Likes
- Incredible and deserving reputation for reliability and capability
- Huge support network
- Enormous range of pricing and examples available
- Parts and labour costs are generally very affordable
The Australian-delivered 1998-2007 Toyota LandCruiser 100 Series was a hallmark of rugged durability and versatility, catering to both off-road enthusiasts and those who sought a reliable family vehicle. Over its near-decade-long run in Australia, the 100 Series saw various updates and was available in multiple variants to suit different tastes and needs.
Originally, the 100 Series was offered in several trims: the base Standard, the mid-range GXL, the high-end VX, and the luxurious Sahara. Engine options were diverse, ranging from a 4.5-litre inline-six petrol engine to a 4.2-litre turbo diesel, and later the 4.7-litre V8 petrol engine, commonly referred to as the “100 Series V8.” Depending on the trim level, customers could opt for either a manual or automatic transmission.
In 2002, the range received an update, known as the “facelift,” bringing aesthetic changes and new features. The most significant update came under the hood, where Toyota introduced a new 4.2-litre turbo-diesel engine with intercooling. The exterior underwent subtle but noticeable changes, including revised headlamps and taillights, making the vehicle look more contemporary.
Technology and safety were never overlooked throughout the life of the 100 Series. For instance, in higher-end trims like the VX and Sahara, a range of advanced technologies was available, including satellite navigation, climate control, and a more sophisticated audio system. On the safety front, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard in higher variants and optional in others. Some versions also came with dual front airbags and later models were equipped with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), further enhancing its safety credentials.
In 2005, Toyota launched the final update for the 100 Series before phasing it out in favor of the 200 Series. This update focused on refinements rather than a comprehensive overhaul. Interior appointments were slightly updated to include more modern amenities like improved upholstery and better-quality materials for touchpoints within the cabin.
The 1998-2007 Toyota LandCruiser 100 Series was a robust and dependable vehicle with a broad range of options to cater to diverse needs. It was as comfortable cruising the highways as it was tackling the Australian outback, making it an iconic choice for Australian motorists. Its combination of technology, safety features, and various upgrades ensured its popularity and cemented its legacy as one of the most reliable and versatile vehicles in Australian automotive history.
Exterior:
According to owners, the primary concern regarding the exterior of the 100 and 105 series Toyota Land Cruisers is rust and water ingress.
Rust tends to develop around the windscreen, especially at the top, and in the roof gutters. This issue appears to be more prevalent in Land Cruisers that have had their windscreen replaced or incorrectly installed roof racks. It’s also possible that the rubber platforms for the roof racks have deteriorated, allowing water to seep in and eventually cause corrosion.
Interestingly, the problem with rust and water ingress seems to be more widespread in vehicles where accessories haven’t been properly fitted or where damage from accidents hasn’t been adequately repaired.
Therefore, when considering purchasing one of these vehicles, it’s crucial to assess whether the accessories are premium items and whether they have been professionally installed.
Ensuring that they are in good working order is also essential.
Furthermore, preventing water from entering the interior is critical because, in the worst-case scenario, it can reach the vehicle’s electronics, resulting in potentially severe damage.
Additionally, the seal on the rear-mounted stop tail light can degrade over time, leading to leaks into the rear of the vehicle.
However, these are the most common exterior issues, which is quite remarkable for a 25-year-old four-wheel drive.
There is also an issue related to the vehicle itself but more associated with certain owners. Many used Land Cruisers are loaded with accessories such as bullbars, rock sliders, steel rear bars, spare wheel carriers, and roof trays, among others. When combined with luggage, passengers, or even a camper or caravan, it’s easy to exceed the vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM). While some may not be concerned about this, authorities are increasingly enforcing weight limits, and exceeding the GVM can have serious implications for insurance in case of an accident. So, it’s essential to stay within legal limits to avoid potential issues.
Interior:
As these vehicles age, the interior plastics can become brittle and prone to breaking. Consequently, many owners report rattles and unusual noises. However, it’s worth noting that the Land Cruiser isn’t intended to be a luxury vehicle, so some level of noise and rattling can be expected with age.
