The Toyota Hiace and Commuter are workhorses on New Zealand roads, known for their reliability and practicality. Regular maintenance is key to keeping these vans running smoothly, whether you use yours for business or personal transport. This guide provides essential information about servicing, common issues and Warrant of Fitness (WOF) considerations for your Hiace or Commuter.
Common issues to watch out for in Toyota Hiaces and Commuters include:
• Worn suspension components (bushes, springs, shocks).
• EGR valve and cooler blockages (leading to reduced performance).
• Oil leaks from axle seals and steering rack.
• General wear and tear on brake components (pads, rotors).
• Corrosion, especially in coastal areas.
When taking your Toyota Hiace or Commuter for a WOF inspection, pay attention to these common failure points:
• Suspension condition (worn bushes, damaged springs).
• Brake performance (pad thickness, rotor condition).
• Lighting (including reverse lights).
• Tyre condition (tread depth, sidewall damage).
• Structural rust (especially around suspension mounting points and sills).
• Exhaust leaks will result in a fail, ensure the vehicle is up to standard
To ensure your Toyota Hiace or Commuter remains reliable, address these key areas during servicing:
Suspension: Inspect and replace worn suspension bushes (rear shock absorber lower and rear leaf spring rear eye) to maintain ride quality and handling. Consider leaf spring lowering blocks for a modified stance, if desired. Check spring mountings for corrosion or damage.
Filtration: Regularly replace the filter service kit to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity.
Engine Components: Address valve train components such as valve springs, valve stem seals, and lash adjusters to maintain efficient combustion and reduce oil consumption. Replace turbo gasket set and EGR valve/cooler to maintain emissions performance.
Drivetrain: Inspect and replace the reverse lamp switch to ensure proper functioning of the reverse lights. Replace the pedal pad brake for safe and effective braking.
Steering & Axles: Service the steering rack seal kit to prevent leaks and maintain proper steering function. Replace the oil seal axle/drive shaft (rear outer) to prevent oil leaks and protect drivetrain components.