Looking for some Mud wisdom on what to do with our 2009 Land Cruiser.
It’s been dealing with a cylinder 8 misfire for several months and now also needs a new alternator. I’ve had it looked at by two independent mechanics I trust, and both landed in the same place: likely needs an engine.
We’re in PA, and the truck also has significant undercarriage rust from several years of neglect before I finally got smart and started Fluid Film a few years ago. Unfortunately, that was too late to reverse much. There also appears to be a leaking sunroof drain hose, which has caused interior water intrusion and some electrical gremlins (fog lights staying on).
Between the engine, alternator, rust, and chasing electrical issues, I’m having a hard time justifying $8–10k to keep it on the road.
I was still running it locally last fall, but it’s due for PA inspection in May and won’t pass as‑is (dash lights). We’ve owned it since 2013 (bought at 56k miles, now at 235k). There’s definitely sentimental attachment—lots of family trips—but we also have a 2016 LC, and this one has officially become the problem child. My wife is ready for it to be gone.
Options as I see them:
It’s been dealing with a cylinder 8 misfire for several months and now also needs a new alternator. I’ve had it looked at by two independent mechanics I trust, and both landed in the same place: likely needs an engine.
We’re in PA, and the truck also has significant undercarriage rust from several years of neglect before I finally got smart and started Fluid Film a few years ago. Unfortunately, that was too late to reverse much. There also appears to be a leaking sunroof drain hose, which has caused interior water intrusion and some electrical gremlins (fog lights staying on).
Between the engine, alternator, rust, and chasing electrical issues, I’m having a hard time justifying $8–10k to keep it on the road.
I was still running it locally last fall, but it’s due for PA inspection in May and won’t pass as‑is (dash lights). We’ve owned it since 2013 (bought at 56k miles, now at 235k). There’s definitely sentimental attachment—lots of family trips—but we also have a 2016 LC, and this one has officially become the problem child. My wife is ready for it to be gone.
Options as I see them:
- Scrap it
- Give it to someone who wants a project / drivetrain swap candidate
- Sell as‑is
- Replace the alternator, get it running, and try selling it (possibly to someone in OH, no inspections)
- What do you think it’s worth as‑is?
- Is it worth fixing the alternator at all, or am I just throwing good money after bad?
