Overall, the Toyota Land Cruiser’s reliability has been rock solid. Judging from the list below, many would assume that having six noteworthy Land Cruiser years to avoid would make this Toyota model unreliable. However, considering the Land Cruiser has roots that date all the way back to 1950.
The classic Land Cruiser designs, made by Toyota for the Jeep company, were known as the Toyota “Jeep” BJ, and were used primarily for military service. The name “Land Cruiser” was coined officially in 1954. Land Cruiser models have changed substantially since then, but they’ve never lost their off-road ability. The most recent Land Cruiser generations have been in steady American rotation from 1999 until its swan song in 2021, as Toyota announced the end of an era in 2020.
In the section below, we highlight Toyota Land Cruiser models to avoid for various reasons. We’ve also listed the average cost of repairs. It’s worth noting that these are ballpark shop repair prices and are by no means what you should expect as standard pricing for all mechanics.
2000 Model Year Toyota Land Cruiser (6th Generation)
The 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser, on paper, is a formidable 4×4 vehicle. Although no models after ’99 included a locking rear differential from the factory, it was still available for aftermarket installation. It has all the performance specs, and off road capabilities, you look for, plenty of room on the inside. But that doesn’t fix the challenges associated with this 6th-generation model.
Specs
- Engine: 4.7L V8
- Transmission: 4-Speed Auto
- Drivetrain: 4WD
- Horsepower: 230 HP
- Torque: 320 lb-ft
- Max Towing Capacity: 6,500 lbs
Common Issues
Most places you read will list transmission and engine problems with the 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser. While this model does have its problems, it’s not fair to make it seem as if the transmissions and motors constantly fail. In reality, the most common problems include:
- Power steering pump leaks (Repairs: $585-$765)
- Failed electrical junction that controls power windows (Repairs: Varies depending on severity)
- Failed EVAP system (Repairs: $88-$110)
- Front brake rotors wear prematurely (Repairs: Prices vary depending on how severe the damage is)
2005 Model Year Toyota Land Cruiser (6th Generation)
The 2005 Toyota Land Cruiser hit the scene with go-anywhere capability, a powerful but smooth V8, and plenty of luxury features. There was no doubting this Toyota Land Cruiser’s off-road worthiness. However, nagging issues in particular areas of the vehicle – and a weird blue smoke issue, plagued owners as time passed.
Specs
- Engine: 4.7L V8
- Transmission: 5-Speed Auto
- Drivetrain: 4WD
- Horsepower: 235 HP
- Torque: 320 lb-ft
- Max Towing Capacity: 6,500 lbs
Common Issues
One of the most common issues with the 2005 Land Cruiser was a weird smoke that bellowed from the exhaust. This smoke is a result of oil getting into the combustion chamber. Unfortunately, finding out how the oil ends up in the chamber is extremely difficult to diagnose and even harder to price because of the large number of potential driving forces. However, cycling through these fixes in order is the best way to fix the problem:
- PCV Valve (Repair: $10, easily done yourself)
- Glow Plugs (Diesel Version ONLY. Repair: $35, DIY)
- Turbo Replacement (Repair: $350-$550)
- Valve Seals (Repair: $900-$1,800)
- Piston Rings (Repair: $1,700-$2,500)
2008 Model Year Toyota Land Cruiser (7th Generation)
The 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser was a performance machine, as the upgraded 7th generation specs and revamped interior made the power/comfort combination one of the best on the road that year. Unfortunately, this model year also came with its fair share of issues.
