1996 Daihatsu Hijet van review from UK and Ireland

I purchased this van second hand from a lady who ran her own small confectionery business, despite the service book being stamped up to date, I think the dealership she had been using had just taken her money and did absolutely nothing to the vehicle.

I had to replace brake, cooling and fuel lines also a very intensive full service, rear brake cylinders, full exhaust system, speedometer head and cable, throttle cable.

Water proof electrical system connections which run along the underside of the vehicle.

The vans which are supplied to the UK are actually made in Italy by Piaggio. I been to Italy a couple of times and you see these vans all over the place. However vans there of a similar age or older seam to be in a lot better condition than there counterparts in the UK, the crap ones must be sent to us here. The Jap made ones are much better according to the dealers.

After all my hard work restoring this vehicle I now have a competent little work horse, the engine is quite willing and maneuvering and steering are excellent when you get used to the driving position that is right over the front wheels. Interior is basic and functional, but a clock and central locking would be useful extras. These vans need loads of TLC on a regular basis otherwise the condition and reliability depreciate rapidly.