Blog / Used Car Guide

Blog

All Used Car Guide New Car Guide New Car Guides Automotive Industry News Toyota News Toyota Camry Toyota Tacoma Finance Lease Local Activities Local Restaurants Parts Toyota 4Runner Toyota Corolla Toyota Highlander Toyota RAV4 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid Toyota Safety Sense Toyota Sequoia Toyota Sienna Toyota Tundra
Toyota Tundra Lunar Rock

Adventure, Comfort, and Power: Which 2025 Toyota Truck is Right for You?

We recently received a fantastic question from a prospective customer who’s ready to invest in their dream truck. Their thoughtful consideration of three top-tier models got us thinking: this is a question many truck buyers might wrestle with. So, we decided to turn their inquiry into a blog post to help others in the same boat. If you’re comparing models for camping, commuting, towing, and everything in between, this breakdown is for you. Let’s help you choose the perfect truck for your adventurous lifestyle! 2025 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro Mudbath (~$82k) This one’s a beast, no doubt about it. The TRD Pro Mudbath is built for rugged adventures, and its off-road capabilities are unmatched. If off-grid camping is high on your list, the TRD Pro’s Fox shocks, multi-terrain select system, and skid plates are ready to tackle any trail. Inside, the cabin is comfortable, but the tech might not be as advanced compared to the other two options. As for adding lifts and sound systems, it’s a modder’s dream. 2025 Toyota Tundra I-Force Max 1794 Edition Black (~$78k) Luxury meets functionality with the 1794 Edition. Its cowboy-inspired interior feels like a first-class suite, making those daily commutes a lot more enjoyable. The I-Force Max hybrid engine offers strong towing capacity for your teardrop camper and motorcycle, and its tech package is top-notch—think large infotainment screens, advanced driver assists, and seamless smartphone integration. Plus, lifting this truck and enhancing the sound system won’t be a challenge. Its mix of utility and comfort makes it a solid contender. 2025 Toyota Tundra Platinum Crew Max Black 5.5 (~$74k) If reliability and comfort top your list, the Platinum Crew Max has you covered. Its smooth ride, spacious cabin, and premium materials make it an excellent choice for commutes and long trips. The tech features include everything you’d expect—wireless charging, a head-up display, and advanced safety systems. It’s also slightly more affordable, leaving room in your budget for upgrades like a lift or a custom sound system. While it might not have the off-road grit of the TRD Pro, it’s versatile enough for ranch work and off-grid adventures. My Recommendation Given your priorities—reliability, comfort, safety, and easy customization—the I-Force Max 1794 Edition Black strikes the best balance. It has the tech you’ll love, the power you need, and the luxury you deserve, all while holding strong resale value. Head to our dealership and test drive all three. You’re about to own the perfect truck for your lifestyle! See a full online inventory.

