Thinking of buying a used Tacoma under 25K for camping this summer 2024

Hi there, I’m thinking of buying a used Tacoma so I can go camping in the California desert and beaches and a little bit off-roading.
Any recommendations if Tacoma is the right vehicle for this, And if so, what configuration? Also, how many miles before the pick up would need some serious work? I’m afraid of it breaking down when I’m out in the middle of nowhere.
Thanks, From Oceanside, California

 

Welcome!

It all depends on what you want. I got what i wanted but i know many people who will never want to touch it.

What sort of camping you planning? Anything in the bed? Any trailer?

 

The Tacoma is the perfect vehicle for these adventures. I would say to look for a gently used 2nd gen with high miles. In the area you are in you will have to make some concessions as to where you want your money to count. An access cab would be the best configuration if you do not have to haul around kids as you get a longer bed. TRD off-road with the 4.0 V6 would be ideal. If you get a 4 door then the bed will only be 5'. These trucks typically do not need any major mechanical until well into the 250k mile range but as with everything it depends on how it was maintained and abused up to that point. On any Tacoma do a detailed frame inspection. Looking for rot as that is a major weakness for these. Do not take for granted that the location you are in negates that.

A somewhat high mileage daily driver would be ideal. I would try to keep those miles below 200k. But I would need some detailed maintenance records to feel comfortable. And with that be prepared to tinker on it. Basic suspension parts and whatnot. Perhaps one that has been in an accident but looks to have repaired well or is a little beat up or has failing paint would help get something in your price range.

Now, as my last bit of advise. I would not be looking for a Tacoma at all. Look into a nice used Nissan Frontier. They are just as solid and do not have the cult following. You could almost buy a new one with your budget and you can get a damn fine low miles one fully loaded for what you want to spend. Keep in mind it will not have the resale of the Tacoma but it will not present the upfront cost of a Taco either. Look at the Nissan. Spend your money on enjoying your adventures. The Tacoma survives on the legacy of its predecessors. A reputation it is not actually deserving of anymore and the fan boy base drives the price through the roof. If you are not simply dying to join that club you can pretty much get any other pickup that will exceed your expectations at a much more reasonable price point.

 

Under $25K ? Maybe a early 2nd gen.

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Hi all, thanks for the great replies! what does 2nd mean? Like 2016 or earlier ?
I do want the four-door so I’m willing to compromise with the 5 foot bed. I also want to keep the option open for a truck tent in case I’m camping out in the BLM lands.
I’ll definitely do the inspection and thorough examination as suggested by JJ Customs.
Totally understand that there are cheaper alternatives to the Tacoma eg Nissan frontier, I want to keep this truck for the 2024 summer three months maximum and then sell it, so the resale value is important to me. (Parking is expensive where I live and the other car is away for the summer)
Finally, if there are any adventure campers in the SoCal/ San Diego California area, feel free to ping me

 

No trailer. Want to leave bed open in case of tent

 

A 3 month use case?

At least investigate a 3 month rental. By the time you consider all it will cost is the rental and fuel, you may come out stress free for similar money than trying to flip something.

And big name rentals with new-ish vehicles aren't the only game around. I've used things like 'Rent a Heap' and such before with good results. Most big areas have something like that around. Just be sure you're comfortable with their policies on breakdowns and what not.

 

Agreed with above… a rental could be a good option if you haven’t looked into it.

in general, I’d try to find the most Stock unmodified truck you can. I would take a bit higher mileage Tacoma that is stock over one that has modified suspension or other parts like that if the true condition is unknown. Ie You never know previous owners maintain their vehicles.

 

Maybe take a trip to Reno!

 

I looked in the local Facebook marketplace, but never considered Reno. It’s worth a short flight there if this looks promising!
Yes, I did look into rentals but they run me right now about $60 a day. I figure for the summer I would spend about $3000 for the weekends and days before I’m done.
Good advice on the stock versus modified truck thanks

 

For sure, the one I linked is a rare 4 door long bed. Looks to be slightly modified but might be ideal for your intended use. Should easily get your money out of it when you are done. If you are interested in that one. Do not sleep on it. Unless it has some issue I doubt it will last. Seems to be several options in this area in your budget though. Southwest has lots of direct flights from your area to here.

 

And your buy/sell/insurance/tag costs, plus anything that breaks along the way might be close..........

 

2nd means 2nd generation, 2005-2015.

 

Yes, that’s a good point. Plus, do I have to pay any sales tax when I buy and what about when I sell?

 

Buying, I'm sure you do. You mentioned Cali, right? No clue what their tax structure is. Selling I would doubt it.

I also don't know how your inspection system works, but suspect that will be a factor to consider as well.

 

What kind of vehicle do you currently own?

 

I currently own a 2021 Toyota RAV4. Very happy with it, but I won’t have it back until late August. So I’m looking for a vehicle I can use until then

 

No sales tax when buying from a private party in NV but you would get hit when you register it in Ca. A rental is not a bad idea but be aware if you are looking to rent for periods of time you are not guaranteed to get what you want. I have reserved a 4x4 pickup many times to be given a minivan or a SUV.
Any way you cut it you are going to be paying a premium for 3-4 months of use for this vehicle. Places like CA are not kind to swapping vehicles like that. By the time you pay the sales tax, inspection and smog, registration. I mean you really need to work to buy one from an area that allows you several thousand to gain on the flip side to cover those expenses.

 

I think what you really should be in the market for is the Pontiac Aztec!