An effort to purchase

[SeniorSpan]

I'd bet the majority of you know this, but will confirm for those on the fringe. I made an effort to purchase a 2010 4wd, 4 door, short bed Toyota Tacoma Truck with the TRD and towing packages. The 2010 truck had extensive hail damage but was repaired and has been on the Toyota lot for 101 days. I have a 2004, 4wd, 4 door, Toyota Tacoma with locking diff, towing package, chrome tubular side steps, and an A.R.E. color matched top. Just having the 2004 in for service the day before, oxygen sensors, trans, diff, transfer case fluids,and throttle body fuel service, I was told by the service manager the truck was in excellent condition. I had completed my research on the net to determine a fair offer. Despite the economic woos the US is experiencing, and the tarnished reputation Toyota is currently dealing with, this looked like a good time to buy. As I had purchased the 2004, from the same dealership I was confident a deal was possible. I was wrong, the "buying a new truck at my local Toyota dealership" experience has declined sharply. The overall 2010 experience reminded me of trying to buy a new vehicle in the 60's. In spite of the salesman (a third stringer) assuring me he was not interested in "games", the games began. After two hours of back and forth and Toyota bringing in the "second stringer", but a deal could not be struck. I believe I'm fair minded saying I have no problem with the dealership making $500-$1000 over the actual invoice price.
Being real honest regarding the 2010 truck, in the sea of bells and whistles included, the only things I was impressed with was the backup cam and the larger engine.
After the two plus hours of negotiating my offer of my truck and $17,000 was short by $800 plus the $399 dealer shipping and handling. Maybe 2012 will be a better year for me.

One point that did make me smile, after Toyota reviewed my truck, I was informed my front skid plate was scratched.

Bottom line, I have a 2004 4wd 4 door Toyota Tacoma truck, that's paid for, is in excellent condition both mechanically and appearance, and runs great; I'm a happy Tacoma owner.

Recommendation: Do not wait til you "have to" get a new vehicle; do max research to establish "your" bottom line price" and stick to your guns.

Cheers
Bob
Colorado Springs

[eyedoc]

good story.... my opinion, keep your "paid for" truck until it stops running....then go buy a used current model truck. then leave your kids an inheritance.... much more important than driving a "new" truck, IMO.

FYI, i just had some guys at the gas station this morning compliment me on my 2002 tacoma "paid for" 4x4.... who needs need new when you have an actual japanese made machine!!!

[Dark Taco]

Back in 02 I was right out of college landed a good job and bought a brand new Dakota. The Dakota was in for service 4 times during the first 3 years. Needles to say I could have bought an 02 Tacoma but I was young and unknowing. It would be paid off by now and no doubt running strong. I bought my 08' new because I couldn't find anything used and need the extra room as I have started a family.