QuestionI am looking at trading my 2011 Tundra for a 2008 Avalanche. It is 4 WD and my Tundra is not. I have always wanted one and never could afford the nice one..LTX. The KBB is about even as far as value. The Avalanche has 97k miles, my Tundra has 52k. With this many miles, and I know nothing about their longevity, should I commit to this trade? The trade is basically even. I am really wanting this one and it is in great shape, therefore, I am trying to be very careful and get all the info I can. I need input from somebody who deals with these vehicles. The carfax is clean.
Answer There isn't an easy answer to this question but I have included my thoughts on your question. I am not familiar with the longevity of an Avalanche or a Tundra but I do have experience with General Motors products and Toyota products.
The Consumer Reports magazine, used vehicle edition, will give you great information about the longevity of both products.
Mileage is recorded on vehicles because it is a indication for the amount of use a vehicle has had and it can give a good idea of how long before major repairs are needed.
In the case of the vehicles you have listed, your Toyota has had about half the use of the Avalanche and therefore indicates a longer projected life span. Although a new Avalanche sells for slightly more when a new Tundra, it would seem to me that the vehicle you are looking at is a poor trade for you if swapping even. It is three years older and has twice the mileage. I think you will also find that the repair record of a used Avalanche is not nearly as good as a used Tundra.
My opinion would be that the average retail value of your vehicle would be somewhere around three thousand dollars more then the value of the mentioned Avalanche. If you absolutely want an Avalanche, I suggest you look into getting a new one or ask the owner of the 2008 you are looking at to give you two thousand dollars plus their truck, for yours.
Good luck
