Toyota Problems

It was a common problem and often reported by owners in years gone by. Take it to a Toyota dealer and have them assess it, and perhaps approach Toyota about repairing it for you. Toyota was reluctant to take action on the problem because they claimed it didn't affect the operation of the airbag. Other than that you could perhaps replace the dash.

Start by finding out why the claim was rejected. Talk to the dealer first, but don't hesitate to go to Toyota directly for an explanation. Once you have that explanation you can determine the way forward.

It’s a common problem for us as we get older, but there are no sedans or hatches that have the sort of higher driving seat that you want. The best option would be a small SUV, such as a Holden Trax, Toyota C-HR, Ford Kuga, or Suzuki S-Cross.

If it is still under warranty take it to your dealer and ask for an assessment of the paint and make a claim for it to be repaired. If it is out of warranty, try for a goodwill payment from Toyota; otherwise you are up for the cost of the re-spray.

We contacted Toyota about your concern and a spokesman responded with the following: "We are very sorry to learn that your reader has experienced this accident. I can confirm that the power back door fitted to the 2011 Kluger indeed includes jam protection functionality, which reverses the direction of the door, should it detect an obstruction or resistance. Additionally, when the power back door is either opening or closing, the vehicle hazard lamps flash and an audible warning sounds, to notify the occupants and passers-by that the door is either coming up or down. During the final 330 mm (approx.) of the closing arc, the speed at which the back door closes reduces prior to engaging the lock mechanism. While the above safety features are built into the door mechanism, as with any automated function or technology, it is important that the operator ensures conditions are safe and appropriate at all times during usage. I hope your reader's son makes a full and speedy recovery."

It's not a safety issue. Your car is nine years old; pay the money to have it fixed.

We contacted Toyota on your behalf and they would like one of their staff to call you and take you through the process of setting up Toyota Link Assist.

I would rule out the Cruze straight away, they have too many issues with reliability with them to be considered. The Elantra and the Camry are both good cars. Your budget should allow you to buy a 2014 Elantra, but probably won’t stretch to a Camry. You might have to go for a 2012-2013 Camry.