In the market for a 01-04 Tacoma double cab. found an 03 with 224,000 miles. Question is: how much is too much? the price is right, but i need a dependable vehicle. Are there certain things i should look for / issues to be aware of with this particular motor and year model?

details:
automatic
v6
4x4
double cab
basically all stock

Any help would be great.

 

They can easily go 400000+ if maintained right. Ask what oil and how often, the use of the truck. Was it abused and ridden rough? How often did they use 4wd? Have the replaced anything? Have they had major repairs? And thats the basic questions. You should check the interior and test drive it. If you know anything about engines and stuff, you could check that out as well.

 

By the way, tacomas are VERY dependable.

 

the vehicle is located on a car lot. they buy vehicles at auction so it's not likely they will have any information from the PO. I test drove it and it still runs strong. small leak on the passenger side valve cover gasket (it appeared). and there was some coolant leaking from the top radiator hose from what I could tell. only other concern was that it had a trailer brake controller installed, so I know the truck was used to tow something heavy. so the transmission is a concern.

 

You probably can patch the leak, and it could be from towing a boat. Alot of guys put them on that tow boats. I got mine and have the controller, and have never towed a thing. Looks for signs of wear near the back bumper, tailgate, hitch receiver, and back fenders... Make sure they havent been hit with whatever he towed.

 

Check to see if the trans fluid looks/smells burnt. Most states require trailers over a certain weight capacity to have brakes.

 

Unless there's adequate records detailing fluid changes, maintenance, and general care, I'd avoid it. Even perfectly cared for, parts start failing at that mileage. Mostly, good prices are too good to be true. If you go with it, I'm sure it could last another 100k, but if you don't, rest assured you didn't pass on a gem.

 

Toyotas can last trust me. Just make sure theres nothing wrong.

 

There are plenty out there??

Since you never mention a $$$ figure who can say.

It all comes down to just how bad you think you want this one.

It could be time for a new timing belt the last owner would have had to pay to get done and decided to trade it or sell it.

Always something to think about.

Seems I always need to put another $1000.00 in what ever I buy.