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2004 best year for first gen.?

Discussion in '1st Gen Tundras (2000-2006)' started by Chappy, Apr 25, 2017.

  1. Apr 25, 2017 at 10:26 AM
    #1
    Chappy

    Chappy [OP] New Member

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    Hi folks, I'm looking for advice on buying a 1st gen. Tundra. I plan on towing a 26 foot airstream with it. From what I gather the best year for first gen. Tundra's is 2004. Please feel free to comment on my conclusion - I'd like to hear opinions, for or against 2004's.
    I have an opportunity to purchase a 2002 Tundra 4x4 for $3000.00 from a friend. The truck has 279,000 miles on it. It is i fairly good shape but does come with some issues. There are mice in it & it smells, for one. I know, it could be a huge amount of work to get rid of the smell. Mechanically it has a serious vibration at 60mph. also, it has a code that relates to an exhaust manifold leak that cannot be cleared, even tho the problem has been fixed. Therefore it will not pass smog. The truck has been maintained well and other than those 2 mechanical things and a cracked windshield, is in good condition. He is firm on the price.
    I'm thinking of holding out for a better '04 Tundra but have not found one so the 2002 is looking like my only option at this time. I'd love to hear from anyone who would like to comment!
    Thanks,
    John
     
  2. Apr 25, 2017 at 10:29 AM
    #2
    joonbug

    joonbug °°°°°°°°°°

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    welcome bud. I would not buy a truck that doesn't pass smog.
     
    BestGen likes this.
  3. Apr 25, 2017 at 11:33 AM
    #3
    BestGen

    BestGen Free Kyle!

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    Everybody knows the 2005 is the best! 282hp and a 5-spd. automatic, bigger brakes too!
     
    Y0TA PR0 likes this.
  4. Apr 25, 2017 at 11:36 AM
    #4
    jberry813

    jberry813 The Mad Scientist Staff Member

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    Metric shit ton of parts
    05-06. Only years that came with VVT-i and 5 speed. Also because double cab, but 04 offered double cab as well but non VVT-i and 4 speed auto.
     
  5. Apr 27, 2017 at 8:28 AM
    #5
    Chappy

    Chappy [OP] New Member

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    So do you really get 20 mpg with the VVT-i ? And the 5 speed is an automatic, correct?
     
  6. Apr 27, 2017 at 8:43 AM
    #6
    831Tun

    831Tun heartless Bastrd

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    Welcome. $3,000 is a lot to spend on someone elses problems. Just a thought. Mice can/do cause a lot more trouble than just a bad smell.
     
  7. Apr 27, 2017 at 10:07 AM
    #7
    chunk

    chunk New Member

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    I think I'd look for a clean, one or two owner truck, instead of specific year. All years are pretty durable trucks, and better a year 2000 that's been cared for than a newer model thay hasn't. My thoughts at least. I wouldn't get near a vehicle that has been a mouse house. Stinko! Good luck anyway. Chunk.
     
    Last edited: Apr 27, 2017
  8. Apr 30, 2017 at 7:22 PM
    #8
    Chappy

    Chappy [OP] New Member

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    Thanks for the input everyone who replied, I appreciate it. I think I'm going to be patient & look for a low mileage '05 or '06.
     
  9. Apr 30, 2017 at 8:53 PM
    #9
    lehminh

    lehminh New Member

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    I believe the term around these parts is, you're looking for a unicorn! Lol
     
    Beefnbread likes this.
  10. May 4, 2017 at 1:15 PM
    #10
    mtntop

    mtntop New Member

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    what chunk said.

    I love my 2004 and it has never caused me any issues, however, I have a family and wished I would have bought the full 4 door at the time which just came out. Lots more room
     
  11. Jun 8, 2017 at 4:49 PM
    #11
    shaw0531

    shaw0531 New Member

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    I would agree with the 05-06 crew. I have an 06 DC and I've pulled a 31' sportsman with it no issues. It was 5800lbs empty. I had all my gear, wife and mutts with me in the truck and towed it 120 miles through the Flint/chataquah hills of southeast KS no problems.
     
  12. Jun 8, 2017 at 4:54 PM
    #12
    jberry813

    jberry813 The Mad Scientist Staff Member

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    Metric shit ton of parts
    I love my 2015, but I still have a soft spot for my 2006. Don't try this at home kids. 7900 lb tow from Tahoe to San Luis Obispo and back

    1c1095a1_11aa7c391f8410ec65bf390f38ab6459c767eada.jpg
     
    tacoguybill likes this.

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