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Are there any known "issues" or pitfalls with a 96 Toyota Townace Super? It's done 200k, the reg suggest its imported, but looks to be extremely good condition.

I'll be getting an AA check on it anyway but wondered if they're vans to avoid?

Thanks for any thoughts you have.

John

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 22 August 2008

The scary thing here is the odometer reading. At 200,000kms even the best serviced vehicle can develop problems.

Remember any vehicle inspection is a visual, non-evasive check on the day, which is good to have, but it will only tell you the standout faults obvious at the time.

A clean sheet does not mean you're buying a trouble free vehicle. In other words the risk is all yours.

Working on an average of around 14,000km per year, the distance travelled is not hugely over the top, but it is getting into the red zone in terms of what may or could happen next.

Brand wise a good choice, but I would be more inclined towards a manual than an auto.

If you're buying privately see if you can get hold of any previous service history, don't buy without the vehicle having a Warrant of Fitness less than 28 days old and buy at the right price.