1998 Toyota Caldina G from Australia and New Zealand - Comments

29th Dec 2007, 16:43

"I have been very happy with this car, less one or two faults as mentioned"

What things have gone wrong with the car?

Blows a little blue smoke on cold start, but clears shortly after. Non-existent with warm start.

High stop light in spoiler had uneven LED brightness and failed WOF. To replace was going to cost $750 ex Japan. Had to make my own using an LED strip from an electronics shop and fix inside the cover.

Handle to open the boot was made of weak plastic and broke when the garage pulled too hard when locked. New handle ex Japan; once again expensive.

Because Caldina's are imported to New Zealand, parts are expensive if unique to this vehicle ie not generic across multiple Toyotas.

General comments?

Good economy.

Good comfort.

Good performance.

Good mid-size wagon.

Good looks.

Good reliability.

Very practical car and great for families. Not as much room overall compared to Subaru though.


12th Apr 2008, 15:40

The reason for the smoke on start up is because of the engine being on a slight slant back. When you turn the vehicle off after running some oil sits on top of the head and seeps through the valve stem seals. A bit of useless info for you!


3rd May 2009, 04:26

Just with regard to the boot handles. They do come ex Japan, I've bought a few over the years. They come pre-painted in the color of the vehicle and are around $90NZ retail.

I don't think the price is too bad, but agree they are really weak.


3rd Jul 2009, 03:03

Where do you get the boot handle from, as mine has broken, cheers.

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