The handbrake assembly can be problematic unless it has been set up perfectly. Another potential issue is a seal in the A/C evaporator behind the glove box that can deteriorate and cause leaks into the passenger footwell. Fortunately, this is a relatively straightforward fix. Additionally, the heater core may require replacement by now.
Occasionally, there may be electrical gremlins, but overall, these are the most common interior issues. Considering the age, the distances these vehicles travel, and the type of use they endure, their
Exterior:
According to owners, the primary concern regarding the exterior of the 100 and 105 series Toyota Land Cruisers is rust and water ingress.
Rust tends to develop around the windscreen, especially at the top, and in the roof gutters. This issue appears to be more prevalent in Land Cruisers that have had their windscreen replaced or incorrectly installed roof racks. It’s also possible that the rubber platforms for the roof racks have deteriorated, allowing water to seep in and eventually cause corrosion.
Interestingly, the problem with rust and water ingress seems to be more widespread in vehicles where accessories haven’t been properly fitted or where damage from accidents hasn’t been adequately repaired.
Therefore, when considering purchasing one of these vehicles, it’s crucial to assess whether the accessories are premium items and whether they have been professionally installed.
Ensuring that they are in good working order is also essential.
Furthermore, preventing water from entering the interior is critical because, in the worst-case scenario, it can reach the vehicle’s electronics, resulting in potentially severe damage.
Additionally, the seal on the rear-mounted stop tail light can degrade over time, leading to leaks into the rear of the vehicle.
However, these are the most common exterior issues, which is quite remarkable for a 25-year-old four-wheel drive.
There is also an issue related to the vehicle itself but more associated with certain owners. Many used Land Cruisers are loaded with accessories such as bullbars, rock sliders, steel rear bars, spare wheel carriers, and roof trays, among others. When combined with luggage, passengers, or even a camper or caravan, it’s easy to exceed the vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM). While some may not be concerned about this, authorities are increasingly enforcing weight limits, and exceeding the GVM can have serious implications for insurance in case of an accident. So, it’s essential to stay within legal limits to avoid potential issues.
Interior:
As these vehicles age, the interior plastics can become brittle and prone to breaking. Consequently, many owners report rattles and unusual noises. However, it’s worth noting that the Land Cruiser isn’t intended to be a luxury vehicle, so some level of noise and rattling can be expected with age.
The handbrake assembly can be problematic unless it has been set up perfectly. Another potential issue is a seal in the A/C evaporator behind the glove box that can deteriorate and cause leaks into the passenger footwell. Fortunately, this is a relatively straightforward fix. Additionally, the heater core may require replacement by now.
Occasionally, there may be electrical gremlins, but overall, these are the most common interior issues. Considering the age, the distances these vehicles travel, and the type of use they endure, their durability remains quite impressive.
Mechanically:
When discussing common issues with the Toyota Land Cruiser 100 and 105 series, it’s important to note that these vehicles are now quite old, with diverse service histories and various modifications.
Consequently, the ownership experience can vary significantly, with some having been subjected to rugged off-road adventures to remote camping sites, while others have led a more sedate life shuttling between caravan parks.
To distinguish between the 105 and 100 series, it might seem confusing initially, but it essentially boils down to their suspension systems:
Let’s delve into the engines across these variants, all of which are known for their remarkable reliability:
It’s important to note that all these engines have timing belts, except the 1FZ 6-cylinder petrol, which has a timing chain. The timing belts need replacement at 150,000 km intervals.
Moving on to other mechanical aspects of the vehicle:
Regarding transmissions:
Finally, it’s essential to be cautious of dodgy second battery installations and accessory wiring and to avoid running wiring through bulkheads without proper grommets. Poor tunes on turbo diesels and heavily modified versions can introduce a range of uncertainties, so thorough inspection and maintenance are key.
Exterior:
According to owners, the primary concern regarding the exterior of the 100 and 105 series Toyota Land Cruisers is rust and water ingress.
