Posted January 30, 2016
Here are some of things u should check:
Make sure it has a full or at least a good service history which includes the cambelt change.
On driving the ride should be quite smooth comfortable with no noises or creaks from the suspension.
Gearbox changes should not be noticeable
Upon inserting key the steering should tilt and retract - test and make sure the mechanism works as motors are very expensive
Braking should be quite and smooth - if you get a groaning noise when coming to stop that’s a sign of cheap aftermarket brake pads - they will need replacing.
Check colour of gearbox oil it should be red with no smell of burning.
Check all electrics work
Check the Sat Nav works - there have been reports of some failures
Check the sound system properly to ensure no blown door speakers or woofer
Check the air suspension works - when the switch is flicked the car should rise about at inch slowly - and the compressor does not make any noises
Check the bonnet struts hold the bonnet
Check the car has the correct Toyota red coolant
Check for rust around the doors near the plastic trim and around the boot area
Check rear quarter panel glass for cloudiness - this indicates the glazing has failed - mainly of pre facelift
Ask if the cabin filter has ever been changed - these are often over looked.
Check the bonnet pull works as it should - some of them fail
Check toolkit is present
Make sure there are no warning lights lit in the dash
Ideally you want 3 remote keys
Check the car has a matching set of tyres and wether they are branded or not - this should give an indication wether the car has been pampered or neglected
Before driving off make sure you have the say nav code and locking wheel nut key.