Best and Worst Used Toyota's to buy and Toyota Buying Advice
A Toyota Master Diagnostic Technician shares the Best and Worst Used Toyota models to buy from experience.
In this video I will share my professional opinion on the best Toyota models to buy and the Worst Toyota models to buy and some car buying advice as well.
People ask me all the time what's the best Used Toyota to buy and I often see people recommend cars which are actually not good buys just because they had a good one. I work on Toyota models exclusively and I have seen each models rise and fall.
When we eventually get to the worst Toyota models some viewers will feel offended as their car might be mentioned. If you have one of the cars that I listed as the worst and it's been good, I am very happy. However know that the information in this video doesn't come from "consumer reports" It comes from over 10 years of actual real world experience fixing Toyotas every day.
Towards the end of the video I will share some general Toyota buying advice. Avoid at all costs buying severely rusted Toyotas and relevant to the current times we live in, NEVER over pay for a Toyota no matter what!
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0:00 Intro
0:49 Best "Middle Aged" Toyota's To Buy
5:07 How About Toyota Trucks?
8:02 Best "Oldies" Toyotas to Buy
10:40 Worst Toyota's To Buy
19:20 Toyota Buying Advice
This guy works for a Toyota Dealership. Yet, he is HONEST enough to be BLUNT and state not to let the dealership rip you the hell off.. He deserves to be VP of Operations for Toyota Corporate
DAMN STRAIGHT
He is a Christian I think. It is to be expected.
@@EquipmentReviewer correlation doesn't mean causation
@@EquipmentReviewer "Christians" specially from the GOP are everything but honest lol...don't make this political..
S-tier comment
Scotty will be upset - you didn't mention the 1994 Celica 😂
Not one Celica made the list ;)
he also has a matrix, not sure which year but wonder if it's the bad years?
😂 I would actually put that Celica on the don’t buy list today if it’s rusty. Seen too many here in the Chicago area where you can’t even lift them anymore from rust
@@TheCarCareNut Where are you in the Chi Town area?
I have a black 1992 Celica GTS hatch. Best car I have ever owned. A tank, and so well thought out. It just wreaks of Toyota engineering pride.
Thank God I got a 2006 Toyota Corolla. Brand new when I bought it. It's two years older than my son. It has 220,000 miles on it and the paint is still good considering its age. My mechanic said it would still run another 100K miles on it. I didn't believe him at first. But now I understand. Haha. I kept it because I'm a single mom. Tight budget. Since it's working, I did not want to buy a new car and have payments. The engine and transmission are still original. So thankful and grateful I got a very reliable car. Thank you for all the information. Everything you share on your channel is very valuable.
Do you still have the car? I have a 2005 with only 125k miles. I think it will outlast me.
Those run 300 or more ….
I own a 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid, purchased new. Last year, it failed to start. The problem turned out to be the 10-year-old OEM 12-volt battery. With over 10 years and 100k miles, we have replaced the 12-volt battery, the brake pads once, and a rear-wheel speed sensor once, and I'm on my third set of tires. That's all!
I freaking LOVE my 4Runner. Thing just works and refuses to die. 437,000 miles and still going strong 👌🏼
What year or generation do you recommend?
@@dogstoryteller mine is a 4th gen, often referred to as the ugly duckling of 4Runners, but it’s just as capable. 3rd gen or post-face lift 5th gen is what I’d recommend though. If you’re looking for a V8, 4th gen is the way to go if you’re lucky enough to find one.
@@MarkSixFilms People think the 4th gen is ugly??? I would say it's top 2 gens.
@@MarkSixFilms "if, you're lucky enough to find one", exactly!
Hell yea!!!
Man… our 1998 Corolla was the first reliable car we have ever owned. It’s still running today AC still blowing ice cold/ original power train. Almost 400k miles. But we did notice rust near the gas tank. The door handles break every other year lol but thankfully they are 6$ each. Besides that… It has been very bullet proof, it never shut off on us or left us stranded for 23 years. We do 85-88 Mph on the highway and it doesn’t struggle.
Stop buying the cheap knock off handles and they won't break so often. Go OEM.
I have a 96 Tercel 304k 96 Corolla 195k 98 Corolla 167k 99 Chevy Prizm 62k Many Corolla parts are available through GM as a Prizm part. These are often available far cheaper than the same part from Toyota.
I have a 1998 Corolla which just had a major issue where the cylinders had to be replaced - cost me $700 however, the car only has 89,000 on it and except for that just happening, I have only had to replace the door handles. I still love this car and it drives like a tank. I will never depart from it until I can no longer get parts for it. Still has the original exhaust but it’s due for an air conditioning charge as I have a small leak - still no complaints as there has been nothing done to the engine or transmission or anything else major. Love my 98 Corolla LE - electric everything still works - windows, locks and mirrors !
@@Nessal83 agreed. Had a friend of mine who’s basically the hulk with even less special awareness somehow rip my handle off on my 2001 Corolla last year, replaced it with an oem one and just like that literally good as new.