Toyota Land Cruiser

Best Used Toyota SUVs to Buy: Reliable, Versatile, and Built to Last

When it comes to finding a dependable and versatile SUV, Toyota models consistently lead the pack. Renowned for their reliability, advanced features, and long-term value, Toyota SUVs make excellent choices for drivers seeking a balance of performance, comfort, and capability. Here’s a closer look at the best used Toyota SUVs to consider. Toyota Land Cruiser For drivers seeking luxury and off-road prowess in one package, the Toyota Land Cruiser is legendary. Known for its unparalleled durability and high-end features, this SUV is a rare gem in the used market. Whether you’re cruising city streets or exploring rugged trails, the Land Cruiser provides an unmatched driving experience. Toyota RAV4 The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that excels in fuel efficiency and versatility. Ideal for daily commutes and road trips alike, it features a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and available all-wheel drive for enhanced performance. Used models from recent years often include tech upgrades like adaptive cruise control and smartphone integration, making the RAV4 a top choice for families and adventurers. Toyota Highlander If you need more space, the Toyota Highlander offers three rows of seating and a reputation for dependability. With powerful V6 engine options, ample cargo space, and an array of safety features like lane-keeping assist and collision prevention systems, the Highlander is perfect for growing families or anyone in need of extra room. Toyota 4Runner For those who crave off-road excitement, the Toyota 4Runner is a rugged midsize SUV built to tackle tough terrains. Featuring a durable body-on-frame construction, advanced 4WD systems, and plenty of ground clearance, the 4Runner delivers exceptional capability. It’s also practical for everyday use, with a spacious interior and the reliability that Toyota is known for. Toyota Sequoia If maximum space and towing capability are priorities, the Toyota Sequoia is hard to beat. This full-size SUV offers a robust V8 engine, a spacious cabin with three rows, and exceptional towing capacity, making it an ideal choice for families who need both power and room. Recent used models often come with premium features like leather upholstery and advanced infotainment systems. Explore Used Toyota SUVs at Bruner Toyota Ready to find your ideal Toyota SUV? Bruner Toyota has a wide selection of high-quality used RAV4, Highlander, 4Runner, and more. Visit our website today to browse our used vehicle inventory and take the first step toward driving a Toyota built to last!

Getting Your Car Ready to Trade-In or Sell at a Dealership

If you're planning to trade in or sell your vehicle to a dealership, a little preparation can go a long way in maximizing your car's value. Taking the time to properly ready your vehicle can make a big difference when it comes to getting a top-dollar offer. Whether you’re trading it in for a new model or simply selling it, here are three key steps you should take to get your car ready for sale. 1. Clean and Detail Your Car First impressions matter, and that’s no different when it comes to selling your car. A clean, well-maintained vehicle signals to potential buyers that the car has been cared for and is in good condition. Before heading to the dealership, give your car a thorough cleaning, both inside and out. Start by washing and waxing the exterior to restore the car’s shine and remove any dirt or debris. For the interior, vacuum the seats, floor mats, and carpets, and wipe down all surfaces with an appropriate cleaner. Don’t forget to clean the windows and mirrors. If your car has any lingering odors, consider using an air freshener or having it professionally detailed. A clean and polished car can leave a positive impression and potentially boost its trade-in or sale value. 2. Gather All Important Documentation Having all the necessary paperwork in order is crucial when selling or trading in a car. The dealership will want to verify the car's history, so be sure to gather the following documents: Title or payoff information: If you own the car outright, you’ll need the vehicle’s title. If there’s still a loan on the car, provide the dealership with payoff information from your lender. Vehicle history report: Having a report from services like CARFAX or AutoCheck shows transparency and can reassure the dealer about the car's condition and any past accidents or repairs. Maintenance records: Showing that your vehicle has been regularly maintained and serviced can help increase its value. Include records of oil changes, tire rotations, brake replacements, and any other maintenance work you’ve done. Being prepared with all this documentation can speed up the trade-in or sales process and may even make the dealership more willing to offer a higher value for your vehicle. 3. Take Care of Minor Repairs and Maintenance Addressing any minor issues with your car can make it more attractive to buyers and can also prevent the dealership from lowering their offer. If your vehicle has small problems, such as a cracked windshield, burned-out lights, or worn-out tires, consider getting them fixed before selling or trading in. While you don’t need to invest in costly repairs, taking care of smaller, affordable fixes can make your car look and perform better during inspection. In addition, ensure your vehicle is up-to-date on regular maintenance. An oil change, new air filter, or fresh windshield wipers can show the dealership that your car has been properly maintained. You want your vehicle to look and drive its best, so spending a little money on these minor repairs can help you get a better offer. Sell Your Car for Top Trade-In Value at Bruner Toyota If you’re ready to trade in or sell your car, Bruner Toyota is the place to go. Whether you're planning to purchase a new vehicle or not, Bruner Toyota will buy your used vehicle for top trade-in value—even if you don’t buy a car from us! We understand that your vehicle is a valuable asset, and we aim to make the selling or trade-in process easy and hassle-free. You can count on our team to offer a fair price based on your vehicle's condition, market value, and demand. Selling your car doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By cleaning and detailing your car, gathering all necessary documentation, and addressing minor repairs, you can set yourself up to get the best possible offer from the dealership. When you're ready to trade in or sell, visit Bruner Toyota for a no-obligation offer and get the top trade-in value for your vehicle today!

