Hello all. Fairly new to this generation forum. Own a 1990 pickup with the 3.0 in and enjoy the truck. Buying another as a backup/3rd vehicle in case I need to work on the 90'. I am interested in buying an advertised 2002 Tacoma. 2WD. Auto tranny, 3.4 liter, with 112,000 miles. I am hoping I can gain some insight from current owners of similar trucks.

Can you recommend any specific thing(s) I need to look/listen for when I test drive it and give a thorough look over?
Are there any common problems/complications I should know about?

Anything at all you can think of let me know. I'll be looking to test drive this coming weekend.
Thanks for all your support.
CJ

 

Check for rusted frame, but seeing that your in AZ you probably wont have to worry about it. See when the timing belt, rollers and water pump were changed last.

 

I asked an old time mechanic what to look for when buying a car one time and I'll share his advice. "Look under the hood and make sure nothins been spray painted, then drive it like you stole it. If it breaks, walk away."

 

Just look at the over all condition.

we all look at different things I could care less what the body looks like as long as there is no major damage.

I would pull the top timing belt cover and check things out. Real easy to say the timing belt has been done. Just slide the Hose clamp on the engine side of the Top hose far enough towards the radiator to move the cover to look at things.