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26,000 Miles In, I am Torn Between Trading My 2018 Toyota Tundra Limited With The New One Due To Tech Bliss

Joe Denver is conflicted about trading his reliable 2018 Tundra Limited with low mileage for a new 2024 model. While he highlights the allure of the new Tundra's features, Joe struggles and is torn between an internal conflict.

While the outdated infotainment system of the 2018 Toyota Tundra and ride quality tempt this owner towards an upgrade, he fears the potential downsides of dealership repairs and diminished reliability.

Joe Denver, a Toyota Tundra enthusiast, has ignited a firestorm of debate on the Toyota Tundra Enthusiasts' forum with his recent post. Joe, the owner of a meticulously maintained, low-mileage 2018 Tundra Limited, finds himself at a crossroads. The allure of the new 2024 Tundra's tech features - particularly the upgraded infotainment system - is undeniable. Yet, Joe harbors a deep-seated apprehension about the potential pitfalls of trading in his trusty truck for a new one.

"Is it worth it to trade my 2018 Toyota Tundra Limited for a new 2024 Tundra? My Limited 2018 Tundra Limited has only 26,000 miles and I bought it new. It's basically a creampuff. The only thing I don't like is the stereo sound and the infotainment screen. The ride could be a little better, but not a big deal. I love that it's reliable! Not sure I can stomach taking a car in for repairs even if they are under warranty. Once they start working on your vehicle you start getting scratches, rattles, and a checkered Carfax. Let me know what you think," he wrote in the forum.

On the one hand, Joe acknowledges the shortcomings of his current vehicle. The infotainment system, by his own admission, feels outdated, and the ride quality leaves a bit to be desired. The promise of a modern, feature-rich cabin in the 2024 Tundra is undeniably tempting. Larger touchscreens, faster processing speeds, and wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto all paint a picture of a more comfortable and connected driving experience.

However, Joe's love for his Tundra is deeply rooted in its reliability. With only 26,000 miles on the odometer, his truck is a testament to Toyota's renowned reputation for building vehicles that last. The thought of relinquishing this dependability for the unknown territory of a new vehicle, even with a warranty, fills Joe with anxiety. His fear centers around the potential disruption and inconvenience caused by dealership repairs. Stories of scratches acquired during service, rattles developing after repairs, and a tarnished Carfax history all fuel Joe's apprehension.

Joe's predicament resonates with many car owners who find themselves torn between the allure of the latest technology and the comfort of a proven, reliable vehicle. This internal struggle between "tech-lust" and "trust" is a hot topic, particularly as car manufacturers churn out ever-more sophisticated infotainment systems and driver-assistance features.

The responses to Joe's post on the forum have been varied. Some users have enthusiastically championed the upgrade, highlighting the significant advancements in the 2024 Tundra's technology. Others have echoed Joe's concerns, sharing their own negative experiences with dealership repairs. Still others have offered a more nuanced perspective, suggesting that Joe research the specific reliability record of the 2024 Tundra and carefully weigh the potential benefits against the risks.

How has Toyota improved its infotainment screen and stereo in the 3rd generation compared to the 2nd generation trucks?

Toyota introduced a completely new infotainment system called the "Toyota Audio Multimedia" system with the release of the 2022 Tundra, which is considered the 3rd generation. Here's how it compares to the 2nd generation system based on reviews and press releases. Let's talk about Toyota Tundra's new larger and higher resolution screen, its improved user interface, faster processing and wireless capability, and Toyota Tundra's new cloud-based navigation and over-the-air updates.

The new system offers a much larger touchscreen, available in up to 14 inches, compared to the smaller screens on 2nd gen trucks. The resolution is also improved for sharper visuals.

The layout is redesigned with a focus on ease of use. The main menu is on the left side of the screen for easy access, and even submenus are designed for quick navigation back to the home screen. Buttons are larger and spaced out for less accidental presses.

The new system boasts faster processing speeds for smoother operation. It also introduces wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for a cleaner phone-free experience.

The new system utilizes cloud-based navigation with features like Google Point-of-Interest search and real-time traffic updates. Additionally, the software can be updated over-the-air to keep it fresh with new features and bug fixes.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to trade in his beloved Tundra rests solely with Joe. This forum post, however, serves as a valuable reminder that car ownership is often an emotional investment, and the choice between the thrill of new technology and the comfort of proven reliability can be a difficult one. 