Toyota logo

Unlocking Value: The 3 Advantages of Choosing a Pre-Owned Vehicle

When it comes to buying a car, many people think that purchasing a brand-new vehicle is the only way to go. However, choosing a pre-owned vehicle can offer significant benefits that make it a smart and economical decision. In this article, we’ll explore the top three advantages of buying a pre-owned car and the differences between pre-owned and certified pre-owned vehicles. 1. Cost Savings One of the most compelling reasons to consider a pre-owned vehicle is the potential for substantial cost savings. New cars depreciate quickly, losing a significant portion of their value within the first few years. By opting for a pre-owned car, you avoid this initial depreciation and get more car for your money. This means you can often afford a higher-end model or a vehicle with more features than you could if buying new. Additionally, insurance premiums for pre-owned vehicles are generally lower than those for new cars, leading to further savings over the life of the vehicle. If you’re looking to maximize your budget, choosing a pre-owned car is an excellent way to do so. 2. Variety and Availability When you choose to buy pre-owned, you open a world of possibilities in terms of variety. Bruner Toyota offers a vast selection of makes, models, and years, giving you more options to find a vehicle that perfectly suits your needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a specific model that’s no longer in production or a vehicle with unique features, the pre-owned market is likely to have what you’re looking for. Moreover, pre-owned vehicles are readily available, which means you don’t have to wait for a new model to be released or worry about delays in manufacturing. You can drive away in your ideal car much sooner. 3. Proven Reliability Modern vehicles are built to last, and many pre-owned cars still have a lot of life left in them. When buying a pre-owned vehicle, you can often find cars with a proven track record of reliability. With access to vehicle history reports and maintenance records, you can make an informed decision about the car’s condition and performance. Additionally, many pre-owned vehicles are still under manufacturer warranties, providing added peace of mind. Some even offer extended warranties or service contracts, further protecting your investment. Pre-Owned vs. Certified Pre-Owned: What’s the Difference? When shopping for a used car, you’ll come across two main categories: pre-owned and certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles. While both are used, there are key differences between the two. Pre-Owned Vehicles Pre-owned vehicles are simply cars that have been previously owned and are now for sale. These cars can vary widely in terms of age, mileage, and condition. They are often sold "as-is," meaning they may not come with a warranty, though some dealerships offer limited warranties or service agreements. Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Vehicles Certified pre-owned vehicles, on the other hand, undergo a more rigorous inspection and certification process. To qualify as CPO, a car must meet specific criteria set by the manufacturer, such as age and mileage limits. CPO vehicles are typically newer, have lower mileage, and come with a manufacturer-backed warranty, which often includes extended coverage beyond the original warranty. This certification process ensures that the vehicle is in excellent condition and provides additional peace of mind for buyers. Choosing a pre-owned vehicle offers numerous advantages, from significant cost savings to a wide variety of options and proven reliability. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a specific model that meets your needs, the pre-owned market has something for everyone. And if you want extra assurance, a certified pre-owned vehicle offers the benefits of both a new and used car, providing the best of both worlds. Unlock the value of a pre-owned car today and drive away with confidence. Call Bruner Toyota at 325-646-0500 or visit us today!

used car or new car

Is It Better to Buy a Used Car Compared to a New Car?