@@jogordon1530 I'm It
301,000 mile 2011 Sienna here. Take it for service on EVERY recommendation. STILL drives like new!
I get so much information from him, and I can't say thank you enough! We are starting our search for a used Corolla for our youngest daughter and man did this help us out! Thank you!!!!!
I'm SO happy that I found your channel. It's people like you who educate and tell ordinary consumers truths that actually help make the world a better place
Me too, got excited that my 2016 RAV4 is on AMD’s list of good buys. She is a great vehicle.
Most meaty and informative inside auto video I've seen.
I had a Toyota Sienna that I brought from a mechanic. It finally went. I put VERY LITTLE money in it. No major problems except engine light which was on when I brought it. Too expensive to fix. Rode it back and forth between NY and Florida 1400 mikes, Georgia minimum 4-6 times. Had problems later with engine overheating. My brother said have mechanic flush engine pour in blue devil. Before I did that van broke down on me overheating can't drive off the block. Was on my way to junk it. Stopped at store. Got out realized junk yard closed. Prayed drove car home 15-20 miles. Had to pull over 1 time but it got me home. That's when I had mechanic do the blue devil and I watched them. Car never overheated again. Drove it down to Florida again March 19, 2021 not one problem on the road nor when I got there. Drove it all around Florida. Finally died at 292,000 miles. I am a long distance CDL driver.. Love driving. Now, I am looking for another Toyota or Honda. This is a true story. Grateful and blessed. Thank you Sir for your honest videos. As a senior disabled woman, I feel Grateful to watch your videos before I look for a car.
@@barbarafisher7390 hey, i think you might like some older lexus cars! Like the ES300 very cheap and reliable
Cannot agreed more. Since I subscribed, I able to do so many DIY fixes such as cleaning the MAS sensor and cleaning the throttle body especially from a certified Toyota master mechanic. Happy New Year to all the subscribers.
I started working on Toyotas in 1976 and worked on them until 2007. I am now retired and I have to say I enjoy watching your video's. Keep up the good work.
Videos Videos Videos.
You must have vast experience
Well is the Toyota Highlander worth buying as a used vehicle if under 100,000 miles
@@patricianichols3031 take a guess npc
Me too.
I have rewatched this video like ten times. It has really helped me shop for used toyotas!
I have a 2007 Toyota Corolla and she’s still kicking at 191,000 miles and really haven’t had any issues just standard maintenance costs like new break pads. Not leaking any oil, gets about 30 mpg. Definitely agree that’s a good oldie to have 😊
Great reliable car.
My Corolla T Spirit, is 21 yrs old from new, never let me down, never failed it's annual MOT test, average miles. Thats two Corolla's in 36 yrs.
And if you replace you water pump and serpentine belt and tensioner it will last another 150k my its 271k and going strong
I agree, I have 2005 Toyota Corolla at 215,000 miles and still runs smoothly.
I have a coworker with a 2005 corolla. He has over 400k miles and still runs like a dream and he still uses original weight oil. Amazing.
1zzfe or 2zzge ?
Which engine does your car have 1.8 or 2.4
This man has had to take millions of notes throughout the years to help keep all this info in his head, remarkable, well put together videos, accurate information and a master mechanic. I would have to say this is the absolute best channel for Toyota's in you tube.
If you own one this channel should be your go to all things whether maintaining or thinking about another.
His Car Reviews on OTHER Manufacturers is also spot on. His mechanical overview is ..... OVER The Top ! I like the way he goes over the design details & shares WHY they could have done better. When he racks them up & goes underneath also well done.
Thank u for share information
I'm approaching 400,000 miles on my 1999 4 cylinder Camry. I will need to replace it before long and was wondering what years to avoid in buying used. THANKS---You deserve 3 THUMBS UP.
6-7 years ago I purchased an used 2007 Camry Hybrid that had the oil burning problem. Luckily, I found out that I could take it to Toyota for this issue to be fixed. Today, the car is nearing the 300,000 miles mark and still going strong.
I’m a car guy. And Sir, you are undoubtedly the best car advisor I’ve seen on you tube. Dead on clear and everything you say,I understand and concur 100%. Facts, not B.S. thank you. Refreshing to see.
I never forgot the advice I got when I bought my first car. The sales guy told me, if I do nothing else, keep up with oil changes and general maintenance. So true.
I never change oil. A quart every 4 fill ups 50/50 synth.
Please don’t tell me your serious…
@@xxcelr8rs A Contrarian much?
@@garyowen3662 If there isn't a puddle on the ground means its empty, Biker joke for you.
Brian Wurch, Sounds right, have spent time with some Harley guys. Good line. Be well, be happy.
