ChassisHigh
Underbody and chassis corrosion on older cars
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Inspect the chassis rails and suspension mounts
2009–2023 Toyota Land Cruiser · common problems & known faults
A durable body on frame SUV where corrosion and neglected servicing are the only real risks.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2009–2023 Toyota Land Cruiser are Underbody and chassis corrosion on older cars, Corroded rear air conditioning pipes leading to total refrigerant loss and DPF and injector faults on the 2.8 diesel. 2 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Reliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Toyota Land Cruiser.
4.8/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 2
- Medium
- 5
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Toyota Land Cruiser problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
EngineMedium
DPF and injector faults on the 2.8 diesel
- Typically appears
- 90,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for regen warnings and a smoky cold start
SuspensionMedium
KDSS and damper leaks on high mileage cars
- Typically appears
- 100,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Look for fluid on the dampers and body roll changes
TransmissionMedium
Transfer case and diff oil neglect
- Typically appears
- 100,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for service evidence on the drivetrain oils
BrakesMedium
Seized front brake calipers causing pulling or binding
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Roll forward at 5 mph and brake lightly with hands hovering over the steering wheel to check for pulling. Feel front wheel centres for uneven heat after a short test drive.
HVACHigh
Corroded rear air conditioning pipes leading to total refrigerant loss
- Typically appears
- 7-10 years
- What to inspect
- Turn the climate control to 'Lo', activate the rear A/C from the front master panel, and check for cold air at the rear roof vents within 60 seconds.
SuspensionMedium
Rear air suspension bags perishing and leaking on Invincible models
- Typically appears
- 80,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Toggle the rear ride height switch on the centre console to 'High'. Listen for the compressor struggling and watch for uneven or sluggish lifting at the rear axle.
SteeringLow
Intermediate steering shaft spline wear causing a noticeable knock
- Typically appears
- 60,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- With the engine running and the vehicle stationary, rapidly rock the steering wheel left and right by 10 degrees. Listen and feel for a distinct metallic clunk from the footwell.
Inspecting a Toyota Land Cruiser?
Get a full, tickable pre-purchase checklist for this exact car · what to look at, what it costs and how serious it is. Free preview, full report $9.
Check this exact carFrequently asked questions
Is it as reliable as people say?
Yes mechanically, but corrosion catches out UK cars.
Any deal breaker?
Chassis rot. Walk away rather than negotiate.
Do they hold value?
Strongly, which makes condition buying worth it.
Which engine is better, the older 3.0 D-4D or the later 2.8 D-4D?
The 3.0-litre pre-2015 engine feels slightly more robust and lacks AdBlue complexities, but suffers from lower fuel economy and higher road tax. The 2.8-litre is smoother, quieter, and ULEZ compliant on later models, though it requires strict adherence to DPF regeneration cycles to prevent blockage.
Are the rear seats in the seven-seat versions practical for daily use?
The third-row seats are best reserved for children or short journeys due to a high floor and limited legroom. When folded flat, they consume considerable boot depth compared to five-seat variants. Ensure the electric folding mechanism on high-spec models operates smoothly without binding or motor hesitation.
What is the towing capacity and does it strain the automatic gearbox?
The J150 is rated to tow up to 3,000 kg. The Aisin automatic transmissions are exceptionally durable and handle heavy towing well. However, if a tow bar is fitted, ensure the transmission fluid has been replaced every 40,000 miles to prevent premature torque converter wear and fluid degradation.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.