Depending upon your budget, finding the best dealership with which to do business can be a daunting task. Because of the current supply chain and inflation issue, shopping used cars vs new cars can be a bit of a confusing situation. Currently, used cars are not that much cheaper than comparable new cars. more The market is constantly changing and depending on its state, you may either benefit or suffer from the supply-and-demand nature of our economy. Often, the dealership will deem a car one of their "certified pre-owned vehicles," and while that title might make you feel a bit more secure, make sure to read the fine print. Your first tool to use with car negotiation tips is to understand the useful lifespan of a car. Ultimately, when deciding between new vs used vehicles, you want to choose the best dealership with great customer service. Tips for Shopping Used Cars Vs New Cars This phase of the automobile purchasing process is all about trust and research. There are many different factors to dissect before making your final call. Let's take a look! Check Online Reviews If you're able to find a relatively new vehicle with low mileage, it is within your best interest to do a quick online review search. Really, you should probably do your due diligence anyhow. Verify the Claims Take the time to research the actual mileage of the vehicle. You should also spend a good deal of time soliciting and researching car history services to find out what kind of accident or mechanical repair history the vehicle has been through. Used Car Salespeople Aren't The Enemy These hard-working folks aren't trying to swindle you into buying a lemon, despite popular belief. They simply want to provide great customer service to put you in the vehicle that you"ve described to them that fits your needs and your price point. Also open to discussing the lifespan of a car and important auto maintenance tips, the team at Bruner sincerely wants to help you purchase the best vehicle for your situation. Used Cars Before we get into the m minute details, here are some basic topics to consider when it comes to buying a used or certified pre-owned car: Mileage Remaining Warranty Time/Mileage Commonly Known Issues Recalls Current Condition of Non-Warranty Items Gas Mileage Personal Necessity Mileage This is pretty self-explanatory. You know how far your commute to school or work might be, so the amount of mileage on the odometer is of primary concern when it comes to considering a vehicle purchase. Taking your daily usage needs into consideration is a big part of purchasing a new or used vehicle. Remaining Warranty Time & Mileage When you purchase a certified pre-owned vehicle from a dealership, you will often be asked about buying an extended warranty. While this may seem like a ploy, it is not altogether a terrible idea. Warranties of this ilk are often reasonable and extend far past the traditional Powertrain warranty. They will significantly increase the cost of the vehicle on the front end, but you will thank yourself in about 50,000 miles when your alternator goes out in the West Texas heat. Commonly Known Issues It's not all that tough to hop on the internet and figure out what your potential purchase has endured. There are pay sites and other clickbait areas that can give you a vague idea of any said vehicle's history. Current Condition of Non-Warranty Items So the vehicle that you're interested in has all of 15,000 miles on it, but all of the quarter panels are dented and someone t-boned the passenger side a month ago. The previous owner didn't bother getting it fixed; rather, they opted to sell it as-is and collect the deductible. Recalls This is another easy-peasy one. Simply search for "recalls for <insert whatever vehicle you're researching here>," and you'll find out what recalls are due. Most of the time they are minor, but sometimes they are absolute deal-breakers! Gas Mileage An uncommonly popular topic in the United States today, gas mileage is a big deal due to inflation and a number of other geopolitical issues. Before you go and buy that giant SUV powered by unleaded gasoline, you should take into consideration the cost of fuel and the pledge from much of the global community to ween themselves from fossil fuels within the next generation. Whether you agree with it or not, it's a sound investment! Personal Necessity In the end, the vehicle you purchase, whether it is new or used is completely dependent upon your personal necessities. If you don't need a $50,000 brand-spanking-new pickup truck, don't buy it! Instead, come see us, and match up your needs with your wants. There's a good chance that you could decide on a reasonable crossover or four-door sedan; again, it all depends on your family's specific needs - to which we are happy to cater. Focus On Quality and Your Specific Needs When shopping for used cars vs new cars, the single most important thing is to not fall "in love" with one specific vehicle. Great customer service coupled with salespeople who will offer straightforward car buying tips is the key to walking (or driving) away with the vehicle that you need. If you're in the Brownwood, Texas or Early, Texas area and you're shopping for new cars vs used cars, contact us. Even if you're not interested in something that we have on the lot, we can point you in the right direction.

Contact Us

Fill out this form below and we'll contact you shortly
*Required Fields