Rust tends to develop around the windscreen, especially at the top, and in the roof gutters. This issue appears to be more prevalent in Land Cruisers that have had their windscreen replaced or incorrectly installed roof racks. It’s also possible that the rubber platforms for the roof racks have deteriorated, allowing water to seep in and eventually cause corrosion.
Interestingly, the problem with rust and water ingress seems to be more widespread in vehicles where accessories haven’t been properly fitted or where damage from accidents hasn’t been adequately repaired.
Therefore, when considering purchasing one of these vehicles, it’s crucial to assess whether the accessories are premium items and whether they have been professionally installed.
Ensuring that they are in good working order is also essential.
Furthermore, preventing water from entering the interior is critical because, in the worst-case scenario, it can reach the vehicle’s electronics, resulting in potentially severe damage.
Additionally, the seal on the rear-mounted stop tail light can degrade over time, leading to leaks into the rear of the vehicle.
However, these are the most common exterior issues, which is quite remarkable for a 25-year-old four-wheel drive.
There is also an issue related to the vehicle itself but more associated with certain owners. Many used Land Cruisers are loaded with accessories such as bullbars, rock sliders, steel rear bars, spare wheel carriers, and roof trays, among others. When combined with luggage, passengers, or even a camper or caravan, it’s easy to exceed the vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM). While some may not be concerned about this, authorities are increasingly enforcing weight limits, and exceeding the GVM can have serious implications for insurance in case of an accident. So, it’s essential to stay within legal limits to avoid potential issues.
Interior:
As these vehicles age, the interior plastics can become brittle and prone to breaking. Consequently, many owners report rattles and unusual noises. However, it’s worth noting that the Land Cruiser isn’t intended to be a luxury vehicle, so some level of noise and rattling can be expected with age.
The handbrake assembly can be problematic unless it has been set up perfectly. Another potential issue is a seal in the A/C evaporator behind the glove box that can deteriorate and cause leaks into the passenger footwell. Fortunately, this is a relatively straightforward fix. Additionally, the heater core may require replacement by now.
Occasionally, there may be electrical gremlins, but overall, these are the most common interior issues. Considering the age, the distances these vehicles travel, and the type of use they endure, their durability remains quite impressive.
Mechanically:
When discussing common issues with the Toyota Land Cruiser 100 and 105 series, it’s important to note that these vehicles are now quite old, with diverse service histories and various modifications.
Consequently, the ownership experience can vary significantly, with some having been subjected to rugged off-road adventures to remote camping sites, while others have led a more sedate life shuttling between caravan parks.
To distinguish between the 105 and 100 series, it might seem confusing initially, but it essentially boils down to their suspension systems:
Let’s delve into the engines across these variants, all of which are known for their remarkable reliability:
It’s important to note that all these engines have timing belts, except the 1FZ 6-cylinder petrol, which has a timing chain. The timing belts need replacement at 150,000 km intervals.
Moving on to other mechanical aspects of the vehicle:
Regarding transmissions:
Finally, it’s essential to be cautious of dodgy second battery installations and accessory wiring and to avoid running wiring through bulkheads without proper grommets. Poor tunes on turbo diesels and heavily modified versions can introduce a range of uncertainties, so thorough inspection and maintenance are key.
Should you buy a Toyota Land Cruiser 100/105 series? Absolutely, without a doubt.
If you’ve harbored a desire for a 100 series Land Cruiser and have invested time in thorough research, including reviewing this handy cheat sheet, you should now have a clear understanding of what to expect.
If you are fully prepared to embrace all that comes with owning this generation of Land Cruiser and have diligently located the right example, you may very well be on the verge of acquiring one of the finest four-wheel drives ever manufactured.
However, the question remains: which 100 or 105 should you opt for? The answer hinges on your specific requirements and a multitude of other factors.
For those primarily focused on touring and do not require the most extreme off-roading capabilities, the 100 series is the preferable choice over the 105.
Now, the next decision: petrol or diesel?
The V8 petrol engine offers impressive power and a delightful sound, but it can be quite thirsty on fuel.
In contrast, the diesel engine is arguably one of the best diesel engines Toyota has ever produced. It’s known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and the potential for significant power gains. With proper maintenance, it can effortlessly surpass 700,000 kilometers.
However, if your passion involves tackling challenging off-road terrain relatively close to home, the 105 series might be the better fit.
Again, you’ll need to decide between petrol or diesel for your 105 series.
Should you buy a Toyota Land Cruiser 100/105 series? Absolutely, without a doubt.
If you’ve harbored a desire for a 100 series Land Cruiser and have invested time in thorough research, including reviewing this handy cheat sheet, you should now have a clear understanding of what to expect.
If you are fully prepared to embrace all that comes with owning this generation of Land Cruiser and have diligently located the right example, you may very well be on the verge of acquiring one of the finest four-wheel drives ever manufactured.
However, the question remains: which 100 or 105 should you opt for? The answer hinges on your specific requirements and a multitude of other factors.
For those primarily focused on touring and do not require the most extreme off-roading capabilities, the 100 series is the preferable choice over the 105.
Now, the next decision: petrol or diesel?
The V8 petrol engine offers impressive power and a delightful sound, but it can be quite thirsty on fuel.
In contrast, the diesel engine is arguably one of the best diesel engines Toyota has ever produced. It’s known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and the potential for significant power gains. With proper maintenance, it can effortlessly surpass 700,000 kilometers.
However, if your passion involves tackling challenging off-road terrain relatively close to home, the 105 series might be the better fit.
Again, you’ll need to decide between petrol or diesel for your 105 series.
Should you buy a Toyota Land Cruiser 100/105 series? Absolutely, without a doubt.
If you’ve harbored a desire for a 100 series Land Cruiser and have invested time in thorough research, including reviewing this handy cheat sheet, you should now have a clear understanding of what to expect.
If you are fully prepared to embrace all that comes with owning this generation of Land Cruiser and have diligently located the right example, you may very well be on the verge of acquiring one of the finest four-wheel drives ever manufactured.
However, the question remains: which 100 or 105 should you opt for? The answer hinges on your specific requirements and a multitude of other factors.
For those primarily focused on touring and do not require the most extreme off-roading capabilities, the 100 series is the preferable choice over the 105.
Now, the next decision: petrol or diesel?
The V8 petrol engine offers impressive power and a delightful sound, but it can be quite thirsty on fuel.
In contrast, the diesel engine is arguably one of the best diesel engines Toyota has ever produced. It’s known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and the potential for significant power gains. With proper maintenance, it can effortlessly surpass 700,000 kilometers.
However, if your passion involves tackling challenging off-road terrain relatively close to home, the 105 series might be the better fit.
Again, you’ll need to decide between petrol or diesel for your 105 series.
Body Styles
Engine Specs
Transmission
Fuel Consumption
Length
Width
Height
Wheelbase
Kerb Weight
Towing
Ancap Ratings
Body Styles
Engine Specs
Transmission
Fuel Consumption
Length
Width
Height
Wheelbase
Kerb Weight
Towing
Ancap Ratings
Body Styles
Engine Specs
Transmission
Fuel Consumption
Length
Width
Height
Wheelbase
Kerb Weight
Towing
Ancap Ratings
Warranty
Servicing
Have ultimate peace of mind when buying a used car by purchasing an official PPSR report.
Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of Sep 28, 2023.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
Read our full terms and conditions here.
You are the best, the content in your videos is so helpful, delivered in a great way. Please keep going as for sure you are unique in every way. All the best from Guatemala
L. G. - YouTube
You guys have truly found something wonderful… Loved this channel ever since from the beginning… Will support you guys as long as you guys keep making these wonderful car reviews…
Calvin - YouTube
This is probably the best channel I have ever seen when reviewing vehicles. New or old. The honesty is so appreciated. I’ve been a mechanic for 20 years and I find it very informative when looking for a vehicle for my daughter. Keep up the awesome work.
Jason T. - YouTube
© 2025 ReDriven All Rights Reserved