Toyota

LandCruiser Prado J150 (150 Series) inspection checklist

2009-2024 · 7 things to check before you buy, taken from this car's known problems.

All engines

mediumKDSS hydraulic seal leaks (VX/Kakadu)

Look for: The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System can weep from its hydraulic cylinders/valve over time.

If you find it: Reseal and bleed the KDSS; inspect for leaks pre-purchase.

From 150k+ km · ~$300-1500

3.0L 1KD-FTV diesel

highCracked pistons (Euro IV, 2009-2014)

Look for: Euro IV 1KD pistons are susceptible to cracking, typically 100,000-150,000km, with black smoke, knocking, high crankcase pressure and power loss. A known Toyota issue with updated pistons available.

If you find it: Engine rebuild with updated pistons. Check for the relevant Toyota campaign/history; avoid over-aggressive tunes.

From 100k-150k km · ~$6000-12000

highInjector failure

Look for: 1KD injectors wear and fail, causing rough running, smoke and hard starting.

If you find it: Injector replacement (set) by a diesel specialist; quality fuel and filtration help.

From 120k-140k km (can be 75k-250k) · ~$2500-4500

mediumEGR / intake carbon and VGT sticking

Look for: EGR and intake soot, plus VGT turbo vane sticking, are the usual 1KD ancillary issues.

If you find it: EGR/intake clean, VGT clean; catch-can helps.

From 120k+ km · ~$400-1500

2.8L 1GD-FTV diesel

mediumDPF clogging / high oil consumption (2015-2017)

Look for: Early 1GD diesels suffered clogged DPFs and high oil consumption. Toyota service campaign GGG38 (June 2017) reflashed the ECU to raise exhaust temps and lengthen regen, largely resolving it.

If you find it: Confirm the GGG38 update is applied; do regular highway runs; monitor oil level.

Any (early build) · ~$500-2500

mediumMAF sensor dust contamination - limp mode

Look for: Fine dust can pass the air filter and electrostatically coat the mass-airflow sensor, feeding bad data to the ECU and dropping the engine into limp mode.

If you find it: Clean/replace the MAF; quality air filter and good sealing, especially for dusty touring.

Any (dusty use) · ~$150-400

4.0L 1GR-FE V6 petrol

mediumVVT-i oil line failure

Look for: Same Toyota V6 issue as Prado 120/Hilux/Camry - the rubber VVT-i oil supply line can develop a pinhole leak and lose oil.

If you find it: Replace with the updated braided steel line preventively.

From 150k+ km · ~$300-500 part

5 minor things (low severity)

lowDash / interior trim cracking (heat/UV)

Look for: Dash top and trim can crack with sustained Australian heat/UV.

If you find it: Dash cap/replacement; not structural.

Any · ~$300-1200

lowBrake wear (heavy vehicle)

Look for: A heavy 7-seat 4WD chews brakes, especially when towing.

If you find it: Quality pads/rotors; towing-spec pads if used for towing.

From 60k+ km · ~$400-900

lowCoastal / underbody rust

Look for: Beach/coastal examples can show underbody and tailgate rust.

If you find it: Underbody inspection; wash down after beach use.

Any · Varies

lowInjector / EGR at higher km

Look for: Standard common-rail injector and EGR maintenance at higher km.

If you find it: Injector service, EGR clean as needed.

From 150k+ km · ~$500-2500

lowFuel thirst

Look for: Real-world 12-16 L/100km loaded; not a fault.

If you find it: Accept or fit LPG.

Any · Running cost

From FlamingCars' Toyota LandCruiser Prado guide. It's a checklist of known problems, not a replacement for a professional pre-purchase inspection. Your ticks are kept in this browser only.