Which Toyota Land Cruiser Years To Avoid and Why? (Explained)

In the off-road vehicle market, Toyota has done a wonderful job of dominating with its Land Cruiser and enhancing it year after year. Because of this, this car has a lengthy history of being the best off-road vehicle on the market.

But even a vehicle as well-known and dependable as this one is not immune to problems; owners should try to steer clear of model years in which there were significant issues.

Keep reading to learn which model year of Toyota Land Cruiser to avoid, as well as the reasons why, a few typical faults, and which models are safe to purchase if you’re in the market for a used vehicle.

Land Cruiser Years to Avoid (With Reasons)

Records dating back to 1984 show that the Land Cruiser has received a few complaints. However, as the Land Cruiser has evolved, there have been fewer and fewer concerns.

Compared to other model years, the 2016 model got the most complaints, according to CarComplaints.

Here is a list of models you should avoid –

  • 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser
  • 2005 Toyota Land Cruiser
  • 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser
  • 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser
  • 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser
  • 2015 Toyota Land Cruiser
  • 2016 Toyota Land Cruiser
  • 2017 Toyota Land Cruiser

2000 Land Cruiser Problems:

Car Problem Zoo has determined that the Land Cruiser with the model year 2000 is the worst car on the market owing to the high number of customer complaints that have been lodged against it.

The construction of the car, including difficulties with the body, underbody, and bumpers, is the source of the most common complaint that customers have recorded. In total, there were seven complaints lodged regarding this issue.

The category of servicing brakes was the second greatest category of complaints regarding the 2000 Land Cruiser, with five customers voicing their dissatisfaction with the product. The power train came in at number three on the list and received four complaints.

2005 Land Cruiser Problems:

There have been reports of problems with the engine. The engine is putting out blue smoke, and the amount of oil that is being used is also noticeable.

Additionally, transmission problems have been reported for the 2005 model year, which starts just with the first shift.

2008 Land Cruiser Problems:

That was in 2008, when Toyota released the eighth generation of their Land Cruiser. The redesigned form of the SUV was first seen on this model.

It did have certain flaws, which dissatisfied some consumers.

The Land Cruiser’s air conditioning system will suddenly fail. Inadequate cooling. The AC lines were discovered to be rusty and needed to be replaced after an inspection. If you reside in an area prone to severe weather, you’ll have to spend a lot of money on repairs.

Additionally, the Key Fob may not be functioning.

2011 Land Cruiser Problems:

The 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser has been on the market for more than a decade at this stage. Customers adored it because of its dependability.

The sensors on the 2011 SUV model also had sensor difficulties, as reported by owners who had experienced unexpected engine shut-downs. They were prone to malfunction, resulting in incorrect warnings being shown.

The hood-open sign is always on, even when the hood is closed, as one owner discovered

2013 Land Cruiser Problems:

The only issue with the 2013 Cruiser cars was their lighting. The headlights were placed incorrectly, according to some owners, and this caused the shaking.

In this case, the headlights might break free and cease operating, which is very dangerous. This might make it more challenging to drive at night. On the other hand, you run the risk of being hit by a car that cannot see you.

Shaky headlights need to be corrected as soon as possible regardless of how minor the problem may be.

2015 Land Cruiser Problems:

Among the latest Toyota Land Cruisers is the 2015 model.

But the sound system do not work correctly, which is a major drawback. Because many people use Bluetooth to listen to music or take phone calls, they will be unable to do so if the technology fails.

The problem was reported by only one individual, which indicates that it is a one-time occurrence. This specific model has earned a position on this list so that you can be informed of the issues that might arise with it.

2016 Land Cruiser Problems:

2016 has the greatest number of issues in carcomplaints. There are issues with the vehicle’s transmission, brakes, air conditioning and heater, and interior accessories.

jerky shifting, squeaky brakes, and a squealing noise while stopping. In addition, the leather on the steering wheel is peeling away.

2017 Land Cruiser Problems:

Consider one thing before you buy this particular model. Some customers have reported troubles with the drivetrain in the past. Because of this, they said that the driving experience would be unsatisfactory.

What Are The Worst Years of Land Cruiser?

