1994 Toyota Previa LE S/C review from North America

I bought the van used from a private owner who did not perform some things (e.g. air conditioner, differential fluid & oil leaks).

In 2004 when I bought it, I had a lot of work done out of excitement (e.g. all fluids changed, rear brakes, struts, A/C & differential leaks repaired).

I have never been stranded while operating this vehicle after any work performed by a licensed mechanic.

All other work performed by me (e.g. major tuneup, valve cover gasket, condenser & A/C drier removal, cruise control switch, radio tuner, window motor, muffler, calipers, rotors & pads).

I had seriously considered buying a used minivan, specifically the Toyota Previa, due to its reputation on carsurvey.org.

I did not see one "blue" face or hardly any negative feedback on any of its model years. They were either yellow or white.

After all the positive feedback, my purchase and ownership since July 2004, I expect to own a Previa beyond 175K miles unless something really major happens. I doubt it will.

I have heard that Previas are not even really broken in until 200K. Wow!!!

I have seen a useful service life go as high as 300K, probably due to its very rugged and solid drivetrain.

Currently, my van needs work as I am still troubleshooting a braking issue (vibration) and need to install a new condenser and A/C drier.

If I keep doing most of the maintenance and repairs myself, I probably won't ever part with this van.

This van, however, has very polar moments of inertia (look it up) due to its mid-engined configuration and RWD.

I hear that AWD will lessen those moments.

A Toyota mechanic once asked me "why do people swear by their Previas?" I just smiled and hesitated in my response.

You have to own a Previa to really understand.

I am quite proud to own my Previa and hope never to see otherwise.

Realistically, if I can drive until 180K, I will have gotten my monies worth. I paid $6000 for it.