Toyota Previa Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs
The Toyota Previa is one of the most trusted and well-built MPVs ever made. Known for its reliability, spacious interior, and smooth driving experience, the Previa has been a family favourite and taxi driver’s choice in the UK for many years. Although it is highly dependable, older Toyota Previas can still develop mechanical and electrical faults over time. In this guide, we’ll look at all the Toyota Previa models, their most common problems, and the realistic UK repair costs so you know what to expect when owning or buying one.
Toyota Previa Model Overview
Toyota Previa (1990–2000)
The first-generation Previa had an unusual mid-engine design located under the floor, driving the rear wheels. It used a 2.4-litre petrol engine with either a manual or automatic gearbox. While reliable, the engine layout made repairs more complex and time-consuming.
Toyota Previa (2000–2006)
This second-generation model switched to a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. It offered 2.4-litre VVT-i petrol and 2.0-litre D-4D diesel engines. It was easier to service and became very popular with families and taxi fleets due to its comfort and practicality.
Toyota Previa Imports (2007–2019)
Later versions of the Previa, including the Japanese import Estima, offered hybrid and V6 petrol options. These models are extremely refined but can be more expensive to maintain because of their advanced electronics and parts availability.
Common Toyota Previa Problems and UK Repair Costs
1. Head Gasket Failure
Symptoms: Overheating, white smoke, or coolant loss.
Models Affected: Mainly early 2.4 petrol versions.
Cause: Overheating or neglected coolant maintenance.
Repair Solution: Replace the head gasket and skim the cylinder head if needed.
Estimated UK Repair Cost: £900 to £1,400.
Keeping the cooling system in good condition helps prevent overheating issues.
2. Cooling System Leaks
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, or puddles under the car.
Models Affected: All.
Cause: Corroded radiator, weak hoses, or a faulty water pump.
Repair Solution: Replace the affected components and refill with coolant.
Estimated UK Repair Cost: £300 to £700.
Inspect the radiator and hoses regularly to catch leaks early.
3. Timing Belt or Chain Wear
Symptoms: Rattling or ticking noises from the engine.
Models Affected: Petrol and diesel engines.
Cause: Age-related belt wear or stretched chain.
Repair Solution: Replace the timing belt or chain kit with a new tensioner.
Estimated UK Repair Cost: £500 to £900.
Replace the timing belt every 60,000 miles or five years to avoid engine failure.
4. EGR Valve and DPF Problems
Symptoms: Poor performance, warning light, or reduced fuel economy.
Models Affected: Diesel models.
Cause: Carbon and soot build-up in the exhaust system.
Repair Solution: Clean or replace the EGR valve and DPF filter.
Estimated UK Repair Cost: £300 to £900.
Driving regularly on motorways helps prevent carbon blockages.
5. Gearbox and Transmission Faults
Symptoms: Jerky shifting, slipping, or hesitation.
Models Affected: Automatic versions.
Cause: Old transmission fluid or worn clutch packs.
Repair Solution: Flush and replace transmission fluid or rebuild gearbox.
Estimated UK Repair Cost: £900 to £1,800.
Changing gearbox oil every 40,000 miles keeps the transmission in good health.
6. Suspension Wear
Symptoms: Knocking noises, vague steering, or uneven tyre wear.
Models Affected: All.
Cause: Worn bushes, shock absorbers, or ball joints.
Repair Solution: Replace worn parts and align wheels.
Estimated UK Repair Cost: £250 to £700.
Frequent heavy loads or poor road conditions can accelerate wear.
7. Brake System Issues
Symptoms: Squealing, vibration, or soft pedal feel.
Models Affected: All.
Cause: Worn brake pads, warped discs, or seized calipers.
Repair Solution: Replace pads, discs, and clean or refurbish calipers.
Estimated UK Repair Cost: £250 to £600.
Inspect brakes regularly and replace components before they cause damage.
8. Air Conditioning Failure
Symptoms: Warm air from vents or rattling noise.
Models Affected: All.
Cause: Leaking compressor or worn condenser.
Repair Solution: Replace parts and re-gas system.
Estimated UK Repair Cost: £250 to £800.
A re-gas every two years keeps the system efficient.
9. Electrical and Central Locking Faults
Symptoms: Locks or windows stop working.
Models Affected: Second-generation models.
Cause: Corroded wiring or faulty actuators.
Repair Solution: Repair wiring or replace affected components.
Estimated UK Repair Cost: £150 to £400.
Water getting into door connectors is the main cause of electrical failure.
10. Rust and Corrosion
Symptoms: Rust on arches, sills, or underbody.
Models Affected: First-generation (1990–2000).
Cause: Weak underseal and age.
Repair Solution: Sand and weld affected areas, then apply rust protection.
Estimated UK Repair Cost: £400 to £1,200.
Cleaning and waxing the underbody every year helps prevent corrosion.
Typical UK Maintenance Costs
| Service Type | Frequency | Average UK Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Oil and Filter Change | Every 10,000 miles | £180 – £250 |
| Full Service | Every 20,000 miles | £350 – £500 |
| Brake Pads and Discs | Every 25,000 miles | £300 – £600 |
| Timing Belt Replacement | Every 60,000 miles | £500 – £900 |
| Clutch Replacement | As needed | £800 – £1,400 |
How to Keep Your Toyota Previa Reliable
- Service the vehicle regularly using genuine Toyota parts.
- Monitor coolant and oil levels monthly to avoid overheating.
- Check the gearbox fluid and replace it on schedule.
- Inspect for rust during MOT or service visits.
- Fix electrical and suspension issues early before they worsen.
Summary of Common Toyota Previa Problems
| Problem | Cause | UK Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Head gasket failure | Overheating | £900–£1,400 |
| Cooling leak | Radiator or hoses | £300–£700 |
| Timing belt wear | Age or neglect | £500–£900 |
| EGR/DPF issue | Soot build-up | £300–£900 |
| Gearbox fault | Fluid degradation | £900–£1,800 |
| Suspension wear | Bush or shock wear | £250–£700 |
| Brake issues | Pads or calipers | £250–£600 |
| Electrical fault | Wiring corrosion | £150–£400 |
| Air conditioning | Leak or compressor | £250–£800 |
| Rust | Chassis corrosion | £400–£1,200 |
Conclusion
The Toyota Previa is one of the most reliable MPVs ever made. It is durable, comfortable, and capable of lasting over 200,000 miles with regular care.
Typical UK repair costs range from £150 for small electrical repairs to £1,800 for major gearbox work. Common issues such as EGR clogging, cooling leaks, and rust are easy to prevent with proper maintenance.
If you’re considering buying a used Toyota Previa, a CAREXAMER pre-purchase inspection can help uncover hidden issues and give you peace of mind before you buy.
Buying a used VW. Buying used vauxhall, BMW, Jaguar, Ford, Volvo, Range rover, Bentley, Aston Martin, Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Hyundai, Tesla, Honda, Pagani