Sons getting his license

So I’m getting old, my oldest is about to start driving. Of course I’m putting him in a Toyota. I was looking at Tacoma’s but they really hold there value. Long story short guy I work with has a 96 Tacoma LX 4x4 147k on the clock wants 3k. I know some of y’all come from Tacoma’s or still have them. What are some things to look for on these other then frame rot. Also I plan on if the deal goes through to do a full tuneup, all fluids, belts, plugs, wires, ext. What else should I be looking to change on a Tacoma this old with those miles.

 

Since you mentioned 4x4. I would try shifting in 4x4 to see any weird sounds or if it’s engaging correctly. Any major leaking, or major accident that causes repair of framework.

 

Thanks, yeah I really want to take a good look under the truck. If there’s no rot and as you mentioned 4x4 engages properly I’m probably going to pull the trigger.

 

We put our young one in a two wheel drive two door Tacoma. With roll down windows and no back seat. Wasn’t no way they were packing a bunch in that truck and go to who knows what!!! When it was traded everyone was all smiles because of the money back, even with hail dents!!

 

Oh,,, Congrats,, I hope he is safe and watches out for all the others out there who are not!!!

 

Tacomas an ok truck. Not the best crash ratings (it’s a truck on a frame after all) and remember if you end up looking at the newer 05-15 models that you need to check for frame rust. You should probably check that 96 too, but the second gens had a massive recall for it. If it was me, I’d get him a regular cab, short bed, 5 speed. Can’t fit too many hooligans in that lol.

 

Pay a real mechanic to inspect the truck for you.

 

That does not sound like a bad deal if everything checks out mechanically. There are many of those trucks around with double or triple those mileage.
When my son started driving I put him in a Toyota also (he wanted a Camry) and my daughter just got her permit, so I am starting to look for a Corolla for her.

 

If it is a 3.0L V6 I would be careful. They were famous for head gaskets. Other than that the normal rust issues.
This will be me in a year & my son wants a white TRD Four Runner. S&%t, so do I!