Should I buy?

Hey all,

I’m a new member and curious if there are any common problems to look for on 5th gens? I’m considering purchasing a 2012 limited that has double the “average” mileage but I’m not sure if it’s worth it. It has 192,000 miles but I know Toyota’s (if taken care of) can last quite a bit longer than that. KBB and NADA have the value between 12-15k and this one just dropped in price from 12k to 10k. It seems like a good deal but that is a lot of mileage for a ‘12 so I don’t want to have to put a ton into it right after buying. I own a 06 highlander which has roughly the same mileage and it shows no signs of quitting anytime soon. I just want to know if there is anything I should keep an eye out for when I take a closer look. I appreciate the advice!

 

Without seeing the vehicle, it's hard to say. There has to be some reason they're willing to sell below book value...rust? You didn't say where this 4R is...

 

Are there any service records you could check out?

 

It’s a NY vehicle so rust is definitely a variable. However there was only a small amount visible on the body in between the rear window and the emblem. That is something I will look at closer when I check the vehicle out this week. I’m more interested in common issues to look for. For instance, when I owned my jeep Cherokee I became aware of the common oil leak areas like the rear main seal and the filter adapter. If left for too long the leaks could eventually effect other systems. Just little things you notice after owning one for a while that might indicate how well the owner cared for the vehicle.

 

The carfax didn’t have any red flags. The only thing that stood out was that the oil pan drain plug had been replaced a few times. No accidents or major repairs.

 

If, upon closer inspection you don't see too much that would concern you, it's well worth the cost to have an 8-year old vehicle inspected by a qualified service shop before pulling the trigger on the buy, IMO.

 

Don't worry about the surface rust, worry about the frame and underbody.

 

The drain plug or the drain plug gasket?

The only reason a drain plug gets replaced is if you lose it. And there's only 2 ways to lose it. One of those ways is ABSOLUTLEY a "walk away from that purchase" dealbreaker. Unless you want an engine that's been run without oil.