Buying a 100-Engine Life

[tejada2000]

We are buying a 100. I've heard different opinions about the V8 longevity. Some say it's good for 100k then starts to have problems, while others say a well cared for V8 has a life expectancy into the high 200k+ before problems may happen.
Any opinions out there?

 

[jditom]

I have only heard great things about this engine. And it does not have head gasket issues like my 80. Make sure you do the 90K service. Keep the oil and filters clean and you will see 200K with ease.
Before buying mine I test drove several 100's and 4 of them had over 100K. One had 140K and it was smooth as slik.

 

[SWUtah]

We are buying a 100. I've heard different opinions about the V8 longevity. Some say it's good for 100k then starts to have problems, while others say a well cared for V8 has a life expectancy into the high 200k+ before problems may happen.
Any opinions out there?

I've owned a 99 LC a 2000 Tundra V8, a 2004 4runner V8 and now a 2004 LX470. Been on these Toyota forums for years and I have never heard anyone say anything about the Toyota V8's longevity or any problems with the Toyota 4.7 V8. Matter of fact I've heard on all the forums and even bobistheoilguy forum that the Toyota 4.7 V8 is one of the best most durable trouble free and long lasting engines ever made. Do your own search on this site and others for engine problems, then go on any other manufactures site and do the same thing and you will see the big difference. On www.bobistheoilguy.com site the used oil analysis shows that the 4.7 V8 is one of the easiest on oil that they have ever seen which is the sign of a very well made engine. I would say with normal maintance you should get 500K+ miles from a Toyota/Lexus 4.7 V8.

 

[Tinkerer]

Haven't looked inside mine, but it has all the signs of being an excellent engine, in terms of durability, at 103k miles now.

Shim type valve lash adjusters, yet no excessive noise yet and still runs quite smoothly, very good signs indeed. No leaks.

(However, note that I use 10W-30 synthetic oil, change oil & filter at the shorter 5k mile "severe service" intervals, and drive it very gently, especially during the first 10-15 minutes of warmup.)

The things that happen at around 100k are scheduled service (timing belt etc) and a service quirk (starter contacts).

 

[kitkraft]

We are buying a 100. I've heard different opinions about the V8 longevity. Some say it's good for 100k then starts to have problems, while others say a well cared for V8 has a life expectancy into the high 200k+ before problems may happen.
Any opinions out there?

I have over 220,000 miles with no engine problems other than O2 sensors and a fuel pump....and I do not consider those engine problems. I was even late (VERY late) on the timing belt replacement but have been conscientious about oil changes and have used synthetic since the 5K mile mark. I think you will find most folks consider this plant to be bullet proof...........

 

[hec4x4dk]

On 255K Kms / 165K miles still running as new

Greetings...

I have a 99 VX100 LE Auto with an engine pre-heater (had Hydronic with a lot of trouble, now use Webasto) and always use it (nearly no cold-starts) - my 4.7 uses no oil at all, 15K Kms change interval, used offroad occasionally (gently, no dents required....)

My issues so far are AHC sensors (replaced twice), converter disintegrated destroying transmission (replaced, said to have overheated, watch it, change the fluid etc), an alternator giving up (replaced), wiper-drive-arms bushing popped off (replaced drive arms) and steering lock driver broke (replaced very recently, apparently too fragile constructred)

It does burn a lot of fluid to get you moving, but it does so extremely well

I'll keep this one 'forever', but if I ever 'need' to buy another one, I would try the 105 - it is not a racer, but 3 tons never was meant to be, but as it in some aspects are built more simple that one may be even more reliable... engine is a significant part of vehicle, but other components are needed too

Good luck with your efforts... merry Xmas and a happy NY

Henrik

 

[drsales]

IIRC the V8's used in the 100 are similar to the V8 used in the Lexus LS 400. The LS has owners reporting 300+ with little major maintenance. However like any engine PM is the key. Be proactive not reactive to your needs and you should be a happy camper. Follow the manufacturers and mud brothers imput about this!

But remember you are purchasing a truck which carried a sticker price in excess of $60K, maintenance is not $19.95 oil change.