What do you think Joe should do? Please, click the red link to write your comment and participate in the discussion.

For conclusion, I like Zapp Brannigan's comment under Joe's forum post. He writes, "Do what makes you happy, just make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons. Rampant consumerism destroys a lot of wealth in this country for no real gain aside from a fleeting hit of dopamine from a new “thing” that will feel old in a few short years."

Consider these 3 factors before buying a double cab vs CrewMax Toyota Tundra TRD Pro.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News TwitterFacebookLinkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.

Comments

Rachel (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 6:24AM

Don't do it. I'm a die hard believer Toyota let us down when they redesigned the new version. After witnessesing how well my first Tundra made it through an interstate pile up, I was sold on the Tundra and decided then that's probably all I will again have...until they sold us out. They made a trusty truck that will last. I'll keep buying that generation until I can't.

Mearl Pond (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 6:32AM

I think that he should keep his 2018 Tundra. The new Tundra is not reliable. Check Consumer Reports and see how they compare.

Christian Shatto (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 7:43AM

The new ones factory 'infotainment' is still inferior to 3-5years old aftermarket that has even started to incorporate dsp( digital aignal processors) full complete control of your audio. ( Brands for dsps to look at- mosconi, helix/brax, audison, arc audio, to name a few, and kenwood exceleon head units.

Phil Sullivan (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 8:11AM

Joe don’t make the same mistake that I did recently. I traded. In my 2014 Subaru Forester with 22.400 miles for a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek. My 2014 was easy to get in and out of, the controls were simple and my iPhone connection was fine. The 2024 is crowded, the console is stationary and the Multiple gadgets on the huge display screen are maddening. Difficult to switch from one device to another on the screen. Don’t get me wrong it’s a beautiful vehicle, great ride, very quiet cabin, great gas mileage. I didn’t get the power package which includes electric operated seats, moon roof etc because I never needed or used the one on my previous Forester and they can leak. Oh yeah the cost for the power package or winter package is over $2200.00. Not worth it to me. I miss my 2014 without all the new gadgets and I keep telling myself that I should have kept my TRUSTY 2014 Subaru Forester which I loved and required very little maintenance. NEW ISN’T ALWAYS BETTER. Keep your 2018 TOYOTA and forget about the new ones with all the NEW BELLS AND WHISTLES. And no MONTHLY PAYMENT UNLESS YOU PAID CASH LIKE I DID.

Brian (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 8:35AM

26K really that's by all means a new truck you can not talk reliability with that milage. Next tech features all suck take it all out the less tech crap the less expensive and more reliable the truck will be. Outdated infotainment is the issue with all new vehicles. Would you want to us a 4+ year old phone, laptop, ECT. I wish they offered a truck without all that crap. While there nice I use my truck as a truck and do not want to spend 50+K

Shawn (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 9:54AM

This article and reference to the owner with only 26,000 miles on his original 2018 truck made me chuckle.
At some point in his life, he is almost certainly going to have to upgrade from that truck to either something new or something else used, but newer year model.
I have a 2013 Tundra that I bought new that now has 300,000 mileson it and the only things it ever needed was 2 right blinker bulbs, a new windshield wiper motor, and the dealer recommended and performed top half engine rebuild at 200,000 miles. And i have put this truck through beatings in out-of-state hunts, four wheeling, and constantly towing my equipment near the limits of tow weights.
I recently decided, instead of trading in, especially with the mileage, to purchase the new 2024 Tundra and keep my older one. But i really laugh when someone with only 26,000 miles on a truck over a 6 year period considers it a gauge of reliability with so few miles, and then struggles with the idea of upgrading to a truck that will also almost certainly prove the same reliability in the same amount of miles.

Steve Murtha (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 10:08AM

I've also got an '18 Tundra Limited (66K miles) purchased almost 6 years ago. I didn't buy it for great gas mileage, electronic gizmos, or a necessarily Cadillac ride experience either. I love the torque, trouble-free operation, and throaty tailpipe music note of dual exhausts....which is a reminder to me that I don't have two turbos spinning wildly pressuring up the internals of a smaller displacement motor while occasionally pulling my 20 ft. Jayco trailer over high mountain passes here in New Mexico, or needing to merge in with freeway traffic here in town. And, I don't need any extra visual distractions while driving...the tech-infotainment suite is more than adequate. Paid for, in great overall condition, and with at least 250-300,000 miles left on the clock---I'll stay in the saddle of this trusty steed.....and the 2018 is a better looking ride than the newest and chunkiest generation, too (kind of like a Prius that "Incredible-Hulked"!! Keep your 2018!!

