QUESTION: I have a 2005 Tacoma TRD Sport, 4x4, double cab, V6, automatic with the tow package. Over the years I’ve done several upgrades (suspension, airbags for towing, wheels, tires, sound system), and the frame was replaced in 2015. However, it now has a number of issues I need to address, and fixing everything at a shop would cost around $13K. I can do some of the repairs myself, but I’d still be looking at about $7-$8K in parts and a shop for what I can’t fix. I’m stuck on whether I should dump that money into repairs or buy a used 2022 TRD OR with 47K miles for around $30K.
I had a similar situation with my Subaru, and I ended up buying a used 2023 Tacoma while I fix up the Subaru to sell in the spring.
Laine said:
I had a similar situation with my Subaru, and I ended up buying a used 2023 Tacoma while I fix up the Subaru to sell in the spring.
If you fixed the Subaru, sounds like there was still enough value in it even after parts and labor?
@Jonas
My Subaru had so many issues that the local dealers were offering scrap prices. I decided to fix it up myself, and once it’s in better condition, I plan to get a better price for it.
If it’s your only vehicle, it might make sense to sell. If you’re in the Northeast, it could be worth keeping it as a third vehicle for winter use.
Joss said:
If it’s your only vehicle, it might make sense to sell. If you’re in the Northeast, it could be worth keeping it as a third vehicle for winter use.
It’s my only vehicle, so it’s my daily driver.
It would be nice to know exactly what’s wrong with the truck, so you can figure out how much of a pain it will be to keep it. $13K in repairs is almost equal to the truck’s worth, so selling might be the best option.
@Noel
Here’s the list: bent driveshaft, leaking trans pan, leaking transfer case, leaking power steering pump, new LCAs, CVs, tie rods, lights out in the dash, leaking exhaust manifold, new tow hitch, valve gasket leaks. I confirmed it with two shops and a buddy who builds off-road rigs. None of it is unfixable, but I’m hesitant to dump the money into it only for the motor or transmission to fail soon after.
That last sentence is all you really need to focus on. Spending $13K on a 240K-mile truck doesn’t seem worth it. Sell it as a mechanic’s special and put the $13K towards a new ride.
Ash said:
That last sentence is all you really need to focus on. Spending $13K on a 240K-mile truck doesn’t seem worth it. Sell it as a mechanic’s special and put the $13K towards a new ride.
I think you’re right. I just looked up my truck’s history in CARFAX… I’ve had it for almost 21 years.
I had a 2005 Tacoma for eight years before its head gaskets went, and we traded it in for a 2017. The third gen Tacoma has a lot more modern features like heated seats, navigation, and better fuel economy. The 2022 might be a better option if you’re looking for a more comfortable ride.
@Vince
Awesome! Thanks for your input. Sounds like the 2022 would be a good upgrade.