Toyota Land Cruisers are amazing cars—they’re great for everyday driving, transporting large families, and taking off-road. This high-performance offering from Toyota is one of the most versatile and reliable on the market, making it a great choice for drivers who need a vehicle that can do it all. If you’re thinking about purchasing a Toyota Land Cruiser, there are a few things you should keep in mind. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about buying and maintaining a Toyota Land Cruiser, from choosing the right model to finding the best deals on financing and insurance.
Is a Toyota Land Cruiser Right for Me?
When deciding whether or not to get a Land Cruiser, there are a few factors you need to consider:
- Pricing: Land Cruisers are on the high end in pricing, with new models starting at around $85,000. For those who want a more affordable option, consider a used Land Cruiser—you can find great deals on well-maintained used models. You could also consider a Highlander, which is a less expensive SUV from Toyota.
- Fuel Efficiency: One of the biggest drawbacks of owning a Land Cruiser is its fuel efficiency. The newest Land Cruiser model gets 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway, which is about average for a large SUV. However, if you’re looking to save money at the pump, you might want to consider another vehicle.
- Size: Land Cruisers are large vehicles, and they’re great for families or anyone who needs a lot of space. If you don’t need a lot of room, however, you might want to consider a smaller SUV or a sedan.
Buying a New vs. Used Toyota Land Cruiser
There are pros and cons to both buying new and used vehicles, but which is the right choice for you will depend on your budget and needs. If you’re looking for the most affordable option, buying a used Toyota Land Cruiser is a great choice. While the used car market is extremely high right now, you can still find well-maintained used models for much less than the price of a new one. Plus, you’ll still get most of the features and performance you want. If you have the budget for it, buying a new Land Cruiser has its advantages. You’ll be the first owner of the car, and you can take advantage of all the latest features and technology.
Financing vs. Leasing a Toyota Land Cruiser
When getting a new car, there are two main options: financing and leasing. Both have their pros and cons, and the best option for each driver will depend on their individual circumstances. One of the biggest considerations is cost. When you finance a car, you are responsible for the entire purchase price plus interest and fees. This means that your monthly payments will be higher than if you leased the same car. At the end of your loan term, you will own the car outright.
Leasing is often more affordable in the short term, as you are only responsible for a portion of the car’s value, plus taxes and fees. When you lease a car, you will never own it (unless you buy it out at the end of your lease) and need to return it to the dealership once your term is over.
For drivers who like to keep their cars for a long time, financing is usually the better option. For those who like to trade in their car every few years for something new, leasing may be a better fit. For business owners and self-employed people who need to use their car for work purposes, leasing also offers tax advantages that financing does not.
Tips for Maintaining Your Toyota Land Cruiser
Now that you’ve decided to get a Land Cruiser, it’s important to know how to properly maintain your vehicle. Here are a few tips:
1. Get your oil changed regularly
Depending on how often you drive, the best practice is to get an oil change every 1,000 miles (or six months). If you don’t use your car often, you might be able to extend this to once every year or two.
2. Wash and wax your car regularly
Of all the DIY car maintenance tips, this one is among the most important. Washing and waxing your car not only keeps it looking good but also protects the paint and metal from rust and damage. You should wash your car at least once a week or more if it’s exposed to dirt, salt, or other harsh elements. Waxing your car is also important, but you only need to do it every few months. If you don’t have time to wash and wax your car yourself, there are plenty of professional services that will do it for you for a relatively low cost.
3. Check your tire pressure and tread regularly
Tire pressure and tread are two of the most important factors in keeping your car safe on the road. You should check your tire pressure at least once a month, and if you live in an area with harsh winters, you might need to check it more often. You can check your tread by inserting a penny into the tread. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tread is too low, and you need new tires.
4. Check your alignment
You may not notice if your car’s alignment is off, but it can cause your tires to wear unevenly and prematurely. This can be expensive to fix, so it’s best to get it checked regularly, especially if you use your Land Cruiser for off-roading. Most mechanics will check your alignment for free when you take your car in for an oil change or other routine maintenance.
5. Replace your exhaust system every 2-3 years
The exhaust system is one of the most important parts of your car, as it helps to keep harmful fumes away from the cabin. Over time, the system can become damaged or corroded. For this reason, it’s important to replace it every few years. You can replace your exhaust system yourself if you’re handy with tools, or you can order one from Rhino Exhaust and take it to a mechanic. Either way, it’s important to stay on top of this maintenance task.
Endnote
Toyota Land Cruisers are excellent cars with high performance and durability. They are perfect for off-roading and can handle many different terrains. If you’re looking for a car that will last you for a long time, the Land Cruiser is the way to go. Make sure to follow the tips in this guide to ensure you are making the best decision.