I have always loved the 4 Runner and occasionally on the look out for a well maintained one from a private owner, 2002-2005-6 One of my 2 favorite vehicles which I have the other. 2002 Dodge Durango which I still have. Bought off private owner 10 years ago who only used it on summer vacations. Still in excellent shape as I always take care of it. 163,300 miles. People ALWAYS asking if I want to sell it... 😂Never. Used car prices so high that I should have looked harder for a 4Runner after pandemic. I still keep a look out for one when out driving. Great video. I love all of your detailed information.
Excellent videos, as a long time Toyota owner and buyer I've had many Toyotas. Everything that I knew of the older models you confirmed which only reinforces my trust in what you mentioned about the newer models. Thanks for making these
You're absolutely right about the 2000/2001 Camrys. I bought my 2001 XLE V6 for dirt cheap over 7 years ago with over 150k already on it and I've still never had a major problem with it. Even now at about 250k it still drives just as well as it did the day I bought it. I'm convinced this car will outlive me lol.
I agree with your experience - I had same model - super reliable car. But it wont outlive me...😄 I sold it!
Repent to Jesus Christ “She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.” Proverbs 31:20 NIV J
I have an 01 camry with 397k, I have had to fix more cosmetic due to the fact I like my cars to look good if they run and drive good. Only paid $900 for it and it's my daily. Some people snub it until their car breaks down lol.
I got the badest toyo Camry ever made. A 1992 Camry has 350000 miles on it and I am giving it to my grandson for his first car. It ain't a cool car but but the air con still works so his girlfriend will be cool. I love tokyyoto. Japanese people are very smart
@@bighemi57 timing belt, seals and water pump?
AMD is such an honest guy, I am sure the sales team at the dealership loathes him but the customers and service people love him. Keep up the good work, DONT FEED THE SHARKS!
How do you know he is honest he might just be a good salesman with a good spiel......who knows what buttons to push.....and there are plenty of them around.
I know this video is old but I'm seeing it for the first time and I had a pause it and make a comment. You are so correct about that 1998 to... Corolla. My buddy had one and he swore up and down about it but he was always tearing it apart. He was super mechanically savvy so he could fix it. I mean he dropped an entire transmission and swapped it from a pick-a-part, in his garage with just a half ton jack. But this video just totally sparked a memory for me. Cheers, love your videos
Warms my heart to hear you talk about the 00-01 Camry. I have one and I absolutely love it.
Excellent public service video! Thank you for sharing your knowledge. My Story: I bought a used 1999 4runner with just over 100k miles for only $7000. It now has 350k miles and is still reliable with original motor and trans. No oil leaks, No smoke. I changed oil regularly with mobile1 synthetic.
do you change transmission oil too? I feel like a lot of people neglect that. I'm scared to buy one with bad maintenance
I think it's really cool that he gives you an honest insider information to guide you to buying the best options during these hard times. Thank you so much for that!
Good job guys. I love your channel. Very informative to listen and understand you guys. Looking forward to see more.
Thank you for the great video. I LOVE your honesty! I wish someone would do the same exact (format) video on the Hondas.
So happy this showed up in my suggested list! Been a Toyota owner several times over since the mid ‘90s. Currently zipping around town in my ‘17 RAV4. Many thanks for your straight-up honesty here, from a fellow Chicagoan. 🌸
I’ve owned 3 4Runners, 2 Tundras, 2 RAV4s and 2 Hybrid Toyotas and have been an automotive journalist for over 20 years. This is really solid advice, in my opinion. Take special notice of the rust issue, especially in states that think salt and other snow melting chemistry is basically water and they dump insane amounts everywhere. A very valuable video indeed. Well done!
Repent to Jesus Christ “She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.” Proverbs 31:20 NIV
Nice comment, Mr. Tarkinton. I agree. As to the reply, pray for him. Some know not when they are gnomes. 🍾Cheers.
What year(s) in particular for Tundra?
@@Ojb_1959 1st gen, which ran from 2000 until replaced with the new generation in the 2007 model year. Our 2014 has been fine so far.
@@bootstarkington Wouldn’t you know it. I have an 03 so I’ll take a closer look under the bed but don’t recall seeing a massive amount of rust underneath while tinkering. I’m in New Orleans so salt is minimal unless I head towards the gulf. Thanks Boots👍🏼
Just found your channel recently. I've learned so much about Toyota's. I have a 07 Tundra. I purchased used in 2012 with 30k miles on it. I now have 213k miles on it. My only real problem was the secondary intake issue. I did replace it. I also replaced the starter at 195k. Great truck. Now looking for a good used low mile 4 Runner. Great Channel. Thank you for taking the time!!
this is all fine for the people that can afford cars this new, most of the people i know buy cars from around 2000 to 2011.
