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At 281,000 Miles He Sells His Toyota Tundra for $5,500 With a Change at 200,000

In the world of rugged reliability and exceptional performance, the Toyota Tundra stands out, and a recent sale of a high-mileage model highlights just how valuable these trucks can be.

Sammy Jacobson, who posted on Facebook Tundra group about the recent sale of his Toyota Tundra, which clocked an impressive 281,000 miles, is a testament to the durability and enduring appeal of this iconic truck. Jacobson’s ad, detailing the truck’s features and condition, provides a fascinating glimpse into why the Toyota Tundra remains a beloved choice among truck enthusiasts.

The 200,000-Mile Change That Added Value

One of the standout features of Jacobson’s Toyota Tundra was the significant maintenance milestone reached at 200,000 miles. At this crucial juncture, Jacobson made a pivotal upgrade by retiming the engine. Retiming the engine, a process involving the adjustment of the timing of the camshaft relative to the crankshaft, is essential for ensuring optimal engine performance and longevity. This change not only revitalized the engine’s performance but also contributed to the truck’s overall reliability, making it a more attractive option for potential buyers.

The importance of this retiming can’t be overstated. Toyota Tundras, known for their robust V8 engines, benefit greatly from such maintenance, which helps prevent issues related to engine timing that could lead to decreased performance or even mechanical failure.

The Value of the Toyota Tundra’s V8 Engines

The Toyota Tundra’s V8 engines are a major factor in the truck’s lasting appeal. Equipped with either a 4.6-liter or a 5.7-liter V8, depending on the model year, these engines are renowned for their power and durability. The 5.7-liter V8, in particular, offers 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque, making it a powerhouse for towing and heavy-duty work. Even with high mileage, these engines are known for their resilience and can continue to perform reliably when well-maintained, as seen in Jacobson’s truck.

The Toyota Tundra’s V8 engines are not just about raw power; they are also designed to offer a smooth driving experience, with strong low-end torque that makes towing and off-road driving more manageable. This blend of power and durability is a key reason why Tundras maintain their value and why high-mileage examples, like Jacobson’s, can still command a decent resale price.

Other Features That Add Value

Jacobson’s Tundra was equipped with several desirable features that undoubtedly contributed to its value. The truck boasted a 3-inch lift, which not only enhanced its off-road capability but also gave it a commanding presence on the road. The aftermarket camshaft upgrade is another notable enhancement, potentially improving engine performance and efficiency.

In fact, these days there are lots of interesting aftermarket modifications that current Toyota Tundra owners are doing and adding value to their trucks.

The Interior of Jacobson's 281,000-mile Toyota Tundra trucks

Inside, the truck featured a leather tan interior with heated seats, a sunroof, and a rear cab window that rolls down—all contributing to a more comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The wood grain trim added a touch of luxury, while the trailer brake electrical system highlighted its utility for towing purposes.

Clean Title and Overall Condition

A clean title is a significant selling point, indicating that the vehicle has not been involved in major accidents or suffered significant damage. Combined with the extensive maintenance Jacobson performed, the clean title added confidence for buyers, making the truck a more attractive option despite its high mileage.

For Toyota Tundra Owners and Enthusiasts

For current and prospective Toyota Tundra owners, Jacobson’s experience underscores the importance of regular maintenance and timely upgrades. Ensuring that critical components like the engine timing are properly maintained can greatly extend the life of the vehicle. Additionally, investing in enhancements such as lift kits or performance upgrades can not only improve the truck’s capabilities but also boost its resale value.

You know guys, the sale of Sammy Jacobson’s Toyota Tundra for $5,500, despite its 281,000 miles, demonstrates the exceptional value and longevity of these trucks. With a well-maintained engine, appealing features, and a clean title, Jacobson’s Tundra serves as a prime example of why the Toyota Tundra remains a top choice for truck enthusiasts.

 

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

Ed Moore (not verified)    August 21, 2024 - 2:13PM

My Toyota Tundra is a 2006 SR5 DC with 230k. Turned down 13.5k. Too hard to find a clean one with all the documentation of maintenance.

Terry English (not verified)    August 21, 2024 - 7:02PM

In reply to by Reid Wagner (not verified)

That is nothing. Its just getting broken in good. I had a 2005 Tundra that at the time when i wrecked it and insurance totaled it out. I had 489,578 miles on mine. The only maintenance i had done on mine was oil changed when it needed
it and the normal routine maintenance that is required by Toyota. The engine was still running great. Just the body damage was to much for the insurance company. This was by far the best trucks Toyota ever made and now they are shooting themselves in the foot getting rid of the V8 for these new crappy 4 strokes with a turbo or 6 stroke with a turbo. Why change something that worked so well.

Mike Lewis (not verified)    August 22, 2024 - 6:15PM

I am the original owner of a 2005 Tundra SR5 V6 automatic with 345,000 miles. It’s totally stock. I love this truck! Runs smooth; starts easy; gets 21-22 mpg and is as dependable as they come. The truck isn’t as pretty as it was 20-yrs ago but neither am I. A new 2024 Tacoma looks attractive, but I like the simplicity of my 2005.

Max (not verified)    August 22, 2024 - 7:21PM

2002 SR5 4.7, 232000 miles and running great. No re-calls and NO break downs after 22 years. So why spend $50-60 thousand on a new truck when they ALL seem to have issues?

J 4 (not verified)    August 23, 2024 - 2:16AM

You mean he installed a new timing chain mark hopefully also the guides and it gestures. Probably spent 5500 on that alone truck was worth more here on the West Coast without whatever was done at 200 K. Easy used engine swap with way less miles. Toyota owners think they own something special

Craig Richey (not verified)    August 23, 2024 - 6:28AM

Your photo is of a first generation Tundra but I do not see that you note the year of the truck? The first generation Tundra did not have a 4.6 or a 5.7. They had a 4.7. The 4.7 has a timing belt that you have to change about 100K miles. I'm wondering if your story about retiming the motor is just a timing belt change which is normal maintenance? The 4.7 was actually used in the 2nd generation for a year or two and then they went to the 4.6. While both are a great motors, it's the 4.7 that produced the million mile Tundra.

Chris (not verified)    August 23, 2024 - 11:02AM

04 double cab 4x4, 302,000 and still runs great. But it's been rotted out by VT winter roads. In NC now, and still use it.

Wade Robinson (not verified)    August 23, 2024 - 12:45PM

My 2005 Tundra ltd is sitting just under 258000kl.Still runs like new.
Maintenance and a lot of love keeps her going.

John (not verified)    August 24, 2024 - 2:38PM

In reply to by Wade Robinson (not verified)

I have a 2005 SR5 with 149,000, everything works, nothing wrong, has all maintenance, new struts & shocks, new tires & sensors. Replaced speakers in front doors with Kenwood 7" woofers. This truck is great! Like new! Turned down and offer for $15k.

Robert Loyer (not verified)    August 27, 2024 - 1:09PM

I own a 2005 Toyota Tundra with 486,000 miles. I pull a trailer with it hauling hurricane impact windo and sliding glass doors. My truck still runs strong and a mazing