Dennis Childers (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 10:11AM

I have bought a 2024 Toyota tundra Air Force max hybrid. I really love the new truck how it handles responds. Also pulls the touchscreen in the JBL speaker. System is amazing Crispin clear but the overall ride for the tundra I give it a 10 out of 10 haven’t tried the four-wheel-drive yet, just Spring now in Michigan I know the tires that come on the truck are not the best but we’ll see. I really like the new upgrade of the tundra and when you step on it, she goes. Good luck on your decision, but I am a happy Toyota tundra owner .

Robert Chambers (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 10:13AM

Keep your reliable truck and upgrade the infotainment system with an aftermarket system with all those features and perhaps more. I'm about to do that with my 2007 Tundra limited. The radio system died, which is an issue with this generation truck, about a year+ ago. Go to Crutchfield or other sites and shop around.

Will Symmonds (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 11:02AM

Who wants to spend 10k+ on a stereo upgrade? I love my 07', added a Kenwood touch screen, backup camera and TRD suspension for <2k. If he's only driving 4-5k miles per year he could easily own his current truck for the rest of his life!

Steve Langer (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 11:18AM

After reading this article, the question that is are deeply troubling, "Seriously, am I really thinking of trading up to the newest Tundra just for the Infotainment system?" That question just screams STOP to me. I mean we are talking about a rig that will cost anywhere from $60,000 to $70,000ish (fully loaded) for an infotainment system. If that doesn't put the brakes on then you may have too much money and how about buying a big ole' black hole to throw your money into instead. LOL

Casey (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 11:31AM

I leased a 2023 limited the sound system sounded like an old radio. I did like the birds eye view for parking. However I had a 2017 Laramie Ram 1500 I traded in sound system was great wished I had kept it. Got another ram like it better. Didn't trust twin turbos. Live and learn. Might think about renting one for a few days before getting rid of cream puff!

Sam Floyd (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 1:41PM

I'm like Joe. 2018 limited, 35,000. Love it! No problems, same issues . Always tempted but will keep my tried and true.

Mike Dee (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 3:20PM

Don't see it. The new post-COVID vehicles are built worse, have more issues and headaches, and the new tech is used by Toyota to sell to your insurance company, who then goes and raises your rates.

Brenda Harris (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 4:06PM

I still have my 06 Tundra and I will drive it till it dies (hold on, finding some wood)!! Yea, the interior electrical components are outdated BUT there are ways to work around that. I have a factory installed AM/FM CD player, I bought a B.T. relay that plugs into the cigarette lighter...whatever is on my phone, I can play it through the relay, problem solved. Technology today, you can readjusted to any situation to bring it up to a better standard, cheaply....the old saying "if it ain't broke, why fix it" a reliable vehicle is the only consideration when when trading up or out....keep the truck!!!

Lance (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 4:36PM

The love and assurrance of the 2006, with 333k miles and rides as great as the day I picked up my SR5 Limited Double Cab far out weighs the new truck/tech envy I sometimes get!😀

Cyndi (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 4:40PM

I bought a used 2006 Tundra in 2012 with low miles.
One reason was because it had nothing in it that would need maintenance or constant attention. It had nothing on it except a radio and a CD player… which has since broken.
If it’s high tech it’s high maintence. I bought it to haul stuff and be dependable. Period.

Randy Moore (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 5:48PM

You must be insane to give up a V8 powered truck for a V6 turbo. Yes the V6 makes more HP and torque, but at the cost of reliability and durability. And all that tech crap is just that. DRIVE the truck. If you want to sit and play on a big touch screen, stay at home and do it on your computer. I have a 2019 Tundra, that might be my Toyota. I'll keep it till it just won't roll anymore.

Paul (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 6:11PM

You only live once, you work hard. You deserve to get what you want. Just make sure it doesn’t have any of the electrical engine stops while your foot is on the brake. And it’s not an electric vehicle or hybrid.

