If you find yourself lusting after a used Toyota Land Cruiser, there are a few things you should know before finalizing your purchase. From how long the Land Cruiser can last to whether or not it’s a good idea to buy a used Toyota Land Cruiser with high mileage, and even the most common Land Cruiser complaints, there’s a lot to consider when purchasing a used version of this iconic SUV.

Which generation is right for you?

It’s no secret. The Toyota Land Cruiser has been around for a long time. Because of that, when it comes to buying one used, you’ll find that there are several different generations to choose from. According to Car and Driver, the first model was sold in 1958. However, it wasn’t until the early 1960’s that the SUV became popular. In fact, between 1961 and 1965, it was the bestselling Toyota in the United States.

But let’s not get caught up in the history of the Land Cruiser. If it’s a four-door, full-size SUV that you’re interested in, Autotrader recommends starting with the Land Cruiser 60 Series that was introduced around 1980. Unfortunately, Autotrader reports that finding one of these old-school off-roaders in good condition is going to be tough.

Autotrader reports that the 80 Series is hard to find too. Launched in 1991, the Land Cruiser 80 Series retained the SUV’s off-road nature while adding safety features such as front airbags and anti-lock brakes. The good news is that the Land Cruiser 100 Series, which debuted in 1998, is much easier to find. As is the 200 Series, which debuted in 2008 and is still on sale today.

How long will a Toyota Land Cruiser Last?

Part of the Land Cruiser’s allure is its overall longevity. Take a look at Autotrader’s used Land Cruiser listings, and you’re bound to find several listings for Land Cruiser models with upwards of 200,000-miles on the odometer. Those numbers are no fluke, either. 

In fact, according to iSee Cars, the Toyota Land Cruiser is the longest-lasting SUV available. After analyzing more than 11.8 million cars sold in 2020 to determine which models boast the highest percentage of cars reaching 200,000-miles, 16.3% of Land Cruisers sold were able to surpass that 200,000-mile milestone.

Is buying a high-mileage Land Cruiser a good idea?

Now, just because the Land Cruiser can last more than 200,000-miles, does that mean buying a high-mileage used Land Cruiser a good idea? Really, it all depends. According to Jalopnik, not all owners take great care of hile-milage vehicles. Sometimes, it’s quite the opposite. The good news is that doesn’t always happen, which is why you should have a mechanic take a look at the used Land Cruiser you’re considering before you finalize your purchase.

The most common Toyota Land Cruiser complaints you should know about

As popular as the Toyota Land Cruiser may be, it does have its problems to contend with. According to CarComplaints.com, the most common Toyota Land Cruiser complaints include issues with the SUV’s oil usage, its engine stopping suddenly, and instances of rough shifting. As for model years that you should probably steer clear of? CarComplaints.com recommends avoiding the 2005 model year because of complaints including higher repair costs and more problems at lower mileage.

Is this iconic SUV worth the money?

There’s a lot to like about the Toyota Land Cruiser. So when it comes to buying one used? Just make sure you do your due diligence. Have the vehicle checked out by a trustworthy mechanic and consider whether or not it’s worth the price it’s listed for. After all, you’re the only one that can determine if a used Toyota Land Cruiser is worth the money for you.