Toyota Town Ace 3C-T Van (1996-2001) (1996–2001)

The TOYOTA TOWN ACE is a reliable and versatile vehicle popular in New Zealand as a budget-friendly work van or campervan conversion. Its practicality and affordability make it a common sight on both urban and rural roads. This guide provides essential information for owners to understand and maintain their Town Ace.

Parts for the Toyota Town Ace 3C-T Van (1996-2001)

• Gear Oil Gearbox (13)
• Oil Filter (11)
• Radiator Coolant (11)
• Axle Gear Oil (11)
• Suspension Bush Front Sway Bar Mount (10)
• Radiator Cap (8)
• Wiper Blade (6)
• Brake Pads Front (6)
• Wiper Refill (5)
• Suspension Bush Set Rear Shock Absorber - Upper And Lower (5)
• Brake Fluid (4)
• Wheel Bearing Kit/Hub Rear (4)
• Suspension Bush Front Control Arm - Upper (4)
• Suspension Bush Sway Bar Link (4)
• Suspension Bush Rear Leaf Spring - Front Eye (4)
• Suspension Bush Rear Leaf Spring - Rear Eye (4)
• Disc Brake Rotor Front (4)
• Timing Tensioner (4)
• Oil Seal Crank Shaft Front / Timing Front (4)
• Air Filter (4)
• Wiper Blade Front & Rear (3)
• Suspension Bush Radius Arm Front (3)
• Suspension Bush Front Shock Absorber - Upper (3)
• Fuel Filter (3)
• Ball Joint Front (3)
• Thermostat (3)
• Wheel Nut (3)
• Cylinder Head (3)
• Valve Cover Gasket (3)
• Steering Rack Boot Kit (3)
• Temperature Sensor / Sender Coolant (2)
• Oil Pressure Switch/Sender (2)
• Oil Seal Crank Shaft Rear / Rear Main Bearing (2)
• Cylinder Head Gasket (2)
• Thermostat Housing Gasket (2)
• Manifold Gasket Exhaust (2)
• Timing Belt Idler (2)
• Oil Seal Camshaft (2)
• Conrod Bearing (2)
• Oil Seal Oil Pump (2)
• Suspension Bush Front Control Arm (2)
• Glow Plug (2)
• Shocks / Strut Rear (2)
• Sump/Drain Plug (2)
• Oil Cap (2)
• Suspension Bush Shock Absorber (2)
• Steering Rack End (1)
• Water Pump Gasket (1)
• Engine Mount Front (1)
• Wiper Blade Rear (1)
• Suspension Bush Rear Shock Absorber - Lower (1)
• Drive Belt Pulley Idler/Tensioner (1)
• Timing Belt Camshaft (1)
• Wheel Bearing Kit/Hub Front (1)
• Shocks / Strut (1)
• Head Set/Valve Regrind Gasket Set (1)
• Suspension Bush Front Sway Bar Link - Lower (1)
• Valve Stem Seal (1)
• Cylinder Head Bolt (1)
• Engine Oil (1)

Known issues

Owners should be aware of several common issues affecting the TOYOTA TOWN ACE:
• Overheating: The radiator design can lead to overheating, especially under heavy use. Consider regular radiator servicing and coolant checks.
• Rust: Rust is a common problem, particularly in lower body panels and around window seals. Regular rustproofing and addressing minor rust spots early can help prevent extensive damage.
• Automatic Transmission Failure: Be particularly mindful of automatic transmission issues, especially in 4WD models. Ensure regular transmission fluid changes and address any signs of slipping or rough shifting immediately.

WOF tips

When preparing your TOYOTA TOWN ACE for its Warrant of Fitness (WoF), be mindful of these common watch points:
• Excessive Play in Steering Components: Any significant play in the steering system can lead to a WoF failure. Ensure a thorough steering check before your inspection.
• Corrosion around Windscreen and Chassis Rails: Rust and corrosion in these areas are critical safety concerns and are closely inspected during the WoF process. Address any rust promptly.

About the Toyota Town Ace 3C-T Van (1996-2001)

The TOYOTA TOWN ACE, while not steeped in motorsport or engineering firsts, has carved its own niche in New Zealand culture. It's the trusty workhorse, the budget-friendly camper, and a testament to practical motoring.

Maintenance & Ownership

Keeping your Town Ace in top condition involves regular maintenance and addressing common issues promptly. This guide includes information to help owners understand potential problems and proactively maintain their vehicle. Consider consulting a trusted mechanic for comprehensive servicing and repairs. Regular checks of brakes, filters, and suspension components are vital.

Questions owners ask

What are the common issues I should look out for with my 1996-2001 TOYOTA TOWN ACE in New Zealand?

Owners of the 1996-2001 TOYOTA TOWN ACE commonly experience issues with overheating due to the radiator design, especially under heavy use. Rust is also a frequent problem, particularly on lower body panels and around window seals. Additionally, automatic transmission failure can occur, especially in 4WD models, so regular fluid changes are crucial.

Where can I get replacement parts for my 1996-2001 TOYOTA TOWN ACE in NZ?

CARFIX stocks 178 SKUs for the 1996-2001 TOYOTA TOWN ACE. You can find a wide range of parts, including those for brakes, filters, and suspension components, directly through CARFIX in New Zealand.

What should I check on my TOYOTA TOWN ACE before its WoF inspection in NZ?

For your TOYOTA TOWN ACE's WoF, pay close attention to excessive play in steering components, as this is a common failure point. Also, thoroughly inspect for corrosion around the windscreen and chassis rails, as rust in these critical safety areas will lead to a WoF failure.

How often should I service my 1996-2001 TOYOTA TOWN ACE?

The recommended service interval for your 1996-2001 TOYOTA TOWN ACE is every 10,000km. Regular servicing, including checks of brakes, filters, and suspension, is vital for maintaining its condition.

My TOYOTA TOWN ACE is overheating. What could be the cause?

Overheating in the 1996-2001 TOYOTA TOWN ACE is a common issue often linked to the radiator design. Regular radiator servicing and consistent coolant checks are recommended to prevent this problem, especially if you use the vehicle for heavy loads or long trips.

What are the signs of automatic transmission problems in a 1996-2001 TOYOTA TOWN ACE, especially a 4WD model?

For 4WD models of the 1996-2001 TOYOTA TOWN ACE, be vigilant for signs of automatic transmission issues such as slipping gears, rough shifting, or unusual noises. Addressing these symptoms immediately and ensuring regular transmission fluid changes can help prevent more serious failures.