Denis Hatfield
Email
Q
RECENTLY the turbodiesel engine in my 1992 Toyota LandCruiser spun a big end bearing at 180,000km. Being a mechanic for more than 40 years I repaired the engine, but I have heard stories of this fault occurring and that if you hadn't done more than 100,000km Toyota would pay the bill. I was also told of Toyota changing big end bearings when a customer brought their vehicle in for a service without telling them. Because I do all my own service and repair work as per the service manual, I was not notified of a recall, so I was not aware of this fault. I've been in touch with Toyota, but they claim the vehicle is too far out of warranty. Do you feel I am being unrealistic in asking for compensation?
Graham Smith
Ask Smithy
A
I DON'T think you have much chance of getting a result. The vehicle is 17 years old, it's done 180,000km and you have done the servicing yourself. That looks like three strikes and you're out.
