TOYOTA: Questions and answers

Toyota Yaris 2009

My car is a 1.5 ltr 2009 model Toyota Yaris with 39,000 km and I have a problem with the engine. Sometimes the rpm comes down to about 500 rpm and it starts jerking too much and then stops completely. Then on starting the engine it runs normally for some time. The Toyota agent in our area did so many things but still the problem is there. They replaced spark-plugs, filters and the engine control unit but I still have the same problem. Please can anyone advise? Thank you.

Answers

Oil in throttle body. The alloy bit where the throttle cable ends up - Pat from New Caledonia

Toyota Yaris 2006

I have a Toyota Yaris 1.3 automatic which refuses to start intermittently. I find it will start about two hours later. It shows red lights and beeping when I attempt to start the engine. With no ignition the gear will not move out of neutral. It can go for a while without this happening. Can this be sorted out and how? What sort of cost should I expect for this repair?

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Can be a lot of stuff wrong. Did you try to start with spare key? What red light turned on? Is the check engine light (orange) also turnd on? Ariel from Israel

Toyota Yaris 2008

My friend told me about changing chain pool when a vehicle reaches about 105,000km. He drives a VW Polo. Does this also affect my Toyota Yaris? I’m worried because my service provider never asked me about chain pool and my car reached 120,000km. Should I worry much? (T3)

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The Toyota manufacturer does not require to change the chain - Ariel from Israel

Toyota Hiace 1998

I have got a Toyota Hiace 3L 4.4 automatic. My problem is I recently changed the gearbox transimission fluid and after that my car cannot pick a drive on any selection, either front or reverse. What should I do?

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Try to caltex automatic fluid because you might be using the wrong grade of oil - Benjamin Chipunga from Zimbabwe

Toyota Yaris 2003

Hi. My Toyota Yaris semi automatic just starts to beep when stuck in slow traffic. It beeps for a few seconds, then off, then on again but no lights come on the dashboard. Can anyone suggest what is causing this please?

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Did you mean semi-automatic as multimode/robotic gear? If so it’s normal behavior; those ’beeps’ are letting you know that the clutch is getting very hot because of shifting between "half clutch" - first gear and back, or driving at very low speed 1-6 kph that keeps half cluch on and you are not on full clutch relese. To prevent damage - start driving more then 6 kph or stop the vehicle to allow the clutch to cool down. By the way there is a secret way to control this gearbox that I’ll explain to you now: The handbrake light is telling the gearbox to press the clutch. So instead of fighting your gearbox (which trying to move you forword) with the brake pedal, control it with just pulling the handbrake a little bit until the light will come on the dashboard. Try it: put your Yaris on flat surface. In first gear, release brake pedal - the vehicle will start moving forward, raise the handbrake a little bit until the light will come on and you will feel the the gear is electronicly pressed, the clutch and the vehicle will stop. This way you can drive your car at very low speed without fighting your gearbox with the brake pedal and dramaticly reduce the overheating problem - Ariel from Israel

Toyota Yaris 2006

It was minus 20 today (Celsius) -4 f and I was driving on the highway in my Toyota Yaris. All seemed fine till I hit a big hill and all of a sudden the engine check light came on and it wouldn’t go over 50. I had to go off the highway and the light went off again. Two hours later driving home all was good. Would the extreme cold have been the problem?

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Get OBD scanner and plug it to your car. You can see the fault history stored in the vehicle computer. Only this way you can tell what was wrong. My guess - you hit the hill - some sensors went bad for a while. Maybe sensor inside the gear box which tells your computer not to run over 50. If you can’t get this scanner (cost few bucks on ebay/aliexpress) you should go to the service point to scan the computer - Ariel from Israel

Toyota Yaris 2003

About six months ago my Toyota Yaris suddenly lost drive. The engine roared, and I was just able to coast into the side of the residential road I was on. The AA could find no fault and 15 minutes later the car recovered. I had hoped this was a one-off glitch, but last week it happened again. I waited and the car recovered, only to stop again 200 yards on. It behaved well enough after that to get me home, but I’ve lost confidence! I’ve been fortunate in where I’ve broken down, but dread to think of the consequences should I be on the motorway. The car has very low mileage and is regularly serviced. What could be wrong? (Semi-auto)

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I’m so sorry this isn’t an answer but I’ve been having the exact same problem, only it has happened to me on the motorway and I had my 3 year old in the car so I’d love to know if anyone has an answer. Typically anytime I’ve had it looked at and even when I was recovered from the motorway, the car was completely fine! – Jo from Kent

Toyota Hiace 2001

I’m looking to buy a used Toyota Hiace LWB to carry my bikes and camping equipment etc, so nothing heavy. My price limit means it will probably be around the year 2000-2002 models. I have seen a few advertised as "PowerVan". Is this the same as the D4D engine and if not, how is it different? Also which is better? Any advice between the different models and engines would be much appreciated! Many thanks.

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Hi, I have a 2002 Hiace LWB and use it for everything including carrying two large motorcycles, all my spare wheels and tools plus towing a 26’ twin axle caravan, all with no probs. With regard to Powervan as apposed to D4D I can only tell you that mine is a D4D, it had a damaged back door and found another at a breaker in Hucknall, Notts who only deal in Hiace vans. The back tailgate I bought had Powervan stickers on it and it came from a "T" reg van. I suppose it’s possible that the D4D is just the later version. I am sure if I am wrong there will be someone out there who can tell you for certain. I would highly recommend the Hiace and as it has such a fine reputation cannot understand why Toyota no longer import them into the U.K. - Barry Wilson from Nottinghamshire

Toyota Hiace 2000

I have a whirring whistling noise from the rear end of my newly bought Toyota GS Hiace. I think it`s the diff. Is this serviceable or a sealed unit and replacement only? It`s supposedly only done 80,000 miles, year 2000 GS model and what is the differance between the GS and D4D? Thank you.

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Speaking from the experience from what is happening as I type and the feedback of experts some owner of Hiace buses the diff components mainly crown and pinion have lost there precise cohesion thus their perfect alignment is no more and with grinding teeth noise is the result. I am now purchasing a brand new crown and pinion as everything else changing bearing, putting in higher grade oil etc didn’t help. Until I complete that the noise continues like a speeding train with rusty wheels - Colin Wright from Jamaica

Toyota Yaris 2008

While I am driving my Toyota Yaris a sound like a spark comes from inside the dashboard (right over the fans), then the car stops and won’t start, but after some time it starts normally. Can anyone help me out?