Thank you so much for being so straightforward and sharing your experiences and your good advice regarding which models are the best..Thanks to you, I bought a car unseen, bought a plane ticket and traveled and picked up a 2001 camry..with 2.2 liter engine, as the 3 liter engine is almost impossible to find here in Norway. The car was owned by one owner for 17 years, he lived in spain during the winter, and his son inherited the car when father passed away.. and the son sold it after 2 years to someone who was 67 years old and who kept it inside all winters. the original winter tires that were delivered with the when the car where sold new on Orginal aluminum rims were put on the car, as there was a risk of snow on the mountain passes I had to pass back to the west coast. completely" stainless" rust free car..95691 miles /154000km on the odometer..amazing car. a lot of marks in the plastic bumpers and such, as the previous owner probably took the car with him to Spain for a few winters..there they always bump into each other when they park..but the car is stainless..and it has olso for 1yare ago been filed whit protection material anti rust thing..so thank you very much..I took you at your word and just did it..got me such a forever machine :-) best regards Bjarte Alver
Thank you! I love a honest mechanic, and I hope you don't get in trouble with Toyota for telling us the truth about those ones with the issues!
This guy I'm sure he is someone important for toyota he work for toyota company send him to talk about toyota...
Delighted to see the first vehicle mentioned. I just bought my grandma’s 2014 Avalon with only 45,000 miles. 😀
I wish there were more guys like this guy !! Do not pay over sticker. Best advice he could have given us! Nicely done Sir. Outstanding video
Hello AMD .I am a subsciber of your channel from Poland .You give the most honest ubiased advice to people for free . Thanks a lot . This review of used cars is another example . Hope you dont get tired of that . Cezary
You are so correct about rusty trucks. I bought my 1989 4WD pickup brand new at the dealer. Everyone bitched and moaned about me coating the chassis when it was new with roofing tar. Everyone had their opinion. Needless to say, after 25 years, the chassis was 100% rust free and when I sold it in 2015, the guy I sold it to took it to his native country of Honduras and last I heard, he is still using it and the chassis is rust free! In 2015 I bought a used 2003 SR5 TRD with the 3.4 engine and the automatic tranny. The chassis was also surprisingly rust free. I roughly gave a it a sanding and coated that chassis as well. Here we are in 2022, the 2003 is still rust free with the original chassis and I just bought a brand new 2021 Tacoma, and guess what I did to the 2021 Tacoma's chassis? It's all in the maintenance of the car. Take care of it and it will take care of you right back! Yes ROOFING TAR... Try it someday.
Many use rhino spray in bed liner also
I enjoyed this video! Currently own a 2007 Matrix and it is a workhorse (so far). My previous car was a 1990 Toyota Celica that had one previous owner, and I finally replaced it in 2012. It had had some fairly major repairs, but still, pretty good car and fun to drive. Thanks for the car buying advice!
My 04 matrix is sooo good.over 200,000 miles and still very reliable
I'm a toyota nut. I absolutely love them. ❤️ You are awesome! I'm so happy I stumbled across your page!.
Also, private sellers have increased the prices of used cars. The asking prices are truly ridiculous!
My 2010 RAV4 with the 2AR-FE engine is running perfectly. It has been maintained regularly and not trashed or rusted.
I have totoya rav 4 its great its a 05
Great video! Shout out from Downers Grove. Super helpful.
Another great, useful, and well delivered video! I am currently looking for a used Toyota SUV to haul around two large dogs. The 4Runner is my first choice; I would also consider the Sienna. The sedans just do not work well for this task and I am trying to get as much information on value, reliability, trouble spots and your videos here do just that. I worked for Toyota years and years ago and I recall the cars were selling faster than they could get them off the carrier; I currently own a Camry that is my "baby". Every time I take the car in for service, the dealer wants to make me a cash offer on the spot for it. My Camry is over 10 years old, imagine that...a dealer wanting to "buy back" your car! Wow! No way am I unloading that Camry as this, in my opinion, one of only two of the very best cars I have ever owned in the many decades I have driven. So, I look forward to more of your videos and I wish you the very best! Thanks, again! God Bless you and yours!
Thank you Mr. Car Care, your honesty and integrity is highly valued!
Love my Toyota’s! Three RAV4’s, Two 4Runners, one Tacoma. Love them all!
Mind asking why so many? 😜
Over the last 20 years
What kind of money are you playing with?? I need your job lol
@@joesteele3159 Gave all my old Yotas to my kids. They totaled two. 🤨. Wife drives a RAV4, I got the Tacoma. Love that truck.
@@GoneWalkabout I just got a 2018 Tacoma. Been wanting one for a long time.
I am not looking for a car yet, but I enjoy listening to all the good advice. I have a 2003 Sequoia that’s about to hit 180k miles. Bought it new and it is the most reliable vehicle I’ve ever owned in my 7 decades on earth. Thanks again for all the info. God Bless 😊
I just purchased a 2016 Avalon Limited from a dealer with ~41,000 miles, and I was pleasantly surprised for that to get the first mention on your list! Also, I upgraded from a 2002 Camry XLE with the V6. Loved that thing, but it had some age-related issues, and I decided to put the money into the Avalon instead of repairs into the Camry.
