Morning Scotty and to all. I’m looking to buy a 2000 Toyota Tacoma with 197k miles on Facebook marketplace that’s $1100 but I’m not sure if it’s worth the work it needs. It was a rebuilt head, new gaskets, radiator, ,thermostat, Spark plugs, sensors, etc. He says the problem it has Is that it has a stripped head bolt and timing belt needs to be aligned. Should I get it or move on and keep looking? Here’s a link https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1195398647521680/ Thanks!
Pass on this & look for one which doesn’t need any engine or transmission work. Never buy another man’s problem.
No matter which car you buy, get it checked out by an honest mechanic, before you buy it.
You should sit down with pencil, paper and adding machine and figure out how much it will cost you to get the vehicle in good operating condition, plus the cost of the vehicle. If this total exceeds the fair market price for the vehicle in your area, walk away and find another deal.
and don't forget the time you need to spend fixing and running around! You'll never get those hours back.
Good point, Joe. We never really put any value on our own time and labor but it should be added to the equation.
Fixing somebody else's F-ups is much MUCH worse than doing the job yourself.
If he did all that work and gave up, that should give you your answer. Would you be okay with this price if you had to put in a new engine or transmission?
