I'm brand new here.. first post. I want to purchase a used Toyota PU.. either a Tundra or Tacoma.. prefer 4x w/ either a stretch or 4dr.. not particular.

My question(s) pertain to specific year models to watch out for. I know Toyota has a great reputation.. but, I assume that every mfg has some years that are better/worse for problems than others.

That said.. are there any year models I should be aware of for problems? My pref's are relatively later models.. maybe 97 thru 04

Finally, if I decide to purchase a NEW truck.. are there any ways to purchase at fleet prices like one can do with Ford/Chev, etc? Most large truck forums have instructions on how to get the best prices. I haven't had a Toyo since about '85 and there was very little negotiation at that time.

Thanks for any help.

 

If you are looking strictly '97 and newer, there is no year or model that is better or worse than another. The 3.0 motor in the pre-95's had a few issues but people still get gobs of miles out of them.

For the Tundra you can get a 6 cylinder with a stick but not auto, or the V8 with an auto but not stick. The 6's are really hard to find and in a truck that size you probably would want the V8 anyway. Tacomas are great in any configuration but if you want the double cab, they only come with an auto tranny. The 4 cylinder manual gets great mileage in 2WD and is very capable with 4WD. Add a TRD package with a locking rear diff and you'll have a truck that can go almost anywhere you want.

You can only get fleet pricing if you buy several new trucks a year or own a business with a tax ID number. Toyota does not offer GMS pricing on new vehicles like they do for Chevy's and GMC's. Toyota rarely has factory incentives, like rebates or 0% interest specials because they make such a good product that they really don't have to offer incentives for buyers. There are some occaisionally.

I sold Toyotas for a few years up until 2003, and I can tell you that Tacomas generally have about $1500-$1800 markup over invoice and Tundras have closer to $2200. There is still not much negotiating on new Toyotas.

For used models in your area check AutoTrader

 

If you get the Tundra,
2000-2002 had brake problems, a TSB from Toyota was the fix. Later models seem to be cured of this.
I'd definitely recommend the V8/auto, with a tranny cooler its troublefree and strong.
If you are serious off road, find one without the LSD and have a locker installed.
If you buy new make sure you find out the dealer costs on the truck and the options you want, it'll help a little with the dealing.
Other than a recent deer incident I've had 0 probs with my '03. (KOW)