Toyota Kluger 2010 Problems

Your budget limits you to older models, such as 2008/2009, which will have done 120,000 to 180,000 km. I am loath to recommend buying one of these cars with such a mileage on them; you would be heading the period of pain when you are quite likely to face increasing and expensive repairs. If you were to choose to buy one I would go for the Discovery. I would also urge you to have the car you choose checked over by a specialist mechanic who knows the brand intimately. Instead of the European models you are considering I would suggest you also look at something like the Toyota Kluger, which would likely to be more reliable and less expensive going forward, and your budget would stretch to a later model.

Toyota has had problems with valve springs breaking and recalled a number of Lexus models in 2010 to replace valve springs. The recall followed similar recalls in the USA. The recall was for different engines and didn't affect the Kluger, but the failure you report appears very similar to the failures on the engines that were affected. Call Toyota on 1800 869 682.

Back to the dealer and have them replace the intermediate steering shaft, it's a common problem.

You were right, it is over-servicing. Hope you refused.

Although Toyota has put the blame back on you I reckon they have a responsibility to justify to you their claim that you have done something to cause the rust. What do they believe you have done? I would have your solicitor send them a letter demanding a full explanation of their findings, including justification of why they believe the car is not faulty. If you want to pursue an independent assessment of the car contact Graeme Cuthbert on 03 9899 7177 or 0422 444 335.

There's no problem with filling it with regular unleaded all the time, it won't cause any damage to the engine.