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Sorry, no answer here, but I wanted to say my Yaris does exactly the same as yours intermittently, and also I have trouble starting it. I’ve had advice like coolant temp sensor ignition switch but I’m at a loss. I’ve talked to the dealers and they say bring it in... Yeah, okay, and my check book... Carl Type from Merthyr Tydfil

Possible faulty relay or ecu compter, etc. You’ll probly find a component like those around that area has over heated or shorting out. Toyota tech 07-present local? Belfast - Con McG from County Antrim

Toyota Yaris 2007

How do I connected my phone to my Toyota Yaris 1.0 VVT-i T3 5-dr 2007 model? Is there some sort of USB/AUX port? I know it has a WMA/MP3 reader but I am not sure how it works as this is my first car.

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There is an aux port in the compartment passenger side in the front. I’m not very good with the terminologies but I hope the answer is okay - Naa Brown from Ghana

Toyota Hiace 1998

What is the maximum amount I can lower my Toyota Hiace camper van legally and what would you recommend on how to go about it?

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I would not drop it to low as I have a 93 model that was lowered and it handles great but rides like a pig springs are flat no bounce when you hit a bump so be carefull not to drop to low - Tim Sinclair from Australia

Toyota Hiace 1994

Hi, our Toyota Hiace van has recently been stalling while driving. It has been tested by diesel experts for faults and none found in the engine function. I have taken the alarm system out as part of the problem elimination process and the engine still stalls periodically while driving. There is an audible clicking noise, the revs drop and then the engine cuts out. It takes a few minutes before I can restart the engine. Could this be an electrical issue or fuel pump or temperature sensor? Please help. Any suggestions gratefully received.

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We’ve encountered the same problem before, try to ask your mechanic/electrician to check the ecu (computer box). Our mechanic/electrician disassembled the van computer box and found a burned electronic component (a capacitor and a diode). Replaced the burned electronic components and that’s it, no more stalling while driving. Sorry for my English :D Hopes this fix the issue - Jay-ar Villanueva from Philippines

Toyota Picnic 2001

My Toyota Picnic is recently using a lot of oil. On average a full tank of oil in 500 miles, as I just noticed on a day trip to London. What can the problem be? Is my car dying?

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Check for oil leaks, and what oil are you using? If 5w30, then I suggest you try 10w40 as will burn slower. I’d definitely take it to a garage, get it on a ramp and check for leaks first - Hussein from England

Toyota Yaris 2002

My Automatic Toyota Yaris is making a grinding sound on acceleration. It tends to go away when I’m driving above 60mph. Also, the engine is purring louder than normal. Does anyone know roughly how much (GBP) this would cost to put right? Many thanks.

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Hi. Mine did that, I now get a warning beep with no light, took it to Toyota today and they said it sounds like my clutch is slipping... quoted £88 diagnostic and £6-700 for new clutch, local garage (Wolverhampton) quoted £425 but not all garages will touch it. Apparantly it is a problem with Toyota’s semi automatics but its not covered by them! Sorry but hope this helps - Jemma Lewis from England

Toyota Yaris 2008

Hi, I have a Toyota Yaris 2008 which won`t shift from third to fourth gear even when I am on a highway. Could it be related to the seat belt light for the driver, because even if I wear it, it does not go off? It is also very difficult opening the driver`s side door from outside. Please help me?

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Diffrent problems. Unrelated. Deal with them seperately... Ariel from Israel

Toyota Yaris 2008

When I accelerate in my Toyota Yaris there is a noise and the battery sign is indicated. Also the car is not moving quickly. Why is this?

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The battery sign indicates that the battery is not charging. I assume that the noise is a loose belt (loud high squeek) in this case this is very important belt. This belt not only drive your alternator and AC, it also drive the engine water pump. so when the belt sleeps - there is no coolant cycle inside the engine! Check if the belt is in good condition. If so apply tension to the belt by moving the alternator. If you don’t know what I’m talking about go to some dealership to fix it - Ariel from Israel

Toyota Yaris 2000

I`ve just viewed a Toyota Yaris 1.3 vvt-i sr 2000. The headlights seemed to be foggy / misty, almost like there was condensation underneath. Is this a fault with all Yaris’ or could it just be this one? If it is just a fault with this one particular car, can it be easily repaired and would it be cheap to repair?

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Search for headlight restore. You can find a few do it yourself kits online or go to somone who specialize at restoring headlights. This fog is caused by the sun UV rays. I do it myself every 5 months - Ariel from Israel

Toyota Yaris 2007

When I press the brakes of my Toyota Yaris I feel something weird in my car. I feel that the brake touches the ground. It makes a sound like that and in winter it looks like I cannot stop the car fast. Even if I press the brakes, it still goes a few metres. Any ideas?

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Does this phenomena take place on slippery roads? If so then you are experiencing your vehicles traction control feature - Spencer from Canada

It happens mostly in the snow. Do you think there is a problem with my car or everyone else has the same problem? It’s the first year that I have a car! Vidvid from Canada

Toyota Hiace 2000

Hi. My Toyota Hiace van 2000 is a great runner and I`ve had it years. Now when I put the heater fan on the sound is unthinkable, possibly bearing trouble or a cat has got into the wheel! I haven’t got a manual, they are hard to come by. I`ve been to the Toyota garage but it`d cost more than the van to rectify. I can do it myself if I knew what to do to get to it. Can anyone help me? Cheers. (2000 diesel)

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I have a 2002 Hiace and found most of a manual by searching the internet, sorry I can’t give you the link as my laptop is down. It took ages to download but has all the pages needed. There is no menu so you need to open the pages which download as PDF files as thumbnails and expand them (ctrl & +) to see what they are. I will have a look for the link when I get the laptop back. Best of luck - Barry Wilson from Nottinghamshire

Toyota Yaris 2008

My Toyota Yaris 2008 t1 performs excellently when the tank is full but doesn`t perform well when it drops one or two bars of the tank indicator. What might the cause be?

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Seems the sorce of the problem is at the fuel tank: failure at the main fuel supply pump located inside the fuel tank. Maybe when the fuel level decreases it is struggling to pump the fuel to that height and giving you less fuel pressure. Maybe some hole at the fuel pump hose inside fuel tanks that at some level of that hole beginning to suck small bubles of air and making you a rapid decrease of performance - Ariel from Israel

Toyota Yaris 2007

MyToyota Yaris is semi-automatic, 2007. The engine light is on and there is a bit of smoke coming from the exhaust. I took it to a diagnostic machine and it says something like the catalytic converter is below the threshold. The vehicle does not have power and there is a bit of jerking on the first gear and reverse gear. Can anyone suggest what`s wrong?

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Hello. I also have a Toyota Yaris 2007 and I had that problem. 120,000 KM catalytic converter below threshold. The good news is that your catalytic converter is dying so you`ll now know the problem. Try to reset the light by scanner or by unplugging the car battery for a few seconds. It will give you a few more days without this problem. Now if this problem persists you`ll have to find a new catalytic converter. In my Yaris hatchback I have two catalytic converters. I changed them both for about 200$ for replacement one.  Every country has their modified Yaris with different engine, so some Yaris` have only one catalytic converter. Try to change the catalytic converter as soon as possible or the Heated oxygen sensor (bank 1 sensor 2) will burn out and you`ll need to change that also. In my case I drove a few months with this problem and needed to change the O2 sensor with the cat converters - not expensive sensor but still... - Ariel from Israel

Toyota Yaris 2007

My Toyota Yaris won`t change gears, the power steering light is on and the dash is not working. What could be wrong?

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Have you checked the fuses to see if one has blown - Ariel from Israel

Toyota Yaris 2007

My Toyota Yaris T1 has a terrible banging sound, (as if something is breaking or someone is hitting hard on a metal object), when I change gears, especially at a very low speed. I have no idea what to do. Some say it`s the gearbox mounting, some say it`s the drive shaft. Please can anyone help?

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My vehicle does the same thing 2. Does it smoke? Someone told me to try fix the exhaust including the catalytic converter. Did you resolve your problem yet? Batho Bogopa from Botswana

Toyota Yaris 2003

My Toyota Yaris has the orange warning light lit on the dashboard. Fuel consumption is down from 63 to 58mpg and the engine jerks a little when cold. What are the possible causes? (diesel)

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Try to disconnect the battery for few secconds to reset the ECM (car computer). If you still have this light you’ll have to get an scanner to see what’s the problem, maybe it’s a sensor, maybe something worse. Go to the dealership - Ariel from Israel

Toyota Aygo 2004

I was driving my Toyota Aygo yesterday and when I turned my ignition on the p/s red light came on and I just wonder what do I need to do?

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My Toyota Aygo started showing the P/S light last year The power steering went off. Intermittently for a long time. If I "hit" the power steering unit then the power steering would come on again. I did strip the unit apart but the whole thing seemed rather complicated. It is located under the dash board above the driver’s knees. After a crash where the other driver hit my car side on. The power steering returned full time. To me it seems that the electronic relay in the power steering unit were not making contact properly. Hitting it allowed the relays to make a proper contact. The repeated tapping on the metal case caused the relays to re adjust and contact. It is working properly now and has been for the last 10 weeks - Tony Kenny from Durham

Toyota Yaris 2008

How can I check Toyota Yaris sedan 2008 and 2009 models` engine capacity is 1.3 or 1.5 by outside appearance?

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You will not see any difference - Ariel from Israel

Toyota Yaris 2001

My Toyota Yaris` engine management light is on and there is no power when accelerating. Also the exhaust is sounding very loud. I went to two garages and got two different opinions. Does anyone have any ideas before I go ahead and get it fixed? Thanks. (1.5 vvti)

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If the exhaust is broken there is a sensor on the exhaust which regulates the emissons. This would cause the engine management light to come on. Get the exhaust fixed and the problem should clear - Paul Lomax from Norfolk

Toyota Yaris 2012

It seems to be a bit of a fight to get my Toyota Yaris into gear sometimes. Does anyone else have this problem? (SR)

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I have the same problem with my new Yaris 2012. Sometimes when fully stopped at street lights I struggle to get it into first gear. I have to release the brake and let the car slighltly go alone backward or forward (slope depending) so I can get it into 1st gear. My car is just 1500 miles old now. Beside this, when weather is cold and steer wheel is turned 75% to the right, you can hear a strong noise coming from the wheel and the car shakes - Miguel Bolivar from Nottinghamshire

I have this problem with my Toyota Yaris, when trying to select reverse. When I mentioned it to Toyota when it was in for a service they checked it said they didn’t detect it, but if it happens again try this. Put it into 1st gear first then try reserve, it does kind of work, but I do get sometimes when selecting 1st, but I try put it in reserve then select 1st. I expect is the manufactory problem which they don’t seemed to of look into yet as avoiding the issue - Tracey Smith from England

Toyota Hiace 2002

G’day. I have just bought a Toyota Hiace MWB van, Dual Fuel (Petrol/LPG). I’m looking for fuses. I found the long box at the bottom of the instrument panel (door missing) but it appears to have only relays. Is there a ’proper’ fuse box anywhere? I had a bit of a look in the engine bay (under the seat) but can’t see anything there. Any help would be appreciated. Any ideas? Cheers.

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2 "fuse" boxes in the 2002 Hiace, both below the dash. One at the centre, contains major fuses, relays, etc. The other is near the driver’s feet, with lots of fuses for all the individual circuits. The "master" fuse (fusible link) is connected directly to the battery, under the cover behind the passenger seat. Have fun! Khan Vondog from Australia

Toyota Hiace 2000

Can anyone supply drawings of how fresh air enters the ventilation system inside my Toyota Hiace van, as I have a whistle in the ducting and want to inspect it to remove the noise, which sounds worse inside when the fresh air is open? (It is quieter when reticulated is used).

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The fresh air intake is through a cable-operated flap behind the passenger side headlight. There, you’ll find 4 nuts holding the intake airbox in place. These are threaded onto bolts embedded inside the airbox. If you MUST remove the airbox (I strongly advise against it, if it can be avoided), use LOTS of WD40 on the threads and nuts before you try to undo them - if the heads of those threads start rotating within their seats inside the airbox, you’re stuffed. Big time. Khan Vondog from Australia

Toyota Hiace 1999

Hi, I have a Toyota Hiace van 3L engine, full time 4x4. When it reaches 70k/h it begins to vibrate, especially in the front wheels. It also stalls / stops to increase in speed despite pressing the fuel pedal even further. It can barely reach 80k/h but with increased vibrations. I tried wheel balancing but the problem remains. Does anyone have any ideas?

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I had bad vibes with 3l, was crank pulley in 2 bits! It is bonded with rubber, check before it grinds through timing case! Al from Perthshire

Toyota Avensis Saloon 2003

Hi. My Toyota Avensis Saloon makes a funny noise in the morning when I start it, as if it has no oil. It`s like a knocking sound, but I serviced it last week. Could it be the oil pump or the rings, but when the engine is hot it keeps quiet? (manual 1.8 litre engine)

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Get your drive shaft bearings immediately checked or you could be looking at serious problems... Philip Riordan from Ireland

Toyota Yaris 2006

I have a Toyota Yaris t2 06 plate. My electrics seem to be failing and will not allow me to start the car. They don`t come up and I have had the battery tested and it`s fine. The orange light keeps coming on and off and when the car does start the radio channels , time and petrol always reset and give me nothing. I have to jump start it to get it working. Can anyone help please?

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Battery is probably unserviceable. Failing that you have a poor connection to the battery. Most likely a loosely fitting terminal clamp connection, or chassis return connection. Guy who did battery check should have been able to check that too. If you think not that then suggest you google for yaris alarm/immobiliser problems - Chip Last from England

Toyota Yaris 2005

At traffic lights with my foot on the brake of my Toyota Yaris the symbol changed from (E) to (N), the engine was still running but it wouldn’t move. Also a jagged red circle with am (!) in the middle came on on the dashboard. I pushed it to the side of the road, turned the engine on and off a couple of times and it drove well again. I`ve only had the car for 3 weeks. Does anyone have any ideas please? Thanks.. (Semi automatic)

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I have the exact same problem with a 2008 which I bought second hand and had driven less than 100 miles. After stopping at lights, when I took my foot off the brake the warning light with exclamation mark surrounded by cog wheel came on. It felt like it jumped out of gear into neutral and the car revved and then it kind of settled down and drove normally for a bit. Happened quite a few times and I took to dealer who said it needed a new actuator and clutch but my salesman who is really super, told me not to worry "You won’t have to put your hand in your pocket. We don’t sell sub standard cars." So, they are covering it with their one year warranty which is a great relief. Hopefully you will be able to do the same - Gordon Nicol from Mid-Lothian (Edinburghshire)

Your gears need tuning, also change your brake fluid oil. Also, when you stop put your handbrake up this like a manual car this would stop it from happening as well - Maz from England

Toyota Yaris

Hi, please can anyone help? I`m looking into buying a second hand Toyota Yaris but wanted to know the difference between T1 and T3?

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T3 has got more powerful engine - Jozzi from South Africa

Toyota Hiace 2002

My Toyota Hiace`s heater fan has stopped working. I tried it on full power and smoke was coming out so I turned it off. I phoned my Toyota dealer and they want the van to check and say if the dashboard has to come out it could cost £800+. Can anybody tell me how I can do this myself? Many thanks.

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Hi David, have the same smoke and dead fan. Can you tell me how you fixed yours? Have most of my dash out. Thanks - Gregg Kendrick from Canada

Toyota Yaris 2011

In my Toyota Yaris 2011 model there is no indicator for heating the engine. What can I do?

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Only comes on if something wrong mate - Pat Barry from Ireland

Toyota Yaris 2001

My Toyota Yaris` malfunction indicator lamp is on. Can anyone advise what the reason could be?

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The MIL light comes on for very many reasons. To find out the fault, a diagnostic unit needs to be plugged in to the socket below the steering unit. This unit gives a fault code or several, and indicates in text what the fault is - Tom O’Connor from Ireland

Toyota Yaris 2006

Please could anyone advise me at what mileage should the timing belt be renewed on my Toyota Yaris?

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All Yaris engines have timing chain, not belt. You can confirm better with the local dealer - Telmo Salgado from Portugal

I have done some research and was told at 100 000 to 120 000 miles - Lee from South Africa

Toyota Hiace 1988

I have a Toyota Hiace shell model van, with gear selector on the steering wheel. I want to know the system, where is the first gear, second, neutral, reverse? Can anyone help me?

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If it is the same as a 1977 then the column shift is as follows. 1st-towards you and upwards. 2nd-towards you and downwards 3rd-away from you and upwards 4th-away from you and downwards but don’t push it away too far as reverse is pushed away from you slightly further and downwards than fourth gear. Hope this helps - Steve Wood from England

Toyota Yaris 2000

My mother in law has lost her manual. for her Toyota Yaris. An orange light on the dashboard has come on. What does this mean? It`s shaped a bit like a bulb. Is this an engine problem or a service needed?

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Hi, the orange light is the engine management light! I also have a yaris which had the same problem, apparantly this is common with yaris’s. The problem will probably be one of the air flow sensors. Mark from England

Toyota Hiace 1993

Hello, my Toyota Hiace`s dashboard lights will not come on when the engine is started. I have checked my headlights and they work. However my signals will not work. Also I tried to put it into gear and the gear stick will not move. It is really odd as I only drove it the other day. The van is an automatic, it has been standing on the drive for a few months but I drove it out of the driveway the other day to wash it. Any ideas what could cause this, loose wiring, a fuse or something bigger?

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Probably a fuse, you can use red button by gear lever to select gear ’till fixed - Al from Perthshire

I have the same problem without the gear problem so possibly you have two faults. If you find the electrical prolem could you please let me know. Thanks - Jeff Sullivan from Bridgend

Possibly the dimmer switch is faulty - Vincent Calleja from Australia

Toyota Auris 2009

Can anyone please tell me where to locate the main fuse box on my Toyota Auris? I need to locate the cigarette lighter fuse. Thanks.

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The fuse box is located below the glove box near the foot well there is a plastic cover to remove first the fuse box is in there you need a special tool to remove any fuse - Bevan from County Antrim

There are two fuse boxes, one is under the bonnet and the other is underneath the glove box. When you remove the glove box you will see a circuit board in front of you. The fuse box is underneath this circuit board and can be accessed by looking vertically from the floor - D from Bedfordshire

Toyota Hiace 1998

What should the tyre pressures be on my Toyota Hiace?

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I have 1997 Hiace, the official figures on the door pillar are:- 3.5 Atmos (45psi) @ front, 4.5 Atmos (65psi) at rear. But I myself usually run @ 55psi @ rear on my campervan as I believe load is less - Malc Shaw from Hampshire

Toyota Hiace 1999

All of the malfunctioning lights have come on in my Toyota Hiace at once on the dashboard, water, oil, t-belt etc even though there are no faults. The lights come on every time we start the engine and will not go off. I cannot use the van for this reason. Any ideas? (diesel)

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Have your alternater checked especially if the mileage is over 130/140k, as the alternator may be worn out. When the alternator starts charging it switches off all the warning lights - Wayne from New Zealand

Toyota Yaris 2004

Hiya. I bought my Toyota Yaris 1.3 t3 04 reg 2 weeks ago and now I can hear a sqeaky noise coming from the front wheel. It does this at low speed in a straight line and when steering but it appears that when I hit the brakes the noise goes. Can anyone help me on this?

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There is a piece of metal that comes in contact with the brake disc when a brake pad is worn to alert the driver to renew the pads - Tom O’Connor from Ireland

Toyota Hiace 1995

What mpg do you get from a Toyota Hiace campervan, and does it have decent power going up hills?

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Diesel campers (2.8) around 30 mpg. Mine is slow on acceleration (weighs 2 ton!) but has plenty of grunt for hills. Get a turbo if poss - Al from Perthshire

Toyota Hiace 2003

My Toyota Hiace`s engine management light has come on. When it`s started revs are normally at a standstill and it ticks over fine. When driving the revs are limited and resticts speed to around 45mph. This vehicle is well maintained and serviced with just over 50,000 miles on the clock. Any ideas? ( Hiace model diesel)

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The Hiace has a safe engine mode on it so what I would try is to remove the battery that will reset the computer that might sort your problem. If it happens again I would get it checked to make sure the engine fine as it might have big problem like blown gasket or head... Ouch, I have had that - Martin Curtis from Angus (Forfarshire)

Hi. I have the same problem and I have been told that it`s the EGR valve. I could do with knowing where it is and is it easy to change or can it be cleaned? – Ian Galt from England

Toyota Yaris 2007

I bought my Toyota Yaris 07 semi-Auto a few months ago. I soon noticed that at the beginning this car has a jerky movement before it starts runnnig normally. Sometimes when I stop at a traffic light and want to move again then this jerky movement appears as you push on the accelerator. At the beginning I thought maybe it was because the engine is cool that I get this problem, but someone told me that it could be due to the semi-Auto gearbox fault. I would appreciate any advice and help. Any ideas? Many thanks. (VTT-3)

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Take the car to a Toyota dealer. It’s likely they can tell you quite quickly what the problem might be. You may get told by some people not to go a main dealer but they are usually the best because they will have seen all the problems with the make of car they deal with - Pete from England

Toyota Hiace 1985

My Toyota Hiace`s dashboard/panel lights are inoperative. Any ideas? (diesel)

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Hello, my dash board is doing the same. The headlights are working but no dashboard lights or signals. Also my gear stick won’t move (automatic). I`m not sure if this is linked to the dashboard? It`s really weird as it was fine just a few days ago and I was able to drive it. I am guessing it is either a fuse or a loose wiring connection. If you find out the cause of your problem please let me know and I will do the same . Many thanks - Zoe England from Cardiff

Toyota Yaris 2003

I bought a Toyota Yaris 2003 on 31st May 2011. During the winter the heater stopped working but the windscreen heater was working fine. Since then I have seen four people about it but no-one found anything. In the meantime my MOT was due in April 2012 so I took it to Kwik Fit and they checked everything and changed the coolant. It still wasn’t working so they called their expert with a callout charge of £90 and they had to open up the dashboard, at a further charge of £50, but still they couldn`t find anything. I have since seen two more people who have said there is nothing wrong but they might try to change the thermostat. I have spent so much money but still the problem stays the same. Can anyone help please?

Answers

Change thermostat, ensure jiggle pin is in correct orientation - Dave Prince from Conwy

Toyota Hiace 2001

Hey. I am just wondering where the rpm wire/harness is in a 2001 Toyota Hiace van? I`ve bought an aftermarket tacho and I want to put it on but I`ve had the whole dashboard apart looking for it and still can`t find it. Can anyone help? Cheers.

Answers

rpm pick up usually on diesel pump - Al from Perthshire

Toyota Picnic

What is the leg room like in the back seat of a Toyota Picnic? Will an adult be able to sit comfortably in that row?

Answers

Not sure if your question is still current, but in case it is... It depends on the adults, both those in the third row seats and those in the seats in front of them. The first restriction in the third row is that of headroom - I’m 5’10" and anyone taller than me would touch the roof. The seats themselves are reasonably comfortable (better than on the "son of Picnic" Verso) and legroom for the average adult is adequate if the middle row is pushed reasonably well forward. So avarage-sized adults can be accommodated in all three rows if everyone is prepared to compromise a little on legroom. Hope that helps - Stephen from Wiltshire

Toyota Auris 2008

My Toyota Auris has a screeching noise coming from the back wheels. Any suggestions as to what can be causing this?

