Before deciding on a used Tundra, be sure to give a few key areas some attention. Searching through online forums, some issues came up repeatedly. Many owners complain about premature wearing of brake components- in some cases with a brake job required after only a few thousand kilometers of 'normal' driving. On a test drive, stop from highway speeds where possible and note any vibration, shuddering or grinding sensations that may be present. Any of the above probably indicates the need for a brake job.
Owners also report the need to frequently change fussy oxygen (o2) sensors, which could be evidenced by a check engine light. Oxygen sensors monitor the engine's exhaust and report back to the engine computer to help fine-tune its operation. Running a vehicle with a bad O2 sensor can cause performance, mileage and emissions to suffer.
Recalls were issued for several items- the main one dealing with ball-joints. Due to premature wear, this recall issue poses a potential safety hazard which could see the ball-joints weakening to the point of failure. Signs of weak ball joints include heavier than normal steering effort, excessive front-end noise, sloppiness to the steering or a grinding / clunking noise from the front end. If a ball-joint fails during driving, a serious accident is likely. Be sure the model you're looking at has had this recall work carried out if applicable.
A full check over of the Tundra's undercarriage is a great idea as well. A trained mechanic can help to assess the overall shape of suspension components and whether or not the truck has been abused. A good look at the underside on a hoist can reveal any dents, rust or holes caused by careless off-roading or 'bottoming out'.
It's also a good idea to plan on having a full fluid change on a used truck, especially if you aren't completely sure of its history or service records. The differentials, transfer case and engine should prove reliable for many years, so long as maintenance and fluid changes are kept up.
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| 2003 Toyota Tundra |
Owners also report the need to frequently change fussy oxygen (o2) sensors, which could be evidenced by a check engine light. Oxygen sensors monitor the engine's exhaust and report back to the engine computer to help fine-tune its operation. Running a vehicle with a bad O2 sensor can cause performance, mileage and emissions to suffer.
Recalls were issued for several items- the main one dealing with ball-joints. Due to premature wear, this recall issue poses a potential safety hazard which could see the ball-joints weakening to the point of failure. Signs of weak ball joints include heavier than normal steering effort, excessive front-end noise, sloppiness to the steering or a grinding / clunking noise from the front end. If a ball-joint fails during driving, a serious accident is likely. Be sure the model you're looking at has had this recall work carried out if applicable.
A full check over of the Tundra's undercarriage is a great idea as well. A trained mechanic can help to assess the overall shape of suspension components and whether or not the truck has been abused. A good look at the underside on a hoist can reveal any dents, rust or holes caused by careless off-roading or 'bottoming out'.
It's also a good idea to plan on having a full fluid change on a used truck, especially if you aren't completely sure of its history or service records. The differentials, transfer case and engine should prove reliable for many years, so long as maintenance and fluid changes are kept up.
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| 2005 Toyota Tundra |