Now that it appears that the 2013 models won't be refreshed, I am going to start negotiating on a TE. I have a few thoughts that I would like input on:
1: Does the TE come with factory roof rack cross rails standard, or is that an option? Toyota's online specs simply say "black utility roof rack with rail system" for the TE. Cross rails are a requirement for me (transporting kayaks).
2: Seems like one of the hot threads lately pertains to the idiot seat belt reminder alert. I plan on making the sale conditional on disabling that alert bell. Any other annoying alarms that I need to have disabled? My 2006 SR5 has daytime running lights (which I dislike), I don't believe the 5th gen models have daytime running lights. If so, I will have that feature disabled.
3: Floormats: I was planning on getting the factory all-weather floor mats. Any feedback on these or recommendations on other brands?
4: Keys: How many keys come with the vehicle? I think the key is one of these integrated key / remote FOB's. Does Toyota offer a non-remote FOB key? I ask because I whitewater kayak and I usually put my car key (without remote) in my life jacket. I doubt the FOB is meant to get soaked in water.
5: Towing accessories. My '06 SR5 came with a trailer tow bar and electrical adapter. When my dad got an '08, the dealer "accidentally" forgot to put it in the car. They provided it after he commented to them. Do the 5th gen's come with towing accessories?
6: What are the nuances between the lever transfer case 4wd system in the '12 vs the knob transfer case 4wd system in the upcoming '13? Any advantages / disadvantages to each?
7: Any other suggestions, comments, ideas?
8: Any thoughts on what price is a really good deal on a base TE (no options)? Price not including tax, tags, but including all dealer fees. That way the price discussion would be comparable across all states.
9: How easy is general maintenance, like changing oil, vs my 4th gen?
1: Does the TE come with factory roof rack cross rails standard, or is that an option? Toyota's online specs simply say "black utility roof rack with rail system" for the TE. Cross rails are a requirement for me (transporting kayaks).
2: Seems like one of the hot threads lately pertains to the idiot seat belt reminder alert. I plan on making the sale conditional on disabling that alert bell. Any other annoying alarms that I need to have disabled? My 2006 SR5 has daytime running lights (which I dislike), I don't believe the 5th gen models have daytime running lights. If so, I will have that feature disabled.
3: Floormats: I was planning on getting the factory all-weather floor mats. Any feedback on these or recommendations on other brands?
4: Keys: How many keys come with the vehicle? I think the key is one of these integrated key / remote FOB's. Does Toyota offer a non-remote FOB key? I ask because I whitewater kayak and I usually put my car key (without remote) in my life jacket. I doubt the FOB is meant to get soaked in water.
5: Towing accessories. My '06 SR5 came with a trailer tow bar and electrical adapter. When my dad got an '08, the dealer "accidentally" forgot to put it in the car. They provided it after he commented to them. Do the 5th gen's come with towing accessories?
6: What are the nuances between the lever transfer case 4wd system in the '12 vs the knob transfer case 4wd system in the upcoming '13? Any advantages / disadvantages to each?
7: Any other suggestions, comments, ideas?
8: Any thoughts on what price is a really good deal on a base TE (no options)? Price not including tax, tags, but including all dealer fees. That way the price discussion would be comparable across all states.
9: How easy is general maintenance, like changing oil, vs my 4th gen?
Last edited: