Reliability

Toyota Land Cruiser reliability: how dependable is it really?

What Toyota Land Cruiser owners actually report, by year, plus what MOT data tells us about its reliability.

Updated 23rd June 2026 DVSA data: Across 20,583 recorded MOT tests, 22.4% failed.

Toyota Land Cruiser
Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

The Toyota Land Cruiser is renowned for its durability and reliability, often regarded as one of the most dependable vehicles on the market. Its robust engineering and long-standing reputation make it a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts and families alike. Year after year, the Land Cruiser consistently demonstrates impressive reliability ratings.

General Reliability of the Toyota Land Cruiser

The Toyota Land Cruiser has built a solid reputation for reliability over the decades. Known for its rugged construction and dependable performance, it often ranks highly in reliability surveys.

The Land Cruiser’s longevity is attributed to its strong build quality and the use of high-quality materials. Many owners report that their vehicles remain trouble-free even after several years of use. This reliability is particularly evident in older models, which continue to perform well even as they age.

Reliability by Model Year: 2000-2010

From 2000 to 2010, the Toyota Land Cruiser maintained its reputation for reliability. The early 2000s models, particularly the 2003 and 2005 versions, received positive feedback for their robust engines and minimal mechanical issues. Owners often praised the vehicles for their ability to handle both on-road and off-road conditions with ease.

During this period, the Land Cruiser was equipped with advanced safety features and technology, further enhancing its appeal. The build quality remained high, and the vehicles were known for their longevity. Many owners reported that their Land Cruisers easily surpassed 200,000 miles without significant problems, a testament to Toyota’s engineering prowess.

Reliability by Model Year: 2011-2020

The Land Cruiser continued to impress in the 2011 to 2020 model years. The introduction of the 2016 model brought improvements in fuel efficiency and technology, while still retaining the rugged reliability that the Land Cruiser is known for. Owners reported fewer issues compared to earlier models, with many praising the vehicle’s performance in various driving conditions.

The 2018 model year saw a slight increase in reported issues, but these were often minor and easily resolved. Overall, the Land Cruiser maintained a strong reputation for reliability during this decade, with many owners expressing satisfaction with their vehicles’ performance and dependability.

Common Issues and Maintenance

While the Toyota Land Cruiser is generally reliable, some common issues have been reported across various model years. These include electrical problems, particularly with the infotainment system, and wear on suspension components. However, these issues are relatively rare and often occur in older vehicles.

Regular maintenance is crucial to ensuring the longevity and reliability of the Land Cruiser. Following the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule can help prevent potential problems. Many owners find that investing in routine maintenance pays off in the long run, as it helps to keep the vehicle running smoothly for years.

Owner Experiences and Feedback

Owner feedback is a valuable resource when assessing the reliability of the Toyota Land Cruiser. Many owners report positive experiences, highlighting the vehicle’s durability and performance. Long-term owners often share stories of their Land Cruisers withstanding harsh conditions and high mileage without significant issues.

The Land Cruiser’s resale value is another indicator of its reliability. Many buyers are willing to pay a premium for used models, knowing they are investing in a vehicle known for its longevity and dependability. This strong demand in the used car market further solidifies the Land Cruiser’s reputation as a reliable choice.

Conclusion: The Land Cruiser’s Enduring Legacy

The Toyota Land Cruiser’s reliability is well-documented and remains a significant selling point for the vehicle. Its robust construction, high-quality materials, and consistent performance over the years make it a dependable choice for drivers seeking a vehicle that can withstand the test of time. Whether for off-road adventures or daily commuting, the Land Cruiser continues to be a reliable option for UK drivers.

Toyota Land Cruiser recall record

10 recalls have been issued for the Toyota Land Cruiser, between 1996 and 2025.

  1. Parking Assist ECU reprogram on multiple models

    R/2025/466

    Issued 1 December 2025

    For certain vehicles equipped with a Parking Assist ECU a component of the Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system that displays the rear view image the software may cause the rear view image to freeze or not display

    Remedy:Reprogram the parking assist ECU.

    Affects cars built Feb 2024 to Sept 2025

  2. IMPROPER TIGHTENING OF THE FUEL PIPE MAY LEAD TO LEAKAGE AND ENGINE STALL

    R/2019/332

    Issued 25 November 2019

    Improper tightening of the fuel pipe may lead to leakage and engine stall.

    Remedy:Replace the fuel inlet pipe and clamp

    Affects cars built Mar 2019 to Apr 2019

  3. DRIVER AND/OR FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG MAY FAIL TO DEPLOY AS INTENDED

    R/2017/251

    Issued 13 November 2017

    An incorrect specification driver or front passenger air bag assembly may have been installed during production. As a result the airbag(s) may not deploy as intended.

    Remedy:On affected vehicles replace the air bag with the correct module.

  4. EGR FLANGE COULD CORRODE AND CRACK

    R/2017/133

    Issued 12 June 2017

    The urea water injector mounting flange on the exhaust front pipe may fail and allow the urea water injector to separate from the front pipe. This situation could result in noncompliance with requirements prescribed in applicable safety or emission regulations in the involved countries.

    Remedy:Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace front exhaust pipe.

    Affects cars built Jun 2015 to Jan 2016

6 older recalls not shown.

A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.

Toyota Land Cruiser MOT record

From 20,583 recorded MOT tests, 22.4% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20229306.6%27,143 mi
20214537.7%36,623 mi
20204139.4%45,985 mi
20195839.8%53,781 mi
201858310.5%58,664 mi
201743810.7%68,201 mi
20165859.9%77,252 mi
201571413.2%82,476 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn35.3%
  2. Brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded21.3%
  3. Vehicle structure corroded to the extent that the rigidity of the assembly is seriously reduced16.7%
  4. A spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened13.4%
  5. a brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm13.3%

Figures cover every Toyota Land Cruiser tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Toyota Land Cruiser official figures

Median across 3 variants on sale, diesel, diesel electric.

Combined economy
26.4 mpg
WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions
280 g/km
Sets the first-year tax rate

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

How reliable is the Toyota Land Cruiser?

The Toyota Land Cruiser is known for its exceptional reliability. Many owners report minimal issues even after years of use.

What common problems do Toyota Land Cruisers have?

While generally reliable, some Land Cruisers may experience issues with electrical systems or suspension components. Regular maintenance can help prevent these problems.

How does the Land Cruiser compare to other SUVs in terms of reliability?

The Land Cruiser often ranks higher than many other SUVs for reliability. Its robust build and proven engineering contribute to its strong reputation.

What is the average lifespan of a Toyota Land Cruiser?

With proper maintenance, a Toyota Land Cruiser can easily last over 200,000 miles. Many owners keep their vehicles for well over a decade.

Are older models of the Land Cruiser still reliable?

Yes, older models of the Land Cruiser are still considered reliable. Many enthusiasts appreciate their durability and off-road capabilities.

What maintenance does a Toyota Land Cruiser require?

Regular oil changes, brake inspections, and tyre rotations are essential for maintaining a Land Cruiser's reliability. Following the manufacturer's service schedule is recommended.

Is the Toyota Land Cruiser good for off-road driving?

Yes, the Toyota Land Cruiser is highly regarded for off-road driving. Its four-wheel-drive system and rugged construction make it suitable for challenging terrains.

What should I look for when buying a used Toyota Land Cruiser?

When buying a used Land Cruiser, check for a full service history, signs of off-road use, and any previous accidents. A thorough inspection can help ensure you choose a reliable vehicle.

Sources