Among other full-size pickup trucks, the Toyota Tundra holds an outstanding share in the market—the main reasons being its reliability and ruggedness with a great towing capacity. Being one of the used vehicles buyers wish to have, it can tackle difficult jobs while showing its durability over time. In case you need a reliable workhorse or a comfortable ride to take on the tundra for adventures off-road, then the Tundra is definitely a good choice.
In this guide, we walk you through where to find used Toyota used tundra trucks for sale, what to look for when buying a used Tundra, and get the best deal possible.
Why a Used Toyota Tundra?
Let’s take a closer look at why the Toyota Tundra has been so popular over the years and why it might be the right fit for you.
Reliability:
Toyota is known for quality, and the Tundra does not defy the expectations. An off-the-road Tundra can very well cruise all the way to 200,000 miles if properly taken care of.
Towing Capability:
The truck is designed for towing heavy weights. Capacities range from 6,800 to 10,200 pounds and depend on the model year and configuration, making it a perfect option to carry trailers, boats, or other large cargo.
Off-road capabilities:
The Tundra does well on off roads, especially models with the TRD Off-Road package, making it perfect for outdoor types or those who live in rough terrain.
Comfort and features:
Designed with comfort as its thrust, there’s a very spacious cabin, with a smooth ride to show that the modern truck comes with lots of technology and safety features even in the older generation.
Now that we have established the reason why you should buy a used Toyota Tundra, let’s proceed with looking for where you can get one.
Where to Find Used Toyota Tundra Trucks for Sale
It has become relatively easy to find a used Toyota Tundra, thanks to the ample provisions online and even in other local sources around you. Here are some of the best places to look for a used Tundra:
1. Online Marketplaces
One benefit of the internet is that used automobiles, including truck models like the Toyota Tundra, are easier to buy than ever. Many online venues will enable you to search for listings among private sellers and dealerships.
- Autotrader: This is one of the largest and most-used automobile marketplaces. Here you will find used Toyota Tundra trucks listed by year, price, location, or even the mileage on your truck.
- CarGurus: CarGurus has a user-friendly interface for locating used Tundras. The “deal rating” also assists you in determining whether it is fairly priced.
- Cars.com: You can explore multiple used Tundra trucks for sale on this site. You can sort by location, price range, and condition. There are reviews and ratings of the dealers as well.
- Craigslist: Though Craigslist does list private party sales, it is a great place to find more localized listings. Keep in mind, though, that private party sales don’t provide any warranties and no guarantees.
- Facebook Marketplace: Facebook Marketplace has become a significant resource when buying and selling used cars locally. It’s easy to make contact with sellers, but you also can negotiate for price.
2. Local Dealerships
Many dealerships stock certified pre-owned vehicles, so it is likely to find certified pre-owned used Toyota Tundras. Going into a dealership offers a more organized purchase with the added benefits of warranties, financing assistance, and opportunities to test drive different models. Specializing in the used truck business, some dealerships will also offer a more robust selection of pre-owned Tundras than most new car dealers.
On a dealership, ask if their truck has a history. Inquire if the truck has a warranty or return policy. Some dealerships offer certified pre-owned programs with an extended warranty and inspections.
3. Toyota Dealerships (Certified Pre-Owned)
If you’re seeking a used Toyota Tundra with some added peace of mind, look at purchasing from the Toyota dealership’s certified pre-owned (CPO) program. Many Toyota CPO programs include an intense inspection process that can be as long as 160 points to ensure that the vehicle meets high quality standards.
CPO vehicles usually have extra warranty, such as a 12-month/12,000-mile limited comprehensive warranty and 7-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Although CPO Tundras are priced higher than the other used trucks, the price is sometimes well justified in extras of warranty and peace of mind.
4. Car Lots
Independent used car lots sometimes can be priced cheaper than larger dealerships, but the service and warranties will be different. However, the lots do have multiple vehicles to pick from, like a used Toyota Tundra truck, which could prove to be negotiable directly with the seller.
Always scan the truck for any appearance of damage or wear, which may indicate some form of deferred maintenance.
5. Government Auction
For those who are willing to take a little bit of a risk, government auctions can be an excellent place to find used Toyotas Tundras for sale at below-market prices. The trucks often are surplus vehicles from the government fleet, and they have probably been used for working rather than commuting to work daily.
Be sure to research the vehicle history and get a mechanic’s inspection if possible, as these vehicles are usually sold “as-is” without warranties.
6. Auction Sites (eBay Motors, Copart, etc.)
Online auction sites like eBay Motors and Copart often sell used Toyota Tundras with lower price tags than you might otherwise find from other sellers. It’s a tougher sell because you can’t inspect the vehicle as closely in an auction environment, but many online auction sites now offer vehicle history reports and detailed photos that will help you make a proper decision.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Toyota Tundra
Once you’ve found a used Toyota Tundra that piques your interest, it’s important to thoroughly inspect it before finalizing your purchase. Here are some key things to look for:
1. Vehicle History Report
You should also obtain a vehicle history report from services such as Carfax or AutoCheck, which can substantiate any incidents that the truck may have been in, title issues, or previous owners. This would reveal whether the truck had been involved in a severe accident or had a salvage title, which may possibly affect its value and safety.
2. Mileage and Maintenance Records
On average, a Toyota Tundra lasts for a really long time, but a high mileage truck is going to require some maintenance. Check the truck’s mileage and then request maintenance records. Getting an oil change and inspection conducted frequently in a well-maintained Tundra will ensure it works better than one that hasn’t.
3. Rust and Frame Condition
Look for rust, particularly in the wheel wells, undercarriage, and bed of the truck. The Tundra is known for its durability, but older models (especially those that have sat up north) tend to suffer from rust. Inspect closely for any damage to the frame. Frame damage is very costly to fix.
4. Condition of the Engine and Transmission
Check the engine for oil leaks or unusual noises. Since most 4.6L and 5.7L V8s in the Tundra are highly regarded as being very reliable, simply start the engine and listen for any odd noises. The transmission can be tested by taking the truck out for a test drive and then by analyzing how silky the shifts and the pickup are.
5. Suspension and Steering
Given the weight and size of the Tundra, it’s very important the suspension and steering remain in good order. Inspect the tires for uneven wear, a possible indicator of an alignment issue, and check for excessive wobble or play in the steering.
6. Interior Condition and Features
Another crucial thing when inspecting the inside of a used Toyota Tundra is looking for signs that it was properly maintained. Inspect the seats, steering wheel, and the dashboard. Make sure that all electrical parts work like the radio, air-conditioner, and lights. Some versions may have leather seats, navigation, or even a backup camera.
7. Drive It
Always test drive the truck to evaluate the truck’s performance on the road. Consider whether it picks well, brakes well, and handles the road. You could also try out the towing and hauling capabilities if possible, especially if you plan to use the truck for towing or hauling something.
Conclusion: Getting the Best Deal on a Used Toyota Tundra
If you’re looking for a truck that best combines durability, performance, and comfort, buying a used Toyota Tundra would really be an excellent decision. Shopping around and doing some thorough inspection of the truck in exchange for doing everything within your reach to get hold of all resources may even bring you up to a good deal on a used Tundra. Whether you are getting from a dealer, from an online website, or from a private seller, do take your time, and make sure you’re getting a reliable truck to help you through so many years.