2010 Toyota Tacoma used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Headlights failing or too dim15 owner complaints, usually around 50,000 miles

  Check every exterior and interior light, and look for condensation inside the headlights.

• Sudden unintended acceleration15 owner complaints, usually around 3,200 miles

  Check that the car accelerates smoothly, without hesitation or surges, and that cruise control works.

• Jerking or lurching12 owner complaints, usually around 2,065 miles

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• SeatsRecall number 16V396000, Jun 2, 2016
• SeatsRecall number 14V743000, Nov 19, 2014
• SuspensionRecall number 14V604000, Sep 29, 2014
• EquipmentRecall number 14V475000, Aug 4, 2014
• Air bagsRecall number 14V168000, Apr 9, 2014
• Seat beltsRecall number 13V337000, Aug 7, 2013
• EquipmentRecall number 13V123000, Apr 9, 2013
• Air bagsRecall number 13V014000, Jan 16, 2013
• TiresRecall number 11V148000, Mar 4, 2011
• Power trainRecall number 10V042000, Feb 18, 2010
• EquipmentRecall number 10V035000, Feb 3, 2010
• EquipmentRecall number 10V036000, Feb 3, 2010
• Vehicle speed controlRecall number 09V388000, Oct 5, 2009

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical...Dec 6, 2024
• To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used...Dec 6, 2024
• The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix...Dec 6, 2024
• Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal...Dec 5, 2024
• Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad...Dec 3, 2024
• Condition in which a musty odor is presentJul 29, 2024

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.