Answers

Rear brake discs. All four brake discs work on a Auris and I was getting the same noise. To see if it, when driving and the noise is happening slightly pull on the handbrake - not to the point that it would do any locking of the wheels - just slightly so that the rear brakes are engaged. If the noise stops then this is the problem and you need to get the rear brakes sorted - Matt T from England

Mine did the same thing. I have had the brake pads greased and re scored. But the noise is now intermittment and not from braking. I am taking car in again. I don’t think it is the brake pads so don’t spend money on new ones - Julie Jefferson from Lancashire

My 2008 Auris was screeching all the time except when brakes are applied or cornering. I brought it to main dealer who charged for new rear discs. The noise is back, contacted the garage today telling them about problem and also that I have read about similar problem online. I was put on hold for 5 mins then disconnected... not impressed - Auris 2008 from Ireland

What model Auris do you have? Year/engine/rear disc or drums? Noise duing braking or when driving highway and brakes not engaged? Oystein from Norway

Toyota Yaris 2004

HI. I have a secondhand Toyota Yaris 2004 semi automatic. Since I bought it about a month ago I have been encountering a problem. Whilst driving on automatic transmission the gear from E goes to N by itself and the car stops dead. For it to work again you have to restart the engine once, twice and even five times prior to it working again normally. Any suggestions please? It looks as if this is a common problem from what I’ve researched. What could be a suitable solution?

Answers

Hi, I have exactly the same problem and looking for any helpful answer. If you have found the problem, please let me know on callsign1@hotmail.com. Thanks - A Jan from England

Hi there, can anyone please help, I have the same problem as well. My email is yorulmaz@hotmail.co.uk it would be great if anyone can help, thanks - Adam Maz from England

Hey Alex, I have the same problem as you have, please can you help me? charleneg_007@hotmail.com Charlene Galea from Malta

Hi, I had the same problem. It’s the gearbox which needs to be placed. Toyota gave me a quote for 2000 but I got it sorted out at my local. It’s the switches that just move all the time; it’s common with this car, it’s the clutch that’s gone - Yasmin Begum from England

Toyota Previa 1997

How do you set the timing marks on cylinder head sproket?

Answers

Set crankshaft at TDC then line up other dots on camshaft cog - Donald Utton from Kent

Toyota Yaris 2000

Hi, my semi auto Yaris 2000 won’t go into gear. I was told the shift position sensor was broken, so I went to Toyota, paid 130 quid for a new one and it has not rectified a thing. Has this happened to any one else? I’ve done 68,000 miles.

Answers

I have exactly the same problem with my Yaris and no one seems to know the answer and Toyota claims they can find no problem. Please please let me know if you have more luck solving this - Lottey Chin from England

Toyota Avensis Estate 2005

Do all 2.2-litre Toyota Avensis diesels have chain driven timing belts? If not what year did they change to chain-driven?

Answers

I know that from 2006, the model update year for the Avensis, the 2.2 litre diesels are all chain driven. I think this also goes for the 2 litre. Prior to that they had timing belts with change intervals of 60,000 miles - Ted Blanco from Ayrshire

Toyota Rav4 1999

When driving my Toyota Rav4 a continuous noise beeps. Can it be warning noise for break pads or to do with the abs? It doesn’t make this noise when engine is on or when car is stationary.

Answers

Could be caused by a faulty sensor in the passenger seat to say that the seat belt is not done up. We have this problem intermittently on our Rav 4 as it thinks that some one is sitting in the seat without their seat belt done up.The alarm will go off if if this is the problem only while the car is in motion and will cease when it is stationary. We complained to our local Dunedin agents for the car, Cooke Howlison and they wouldn’t do anything about it even though it was under warranty. Needless to say we don’t deal there any more and are unlikely to ever again. This fault is a extreme safety hazard as the beeper starts when you get traveling and won’t cease until the car is stopped. It can be solved by buckling up the seat belt on the front passenger seat even when no one is in the seat - Alan Anderson from New Zealand

Toyota Hiace 2001

Hi, I have a 3ltr diesel van. I drive quite a bit on the freeway and the van is at 3,000 rpm when I’m doing about 100 kph. The van makes quite a bit of noise and I’m thinking this can’t be great on the engine. I have been told if I change the diff sequence this will lessen the rpms and also be a little better on diesel. Can someone please tell me if this is true and is it worth doing. If so, in someone’s opinion, is it worth doing? ie price? Thanks.

Answers

Lowering the RPM is unlikely to make the economy better. These engines are very noisy at all speeds, you just have to put up with it (My work one is auto, and VERY loud). Increasing the gear ratios will probably make fuel consumption WORSE, as it’s always trying harder to maintain the same speed at less engine RPM (It has to put out MORE power per RPM, so more fuel is required each power stroke). People often gear taller for better economy, and it very rarely works. Each individual engine has a range of engine speed which it is most efficient at, and a big square van has FAR more resistance to overcome than a small sleek car. There’s nothing wrong with 3000 rpm. It’s considered a low to mid engine speed. I’ve had small cars that do over 4000 at 100km/h and they lasted for years and hundreds of thousands of kms - Allan from New Zealand

I have the 2002 Hiace with 5L 3 litre Diesel which I thought the same when I got it, so took the diff ratio from std 4.1:1 ratio to 3.7:1 which cost me nearly $2.5k not to mention the speedo sender conversion box, another $500 bucks fitted. Yes, it did drop the RPM and made it all sound a lot smoother and quieter on the freeway to Sydney. Yippee! But fuel consumption went up, and my powerband went out the window! Now when it spots a hill or even a slight incline, it quivers and I have to hit fourth to make sure its wound up or else it falters down to about 70k or lower (especially on those hills between Gosford and Sydney) Hmmmm big mistake, my only option now is to return it to maybe 3.9:1 or original 4.1:1 or maybe look at Turbocharging it. I am looking into the cost and effectiveness of the latter or may get into the newer shape but have heard some nasties about them too. I’ll see after assessing cost. So my advice, leave it alone and sing songs to yourself! Hope this helps. Cheers - Zaid Rogan from Australia

"Lowering the RPM is unlikely to make the economy better". This is statement is inaccurate, author might want to learn a bit more the basic principles of a diesel engine! I have a Hiace 2.4 TD, same problem with the low gearing and the 5 spd gearbox. I’m not sure if alternative differential ratios were offered in the UK, but I would change the diff if an alternative was available. Or swap for another van with 6 gears - Derv from England

Toyota Yaris 2001

Hi, the warning light for the power steering stays on for about 2 or 3 mins after I have started my Toyota Yaris. It’s a blue light, is this OK or should I take it to a garage?

Answers

Don’t worry, Jackie. That blue light is to show that the engine is cold and it goes out when you’re up to the correct temp - Don from Suffolk

Toyota Avensis Estate 1999

I have an intermittent grating noise coming from underneath my Toyota Avensis. I have checked and all seems to be in place and secure. Could it be the catalytic converter or is there a chance it could be more serious? Thanks.

