1989 Toyota Land cruiser problems

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The Toyota Land Cruiser (Japanese: トヨタ・ランドクルーザー, Hepburn: Toyota Rando-Kurūzā) (also sometimes spelled as LandCruiser) is a series of four-wheel drive vehicles produced by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota. It is Toyota's longest running series of models. As of 2019, the sales of the Land Cruiser totalled more than 10 million units worldwide.

Production of the first generation of the Land Cruiser began in 1951. The Land Cruiser has been produced in convertible, hardtop, station wagon and cab chassis body styles. The Land Cruiser's reliability and longevity have led to huge popularity, especially in Australia, where it is the best-selling body-on-frame, four-wheel drive vehicle. Toyota also extensively tests the Land Cruiser in the Australian outback – considered to be one of the toughest operating environments in both temperature and terrain. In Japan, the Land Cruiser was once exclusive to Toyota Japanese dealerships called Toyota Store.

Since 1990, the smaller variation of the Land Cruiser has been marketed as the Land Cruiser Prado. Described as a 'light-duty' version of the Land Cruiser by Toyota, it features a different design compared to the full-size model and, up until 2023, it remains the only comfort-oriented Land Cruiser available with a short-wheelbase 3-door version.

As of 2023, the full-size Land Cruiser was available in many markets. Exceptions include the United States (since 2021), Canada (since 1996), Malaysia (which receives the Lexus LX instead), Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, Brazil, and most of Europe. In Europe, the only countries where the full-size Land Cruiser is officially sold are Gibraltar, Moldova, Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine. The Land Cruiser is hugely popular in the Middle East, Russia, and Australia, and also in Africa where it is used by farmers, the construction industry, non-governmental and humanitarian organizations, the United Nations, national armies (often the pickup version), and irregular armed groups who turn them into "technicals" by mounting machine guns in the rear. In August 2019, cumulative global sales of the Land Cruiser family surpassed 10 million units.

1989 Toyota Land cruiser

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Common 1989 Toyota Land cruiser problems

The Toyota Land Cruiser 1989 is known for several common problems that owners have reported over the years. One of the most frequent issues is the failure of the seal on the transfer case input shaft. This problem can be addressed by replacing the seal, but it may require some caution due to potential complications with the wiring loom and heater hoses.

Another common problem with the 1989 Toyota Land Cruiser is related to the carburetor, particularly in the 2F engine. The carburetor may need to be rebuilt, and this can be a significant expense. The Webber 32/36 carburetor is a popular substitute, but it may not be the best option due to issues with jetting and syncing with the original smog equipment.

Smog equipment and vacuum hoses are also known to cause problems in the 1989 Land Cruiser. Before assuming that the emissions control system is malfunctioning, it is important to check the fuel and ignition systems carefully. The most frequent problem is simply a loose or broken vacuum hose or wiring connection.

Front axle sludge is another common issue in the 1989 Land Cruiser. This sludge is caused by axle grease leaking past its seals and can eventually need to be fixed, with costs ranging between $200 and $600.

Steering issues are also common in the 1989 Land Cruiser, particularly in trucks that have been lifted past factory height. If the truck wobbles, it may be due to stress on the steering, and an Old Man Emu steering damper can help to strengthen and tighten the steering.

Finally, mileage over 200k can also cause problems in the 1989 Land Cruiser. A compression check is recommended for trucks over 200k miles, and anything under 120 should be approached with caution.

In summary, the 1989 Toyota Land Cruiser is known for several common problems, including failure of the seal on the transfer case input shaft, issues with the carburetor and smog equipment, front axle sludge, steering issues, and problems related to high mileage. These issues can be significant expenses, but with proper maintenance and care, the Land Cruiser can still be a reliable and capable vehicle.

1989 Toyota Land cruiser engine

How reliable are old Land Cruisers?

What Are the Issues to Watch Out for With a Land Cruiser? Other than normal wear-and-tear issues, nothing really stands out as a major failing on these vehicles. Even 20-year-old models are still running strong. The Land Cruiser's engine, transmission, transfer case, and 4WD systems are all tough as nails.

What engine is in a 1989 Toyota Land Cruiser?

The Toyota Land Cruiser 1989 is available in Diesel, Unleaded Petrol and Leaded Petrol. Engine sizes and transmissions vary from the SUV 3.4L 4 SP Automatic 4X4 to the Single Cab 4.0L 5SP Manual 4X4.

How long can a Toyota Land Cruiser engine last?

The Toyota Land Cruiser and the Toyota Sequoia both offer a potential lifespan of more than 300,000 miles.

What year is the most sought after Land Cruiser?

2007

The 2007 Land Cruiser is the rarest and most sought after/desirable 100-series.

How reliable are old Land Cruisers?

