Toyota Problems

Using a trim removal tool lever the trim around the screen out of the dash. Pop it forward, then unclip the hazard button and wiring for the airbag light. Undo four 10mm bolts at the edge of the unit. Slide the unit out, disconnect the wiring and it is out.

Of those choices the Mitsubishi Mirage would appear to be the best option. It is the newest, has the fewest kilometres, and is the cheapest. It’s also reliable and should give you good service. In order of preference I would suggest the Toyota Corolla and the Holden Cruze.

In a current-generation Corolla you need trim removal tools (which are easy to purchase at any local parts store, or via the Internet). Start by levering the top right corner of the radio fascia piece outwards from the dash. It is retained by plastic clips that simply pop out so don't be afraid to give it some oomph. Once you have it loose you can unplug the wires attached to the back of it. There are then four 10mm bolts holding the radio unit to the dashboard, positioned around the top and sides, towards the rear of the unit. Use a long 10mm socket on an extension, fitted to a ratchet handle, to remove these. You can then slide the radio unit forward and unplug it.

Programming one of Toyota'a new-generation Smart Keys requires you taking your car to the dealer to have it coded to the new key. Specialist computer programs are required as they have to pair your key to your specific car, via the car's computer. This makes the car secure to your particular keys.

You haven’t told us anything that might help to identify the problem you want to fix. I guess you want to replace the pump, which is an electric pump in the fuel tank. Take it to a mechanic and get them to fix it.

Adjusting headlights is a tricky, finnicky process which involves parking the car on dead-level ground 3m away from a perfectly flat surface and making measurements to ensure the cross-beam of your headlights hits just the right spot on the wall. However, you can also take your car back to the dealership and have trained technicians set it up perfectly for you, while you sip on a cup of coffee and read what Jennifer Anniston is up to in the latest trash rag. Adjusting headlights isn't a job for an amateur, given you could blind other motorists or find yourself unable to see if you get it wrong.

The batteries used in Toyota hybrids have been good for many hundreds of thousands of kilometres, so it’s surprising that yours has failed after so few kilometres and just four years old. I would approach Toyota and put your case for a refund to them.

Toyota did have a spate of diesel engine failures some years ago when it was discovered that the fuel injector seals were leaking and letting fuel into the oil stream.

Sludge would build up on the oil pickup and eventually it be blocked and the engine would lose oil pressure. As you say the pickup can be inspected through the oil drain hole, so you should be able to see if there is a problem there. It is worthwhile changing the injector seals every 45,000 km.

Talk directly to Toyota’s customer assistance service (1800 869 682) and clarify what part was replaced, and why they say it isn’t covered by the warranty.

Push in the button on the side of your Smart Key, and pull the tab holding in your emergency (manual) key. This allows you to unlock the car if your Smart Key's battery is flat. Once you remove the manual key you can split the Smart Key case in half using the emergency key, exposing the battery. Pull down on the tab holding the battery in and the battery will pop out. Replace it with a new CR1632 battery (some use a CR2032 battery) and snap the Smart Key back together!