Need recommendations on buying used tundra

hey there... I literally just joined this forum yesterday because I’m thinking about buying a used tundra for work purposes. I REALLY like Toyota’s as I have a ‘15 Tacoma and wife has a ‘20 4Runner. I have a small landscape/lawn care business that I have been pulling a trailer daily with my taco. It’s been fine but my business is growing and I am now leaning into buying a tundra ( want to keep it Toyota for multiple reasons ) and looking at the future. My loads have been getting heavier and honestly want to keep the miles off the taco.

I’ve never bought a used truck but a couple questions for people that either own a current tundra or have had multiple tundras ( different years ).... ( I am more familiar with taco platforms )
Looking for a tundra ( used ) no frills other than power windows and locks and need to tow a trailer ( basically a lawn care setup ) daily, dirt, pallets of sod etc.
More of a tundra question....
Any particular years have been better than others for towing?
2wd or 4wd for towing capacity on tundras? No snow or hills here so no worries and no off-roading.
Thinking of the 5.7 or better option?
Thanks in advance

 

Howdy from DFW and go big you won't regret it, get 4x4 just in case



Oh almost forgot,

 

I bought my 2013 4x4 5.7 in 2015..72,000 miles! I often go off road and run it hard.. now with 115,000 miles still rattle and problem free! All I did was replace the water pump, spark plugs, and brake pads..still original rotors. Shocks were fading soo ToyTec to the rescue!
Fair warning though this forum will cost you $$$$! I personally would never buy a new Tundra! The only thing wrong with them is that they are built in Texas!!

But do check the 5.7 for cam tower oil leaks,
And if 4x4 be sure to check 4hi and 4low.

 

Gotta think resale on a 4x4 is better. Plus, you might end up in mud and need it.

Cant help you on engines. I have the 5.7 and it has a shit ton of power.

 

The 2016 and newer tundras with the SR5 premium or higher trim have a 38 gallon gas tank vs the 26 gallon fould in older models. If you are constantly towing, you may want the extra range.

 

I've got a gen1 and gen2. Aim to get one that has a timing chain. Belt's aren't bad to replace, but it's kind of a PITA that you can avoid just by getting the chain version.

Will this be for work only? If it's for work, aim for the 4x2. No need for the extra expense. You've already got your other vehicle for offroading.

 

Welcome from TX! Find one you like and buy it! 5.7 preferred and sounds like you need towing package.

 

If I was using it mainly for my business. I’d go 5.7 motor, 4x4, tow package, 38 gal tank, and 2018 or earlier for the trans cooler. The 2019 and new run the integrated trans cooler. Last I read people that took temps of their 2019/2020 trans cooler read higher temps then the 2018 and older models.

 

Any reason for the 4x4 for city driving landscaping? Just curious as I figured a 4x2 probably covers 99% of all needs if you're just pulling your lawn mowers and stuff around.

 

I listed what I would look for based on my area if I was in your shoes.

• Resale value
• Never stated where you live, but in UT it is necessary
• Potentially use the truck as a snow plow vehicle (Convert to winter business too?)
• If you ever move to another state and may need 4x4
• Natural disaster that caused the roads to be blocked and you have to turn on your 4x4 and drive through obstacles to get to the next job site.

 

Understood, thanks. Good point on different business. I was just thinking of OP using the truck for landscape

 

I have 1 for sale but not sure your location. 2010 SR5 model 4x4. Basically what you are looking for plus front receiver hitch, matching topper, etc.. It has 137,000 miles on it but I did all the pre-maintenance at 120,000 so its ready to go for another 100,000 miles. All service done at Toyota. Got a few nicks and scrapes for a 10 yr old truck but mechanically sound.

 

What are you asking? Got some pics?

 

Private message sent

 

Thanks!