Monday, May 12, 2003 at 11:28
Cant let this one go by without a comment. Negative comments are all part and parcel of owning a Surf, most you'll find are not based on hard fact, but word of mouth.
To say that the Surf diesels arent much chop is to say that the diesels in all Hiluxs and Prados are of similar quality. The 2.4 is almost identical to the 2.8 sold here in Australia (2.4 owners will correct me if I'm wrong) and the 3litre is the same as sold in the current model Hiluxs and Prados (minus intercooler of Prado), its the 1KZ-TE.
As with any used vehicle you take a risk buying it, doesnt matter if its a
grey import, or a locally complianced vehicle. Get it checked out first and that could save you a lot of
grey hairs.
Parts are not the problem they used to be, most parts are either 4 Runner, Hilux or Prado. The best advise relating to parts is dont tell them its a Surf, and you wont have any problems.
My favourite story, (and all Surf owners have one) is the leaking seals in my power steering pump. I was told that the parts would have to come ex Japan (2-3 weeks waiting) and were going to cost a bomb.
However some discreet enquiries regarding the same parts for a 4 Runner revealed $6 each and available straight away. Guess which ones I chose?
I think Beddo is a bit more adventurous than some Surf owners, as he has the 185 body shape. There were less of these imported, so long term parts may be a problem in certain areas, but he and some of his mates have been able to source all sorts of parts, both spares and aftermarket. You wont hear him complaining about it I'm sure.
As far as value for money goes, I dont think you can overlook the Surf, I got mine with all sorts of extras, and only 70,000km on the clock for around $25,000 (and even that was probably too much).
Ive had no trouble with it in the past 2 years, and plan to hold onto it for a long time to come. Its a shame they arent imported anymore as I'd probably get another one come the time to upgrade.
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