Toyota Problems

You are assuming that the problems have come about as a result of the work done on the car under the recall. While it is possible that you are correct, you cannot be sure until the problems are diagnosed. If the problems are a result of something the dealer has done then they should be responsible for fixing it; if they are not caused by what the dealer did then you would be responsible. First, you need to establish the cause of your problems, and then you can deal with them.

I wouldn't consider any of the European brands, they're too expensive and cost too much to run. That rules out the Up. Asian brands, particularly the better-known and well-respected Japanese brands are a much better bet, which rules in the Echo. The Asian brands tend to be more reliable and cost much less to run. Another to look at in your situation is the Suzuki Alto. 

It's hard to make recommendations without knowing much about what you want. The choices of vehicles for a family of four are many and varied, as you say. I would consider a Kia Sportage SUV, Toyota Camry mid-sized sedan, or a Ford Falcon is you want a large sedan. You would certainly be better off shopping for a one to two-year-old used car.

Most 4WD utes are able to tow two tonnes or more, and they will deliver the fuel economy you appear to want.

The RAV4 is generally bulletproof, so if the family mechanic clears it then it should be a good choice.

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.

The Camry Hybrid is a very good car that gets The Tick from me. On the battery front, companies don't talk about the cost because they are expected to last for the life of the car and they generally provide assistance if there are dramas. I know of Toyota Prius taxis in Queensland that have covered more than 350,000km on the original battery.

The Sorento is a long-term CarsGuide favourite and one of the best things is the basic package is so good you don't have to spend big to get a car that will work well for the long haul. It definitely gets The Tick.