1999 toyota prado problems

Looking at a 1999 Toyota Prado (90 Series)? Tough as a pair of Blundstones, but age and kilometres mean a few gremlins are common.

• 1KZ-TE 3.0TD: overheating leading to cracked cylinder heads; cooling system neglect is the usual culprit
• Diesel injection pump seal leaks and smoky cold starts on tired examples
• Front lower ball joints wear (there have been recalls); knock or wander in the steering
• Suspension bushes, shocks and CV boots tired from off-road use
• Rust around tailgate, rear door hinges and underbody; check sunroof drains if fitted
• Auto trans heat stress if towing without an auxiliary cooler; sluggish shifts
• Petrol 5VZ-FE: thirsty and timing belt due every 100k–150k km depending on schedule

Buy on service history, not shiny paint; a pre-purchase inspection and cooling system pressure test are cheap insurance.

Parts support in Australia is excellent, but budget for catch-up maintenance on a 25-year-old 4x4.

If it’s been lifted, check driveline angles and that any mods are engineered and insured.