  • 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser
  • 2005 Toyota Land Cruiser

Because of other relevant causes, such as greater maintenance costs or more problems at lower mileage, the 2005 Toyota Land Cruiser is ranked as worse than the 2016 model year, despite having the most complaints overall. Engine problems plagued the year 2005.

Again, the 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser is the most often reported model year in carproblemzoo, with 40 complaints for the model year. Structure, brakes, and drivetrain difficulties accounted for the vast majority of customer grievances.

Most Common Problems of Toyota Land Cruiser:

Now, let’s take a look at the typical issues with the Toyota Land Cruiser that have been reported frequently by owners and have caused them headaches.

1. Shifting Problems

Transmission problems have cropped up, despite the fantastic eight-speed system. Many consumers were concerned that the Land Cruiser’s gear shifts were sluggish.

It was observed that the SUV would vibrate a lot when shifting gears, making the experience of driving it less enjoyable.

There’s more to it than that. The Land Cruiser’s automatic gearbox technology has been around for a long time, and older vehicles tend to have problems with it. The 1990s-era Land Cruisers would shift into the wrong gear when they were first launched. Also, the 2016 models have faced shifting issues.

2. Problems With The Engine

2011 year’s Toyota Land Cruiser has been reported to experience a sudden engine failure. The blue smoke from the 2005 cruiser’s engine may be seen.

Customers may be perplexed by the dealership professionals’ inability to pinpoint the problem. This implies that the engine may shut down at any point, and you will have no choice but to acquire a new one.

3. Excessive Use of Oil

It was a problem with the previous model of the Land Cruiser that was in production before to 2008.

The majority of people who reported the issue said that their engines began to spew blue smoke. This is an indication of an oil leak since the oil is being burnt elsewhere, resulting in the blue smoke.

When the problem is severe enough, an engine replacement is the only option. Some users experienced this. Because this is the only way to get your SUV back into working order, it is unfortunate.

4. Transmission and Drivetrain

However, experts urge that the automatic fluid be replaced on a regular basis. The panel between the gearbox oil cooler and the coolant radiator might deteriorate, contaminating the box and causing it to fail. Inspect for coolant contamination. Additionally, a ‘thump’ may be heard when the vehicle is stopped because of a lack of lubrication in the prop shafts.

5. Chassis and Body

Check the rear axle, the body floor, the rear chassis, and the inner sills for rust. Keep an eye out for salt damage to the off-road vehicle when towing anything from the sea. Grounding damage may be seen under the overhangs.

Many owners of the 2000 model experienced structural issues.

Which Land Cruiser Years are Safe to Buy?

Land Cruiser manufacture in the United States has halted; if you want one, you’ll likely need to buy one secondhand. Is there a certain model year that you think is a great bet? On my list, you’ll find the best of the best.

  • 2020 Land Cruiser
  • 2019 Land Cruiser
  • 2014 Land Cruiser
  • 2012 Land Cruiser
  • 2009 Land Cruiser
  • 2002 Land Cruiser

2020 is the greatest Land Cruiser ever made. Toyota nailed it. People adore its characteristics. The V8 engine averages 15 mpg.

2019 Toyota Land Cruiser is still part of the 2008 generation. Despite its age, the design still looks fantastic.

Despite aesthetic improvements, the 2019 model’s durability is the same. This SUV can handle any terrain.

The 2014 Toyota Land Cruiser has the fewest reported faults. This Land Cruiser is the best.

This 2012 Toyota Land Cruiser is an excellent choice if you enjoy off-roading. All-wheel drive means it can tackle any type of terrain. Top-notch safety measures will significantly lower the risk of accidents.

It’s a fantastic buy because you won’t sacrifice many features. Despite improvements, the 2009 model’s city fuel efficiency is 13 mpg.

The Land Cruiser has been a terrific investment for many despite this difficulty. Stability control, airbags, and sensors are included.

The 2002 model is fast and reliable. This 20-year-old model contains modern safety measures. Although ancient, it’s still pricey. It’s last because of this.

Conclusion

However, the greatest year for a Land Cruiser depends on what you’re searching for. There are a number of newer vehicles in the 200 series that are geared only at luxury and comfort.

When it comes to power, you can always go back to the 1980s models if you’re looking for something a little more raw choose from the other models.

I hope you found this post useful and that it saved you some time in your research.

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