Looking for help on choice of model

[Sk1ds Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Sk1ds]

Hi all,

I am looking for some advice on which model to buy.

I dont need serious off road but do have the following simple requirements

1) Reliability - being quite remote, i want to minimize risk of breakdown.

2) Ease of maintenance, either DIY or for a mobile mechanic.

3) Can tolerate country fuel (petrol or diesel)

4) Below $15k

Cheers
Neil.

[Guest Close Guest]

Limits you to 90 series and low end higher mileage 120 series. HIgher km cars meaning that things will have started to wear, meaning reliability is a compromise. Although they are normally very good in the long run.

[404pug Avid PP Poster! Find all posts View Profile Close 404pug]

Look for a low km 120 petrol

[Sk1ds Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Sk1ds]

Thanks! Anything to look out for in particular with the 120 petrols?

[EddieF Member Find all posts View Profile Close EddieF]

There will be a lot of info on this site from some pretty savy owners so I recommend you spend the time reviewing what they have to say.

I can rattle off a few comments and it may help point you in the right direction:
Check engine compartment wheel guards for cracks.
Check rear door around the Hinges
Check the dash very closely for cracks
Review service history
Look underneath car for evidence of damage
Determine what version you want, Grande comes with sunroof, and rear airbag suspension, both can be a problem with age, however the Grande (and VX) have a-Trac traction control, which I don't think the lower models have.
If it has a Toyota genuine bullbar, and towbar check if the voluntary recalls and checks have been done on Toyota database (i.e. stronger bracket replacement for bullbar).
Well worth getting a professional to look at it especially if service history is not there.
If buying privately get a check done via VIN number to check if any financing is still due on it and look at prior sales history (you may be surprised what shows up) .

[Sk1ds Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Sk1ds]

Thankk so much Eddie. Thts a great help.