Buying a Used Toyota Tacoma: Everything You Need to Know

The used car market is filled with options and exciting opportunities. From finding a classic at a discount, your dream vehicle on an obscure dealer lot, a new project to make your own, or a reliable daily driver, the possibilities are endless. For those searching for a do-it-all, reliable pickup truck with a high degree of customizability, there are few options that compare to a used Toyota Tacoma.

Even with vehicles with sterling reputations like that of the Tacoma, you must be thoughtful and discerning when purchasing a used truck. This includes considering both universal used car factors and those unique to the vehicle in which you are interested. By doing your research, you can set yourself up for success, and your new-to-you Toyota Tacoma will likely exceed your expectations for years to come.

To help you navigate the sometimes complex terrain of the used car market, we have put together a guide to buying a used Toyota Tacoma. With the resources here and a little commitment to your used car hunt, you are bound to find the perfect Tacoma.

Why Buy a Used Toyota Tacoma?

Buying a new vehicle can be overwhelming. There are dozens of manufacturers, each producing numerous vehicles. When considering used cars, the options available to you dramatically increase. The number of different vehicles produced throughout the years is immense, and filtering through all the information necessary to make an informed decision can be daunting. With so many choices available, why choose a used Toyota Tacoma?

There are several compelling reasons to opt for a Tacoma when shopping for a used car. While many of these considerations might be convincing enough on their own, they are even more persuasive together. You may have personal preferences and needs that inform the factors important to you when purchasing a used car, so be sure to keep them in mind as you consider the Toyota Tacoma’s strengths as a used car option.

Reliability

Toyota is a brand focused on and known for reliability. This reputation for reliability now precedes the brand, and for good reason–Toyotas have proven themselves over the years. This trend extends across Toyota’s lineup of vehicles, and the Tacoma is no exception. There have been multiple instances of Tacomas racking up hundreds of thousands of miles and still going strong. Mechanically, all generations of the Tacoma have proven themselves to be a phenomenal choice for buyers that prioritize issue-free dependability and longevity.

One area where early versions of the Tacoma fell short is corrosion. Model years 1995 through 2010 are known to have rusting problems, with those in the range of 1995 to 2004 being particularly concerning. If considering a Tacoma from these early model years, be sure to inspect it for rust and maintain it upon purchasing.

Capability

There is a lot to like about the Toyota Tacoma, and its capability ranks high on the list. While the size of the Tacoma has grown throughout the years, all generations of the truck are capable in their own right. If you have a need for moderate hauling and towing, the Tacoma can handle those tasks without skipping a beat.

Since its introduction in 1995, the Tacoma has been rated to tow a minimum of 3,500 pounds. The maximum towing capacity has risen from 5,000 to 6,800 pounds over the years, so be sure to opt for a newer model if you plan to push the upper limits of the truck’s towing abilities. The same principle applies to the Tacoma’s payload capacity. Newer versions of the Tacoma have a higher maximum payload rating than model years 2010 and earlier.

Keep in mind that Tacomas, while capable, are not designed to perform the job of larger trucks. If you consistently max out the capacities of your used Toyota Tacoma, you run the risk of shortening its effective lifespan. For moderate towing and hauling, however, the Tacoma is an exceptional choice.

Customizability

All generations of the Toyota Tacoma enjoy strong aftermarket support, meaning you can customize your Tacoma to fit your preferences and needs. Do you want to build a budget-friendly overland truck? Maybe you want to go to Moab and tackle the toughest terrain possible. Perhaps all you are after is a reliable daily driver and the ultimate family vehicle. No matter what your goal is for your used Toyota Tacoma, the possibilities facilitated by the Tacoma aftermarket are endless.

In addition to allowing you to build your Tacoma to fit your vision and goals, having such strong support in the aftermarket community means you can keep your Tacoma in tip-top shape even as it ages. As the natural progression of wear and tear takes place, you can rest assured that parts will be available to restore your Tacoma to superb condition and functionality.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Toyota Tacoma

There is no question that the Toyota Tacoma ranks as one of the best used vehicles you can buy. Even the best of the best requires careful consideration to ensure you are maximizing your money spent and securing a vehicle that will serve you well for years to come. While the vast majority of used Tacomas are incredibly reliable and ready for a variety of uses, there are a handful of things to look for when buying one.

First, be sure to narrow your search by researching the engine, transmission, payload capacity, towing ratings, safety features, and more. For example, you may only entertain used Tacomas with the V6 engine, four-wheel drive, and modern safety features.

As such, your search for the perfect used Toyota Tacoma would be limited to third-generation models newer than 2016. The internet is your friend when it comes to comparing features and prices, so be thorough. When you’re ready, find some Tacomas to test drive. This will inform your decision by ensuring you like the particular truck, don’t want more (or fewer) features, and so forth.

Once you have your list of necessary features figured out, the real work begins. In addition to finding a Tacoma with the features you want in your price range, you will want to examine the vehicle history of each Tacoma you come across.

The majority of modern vehicles have in-depth information linked to their VIN, giving you vital information about that vehicle’s service records, accident history, recalls, title, and more.

Sometimes, dealers will pay for access to this information, so ask directly before spending your own money.

With proper research, knowledge of the truck and its pricing, and a few test drives under your belt, you should be ready to buy your used Toyota Tacoma with confidence.

If you want to go the extra mile to ensure the Tacoma you are interested in is right for you, it is not uncommon to have the vehicle inspected by a third party. This provides extra peace of mind when dealing with used trucks.

Make Your Used Tacoma One-of-a-Kind

Whether you opt for a first-gen Tacoma as the platform for your dream off-roader or a third-gen as the perfect family mobile, there is a reason Toyota Tacomas are so popular in the used car market. With legendary dependability and a myriad of features available depending on the model year, there is no doubt you can find the ideal Tacoma for you and your intended uses.

Better still, the aftermarket community for all model years of the Tacoma is incredibly strong, giving you the opportunity to modify your truck as you see fit or simply keep it running like new for years to come.

TacomaBeast has been a home for Tacoma enthusiasts for 10 years, giving Tacoma fans, owners, and future buyers the community, resources, and inspiration they need to thrive. If you are purchasing a used Toyota Tacoma, TacomaBeast is the best place to find parts, accessories, and information. From its massive catalog of Tacoma parts to its experienced experts who are only a phone call or email away, if it involves a Tacoma, you can find it here.

For more guidance regarding Tacomas, feel free to reach out. In the meantime, be sure to browse our blog. It is packed with how-to guides, valuable information, and Tacoma inspiration. Best of all, it is free and updated regularly. You can also enjoy nonstop Tacoma content via our YouTube channel. Whether you are a long-time Taco owner or purchasing your first used Tacoma, welcome to the TacomaBeast family!