Specs
- Engine: 5.7L V8
- Transmission: 6-Speed Shiftable Auto
- Drivetrain: 4WD
- Horsepower: 381 HP
- Torque: 401 lb-ft
- Max Towing Capacity: 8,500 lbs
Common Issues
Fortunately, the challenges with the 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser, while nagging, didn’t include anything significant as with the 2005 model. The most commonly reported problems in the 2008 model include:
- Air Conditioning Condenser Fan (Repair: $347-$381)
- Transmission Fluid Cooler Line (Repair: $355-$400)
- Parking Brake Shoe (Repair: $265-$394)
- Water Pump ($779-$909)
- Ignition Coil ($474-$724)
2011 Model Year Toyota Land Cruiser (7th Generation)
The 2011, in the same generation as the 2008 Land Cruiser, continued with the same themes of above-average power and comfort. However, additional safety features made the 2011 model even more attractive.
Specs
- Engine: 5.7L V8
- Transmission: 6-Speed Shiftable Auto
- Drivetrain: 4WD
- Horsepower: 381 HP
- Torque: 401 lb-ft
- Max Towing Capacity: 8,200 lbs
Common Issues
The most prevalent issues with this model year Land Cruiser seem to be sensor and module issues and dash light warning indicators. Some of these problems caused unexpected motor shutdowns. A few additional, less widespread challenges were also reported, all listed below:
- Air bag control module (Repairs: $1,007-$1,021)
- Axle Shaft (Repairs: $273-$339)
- Ignition Coil (Repairs: $464-$724)
- Water Pump ($779-$909)
2015 Model Year Toyota Land Cruiser (7th Generation)
The 2015 Toyota Land Cruiser continued with the same mechanical configuration, once again standing out as one of the most performance-centered models of the year. A new body design gave the Land Cruiser a more modern look – and unfortunately, more problems came along with it.
Specs
- Engine: 5.7L V8
- Transmission: 6-Speed Shiftable Auto
- Drivetrain: 4WD
- Horsepower: 381 HP
- Torque: 401 lb-ft
- Max Towing Capacity: 8,200 lbs
Common Issues
In 2015, the Toyota Highlander, while experiencing more issues than what this particular model is used to, became one of the less problematic versions.
- Timing belt idler pulley replacement (Repairs: $449-$642)
- Drive belt idler pulley replacement (Repairs: $198-$223)
- Air injection system check valve (Repairs: $1,084-$1,227)
2016 Model Year Toyota Land Cruiser (7th Generation)
The 2016 had all the Toyota Land Cruiser off road amenities with two additional drivetrain gears – but overall was still similar to the other 7th generation models. However, the 2016 Land Cruiser also has some of the highest complaint numbers compared to other model years.
Specs
- Engine: 5.7L V8
- Transmission: 8-Speed Shiftable Auto
- Drivetrain: 4WD
- Horsepower: 381 HP
- Torque: 401 lb-ft
- Max Towing Capacity: 8,100 lbs
Common Issues
The 2016 model year was a magnet for issues – cosmetically and mechanically. A noisy ride because of squeaking brakes and other components, shaky gear shifting, transmission, and heating and AC problems, coupled with peeling leather on the steering wheel and seats, made the 2016 Toyota Land Cruiser model one of the most undesirable.
- Steering gearbox (Repairs: $1,426-$2,777)
- Engine mount ($698-$805)
- Air conditioning refrigerant sensor ($348-$424)
- Engine oil level sensor (Repairs: $582-$702)
- Engine front cover gasket (Repairs: $850-$1,058)
Common Problems
Overall, Land Cruisers have been a dependable off-road vehicle. This is referenced by the high price tag that a used Land Cruiser nets, even in models ten years or older. They’ve never been known for their fuel economy, so don’t expect any savings at the fuel pump. However, throughout all models and generations, the most significant problems seem to be sensors, water pumps, and general engine issues.
Still a Champion
While it may seem like Toyota Land Cruisers are problem-laden models, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Fortunately, the issues listed here aren’t as widespread as other makes and models commonly experience.
With proper maintenance, most model years won’t require any major repairs. Overall, if there’s any Land Cruisers that stand out as particularly disappointing – it would have to be 2016 and 2000. If possible, choose a used Land Cruiser from another model year or generation, and you should have no problem getting a substantial amount of life from this Toyota off-road workhorse.