Toyota has a reputation for longevity. Folks with hundreds of thousands of miles clocked on their Corollas, Camrys, 4Runners, Tacomas, and Tundras aren’t all that uncommon. Still, there’s a certain factory part that, when left unchecked, could very well ruin all your fun. Interestingly, it’s an issue that aged BMWs share, too, if that gives you a hint.

Toyota’s engines are unquestionably reliable, but no engine can bear long-term contamination. The problem can start hidden away in the cooling system. Rather than a leak, the issue is internal to the factory radiator.

The culprit: plastic. Toyota factory radiators have plastic frames around the aluminum core, which is pretty much the industry standard. In Toyotas and other makes, the plastic will break down over time, creating brown gunk and brittle, cardboard-like debris.

This gunk and debris can break off from its source and end up in the engine. While Toyotas are known to burn oil with age, garbage from the cooling system can certainly help jog things along to total failure. 

Toyota engines are pretty sensitive to overheating. A clog in the cooling system can spike the engine’s temp, leading to blown gaskets, warped internal surfaces, and quick demise.

If your Toyota, regardless of the model, is 10 years old or older, disconnect a cooling hose to the radiator and check the plastic inlet for breakdown. If you spot the “milkshake” color and texture, then check the plastic’s integrity. If it’s soft or brittle, it’s time for a new radiator, hoses, thermostat, and coolant. Consider a new water pump, too.

There’s a great vid showing a perfect example of the problem embedded below. While these precocious maintenance items might cost you a buck, you’ll be able to keep your Toyota going strong longer.