Toyota HiLux tops April sales
5 May, 2008
137 Comments 
The figures are in and Australia’s best selling car for April didn’t have a Holden or Ford badge – and it wasn’t a Corolla.
The Toyota HiLux instead reigned supreme, with sales of 3814 vehicles, up 27.1 per cent on April 2007.
Despite our love for the iconic Australian ute, this is the first time one has ever topped the monthly sales chart, just ahead of the Corolla with 3722 sales in second place.
April has been a record month overall for Toyota, with sales of 20,838 vehicles – more than doubling the sales of its nearest competitor.
Toyota also achieved the top four positions in the SUV market with the Kluger (1268), RAV (1191), Prado (1157) and LandCruiser 200 Series wagon (1124).
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May 5th, 2008 at 7:10 pm
Oh.My.God
I’ve died and gone to Bizarro World…
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 7:14 pm
I hope for their sakes that Hilux is more reliable than my 3 month old Kluger. Hilux is made in Thialand isn’t it? Piss poor attempt at some Australians trying to mimmick the American love of “Pick-up-trucks”.
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 7:15 pm
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHA What are we saying to this Ford fairies? You people speak out of your ar*s… the consumers are speaking with their purchases! Toyota #1
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 7:16 pm
George by now with your 5 posts Ive got the point… your car is a lemon, thanks and goodbye. Perhaps your time would be better spent getting your car fixed, if it has the problems you explained you are entitled for it all to be repaired, seek advice.
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 7:24 pm
TP Thank you for your concern. Yes I have had some issues “dealt” with and have attempted to have others addressed, but to no avail with the dealer. I have been advised to seek retribution with Toyota Australia, but cannot seem to have my calls transferred to anyone who gives a damn.
Vote:I will discuss this again with the consumer people, but in the meantime, I will continue to expose my Toyota horror story.
May 5th, 2008 at 7:26 pm
hilux are a bucket of s**t ive had one for 7 months, had nothing but trouble, dont wast your money.
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 7:30 pm
lol,full of hatred/jealousy
Vote:sales of 3814-u consumers have spoken for urself
if its full of trouble.it wont even achieve anywhere that number of sales
May 5th, 2008 at 7:50 pm
George and Robert … give up the stories will ‘ya.
Unfortunately for the internet, people can fabricate any ‘ole story any ‘ole time in a p*ss weak and pathetic attempt to discredit a proven vehicle that is renouned for it’s rugged, capable, reliable, dependable and durable engineering.
Get over it girls, stop with the stories (unless you can prove it otherwise) and accept that the greatest judge of all – The Market – has voted once again.
You Holden and Ford fairies really are a bunch of sore losers. Why don’t you pathetic critics display some grace and cop a flogging with dignity for once instead of being a bunch of pathetic losers.
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 8:02 pm
OWAF why would I fabricate a story? But yes I agree that this site has been haevily spammed, mostly it would appear, by some toyota propaganda office.
Vote:And by the way, yes I can prove it. Not that you can prove ANY of your waffle.
I don’t appreciate your underhanded attempt to gloss over this Toyota failure.
May 5th, 2008 at 8:06 pm
TOYODA SUCK, GET YOUR CARDIGANS AND BOWLER HATS ON, WINTER IS HERE..
OH WHAT A JOKE !!!!!!!!!!! MORE FLEET SALES…
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 8:08 pm
Some Toyota fans -No class
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 8:21 pm
Who is your dealer, I know someone on teh TOCA website having problems with a certain “super” dealer in Adelaide on their lemon, 15months taking it back to the dealer and no avail. I would get legal help, Warranty should be liable to TMCA…
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 8:31 pm
lol now we r officialy land of the bogans
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 8:35 pm
CLASS WITHOUT THE CL SPELLING
PURE ASS OF A CAR MAKER AS BLAND AS AND ONLY APPEALS TO MASSES.
IF YOU WANT HOT AS CLASS…..AND WANT A CELICA OR WHATEVER? ITS TRUE TO STEP BACKWARDS TO MR2 AS THEY ARE HOT.
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 8:54 pm
I wish they would break it down and tell us how many of each model were sold…
That would tell a few stories, particularly of the (pictured) TRD Hilux.
Come on CarAdvice… Theres a challenge for you.
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 8:56 pm
Hilux’s arent absolute buckets of shyte, nor are they the best commercial.
they are not totally shyte, but rather over rated. they sell masses to the fleet market.
they are out classed by 3 of its other competitors.
do you toyota folks that always have ford and GM fleet percentages on hand have the fleet percentage for the hilux?
most of the hilux’s i ever see have a company sticker on the side.
the fleets are snapping up the great deals on the hilux’s, yet if the private consumer wants one, they pay through their teeth.
it is impressive to see a ute take the #1 honours though.
