Used Truck Guide for buying Toyota Tundra

Toyota's 2014+ Tundra pickup is popular with buyers who prefer a pickup that comes with proven technology and a familiar platform.

If you plan to buy Toyota Tundra for sale, consider a 2014 or newer model. There are two options for V8 power, including a 4.6-liter engine with 310 horsepower and a 5.7-liter unit with 381 horsepower. A range of trim grades, body configurations, and special editions will satisfy a variety of needs and tastes.

Here are Five Things You Need to Check Before Buying a Used Toyota Tundra.

Oil leak in cam tower

The 5.7-liter V8engine on some Tundra has experienced oil leakage from the cam towers. There are many of them. A leaky camshaft seal, or a leaky cam tower seal, may cause visible oil leakage from the engine, which may or may not result in a visible oil leak beneath the car. Check the oil level and carefully inspect the engine during your test drive - seek professional help if you're unsure how to do this.

This issue wasn't a problem for most units, but it could result in an expensive repair outside of warranty, which might cost you money. Before you buy a Toyota Tundra for sale, have it checked out by a technician.

Start-up issues

When you return from your test drive, the Tundra's engine will be nice and warm. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before starting it. Some owners have reported difficulty restarting a warm engine after a few minutes, in this situation. The majority have not.

It may be due to a problem with the fuel system causing the engine computer to make a wrong calculation that the engine has difficulty re-starting. 

The braking system

Checking out the Tundra's braking system before purchasing can save you money and headaches while improving safety. A brake system check is relatively easy and quick and can provide plenty of peace of mind.

During a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) of the Toyota Tundra for sale. You also need to check the parking brake, a problem area indicated by some owners who say the parking brake may weaken with time.

That means the parking brake may not hold the Tundra in place when in use, and the truck you're considering may not pass its safety inspection. Fixing a weak parking brake is typically an inexpensive and quick process that can prevent headaches in the future.

Maintenance History

Taking proper care of a vehicle can prevent it from becoming a problem waiting to happen. Maintenance and care are more important predictors of a vehicle's reliability and dependability as it ages.

It's not the Toyota badge that makes a Tundra reliable - it's how its previous owners treated it. Whenever possible, look for a used vehicle with full-service records, as warranty claims (if you need them) can be denied if you cannot prove that no inspections and servicing have been skipped.

Typically, the most reliable used Toyota Tundra for sale for you will be the one that has been well-maintained by its previous owners. As a first step after purchasing a vehicle, if the service records aren't available, consider a full fluid change and tune-up.

The Driveline and Suspension.

The driveline and suspension of a used Tundra can produce tell-tale warning sounds, which can indicate potential issues.

Listen for popping or clunking sounds from beneath the vehicle after putting the vehicle in park, as these could indicate suspension wear or require replacement.

Several times, and at several different speeds, fully turn the steering wheel from side to side while parked. Check the steering rack and front end for signs of wear if you hear or feel anything unusual.

Tundra's driveline can be loaded and unloaded rapidly by locking into first or second gear at a low speed and boosting the throttle repeatedly. The process might be uncomfortable from the driver's seat, but any clunking or banging sounds you hear may indicate further investigation of the driveshaft, differential carrier, and motor mounts are needed.

Conclusion

When you focus on the areas above during your test drive and shopping process, you can find a quality second-hand Toyota Tundra. If you are looking for a Toyota Tundra for sale for yourself, reach out to Smart Chevrolet and they can help you get the best deal.