I’m looking for a used Camry. What kind of age related issues did you see and up to what year Camry do u think these issues continues onto?
@@jacobparamus1229 The Camry had 168,000 miles on it when I sold it, but here were the problems it had: Being a northeast vehicle all of its life, it was succumbing to rust and rot on its exhaust. By the end of me having it, it had a very large exhaust leak and was loud as it was before the muffler. I was quoted at around $750 to replace it, but the primary issue was the rust on the cat. Though the cat was clean, the mechanics were unsure if they'd be able to reuse the same cat as the mounts may have been too rotted away to re-mount it. That would have turned that into a ~$2000 job. The power steering pump had a very small weep to it. Though the actual power steering was fine, this small weep caused the pully to get wet and created a squeak noise at idle, which did get a bit annoying. The replacement of that would have been compounded because the lines to and from it were rotting out, so they would have needed replacement as well. There was an audible clunk noise from the front right side when going over bumps at high enough speeds/force. I never got it looked at, but it was there. On very cold mornings (near and below freezing) when starting the car the engine would make a grind type noise; something like metal on metal. I never had it investigated, but I believed it may have been a slightly weak oil pump (when under very cold conditions) when initially starting, as the noise would go away after ~6 seconds or so. I believed this to be the pistons not getting adequate oil lubrication right away. This was the 1MZ-FE V6 engine. The AC compressor would temporarily go out if it got wet (like driving through a deep enough puddle in rain). Simply toggling AC in the cabin and letting it remain off for a few minutes would resolve that problem. It was the original compressor, so I wasn't too bothered by it. And then the clear coat was almost gone, and the paint was fading on the bumpers. However, the car drove and felt great otherwise. I really loved it for the 6 years I had it. It was a great first car. For issues, I'd say avoid 2007-2010 Camry's. The 4 bangers had oil burning issues, and the V6 (early 2GR-FE models) had an issue where an important oil line would break and grenade the engine, due to it being a rubber line. Toyota resolved the line issues with a metal replacement line in newer models. My Avalon has the 2GR-FE, but being much newer, it came out of the factory with the metal oil line. The older 1MZ-FE had oil sludge issues if oil changes weren't done in proper order, but that would really only be applicable if someone neglected it. Sorry for the text wall, but I hope this helps!
Yeah I'll probably replace my 99 Camry V6 in a couple years here. Lots of the plastic and rubber cracking, paint's shot and rust is starting to spread. Had to change out the radiator a year ago and now I'm sorting out an oil leak. Still runs fine all wear considered haha.
Your videos are ALL very informative and professionally done. I appreciate your knowledge and expertise! Thank you!
A great service to the Toyota-buying public. Extremely well done.
abbbsolutely!!!! This guy is GREAT!
Amazing how much knowledge he has on these specific models, I had the exact head gasket issue on my ‘04 4 cyl Camry he mentioned. Granted, it occurred when it was 16 years old and had 180K miles. Otherwise was a very reliable car, and I do regret selling it.
Just recently sold my truck due to driving almost an hour one way for work. I replaced it with a 2016 Camry SE 2.5 that appears to have been well cared for. Motor is super clean when I checked under the oil cap. Been right at 3,100 miles and haven't had to add a drop of oil. So hopefully that's a good sign as to how the car was cared for. Thanks for all the knowledge and great content!
Finally a great review that succinctly list the best Toyota vehicles to purchase (including in this climate) and reasons why to buy! Thank you!
Yet another outstanding video AMD!! Excellent content and your usual measured demeanor.
Just found you’re awesome channel. I just purchased a 01 Camry le V6 with 95000 miles. One owner from Georgia. Really nice riding car. It’s my back-and-forth to work car. Thanks for the good content sir.
Great video with heart and a ton of detail s and advise. You are appreciated my good man.
Man, I couldn’t agree more about the Avalon. The best car nobody seems to know about. But that’s how I like it. I don’t want to drive what everyone else drives. It’s nice to know my 2018 Avalon tops your list. The Avalon is Toyota’s best value IMO. When I found myself unexpectedly in the market for a car after a driver wiped me out in an intersection last year, I had to find something to replace my 2001 Olds Aurora. What a great car it was. I bought it for $7000 in 2013, put about 85K mostly trouble free miles on it in 7 years, and State Farm gave me $5500 for it when their insured totaled it. So I wanted to replace it with something similar, and it came down to a Buick LaCrosse or a Toyota Avalon for me. What mattered to me was I wanted a V6, larger size passenger car. I considered a Camry, but they’re in such great demand and by the time I found a V6 XLE Camry it was nearly as much as an Avalon, and in some cases, priced higher. Well that would’ve been downright stupid, don’t you think? I found a 2018 one owner XLE Premium Avalon with a few more miles than I wanted, but in otherwise very nice condition. I’ve regretted nothing about that purchase. Remember that price is what you pay; value is what you get for what you pay. There is no better value in the marketplace today than an Avalon in my humble opinion.
