Toyota Problems

A HiAce of that period is generally worth between $1000 and $2000, but being rusty and unroadworthy yours is not worth that much. It could be worth a couple of hundred dollars, but I reckon you’ll struggle to give it away.

It’s unlikely to be in your engine as such; rather it’s probably associated with the engine’s intake system. As it’s new take it to your Toyota dealer and have them fix it under warranty.

In terms of reliability and common faults there is little difference between Mazda, Honda and Toyota. They are all good, reputable brands building cars of a good quality with few reliability issues. Choose the one that best suits your family needs.

Your budget will limit you to an older model, around 2008/2009, which will have higher kilometres, and be less safe and less reliable than a later model.

It’s hard to go past a Toyota HiLux, but try to find one that hasn’t been beaten up by a tradie, or used extensively in the bush or off-road.

Check the electrical connections on the horns and also check the fuses.

The Mazda3 and Holden Astra are both good alternative choices, but you could also consider a Toyota Corolla or Kia Rio or Cerato.

There’s no real difference in reliability or maintenance, but the SBV is more comfortable and feels a little safer with a little more sheetmetal ahead of you. I would prefer to be driving the SBV. It’s value would be $6000-$8000.

It's hard to recommend a car that would suit you without knowing more about what you want to do with it, but I would suggest you avoid sporty models, low-profile tyres, and consider an SUV such as a Mitsubishi ASX, Nissan Qashqai, or Renault Captur.