1998 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

rom some minor dings, chips, and scuffs. Perfect for adventurous types, families on the go, and off-road aficionados, this Japanese Classic leaves little to be desired. A reliable, safe, and determined rig, there is a reason for the global reputation of the Toyota Land Cruiser, and this example proves it! Spacious and well-equipped, this Prado’s cabin is in better condition than most we see. It also has some important factory options, like its massive panoramic moonroof, which tilts and retracts to add to the airflow within the cabin. The pilot can find the ideal driving position courtesy of a tilt-adjustable steering column. The gauges are well illuminated, easy to read, and an optional OEM field monitor is located atop the dashboard. The dash lacks any cracking or distortion, and dual SRS airbags are afforded to the driver and passenger. The center stack is easy to reach, and this Land Cruiser doles out cool AC and piping hot heat for those living in seasonal climates. Rear occupants benefit from their own heating zone. The Panasonic radio works like a charm and sounds crisp and clear. Daily driving is made more manageable thanks to working power locks, power folding mirrors, and power windows. The blue and gray upholstery is in above-average shape. The same material was utilized on the door cards, which are in equally good nick. The headliner looks mint, and the carpets have avoided major abuse over the years. The cargo door is side-hinged and swings open wide to accept cargo, and the rear row can be slid forward, increasing storage capacity. Even the owner’s manuals are included with the purchase of this fine automobile. Sharing mechanicals with our American 4Runners, these Prados are easy to keep on the road and daily drive. The engine, the 5VZ-FE, is a gem, with countless American examples having logged nearly half a million miles. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the V6 springs to life courtesy of a new 12V battery. A proper tune-up was in order, so we swapped out the old spark plugs for new ones and installed a new engine air filter and a new fuel filter. A new alternator and belt was chucked in, too, so that the onboard electronics stay properly powered. One of our trained techs replaced the valve cover gaskets so that the oil level would remain full. The quad cam is linked to a strong automatic gearbox that benefits from a fresh fluid exchange and a new filter. We also flushed out the fluid in the front and rear differential and installed new front axle seals to reinforce the driveline. Underpinned by a full-time 4WD system, this surefooted truck hustles up to highway speeds without breaking a sweat. If you encounter loose terrain, it’s all good! A standard center locker and low range can help you keep the momentum moving forward. The Land Cruiser’s long wheelbase is ideal for high-speed stability and sorting out all the bumps. To refresh the suspension, we installed new front shocks and new front upper and lower ball joints. New steering rack bushings and a fresh alignment allow this terrific Toyota to drive straight as an arrow. The ABS brakes feel confident, and grip is handled by four new 31′′ Falken tires that were mounted and balanced here at the shop. Turn key and ready to rock, this ride would make for a killer daily driver, and could pull double duty as a dedicated overlander!