I had an '07 Avalon Limited. Best car I ever owned. It was totaled with 177k miles on it in October of 2019. No major mechanical issues to report. There was a small exhaust leak and the A/C went out, but that was the worst of it. I miss that car to this day. Sad to hear the Avalon is being discontinued.
There's something to be said for a comfortable car that rides nice. It's not "sexy" enough for journalists. But very nice place to do a road trip.
Good move. Not sure whether the 2018 has the six-speed automatic or the eight speed. The six speed is super reliable. The eight speed is good too as far as I know. You're not supposed to drive with your foot to floor anyway. Right? A few more miles means nothing with an Avalon. The engineering of the Avalon is very conservative, meaning that Toyota does not experiment with the Avalon and uses only the proven reliable drive train components. Myself, I am very confident in my ability to keep even high mileage vehicles running trouble free. If I got an Avalon from the early 2000s with 180K on it, I would consider it just broken in.
As an ignorant young man, I was very upset when my father bought me a Toyota Crown in 1980 instead of going along with my pick, which was a Lancia model 2000 coupe. In hindsight, I now understood that he made a wise decision for me so I didn't have to spend my minimum wages on repairs. And I was very lucky to have him. Being too young and stupid to fully understand that at the time
@@williamwoo1437 "Being too young and stupid to fully understand that at the time" Yes, a lot of us have had that issue at one point or other in life. But the good news is that most of us grow out of it and go on to be better people because of it. My Mom and step-Dad had 2 Avalons and both were exceptional cars. I think that the 1st one was a 2010 model and the 2nd a 2014 model. Both were quiet and comfortable and it was a new experience for me, at nearly 6'3" tall to be able to sit in the back seat in comfort. As to my own Toyota experience, I've owned 2 of them, a 2000 Corona Mark II, 4-spd. 4-cyl., and my current ride a 2012 RAV4 with 52k miles on it and the muscular 3.5L V6 engine / 5-spd. auto trans combo. Excellent SUV. Runs great, terrific passing power, and still gets 23.5 mpg in average town and country driving. On road trips, it gets 29 mpg regularly, thanks to lots of time in 5th gear. Only improvement I can imagine for this car would be a 6-spd. auto trans. Not sure if there is enough room in the trans tunnel area for a 6-spd/ auto but if there is it would be a nice upgrade.
Wow! Completely honest, powerful message, from a tech who knows what he's taking about. He is an asset for Toyota, his employer needs to recognize this, promote him, and make sure he stays with the company. He is the best, I trust his knowledge, and would buy a Toyota, in fact I have 3 Toyotas. I am a former mechanic and know the best when I see it.
I have a 2008 corolla 1.8 and i love it. Thanks for your videos, very useful
Car care nut, thank you so kuch for this video. Im at a point where my family will need to acquire a new vehicle. Im not very informed on autos but people like you snd scotty kilmer help so much. God bless you snd have a good day yourself.
Phew, watching through "What not to buy" was like an exciting rollercoaster ride! 😁
Very good video with extremely honest advice! I've been a long-time Toyota fan, and have owned at least six or seven, maybe more. My wife and I both have Highlanders, hers is a 2019 XLE and mine (her old one) is a 2007 LE. Both purchased new, and mine has 186,000 miles and is still in great shape, running well! Heck, I even owned, one Corolla, not sure what year, but yes it burned oil. I had two Cressida wagons, that my local dealer salesmen could not identify and name! Both went over 175 K, but sadly the newer of the two would not go into reverse when I sold it for $1500 cash. And lastly, as much as I love the 4 RNR and want one badly, I refuse to pay these inflated prices!! I even owned a used Gen One, that I sold with 185 on the clock. And in the same household, our daughter drives a RAV 4 limited with a powerful V6 and her husband a relatively new Camry. So we're a four Toyota household!
Interesting that you would mention the 2004-2006 Camry V-6. We bought a 2004 Camry SE 4-cylinder new, and the first significant problem we had was when the head bolt studs pulled out of the block at 120,000-mi., causing the antifreeze to empty and engine to over-heat. At the Dealer the Service Manager knew exactly what the problem was, as his own Camry also pulled the head bolt studs out of the block too...!!! Repair required Machining and Heli-Coiling new stud bolts, and work on the cylinder head. I think repair costs for this alone was about $2,800. (We had other routine maintenance done as well.) Next 'problem' was the transmission failed at about 175,000-mi. We had recently had our second routine transmission maintenance and fluid flush at about 165,000-mi. so it's not like we didn't closely follow Toyota's recommended maintenance schedule. Yah, Toyota had 'QUALITY ISSUES' because their expansion North American plants weren't yet up to their required standards of quality. You can get bad Toyotas, just like from any other manufacturer... And like most Japanese car styling, the styling of the front end of most current Toyotas and Lexus models is so bad, I would never buy another... That was my wife's car. Since 2012 I've owned two VW Jettas, and have had a total of Zero mechanical issues, other than routine maintenance, much of which I do myself. The bonus is our VW is such a great car. The handling and quality of components and engineering is obvious. Not even a squeak or rattle over rough roads as it's built so solid.