Answers

I had a similar problem with a new 2003 Avensis Estate. There was a grating sound at low speeds (below aboy 30 KPH) it was the under engine shield that was hanging down at speed, it blew up off the road at low speed, it dragged on the road - Michael Shore from Germany

Toyota Yaris 2011

Does anyone know why my Toyota Yaris beeps twice when going around certain corners?

Answers

Is this when you have no passenger? If so its likely to be the seat belt warning, it thinks you have someone in the seat - maybe you have placed something above 10 kilo on there? A test is to connect the seatbelt even though the seat is empty and see if it re-occurs - Dave Walker from Hampshire

Toyota Avensis Saloon 1998

My car is a 1998 Avensis. I think I need to replace a fuse because my clock and mileage trip keep going back to 0 and the central locking has gone. I think my overhead light has caused the fuse to go. Could this be the case and what fuse do I need to change?

Answers

Hi, mine has just done the exact same thing tonight, I was changing the interior bulb, and I think I touched the metal surround with the bulb. I’m going to check the fuses tomorrow in daylight, couldn’t do it tonite, no interior light - Chris from Norfolk

Toyota Avensis Hatchback 2006

Hi, I have a Toyota Avensis Hatchback 56 reg 6 speed. Does it have a timing belt or a chain? (D4D diesel)

Answers

Chain - The Cav from Lancashire

Toyota Yaris 2011

I purchased my new Yaris from local dealer having road tested a 2010 model which was lovely to drive. I wanted a blue model which was delivered from other branch so did not drive this until I actually owned the car. BIG MISTAKE! The gears are so hard and difficult to engage, especially reverse and first gear. Dealer said only done a few miles gears will bed in, NO, gears have no bedded in. Dealer had car back again, nothing technically wrong with gears. By now having driven the car for 4 weeks I had personal injury of my wrist and shoulder muscles from having to push the gears around! Disinterested dealership said gear box will still bed in at 2,000 miles meanwhile I try not to drive the car which I HATE, leave it at home, and still having physio treatment. I do not believe that these gears will ever be smooth and easy to use no matter how long I have the car. Has anyone had similiar issues? Contacted Toyota head office who refer me back to useless dealership. I will never recommend the Yaris 1.3 T Spirit to anyone. I expected a dream car, instead I have a nightmare.

Answers

Do not put up with this sort of twaddle from the dealer. Phone Toyota customer service and raise hell about it. I have and after a battle, they spent £1,200 on putting the gears right - Christopher Kenney from Buckinghamshire

Toyota Auris 2009

On my Toyota Auris, when changing gear the engine does not slow down as normal but continues to race, making it seem like bad driving or the throttle obstructed by the mat. I have asked the dealer to check this, and after checking the car in the workshops they said it’s quite normal! And said I would just have to get used to it! This is the first car or indeed engine that I have had where this is normal. I wonder, is there some form of modern engine control system or gismo that causes this problem? And if it is quite normal?

Answers

Hello Mike, I had a Toyota Corrola Diesel 2001 model with the same "issue". Unlike other vehicles, when changing gear the throttle would not immediately decrease after releasing the pedal, but would maintain the same race as when the pedal was pressed. After 2-3 seconds the throttle would slow down. At first I was also confused. It seems to me that this was intentionally designed by Toyota to keep the higher rpm while changing the gear so that the change can resume quickly at the same rpm. Not confirmed but that was my impression. I drove it for few years and just got used to it. Cheers! - Pred from Serbia

Toyota Yaris 2002

Does anyone know how I can adjust the heater for warm feet and cold fresh air to face on a 2002 Toyota Yaris?

Answers

Put warm air to your feet & stick head out window - in your case, then wind window up and accelerate to 200km/hr. Gravity & momentum will do the rest - Ted Trent from Bedfordshire

Toyota Hiace 1999

Hello, I have a very reliable Toyota Hiace, very happy with it but it does smoke a bit and not too good on mpg. Maybe the price of fuel rocketing up has made me conscious of this, or maybe its just the cost of fuel!! But could anyone recommend any helpful tips. Apart from tyre pressure and full service, thanks a lot!

Answers

Use cooking oil, much cheaper, my 3l loves it - Al from Perthshire

Toyota Avensis Saloon 2005

The bulb has blown on the sat nav within my Toyota Avensis. Is it an easy job, getting at it to replace?

Answers

Not sure whether it is easy, but as I have exactly the same problem I’m going to try. My dealership will charge £48 an hour (min three hours) to change a £1 bulb! If you go to the website below, it shows you how to remove the multi-function unit which looks relatively simple. I am presuming that once the unit is out, the bulbs will be accessible at the back. Hope so, anyway. Good luck. http://www.soundmasterscotland.com/sat_nav_discs_toyota_sat_nav_disc_2004_5_dvd_europe_tns300_i019886.aspx - Ron from Essex

According to Toyota, the sat-nav is a sealed unit and the "bulbs" are LEDs which cannot be replaced. Therefore you will need to buy a new unit - Toyota charge 2,000 for it. However, you can buy a "second hand" unit from Japanese car breakers for around 200-300 - Terry Gorman from London

Toyota Avensis Hatchback 2004

The rear parking sensors have suddenly ceased to work on my Toyota Avensis Hatchback - what should I do?

Answers

Look behind you - Reg Perrin from Hampshire

Toyota Avensis Saloon 2002

Hi, can anyone tell me if there’s a timing belt or chain on my car? It really needs to be done but I’m confused. One garage told me it needs a belt and another tells me its a chain so which is it? I have a lot of mileage on it and it really needs to be sorted as I want to mind and keep it for as long as I can. I just love this car.

