1985 Toyota Van LE review from North America
"A very functional design, which I can't understand why it doesn't exist anymore!!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I've recently done the contacts in the starter. One hour job and only cost $30 for the parts. Simple repair really.
The tires will need changing more often than most other vehicles because of the tight steering circle on this thing. I use it quite often, so I'll need new rubber soon.
I'll need to fix the rear key cylinder. It doesn't unlock the back door. I looked at it the other day, it seems to be badly corroded.
The horn doesn't work right now. I'll do that soon.
The van was broken into and the lock cylinders seemed to break off of the door panels quite easily.
General comments?
The interior fan is noisy. As is the rear fan.
It could really use a tail wind when ever possible. I also don't like the idea that the overdrive gear is not just a normal gear. I'm forever turning it on and off, and forgetting that it's on.
Cross wind on the highway or a bridge, can get pretty spooky.
I use it as a tradesman van, and I love that I can fit a full size sheet of 4 x 8 plywood in it.
This is a perfect little vehicle. It's great on gas, roomy, reliable, and not too too bad to look at*.
*Mine is not rusted too bad yet. I do know others have a huge problem with this.
I'm at 240000 right now and I'm told that with my religious maintenance, I should be able to hit 400000.
Recommended reviews
| Fun, but not very reliable |
| This van gives VW Type II's a run in the competition for best minivan ever |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1985 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 3 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 230000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 242000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Nissan Micra |
| Date of Entry | 28th February, 2002 |