Would you buy this 2001 tacoma?

Hello,

Looking to buy my first Tacoma here in Vancouver B.C. without breaking the bank. And would appreciate some advice on whether to consider buying this Tacoma or just stay away.
What price do you think it’s worth?
I’ve learned that these truck can last forever if properly maintained.
Here is the info I got from Craigslist.
Hope to be a part of this community soon!

 

Honestly, 12k CAD isn't too bad, but it's going to be dependent on a few things:

• Mileage. How many miles/km has this thing been driven? I saw they mentioned "lots of highway driving" but failed to mention any sort of odometer readings.
• Drivetrain. Does this truck have a V6 or a 4cyl? Is it a Prerunner/2WD or a 4WD? 4WD increases the value greatly, for good reason.
• Frame Condition. As for any vehicle driven in a temperate climate for long periods of time, and especially on 1st gen Tacomas, frame rust is a HUGE problem. When you check it out, crawl underneath with a flashlight and inspect for ANY rust. Spot/surface rust isn't awful, just be aware that it will get worse as time goes on. If there's anything that looks even remotely deep-rooted, run away.

Now, I'm sure I missed some things, but this is definitely somewhere to start. Best of luck to you!

 

Thanks axinex for the quick reply. I forgot to add the following pic but your advise helps.

 

That'll do it. I'd say as long as everything drives okay and the frame looks good when you go to check it out, I'd say it's not a bad deal. Check out the 1st Gens For Sale section on the forums here to get a better idea of pricing, and be mindful of the exchange rates!.

 

Thanks axinex for your time. I’ll find this thread you mentioned!

 

First, if it's listed at $12k, it's supposed to be a pristine condition truck. Keep that in mind while inspecting it
The average price for a good condition truck is around $6k- $7k (Though, double cabs may fetch a little higher).

So, the first thing to check on these trucks, is for frame rust. These trucks are known to suffer from severe frame rust and rot issues.
Anyway, for $12k, it better have none, or minimal rust at least.

Then, you check if the truck is mechanically sound.
Things to consider: engine itself (particularly timing belt, as it is a v6), smooth shifting transmission, suspension (worn spring leaf and shocks), ball joints, other normal wear and tear items, condition of body and interior.

The only thing that makes me tick is the mileage. Even if it was well maintained, it should be okay, but I wouldn't pay $12k for a 400k truck, even if it's in pristine condition. Try to negotiate on that. Also, you can get a pristine truck with much lower mileage in the same price range or even cheaper (if you're patient)

EDIT: I answered in a canadian perspective, as I am a fellow canadian

 

Thanks onakat! This info helps a lot! Good to know that at $12k truck should be pristine!!
I also saw another taco but 2003 and with 212km at $13k. But I guess it will be easier to negotiate the taco with higher mileage assuming that the inspection goes well!
Thanks for your input.

 

also, if that can help you
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/1st-gen-tacoma-buyers-guide.156943/

 

It looks very clean to me, specially since is a first gen, I believe this type of truck is very expensive in Canada so as far as the price I would say is not a cheap truck but not a crazy price.

 

So the price on these guys highly depends on location. They're a gem somewhere, and much cheaper in other places. Now with that said, from this forum that's a gem. Double cab 4x4 and with a camper shell, that's just a bonus. With that also said, 400k miles is alot. That doesn't mean it's a no go, but I would highly recommend having it taken to a mechanic for a very, very in depth prepurchase inspection.

 

12k for an engine with 400k on the clock.
wow, I wouldn't spend that even if it wasn't my money I was spending.

 

Looks like a good truck, but check the frame for sure. Definitely the best color Toyota ever made! And make them a much lower offer...

 

Way too many miles. Should be asking 6k

 

That is an ignorant response. Too many good parts on that truck and if it truly was highway miles it could last longer than a poorly maintained Tacoma with 250k
EDIT: Not saying is worth 12k but definitely not 6

 

Can agree more, crazy to think I paid 3800US for my truck and I've seen them for abut 5,500-6k in California, even more!

 

400k miles whew*, gotta love tacomas! I wouldn't want an original frame with 400k miles though. I don't see a $12k taco, with the history I wouldn't pay more then 5k.

 

Its in Canada so the 400k is kilometers and not miles, correct? So 250,000 miles. And $9,600 usd.

Being in California that seems like a normal price if its in good or better condition.

Not too many double cab 4x4s under $8k usd here. But with that said i’ve never looked at the price for non trd-off roads.

 

Not worth 12k i'd pass

 

Oh shit, I didn't think about that, if all those numbers are in Kilometers and Canadian dollars.

 

Frame,