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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.
Toyota Tundra truck in blue cavalry

While the outdated infotainment system of the 2018 Toyota Tundra and ride quality tempt this owner towards an upgrade, he fears the potential downsides of dealership repairs and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 The infotainment system, by his own admission, feels outdated, and the ride quality leaves a bit to be desired.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 Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.

Automotive News
Pickup Trucks
Toyota

Comments

Mike (not verified)    May 12, 2024 - 10:57AM

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Remember your V8 model is Gold because they completely phased out the V8 and now you have to worry about turbos ?? I own a 19 Tundra TRD Sport I won't get rid of it simply the V8 is Amazing.

Christopher T Garris (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 7:07AM

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Let's face it Joe, you don't drive very much in fact you hardly drive at all, in 6 years you have put under 30k miles on your truck. The infotainment interface hardly seems like a reason to trade your admittedly cream puff on a new Tundra that now costs tens of thousands more than you paid for that 2018. Keep the 2018 or you have pretty much defeated the purpose of buying a Toyota in the first place. The new Tundra has been plagued by trouble with the twin turbo V6 while you iforce 5.7 L V 8 will go for 2-3-4 hundred thousand miles not to mention that your Tundra will be worth a lot going into the future given that it has the V8. Wait till that truck of yours has 100k miles in about 30 years and sell it then!

John Handi (not verified)    May 11, 2024 - 2:36PM

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Had a 23 tundra, went back to v8 TRD Pro. Do iPad or higher end head unit for the tech, v8 for reliability. For me MPG was the same give or take 1 or 2.

Zye Dong (not verified)    May 11, 2024 - 2:38PM

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If you plan to get a new truck every 3-5 years, then go ahead. The new 3.5 Toyota Tundra won’t be as reliable for long term.

Yannis Vasiliadis (not verified)    May 11, 2024 - 2:44PM

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I would keep the 2018 Tundra or find a 2021 Tundra CrewMax TRD 4by4. Last year of the 5.7 Liter V-8. I would wait few more years and see if Toyota would bring back the 5.7Liter! I do not trust the V-6 Turbocharger and that is my opinion!

Terri Tacoma (not verified)    May 12, 2024 - 9:32AM

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You're crazy if you think they'll bring back the 5.7l after this many years. Unfortunately, You're stuck with the 3.5l. Just wait. They will put the 4 cylinder turbo in it soon, and people will forget about the v8. They will be like bring back the 3.5l.

Michael Sissung (not verified)    May 12, 2024 - 3:39PM

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I have the first tundra 4by4 V8 with only 150,000 miles and Toyota wants it bad. My wife just traded her Tacoma for the 2024 Tundra and I love it. The first time they have made it a lot bigger inside which unlike my Tundra it’s really tight. I’m six foot 4 and love the room. The answer to your question of them coming back to v8s is no. I talked to a guy who has worked at Toyota in Albuquerque that my family has known for 25 years + said that Toyota is going to get rid of the v6 turbo and go to v4 turbo.

Djmarie (not verified)    May 11, 2024 - 5:58PM

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Or, you could donate it to my grandson that doesn't have a vehicle to get to work, have him make the payments , and feel so good about doing that....lol

Frank (not verified)    May 11, 2024 - 7:56PM

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For me, it gets down to how much driving you do. Looks like a tad over 4K/yr. Not much. So, do you buy your vehicle for entertainment or for transportation? Assuming the 2018 is paid for, I say keep it and but a nice sound system for your home. Also, upgrading to the latest tech never ends.

Tundra BBN (not verified)    May 12, 2024 - 12:37PM

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I also have a 2018 Tundra, I have 47 thousand miles in mine. I upgraded with a Android Auto for GPS, etc. I am keeping mine. I have friends that work for TMMK, Toyota Motor Manufacturing of Kentucky. They have all told me to keep the 5.7. The new ones have way to many issues.