What Are the Issues to Watch Out for With a Land Cruiser? Other than normal wear-and-tear issues, nothing really stands out as a major failing on these vehicles. Even 20-year-old models are still running strong. The Land Cruiser's engine, transmission, transfer case, and 4WD systems are all tough as nails.

What engine is in a 1989 Toyota Land Cruiser?

The Toyota Land Cruiser 1989 is available in Diesel, Unleaded Petrol and Leaded Petrol. Engine sizes and transmissions vary from the SUV 3.4L 4 SP Automatic 4X4 to the Single Cab 4.0L 5SP Manual 4X4.

How long can a Toyota Land Cruiser engine last?

The Toyota Land Cruiser and the Toyota Sequoia both offer a potential lifespan of more than 300,000 miles.

What is the most reliable Land Cruiser engine?

Here are some key features and reasons why the 1HZ engine is often considered one of the most reliable Land Cruiser engines… Durability – The 1HZ engine is known for its robust construction and durability. It has a cast-iron block and cylinder head, making it capable of withstanding tough conditions and heavy use.

1989 Toyota Land cruiser car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Land cruiser problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Fuel/propulsion system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Toyota Land cruiser vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1989 Toyota Land cruiser complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Toyota Land cruiser.

2017-10-23

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-10-01
  • VIN: JT3FJ62GXK1
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: THERE IS AN ACTIVE RECALL ON MY VEHICLE AND TOYOTA STATES THAT THEY DO NOT HAVE THE PART TO REMEDY THE RECALL
2011-03-21

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-03-14
  • VIN: JT3FJ62GXK1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1989 TOYOTA LAND CRUISER. THE CONTACT WAS DISPENSING FUEL INTO THE FUEL TANK WHEN HE NOTICED A SUBSTANTIAL AMOUNT OF FUEL LEAKING FROM UNDER THE VEHICLE NEAR THE REAR AXLE. IN ADDITION, THE FUEL LEVEL GAUGE FAILED AND THE CONTACT MENTIONED AN OVERPOWERING GASOLINE FUEL ODOR FROM THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED FOR THE FAILURE IN 1991 UNDER NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 91V110000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY). THERE WERE NO FURTHER REPAIRS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 277,000.
1998-07-20

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER RECALL 91V110 PROBLEM IN THE FUEL TANK HAS REOCCURRED. MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK

1989 Toyota Land cruiser recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1989 Toyota Land cruiser.

1991-06-26
  • Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR CO., LTD.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
  • Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE CAN LEAD TO FIRE WHEN NEAR AN IGNITIONSOURCE.
  • Remedy: REPLACE THE FUEL TANK WITH AN IMPROVED TANK.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1989 Toyota Land cruiser problems:

1989 FJ62, what are some common issues that one should know ...
1989 FJ62, what are some common issues that one should know ...
https://forum.ih8mud.com/threads/1989-fj62-what-are-some-common-issues-that-one-should-know-about.222136/

And please, don't take it to AAMCO or Midas or (BOX STORE MECHANIC). A Ron Complete Camshaft Info · SPOKANE LAND CRUISER FORUM :clap: M ...

Toyota LandCruiser 80 Series common problems and solutions ...
Toyota LandCruiser 80 Series common problems and solutions ...
https://magazine.unsealed4x4.com.au/unsealed-4x4-issue-066/toyota_landcruiser_80_series_common_problems_and_solutions

GUIDE · CHASSIS CRACKS AROUND THE STEERING BOX Being a massively popular solid axle front end four-wheel drive, the first thing everyone does when they get an 80 ...

'88 FJ60 Common Problems | IH8MUD Forum
'88 FJ60 Common Problems | IH8MUD Forum
https://forum.ih8mud.com/threads/88-fj60-common-problems.496337/

The FJ62's really are the best of the J6 series of Land Cruisers. ... 1989 FJ-62 152k-OME ... problems that the flagship of the toyota line has had.

Q&A: Troubleshooting 1989 Toyota Landcruiser HJ75 2H Diesel ...
Q&A: Troubleshooting 1989 Toyota Landcruiser HJ75 2H Diesel ...
https://www.justanswer.com/australia-car/248r0-hi-toyota-landcruiser-hj75-1989-diesel-2h-motor.html

May 22, 2009 ... Item number 15131. The most common problem is usually too high pressure due to this valve sticking and blowing the oil filter clean off the ...

6 Common Problems with the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ60 (Buyers ...
6 Common Problems with the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ60 (Buyers ...
https://www.corsetticruisers.com/post/6-common-problems-with-the-toyota-land-cruiser-fj60-buyers-guide

Jul 10, 2023 ... THE MOST FREQUENT PROBLEM is simply a loose or broken vacuum hose or wiring connection. Always check the hose and wiring connections first. With ...

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