1993 Toyota Tarago VXi review from Australia and New Zealand
"Can become an expensive disaster with age"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Front wheel bearings collapsed at 161,000km. Cost $400 to replace at Toyota dealer.
Brake booster leaked, causing hard pedal, at 167,000km. Cost $700 to replace.
Aircon compressor seized at 172,300km. Not replaceable in VXi for some reason.
Water pump collapsed at 180,000km.
Cost an astounding $1300 to replace.
Ran well until 205,000km, then automatic overheated. Too expensive to fix, but it still drives OK. Won't select reverse when cold. Upshifts very abruptly with a loud clunk.
Alternator failed at 213,000km. I give up!
General comments?
The car now sits unregistered in my carport. It has become far too expensive to keep on the road.
My family and I have been severely inconvenienced by this car on so many occasions, it's no longer worth having.
When running well, it's an excellent car and has seen many long trips with no problems at all.
Performance is adequate for this type of vehicle.
Please avoid high-mileage tarago's of this series.
Recommended Reviews:
  | 1997 - Tarago gli 2.4 litre efi Doesn't disapoint |
| A moderate performance people mover |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1993 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 4 cylinder Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 3/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 156500 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 214000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Toyota Corolla |
| Date of Entry | 23rd December, 2006 |