Eric (not verified)    May 12, 2024 - 1:31PM

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Keep it and switch out the infotainment system. I'm with you as the stock system sucks! Then again most OEM systems are. I have an '18 TRD Sport and one of the upgrades I made is ditching the OEM stereo with a Kenwood DMX 1057. It's not a cheap upgrade but it's 10in capacitive HD screen with wireless Android and Apple carplay is the real deal. And..it's got a physical button! That and ditching the stock speakers for some plug and play Focal speakers and 10in JL Audio sub. I love it and won't part with it, ever!

Steve (not verified)    May 12, 2024 - 3:17PM

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I've had both. The new one is all around better. In my 21 I upgraded the suspension and that made a big difference. Also the head unit and speakers can get upgraded easily... This would be the most sensible way to go... At the same time you only live once and the new Gen is really nice to drive.

Wayne Edwards (not verified)    May 12, 2024 - 4:28PM

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How old is Joe? I wish I could buy a 4x4 pickup with a V-8 and 4 speed auto tranny. Would like to have no info. system, no sensor that closes my door when a pedestrian is coming. I guess that would be to simple and about $25.000 less.

Dave Thomas (not verified)    May 12, 2024 - 4:58PM

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I have a 2000 Tunrda Limited with 240,000 miles. All original except the radiator and starter. Original rotors still on it. I always pay cash for vehicles and have the means to buy any vehicle I want. I too thought I was going to buy the 22 Tundra but had second thoughts with the prices inflated due to the pandemic and later finding out a large percentage of trucks were lemons. Car commercials are designed to take money from those that can least afford it. Trucks are expensive, who cares about tech. Get an older Tundra and invest the money you will save on the lower payment and maintenance .The V8 is never coming back. Ask Ram owners. Like the commercials say. You deserve luxury! Lol

Tommy (not verified)    May 12, 2024 - 8:28PM

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Sorry the V8 has been great and reliable. Still have my 2004, Best truck ever, never any issues, it was totaled this last year by some lady who turned in from of me her fault totaled both. I bought mine back and fixed her back up without to much Hassel at all. Metal Bumber was great. But to be safe I upgraded her new bumper to a massive IronHorse and if it ever happens again I pity the soul that gets turned but my Tundra won't feel a thing! She is still all original engine V8 and kicks ass still!!!!! Love her and won't let her go! Hauls OK, replace the bed twice from daily work use and recreation horse & tackle. She's not the biggest but most reliable truck I've ever had... even my 2002 1500 Ram is a hauling beast but has had a ton of small things and repairs all the time from brake lines to front end power steering, the complete front end havingvto be replaced. But overall kicking butt as well!
Something about the early 2002-2006 trucks are not just reliable but become your best buds for all things camping,hunting,offroad,work.....
Cheers To the Tundra! ! ! Wish it had a better tow package and I would upgrade to just the one truck..........
Come on Toyota do a real upgrade and not just the cosmetic crap you've been doing for the past 20years. Turn it up and let's get to real life!

Just my 2cents

Rajesh K (not verified)    May 13, 2024 - 9:47AM

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I have 2021 V8 , 17k miles on it. I only use my truck for long trips filled with bags , bikes etc without thinking much about road or weather. That’s what you get when you drive a reliable truck. I have another Model Y for short trips with all the good things you can think of an automobile but you know “fear” that you may not be safe is always there. So choose wisely, what you care about. Even my kid won’t allow me take Tesla car for a short trip to vacation !

Scott Lyon (not verified)    May 11, 2024 - 11:03PM

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Joe,
Had a 2018 and now drive the 2020 Limited. Bumped up to Crew Cab Max. We have 3 Toyotas in the garage so I am in regularly for maintenance. Buzz I overhear around the service area is let those bugs be worked out. Maybe another year or two. I wouldn’t trade your bulletproof 2018! Don’t do it. Love my 2020 and will keep it.

John Gertie (not verified)    May 11, 2024 - 11:42PM

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Have a 2004 tundra with 370,000has never been in dealership for anything, keep what you have and enjoy years of reliability

Rodney vojcik (not verified)    May 12, 2024 - 12:46AM

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I have a 2017 Tundra 1793 bought it new and has never a problem with new breaks and tires at 45 K miles. It performed great and I plan on keeping it for many miles bcus the new ones don’t have the quality and performance that I see but could be convinced if I’m wrong.