Johnny Williams (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 8:48PM

I have a 2016 1794 edition with 31,000. I understand what you are going through. End of the day you know what you have. It might not be the latest but it's great anyway!!

JV (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 8:54PM

How is 26,000 miles on a 6 year old truck a testament to Toyota’s renowned reputation of reliability? That Tundra is being driven an average less than 4,500 miles per year.

I have a 2020 F150 with 127k miles a 2017 F250 with 98k, and a 2001 F250 with over 600k and know several who put way more miles per year on their trucks. TX is a large state and towns are spread out..
I know Toyota builds a great truck but the author stating that averaging 4500 a year is a testament to reliability would be laughable when speaking about any truck manufacturer .
Drive any truck 60k miles a year on oilfield roads then we can talk about build quality and reliability..

Herbert Hamilton (not verified)    May 14, 2024 - 6:54AM

I also have a 2018 tundra that I love, it is dependable and has everything I need and I cannot see a good reason to trade, it has 40000 miles and I have every intention of putting over 100000 miles on it.

David Ruvalcaba (not verified)    May 14, 2024 - 7:44AM

I have a 2017 Tundra that I bought new in 2017 and I'm at 33,00 miles. I have seen the new tundras and heard the way it's sounds too when you start , doesn't sound as loud like 2017. I like my 8 cil engine the the new ones with only 6. Talk about stero system not loud enough ,can always up grade it at stereo place for really good one . I'll always keep mine 2017 Tundra then the new ones because she reliable.

Rob C. (not verified)    May 14, 2024 - 10:12AM

The new Tundra, from all reports, can have major engine issues. And, the new Tundra will cost you 20-25k on top of your trade, so I'd buy a 2022 Camry with all the newer tech features for $23k and keep your reliable pickup truck. Do you want an infotainment system or a capable, reliable 1/2 ton pickup? That is really the question.

Rob (not verified)    May 14, 2024 - 10:15AM

I had a 2015 limited crewmax. Put 37k miles on it and sold to dealer for just $5500 less then I had in it. It needed tires and was mint condition. I had a low profile leer tonneau, spray in, boards and clear bra. I’m picky. Tracked down one of the new last platinum 2021 crewmax for the 20 upgrades I wanted the better led head lights and fogs, better gauges, bsm and extra, auto hi beams, JBL, laser cruise, thigh extender seat, nicer interior. Set it up with best oem boards, clear bra and leer again. Trd shift knob, door edge guards, everything. Only thing I don’t have is trd suspension which I might have dealer do. We have three Toyotas. Did 2019 Highlander for wife before new model. New tundra is overpriced and still has bugs. Go watch the car care nut on YouTube. He is a master Toyota tech and reviews and answers all things Toyota. He compared new model vs 2014-2021. He knocks some paint issues with parts of new model and reliability and how it’s put together. I wouldn’t trade now unless you want a 2020 or 2021 platinum or 1794. Just the doubts you have have answered your questions. What the care care nut videos it will help you. You can do some upgrades like others mentioned. I’m not liking what Toyota is doing with motors either. Just grabbed my daughter a 2024 Camry le before the new 2025 hybrid more expensive one. Prices are getting crazy. Look at new Tacoma prices. To be seen how reliable this 2.4 turbo they are putting in everything. Glad I got the 3.5 in our Highlander. Waited three years to get bugs out of 8 speed tranny. Keep the 2018 and make upgrades slowly or find like I have a 2021.

Dan (not verified)    May 14, 2024 - 10:46AM

I also have a 2018 Tundra and solved this issue by installing an aftermarket stereo. Best of both worlds now. Great truck, I'm in no hurry to give it up

FUZZZZY (not verified)    May 14, 2024 - 12:11PM

Speaking as the original owner of a 2010 Tundra, the new Tundras (last two years) are ugly. Why would you want one?

Tward (not verified)    May 14, 2024 - 4:05PM

Just traded my 2017 tundra with 193,000. Unless you want to pay $30,000 more for the same vehicle with a better info center then go for it. Otherwise stick with 2018. Loved my tundra but I run 100 miles a day to and from work. Needed something with less miles and better gas. So got a tacoma. Sad to say it cost more than my tundra did in 2017.

Dee (not verified)    May 14, 2024 - 4:53PM

If you can afford it go for it. These new truck prices have put me out of the market. I don't see how a working man affords them.