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    Prado GXL engine failure

    Toyota Toyota Advice Toyota Prado Toyota Prado Advice Toyota Landcruiser Prado 2005

    I recently bought from a major dealer a 2005 Toyota Prado GXL that had done 260,000 km. The decision I made was influenced by the RACV report together with the extremely strong market reputation of Toyota vehicles for both reliability and longevity, particularly with diesel engines.

    With my research, conversations with mechanics, other owners, and other dealerships I believed/understood that I could within any sense of reason expect to get at least another 100,000 km from this Prado.

    I paid market value for a car that I expected to meet relevant market standards, for a car of its age and condition. I had the car for 10 days when there was a major engine/piston failure.

    I have contacted the dealership and am awaiting their response. I am aware that a Statutory Warranty is not applicable, but believe I should be protected by Australian Consumer Law in expecting this car to be "Fit for Purpose" and of "Acceptable Quality".

    I am hoping the dealer will assist in the resolution of my dilemma. Do you have any advice that might help me achieve a positive outcome? I am not confident in receiving assistance from the dealership.

    Answered by CarsGuide
    14 July 2016
    Graham Smith

    There is always a risk when buying a used car, particularly one as old as yours and having done so many kilometres that something could go wrong with it. You really have no protection under the law; you can only hope that the dealer looks on at your predicament favourably.

    One thing you might care to explore is the possibility that the engine failed due to the oil pickup becoming blocked with an accumulation of carbon deposits and starving the engine of oil.

    There were a number of instances of this problem happening on the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine in the HiLux and LandCruiser. The failure of yours appears very similar to the earlier failures reported in the HiLux, but proving that this was the cause of your problem would be difficult, time consuming, and stressful.

    Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
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