1988 Toyota Van LE review from North America

Front brakes have been replaced several times, calipers twice.

The van seems to be hard on front brakes.

Replaced the torque converter at around 100,000 miles.

Replaced rear shocks at 175,000 miles.

Replaced A/C compressor at 150,000 miles.

This van is a fine representative of Toyota reliability. It stranded me one time; when the torque converter went bad.

Other than two Tercels that I bought new, I've bought 3 other Toyotas that had over 90,000 miles on them. I'd never consider buying a domestic car with that kind of mileage.

This van has more room in it than any of the other mini vans. I've hauled 4 X 8 plywood, lumber, and even a built-in shower unit in this thing. It is a workhorse!

I use it for camping, hauling mountain bikes and rock-climbing equipment (and climbers), cub scouts, you name it. I would set out across the country in it right now with no worries whatsoever about it making the trip.

It only gets fair gas mileage, about 17 - 20 mpg, but that is the worst thing I can say about it.

My wife has always hated the huge step it takes to get into the front seat, but she's short. I like the driving position, but if you're not the driver, and have to sit in the second seat, it's like sitting in a living room. You just lay back the seat and prop your feet up on the hump that goes across behind the front seats. It's great!

I agree with the other reviewers about crosswinds. It's quite exhilarating, to say the least, when you come into an open space such as a tall bridge and are buffeted by the wind. Gets your attention in a hurry!

To make a short story long, this is a great vehicle. I hope I never have to bury it!