Toyota Problems

You're right to be dubious. Ask yourself, and the dealer if you dare, is Toyota's paint so poor that it needs this so-called protection, is the quality of its leather so appalling that it needs extra care, is the carpet rubbish and in need of special care. I think not. It's upselling, plain and simple, and I wouldn't part with my hard-earned cash for something that isn't needed. If you really want it get the dealer to throw it in for free.

The Polo is the best car on your list — and until the end of the year it is selling for $15,990 driveaway — but you should include the Honda Jazz, which is even better value for money.

There is a problem with the VVTi hubs on the Aurion that causes the rattle you can hear. The problem for you is that the car is seven years old and long past the end of the warranty period. We have heard of other cases in which Toyota has paid for part of the cost of the repairs, so I would suggest that you approach Toyota for a similar deal.

It doesn't. It's probably good insurance to fit a cooler when you're towing its maximum rated load for extended periods. But you also need to consider the sort of roads you are using and your driving style. If you're on highways and not going off-road, and you change down manually when you want to climb a hill you probably don't need it.

It sounds as if you want me to give you the go-ahead for an Altima purchase. OK, done (even though I prefer the Camry). There is nothing dangerous about the Nissan's steering and you will adjust quickly to the feel.

Jeep promises it is working on the problems you describe but for now the Prado is still the smarter choice.

The ECU problem affected 2001, 2002 and 2003 models.

It's almost 20 years old; its value is next to nothing. Irrespective of the condition of the body before the crash and that is had a refurbished engine it's really not worth very much. I would expect that you would get $1000 to $2000 for it.

First you need to know the total weight of the trailer when it's loaded with everything you want to take with you when you go camping. It could easily sneak up to close to the Corolla's limit of 950 kg. You have to think of safety when towing, and it doesn't matter that you will only tow short distances or do it twice per year. I would tend to go for the Camry, it has a higher towing rating, it is a heavier vehicle and therefore more stable, and I think safer for your needs.