time buying a used Tacoma (any vehicle).
What should I be inspecting during the test drive?
Do you have routine you do when you inspect used vehicles?

 

I'd ask for the maintenance records first...see if the owner is/was serious about the upkeep of his vehicle. Up front, I will ask the seller to be direct and honest on what, if anything...needs replacement or repairs - 'cause if I buy it and 5 miles down the road something craps-out...I'm comin' back with a bone to pick.

 

It's not a terrible idea to take it to a mechanic to look it over. Is this a private sale or are you buying it at a dealership? If you're buying a 4x4 you probably want to test the 4x4 make sure it engages.

 

Screwed up modifications.

 

There are a lot of threads about (drivetrane?) vibrations. Seem like they are difficult to diagnose and fix. I'd look,at a few of those posts.

 

One thing I do when buying used is ask what needs repairs not does it need repairs. Put some specs of the truck up mileage price can. The driveline vibration is one but check carfax and maintenance records

 

What year? 4X4 or 2WD? Private seller or dealer? How many miles?

Take it on a nice lengthy test drive. 30 minutes plus. None of this 10 minutes around the block crap. Sit in it for the first 5 to 10 minutes testing out all the gadgets/controls/seat adjustments/visors, etc. Take it up to highway speeds to check for vibrations. Hit the brakes pretty hard to test the brakes and front suspension. Take it off road a little. Stand in the bed and bounce to check the condition of the rear suspension. Check all external lighting. Get under it and check the frame and suspension for visible problems. Get as much maintenance info as you can from the previous owner if possible.

If you decide you want it, take it to a mechanic.

 

^plus for highway test the around the block is for power wheels and electric scooters

 

Rust. Body rust around the wheels and tailgate. and frame rust. Mostly frame rust. I bought a truck knowing how much rust was on it, not anticipating a perferated frame... Toyota is replacing the frame though. Just look for rust, and look EVERYWHERE, these trucks stand tall enough stock to be able to crawl around underneath.

 

2006, 2wd TRD sport LB

 

You could probably get a TW member to look at it with you. At that point the seller will be slashing money off their asking price to get you guys to go away.

 

Everything they said plus ask for carfax. This sheet of paper will tell you if the vehicle was involved in an accident, if the vehicle is salvaged, how many owners, odometer reading, maintenance record if done at the dealer, etc....

 

If your considering buying a tacoma I highly suggest you think of what you want in a vehicle I rather you not be back here unhappy because your cup holder doesn't automatically dispense your choice of liquid in your mouth or some other luxury. It's a truck and thinking of it as such will hopefully help you make the right choice for your lifestyle.