Answers

The vehicle is equiped with both belt and chain. If the mileage is up to 6000 Km than you should only replaced the belt - Garcia Andre from Angola

Toyota Yaris 2005

Why does my 2005 1 litre petrol Yaris not have power in second gear? (1L petrol)

Answers

I have the same problem, very slow on second gear. No power - Mohammed Rahman from England

Toyota Hilux 2006

What year did the 2.5 diesel go from 102 bhp to 120 bhp? (Doublecab 2.5 invincible)

Answers

How do I reset the t-belt light after replacing the t-belt on my d4d Toyota Hilux 2006? - Hassan Ngua Kimazi from Tanzania

Toyota Hiace 2007

Hallo, I am desperately looking for the position of the glow plugs (trying to get the water out of the motor after flooded undergrade crossing). I’d also be grateful for a link to drawing or fiche of the engine. Thanks for any help, Hugo. (Diesel 2.5)

Answers

Look near the injectors, usually thick electric wires joining them all together - P Richardson from Staffordshire

Toyota Hiace 1996

Where is the starter relay located? (minibus)

Answers

It’s in the battery compartment. You won’t miss it. It’s got 4 pins. When you buy a new one join the pins the correct way else it won’t start. Good luck - Carlos Marxs from Zimbabwe

Toyota Yaris 2006

Hi I got a Toyota Yaris 2006 today. I was driving along when suddenly white smoke started coming out from silencer, I don’t know what the problem can be.

Answers

Diesel then probably your turbo, petrol, your head gasket - Tomas from Norway

Toyota Corolla Verso 2002

What will happen if vvti fails? (vvti)

Answers

I have noticed that the vvti system is sensitive to service intervals. I have seen that if the service intervals are skipped, there is a possibility of engine damage. The oil in the engine deteriorates and eventually leads to the camshafts in the head to seize up. This causes the timing chain to break. The agents here just tell you to replace the engine due to damage to the cylinder head and lower engine parts. There is a small sieve located behind a 14mm bolt on the front of the cylinder head that needs to be taken out and cleaned from time to time - Graeme Till from South Africa

Toyota Yaris 2011

I have a problem going up hills when driving in semi auto mode. It feels like the car just doesn’t want to go. What do you suggest I do? (t spirit)

Answers

Press the accelerator fully towards the floor faster than normal when climbing a steepish hill and the Yaris should drop to a lower gear ie 2nd a lot faster and as a result, operate more like a standard auto - Chaz Johnston from Durham

Toyota Picnic 1997

The low oil light, battery light, and brake light is on. I have put a new alternator on and still no change. Help!

Answers

I have exactly the same fault. Did you ever find the answer? Thanks - Philip Lelliott from Warwickshire

Toyota Aygo 2007

I’m having trouble with the clutch, it’s hard to push in. Will I need a new clutch or is there another problem? Gow much will it cost?

Answers

I bought mine second hand just over a year ago from a dealer. I noticed that the clutch was slipping and took it to a garage and had to have it replaced. My mechanic went to a website called ’Blue Print Bulletin’ and found that this model had the wrong clutch fitted. It seems that Toyota does not have to notify anyone that has bought this faulty car. I have contacted Toyota and found them very unhelpful and don’t want to know, seeing that it is their fault. I will be contacting the Trading Standards after Christmas to see where I stand. Never will I buy another Toyota - Dorothy Allen from Cornwall

I suspected the clutch on my 2008 Aygo was going so I took it into my local garage. "Has it done around 30,000 miles?" the mechanic asked. It had done roughly that. It’s the clutch he said, they go on Aygo’s at around 30K. I was really disappointed with having to spend out on a new clutch on such a new car - Bill from Staffordshire

Toyota Yaris 2004

At what speeds should I be changing gears from 1st to 2nd, 2nd to 3rd, 3rd to 4th, and 4th to 5th, in an urban area?

Answers

You should look at your RPM not speed because if it’s a petrol, you should change at 3500RPM if it’s diesel 2800RPM - Tomas from Norway

Toyota Hiace 1997

The t-belt light is on. I want the t-belt light off. How?

Answers

Take off the instrument panel, look at the back and locate philips screw. Undo the screw and carefully screw it in neighbouring position. The light is off next time the other position etc - Orbons Bert from Netherlands

Toyota Avensis Hatchback 2005

I have one of the first Avensis models with 2.2 diesel engine and 6-speed gearbox (manufactured in June 2005). In a manual, it stated to change cam belt after 70k. But I am not sure the engine has one, should be a chain driven. Any advice? (2.2 D4-D)

Answers

Hi, you have a timing chain - Ben Chilvers from Norfolk

Toyota Avensis Hatchback 2006

Hi. Does this car (Toyota Avensis Hatchback) have a timing belt or a chain? If any how many miles before fitting a new one? (2.2 T Spirit)

Answers

Hi Tina, all the 2.2 d4d have a timing chain - Mr. Khan from Yorkshire

Toyota Hiace 1997

Where is the Glow Plug Timer?

Answers

Left hand door pillar! It is on my ’92 3l - Al Turner from Perthshire

Toyota Hiace 2004

When I drive I feel vibrations through the steering and even the pedals. Could this be the shock absorbers?

Answers

Wheel out of balance, brake disc warped, crank pulley unbonded and in 2 bits - Al Turner from Perthshire

Toyota Aygo 2007

Help! I have ordered a 2007 Aygo Black, which I take delivery of later this week. I am absolutely shocked with most of the reviews I have been reading. Other reviews I did read before deciding to buy certainly did not report any mention of leaks, misting or freezing up. I feel quite disappointed in a way, I have actually ordered the car now. Any suggestions?

Answers

You will know fairly soon if you have a problem AYGO in wet weather conditions getting steamed up quickly inside. Plus check all mats and inside boot for dampness. Reject as quickly as possible and speak to Consumer Direct about your rights under the sale of goods act (my car was not fit for purpose as decided by The Ombudsman and on this site a lady in Devon had her new car replaced which sets a precedent). Toyota are well aware of these long standing problems. I hope this will help you fight your case. Keep full details of telephone calls/letters/correspondence. I did find customer services at Toyota easy to speak to - try and get a customer service manager involved - Linda from Worcestershire

Toyota Yaris 2003

Do you think I have any comeback on this car via Toyota as it cost £4,500 to buy nearly a year ago and after just 4 months had problems with gears. It has now been tested to find that it needs a new clutch assembly and actuators. Bill will be around £2000. How dreadful is this? Sheila Pearce: david [dot] sheila [at] blueyonder [dot ]co [dot] uk

Answers

New clutch fitted from £200 from A1 clutches and guaranteed for 12 months - Jack Singh from Yorkshire