100K And No Service History.

[Raljix]

Just picked up my first ever toyota. Paid a grand for 1.8 vvt-i 140. First impressions are what an outstanding bit of engineering. Love the car so far. The car has no real service history so do not know it's past. It seems to run well, has plenty of power and feels solid. Besides the obvious such as cam belt change and general service what other things should I belooking at. II'm prepared to throw 300-400 pounds at it but where should I spend it. Any input would be great..

[alan333]

Keep a close eye on oil consumption. Lots of 1.8 vvti's have engine trouble which starts with high oil use. There's plenty info on here and elsewhere about it.

[RUToyota]

They are a great car..but as Alan says, keep a regular eye on your oil levels.

The pre-facelift Gen 7 (facelift was 2002 onwards) was particularly prone to oil usage (but not a definite) so make sure the oil levels are where they should be and check it regularly.

100k miles is nothing for these engines if they are looked after.

Also keep an eye on your coolant level..radiator leaks (bottom left corner as you look from the front) are not uncommon..but you can get a replacement for £30.

Power steering coolant pipe/loop (just in front of the radiator bottom left) can corrode and start to leak....I've just wired brushed mine and given it two coats of Hammerite to hopefully make it last longer.

All in all a great drivers car that gives so much enjoyment...hope you enjoy yours.

Neil

[Scarlett Arrow]

Hi, Adam & welcome to T.O.C.

With Winter just around the corner, make sure your brakes and tyres are A1.

Oh, and if you replace the cam belt, let us know how easy/difficult it is, as you'll be the first Gen 7 owner to change it ;)

PS I'm near Il'son, so maybe not a million miles away :)

[RUToyota]

Oh, and if you replace the cam belt, let us know how easy/difficult it is, as you'll be the first Gen 7 owner to change it ;)

PS I'm near Il'son, so maybe not a million miles away :)

LOL...I assumed he meant auxillary belt...and I'lson..??...I use to work and live there.!!....have family that still does.!

Neil

[Scarlett Arrow]

Really?!, did you ever try that brilliant chip shop on Peel Street in Langley Mill?

[Raljix]

A mate told me today that it doesn't need changing. Ha... prize noob i suppose....

[RUToyota]

Really?!, did you ever try that brilliant chip shop on Peel Street in Langley Mill?

Try it.?...I spent a lot of time there...it was owned by my Mum's brother...my Uncle.....Maurice Whysall.

Best chippy for 50 miles..lol

Neil

[RUToyota]

A mate told me today that it doesn't need changing. Ha... prize noob i suppose....

He'd be right...if he was referring to the chain. Aux. belt is always worth checking. I've just changed mine as it was very cracked, but at least no chunks were missing..lol.

I didn't know when it was last changed so for the sake of a few quid ( I used a Gates belt, £15-ish) it isn't worth NOT doing.

Neil