What to look for when buying?

Hi I am looking to buy a 1st generation Tundra 4x4 access cab. I have seen a variety of prices in the southwestern USA. I would appreciate some suggestions on what to look out for when buying one. Thinks like frame rust which from what I have gathered is a big issue. What else should I keep an eye out for positively or negatively?

I really like the first generations and hope I can find the right one as my off-road camping vehicle.

If this topic has already been created please direct me and I will delete my post.

 

Thanks so much for this heads up. Can you be more specific? What should I look for rust? Does the rust usually start in a particular place?

 

I HATE the rust belt! Glad i'm in AZ - had too many years in WI and IL.

 

Timing belt check tranny fluid if it has a dip stick. Drive it hard see how she performs.

 

Welcome from Texas! Just buy a new Tundy

 

Oh how I wish, my budget is about 10,000. Also I plan to take this to Mexico often for surf/camping adventures and most banks will not allow you to take a not fully paid for truck across the border

 

Check when timing belt was replaced, carfax maintenance records are pretty awesome. Welcome! Hope all goes well for you!

 

Are there certain years that I should avoid? Certain packages I should look for or not look for? For example does anyone know a year that was better than other years in the first generations? Should I look for only TRD packages?

 

Came here to say this. Frame rot is everything on Toyotas. I would also add looking closely at the sub frame as well. Less commonly rotted. But it's by far the biggest pain in the ass to fix.

 

They are all pretty much the same when it comes to reliability. The only major difference if I remember correctly was minor changes on the trans and stability control post 2004 models.

 

I believe I heard that 00-02 might have transmission issues, I believe they resolved that after that timeframe.