Great info Sir! I'm presently shopping for a vehicle and have watched this quite a few times. 5k over msrp seems to be the common ask @VW and there's no way this makes sense. Love your videos!
This is gold! Great advice AMD. Thank you 🙏.
I own 3 Camry's and you are spot on with your advice. Thank you Mr. Car Care Nut. God Bless You and Your Family.
Very informative video, I do have a 2009 Matrix, but with the 1.8L engine. I do take good care of it and it has been a reliable car for me.
Awesome AMD; really appreciate your videos and the information you share. you are the best. cheers!
I bought a 1999 Camry with 70,037 miles and was always dealer maintained by Toyota! It’s an awesome car!
70K is not a test
That's very little miles for a 23-year old car it'll be a classic by the time you make it hit 300,000 miles probably
I bought, a bought new dealer maintained 2000 camry with 133k miles a year ago. Spark plugs, wires, clean the throttle body, and oil changes over 30k miles over the last year. Make sure to clean the throttle body! It gets pretty carboned up in there
@@johnbauer7658 yeah I will do that. Good advice!
My mom has a 1997 Camry 2.2 has 390k same everything still running good
This is destined to be one of the most valuable videos for Toyota fans everywhere. These are the sorts of things we all want to know about the cars and trucks and SUVs we may call our own. I would add: First generation (US) Prius 2001-2003 are enthusiast cars only! They had a lot of quirks and issues. They can be made reliable but they can be a challenge. For example, the 2001 I gave to my son has the original engine ECM (no software updates in that generation) that has a short "engine start" time. On the first cold day in autumn it will sound like it starts but does not actually fire up; cleaning the intake every summer will prevent that. The failure produces the big red Triangle Of Death! To clear it you have to successfully start the car four times in a row. More? It has the original electric power steering ECM, which could allow the steering wheel to shake violently when backing up. More? Well, what should you do when the "turtle" dash light comes on? Really, it is a warning light in the shape of a turtle. It means the hybrid battery is overheating and you have to back off (in fact, the system insists you do) until the battery cools down. I've only seen it once, trying too aggressively to back out of a snowbank. Anyway, if it looks like a Prius instead of a 4 door Ford Focus of its time, you are okay. Otherwise just know what you are getting into.
U h
You're Awesome, and i am so glad i started watching your videos before buying! May the Lord bless and keep you also!
Great Great Video as always!! Thank you brother for your valuable insight. It never fails to educate me more each time I watch one! God bless. 🙏🙏👍👍
Thank you so much for the advice and tips! And God bless and protect you!
I don't know anyone so passionate like you. I will take your advice 100% , we love you! Thanks for the videos and please don't stop! Thanks
New subscriber here. I have been watching Scotty Kilmer for a long time and you both are amazing and honest.
Didn't know the 02-03 camry had an overheating issue, I got an 02 back in 2018 from a very careful owner. After driving for a year the coolant started leak and it was a relatively expensive fix to replace all the hoses/clamps/radiator. Guess I was lucky to notice!
I had an 87 Toyota 4x4 5 speed and LOVED that truck! The only problem it had (and I was told it was notorious for that year) was the master cylinder clutch went out on me three different times over the years. Luckily my husband knows how to shift without the clutch so he could come get it. And it was a cheap fix! Other than that it was a great truck.
AMD, Great advice! I have a 2019 4Runner TRD Pro, and a 2121 Camry XSE. I plan to keep for a long time.
I bought a used Scion, it was 5 years old ,it lasted me another 15 years the best little car I ever had
I agree with some issues on the 2001 Corolla. Oil consumption and rear link kits constantly loose. Other than that, I payed 4 grand in 2010 and drove it for 12 years. It always started, never left me stranded, and never cost a fortune to fix. Loved my Corolla.
The info was super helpful. Thank you, AMD!
Very helpful with the "Car buying Support Halo list."
Great information on older Toyotas. I like the photo of the 07 Corolla Cactus 🌵 mica in the pic👍😊
I am thinking about buying a new Prius and have noted the dealer markups. Thanks for the advice. I will take it.
You are a legend! Doing a great service to the hard-working public
I am glad I found this video. My long time Mechanic knew I needed another vehicle and offered me a 2002 Camry v4, 184k miles.
I had the last Toyota Cressida's that were built before being replaced by the Camry in South Africa. That Cressida 2,4GL was bulletproof. Regularly serviced and well looked after. Loved it.
I had one too. I loved it!
