Looking for Advice on Buying a Used Truck

[hapan]

Hello everyone.

I’m starting the search for a used truck and wanted to get some input from those with more experience. My main goals are finding something reliable, affordable, and practical for both daily driving and light hauling.

I’d like to avoid getting into something that will turn into a money pit with constant repairs. Are there specific makes, models, or years that stand out as good options for someone on a budget?

What are the most important things to check during inspection before committing?

Any tips, recommendations, or personal experiences would be really helpful.

 

[hapan]

Hello everyone.

I’m starting the search for a used truck and wanted to get some input from those with more experience. My main goals are finding something reliable, affordable, and practical for both daily driving and light hauling.

I’d like to avoid getting into something that will turn into a money pit with constant repairs. Are there specific makes, models, or years that stand out as good options for someone on a budget?

What are the most important things to check during inspection before committing?

Any tips, recommendations, or personal experiences would be really helpful.

thanks in advance for any help

 

[tacojoel]

Best to stay away from any truck thats been driven in the rust belt, unless you personally know the owner if the trucks been rust protected well.
Same for any gen1, or early gen2 with higher miles that maintenance records are sketchy on . I personally wouldn't buy any tacoma with over 150k miles no matter where it's been owned, unless you have decent mechanical skills.
Any truck should be throughly inspected by a recommended mechanic before you commit.

Btw, this post reminds me a lot of what happened to a younger guy here that had to have a gen1 tacoma no matter how high the mileage. The truck turned out to be a money pit disaster for him. First it was the transmission, then a few weeks later the 2.7 4 cyl. engine took a dump. His dad had to help him out by getting rid of the tacoma, and selling him his full size 10 year old chevy truck. Generally budgets, and trucks don't go together well, especially if your a first time buyer.