The TOYOTA TOYOACE Base is a familiar sight on New Zealand roads, particularly amongst small businesses and tradespeople who found it a reliable light commercial vehicle in the late 90s and beyond. This wiki aims to provide owners with practical information to help maintain their TOYOACE and keep it performing optimally.
TOYOACE owners should be aware of some common issues that can arise, particularly as the vehicle ages and racks up mileage. Reports suggest these items may requires attention after considerable mileage:
• Injector Issues: Injector pump failures are a known weak point, potentially surfacing between 150,000km and 250,000km, especially for the 3.0L diesel engine variant experiencing injector failure from 150,000km.
• Rust: Keep an eye out for rust, particularly in the wheel arches, as this is a common area of concern.
• Clutch Wear: Clutch wear can be accelerated by stop-start delivery patterns, often requiring replacement between 120,000-150,000km.
• Alternator Failure: Alternator failure potential exists between 180,000-220,000km, especially with aftermarket electrical loads.
• Diesel Particulate Filter Blockage: Diesel particulate filter (DPF) blockage, typically emerging around 80,000km with predominantly urban routes.
• CV Joint Wear: CV joint wear, indicated by clicking sounds when turning.
• Oil Consumption: High oil consumption (1ZZ-FE engine), particularly in engines with over 150,000 km.
• Front suspension Noise: Clunking over bumps may indicate worn front struts.
• Exhaust Corrosion: Coastal models can experience accelerated exhaust corrosion.
During Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspections, the following points are commonly assessed on a TOYOACE:
• Cab Mount Corrosion: Inspectors will check for corrosion around the cab mounts, as this is a WOF failure point.
• Steering Linkage: Excessive play in the steering linkage is also a WOF failure point.
• Brakes: Standard brake checks apply include front brake pad thickness and ensuring the system is in good working order. Check brake system integrity, focusing on master cylinder and brake lines.
• Tyres: Standard tyre checks apply.
• Lights: Ensure all lights are working correctly.
• CV Boots: Check CV boots for splits and leaks.
• Front Suspension: Expect checks for worn front suspension bushes and steering rack boot splits
• Exhaust System Visual Check: Check for exhaust leaks.
• Rear Suspension: Inspect rear suspension components for corrosion and wear, particularly the leaf spings and shackles which may corrode from heavy loads. Note that Rear Suspension inspection may focus on component corrosion (shackles etc)
• Emissions: Vehicle will be subject to emissions testing. Monitor diesel injector performance and emissions output.
As a no-frills workhorse, the TOYOACE doesn't boast significant motorsport or engineering accolades, but its reliability cemented its place in the NZ commercial landscape.
Maintaining Your TOYOACE:
Regular servicing is crucial for any vehicle, and the TOYOACE is no exception. Pay close attention to the following areas, especially given the potential for heavy use:
• Brakes: Inspect pads and rotors regularly. Brake master cylinder and brake lines may deteriorate particularly in commercial use environments. Pay attention to the brake system integrity, focusing on master cylinder and brake lines
• Filters: Changing your vehicle's filters according to recommended intervals will assist with optimal engine performance.
• Suspension: Regular inspection of suspension components is vital. Bushings and shocks wear overtime, impacting comfort and handling. In particular inspect Rear leaf spring and shackle corrosion, particularly under heavy load conditions
Diesel engine TOYOACE's benefit from regular highway driving to assist with DPF regeneration in Diesel engines to maintain optimal emissions for WOF. Short urban trips can lead to DPF clogging.