The stuffed velour seats are legendary
@@nicktozie6685 and they were comfortable too
A bulletproof car that would be a big seller here in Chicago
Hi, I have read on Toyota forums and I didn't hear you talked about 2014-2019 CVT transmission issues in Corolla? Thank you for your helpful video
I absolutely love my 2016 Corolla sport. I bought it in 2019 with 14k on it. It is my second corolla. I have had one issue with water leaking into my drivers side floorboard. It really worried me at first. But after a few rainstorms I decided to look around. It ended up being a piece of the small plastic panel underneath the windshield wipers being unsnapped and out of place. Popped it back in and so far no more water.
I've got an 07 Tundra with 165,000 on it and I live in Maine and I work for the DOT here and we use salt alot. Every fall I pound the Fluid Film to the frame and inside wheel wells and all the vital parts. It definitely works at slowing down the rust but there are plenty of spots where its started and there's no better way to stop it. But 85% of parts and the frame still have paint and a good coating of Fluid Film.
Thank you so much for this video! It’s so informative AND entertaining 😂😂😂
VERY Surprised no mention of hybrid PriusV or others ! Thx for the info.
As a Toyota Avalon owner, I must say I love this car. It’s a 2013 and HAS NOT let me down. Every time I go to mechanic, it passes all checks. Sad they discontinue it but will buy the latest year model when I can.
That also says something about the honesty of your mechanic.
I have 2012 limited. It runs great. One question, my transmission has a closed system, I am on the fence about getting it changed cause I was told by 2 different guys that have mechanical experience not to get it changed because dirt mite get in and ruin the system, have you ever changed yours?
I have 2014 avalon limited. I just love 150k miles and purrs. Oil changes every 3 to 5 k rarely wait till 5k. Longest wheel base like 104 inches in between axels. I just love this car.
I have a 2013 Toyota Avalon XLE. I love my car and it has 223250 miles! I’ve had to put 2 transmissions in it (one was under warranty and paid outta pocket for the other). Other than that, no issues.
@@MightyR1000 These “lifetime fluids” are a joke. Do a simple drain (not flush) of the transmission fluid every 100,000 km (60,000 mi) or so. Even on another Car care nut video, he talks about this. Scotty Kilmer says something similar.
thank you for your honest reviews and expertise. my dad has a 05 se v6. it has 320k miles. only things that were replaced were struts, brakes, o2 sensors, waterpump, belts, and knock sensor just recently. everything else is still original. still runs strong.i dont doubt it can go another 300k.
Loved your video.. I have a 2006 Camry with 407,000 miles. I maintain. Runs like a charm until yesterday when I was involved in a car crash and it was totaled. I was aiming for the million mile club. Best car I ever owned. My family all drives Toyotas.
This channel is so amazingly necessary for people to watch
Thank you for the excellent advice, appreciate it *"BIG TIME"* 👍 Going into the file this video is a keeper ! 🤔 ! 😳 !
Straight talk from one who has seen the good, the bad, and the ugly. Nothing could be better.
@@flagmichael True ☺️ I'm loving his honesty, know for a fact that most dealers out there right now will take you.
Same! I'm in the market to buy a decent, used car that isn't going to cost me a lot of money I don't have. I just had to scrap my 2002 Dodge Caravan,😔. Didn't owe me anything.
My 2002 Highlander V6 Limited is still running like a champ @ 192K miles! My mom was the original owner and gave it to me when it had ~90K miles back in 2014. She took it to Toyota regularly for routine maintenance and according to the maintenance sticker, the timing belt was replaced in 2011 @ 85K miles. Since then I performed regular oil changes (using multiple brands of synthetic oils…I’m currently using Costco’s Kirkland Synthetic 5W-30 because it’s cheap at $26 for two 5 qt jugs), have done transmission fluid/filter changes twice, brake/power steering fluid changes because it’s easy, replaced the oil pan gasket and replaced brake rotors/pads. No major maintenance so far (engine/transmission wise). Soon, I’ll be changing the spark plugs and will also replace all the gaskets/seals from all the parts removed during the process, to include replacing the bypass coolant/2X radiator hoses and draining/flushing the coolant. I will keep this car until it’s no longer cost effective to keep it.
U have a wonderful car..You'll get mega mls.out of a Highlander..Consumer reports some yrs.ago gave this vehicle a excellent report all around even 2 the radio..Keep up maintience & you'll b good n it 4 many long yrs..I have a 9 6 corolla & still kicking..Golden car..lol..I have a newer Suv also..Keeping my corolla though..
Ready for another timing belt, tensioner, water pump, etc.?
We have the same SUV 2002 Highlander Limited. We purchased it brand new and still retain the car. We just do the regular maintenance and that's pretty much it.
Next time be a little brief
I had a 87 Toyota pick up with Xtra cab with the 22R engine std, loved that pick up.
This is amazing info! Great work! I am Looking at buying a 2020 Highlander platinum but I am not sure if the v6 is as reliable as the 2019 models or if I should spend the extra very similar pricing to a new 2023 v4 hybrid.. not sure I am comfortable relying in that v4 for 10 years. What are your thoughts on this?