Vote:but dont swallow this “the consumers have spoken” crap
May 5th, 2008 at 9:05 pm
Well at least it makes sense, cos i see hilux’s everywhere!, unlike the corolla…
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 9:22 pm
Naming the hilux as the number one seller is somewhat misleading because Commodore sales figures donot include the Holden (commodore) Ute. Combined they total almost 4600 in April.
And as for the point that most hilux sales are to fleets… so what! The primary purpose of a commercial vehicle is to be used for commercial purposes. In this regard they have achieved their objective. And anybody who thinks fleet managers just buy vehicles on a whim has no credibility. If you are buying 10, 50 or 300 vehicles it pays to be thorough when deciding what to buy.
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 10:07 pm
Imagine if all the taxi in australia instead falcon there are Aurions… How many percent of the toyota will be increase and how about ford.???
Vote:May 5th, 2008 at 11:22 pm
But TP George’s car is a Toyota? I thought they were unbreakable? Looks like this news is making you masturbate violently- pathetic. Well guess what it won’t last – the FG will truly shake things up= i checked one out at the dealership and it really grabs you. Besides the Hilux looks like a knee. See how we’ve already drifted off topic? Thats the Toyo-troll’s doing.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 8:26 am
Poison your an idiot, unfortunately George if his story is legit is part of a minority who have problems with their Toyota. With Ford/Holden its a majority! Its all a probability game when buying a car, every manufacturer has probs, but Toyota have less.
George unfortunately its common for manufacturers to try and dog their responsibilities RE warranty, I recall my mother struggling with Suzuki when a door handled she had installed stuffed up within weeks due to a faulty unit. It took something like 8 months for the issue to be resolved. Admittably I haven’t had to deal with more major issues, but as far as I know there are avenues to take, I would imagine if it falls within the scope of a warranty (so a manufacturer defect, which is what it sounds like… engine pinging shouldnt occur in a car that young no matter how you hard you treat it!) they would have some form of legal obligation! Perhaps one option to start could be getting an NRMA inspection (Or RAC… whatever you got in your state) to have on paper from a third party that the car has the mentioned problems, and then go from their.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 10:26 am
im amazed how you guys wont believe that George has problems with his kluger yet will believe everyone who comes on here with a horror story about a holden or ford just goes to prove how lame you pair are…. toyota have had a fair amount of problems with there cars of late yet you two fail to see it…… it amazes me, an TP and independant inspection wont make any difference as far as a manufacturer is concerned!
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 11:50 am
Yes little Toyota Geeklets dismiss George. IQ of a gold fish.
Oh there there TP. Dealing with mummies major issues on Suzuki. Hope you dont ever have to deal with issues again as your mummie probably drives a Toyota Corolla that you refer to heaps of young people driving them (not)!
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
Try and sell any other ute in 5 years and see what you get for it…if it is still running…thats why the mining companies stick with what they know. Holden and Ford cant complete on longetivy or resale stakes and they know it. That’s why they bring a new model out every year.
Vote:And in relation to fleets. How many Falcodores go to private buyers???
May 6th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
fenno most mines dont buy hiluxes????? so where do you get that from??
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 1:55 pm
Tonyn, as a member of the resource sector for BHP-Billiton, most mines do buy Hilux’s not to mention industries, tradies, farmers and private purchasers because they are strong all-rounder performers with a reputation hard to beat. To say that most mines don’t buy Hilux’s is ingnorant.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
Here we go again…..
Tonyn says they don’t, and Dingo says they do.
But Dingo is supposed to be away on a camping holiday so this Toyota stooge invents yet another name to blog under.
Who do YOU believe, the REAL individual or the Toyota spammer.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 2:22 pm
correction for spelling mistake above, make that ignorant.
Fenno, only 20 percent of Commodores and Falcons are to private buyers while the Aurion sells more to the private market then the Falcon does.
Strong sales for the Hilux is not solely because of the resource boom but because of it’s reputation as an honest performing commercial which explains why they are popular with farmers, tradies, industries and of course, private buyers.
The full sales potential of the Hilux has been held back for over 12 months because Toyota under-estimated the demand for diesel Lux’s so had to re-negotiate the ability to secure more examples from Thailand which was lengthy because of the current global demand for the Hilux.
If Holden and Ford offered what Toyota does or even had the same commercial reputation then they could be cashing in on the money floating around in Australia at present aswell. Sucessful business paractices is about satisfying market demand at the right time and Toyota has an uncanny ability to achieve just that.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 2:22 pm
im over it….
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 2:23 pm
Halfway between Brisbane and the GoldCoast is a place called Dreamworld, which is obviously where Fenno forms his opinions on motor vehicles. Next time I start an open cut mine in my backyard I’ll be sure to ring the mining companies. Longevity? You wont find a 5 year old ute of any description on any minesite worldwide, they are all completely stuffed after 3 years if they’re working. Resale? Yes it LOOKS GOOD but remember, Hilux is priced 7-15k above EVERYTHING ELSE (and 70K for a TRD with drum rear brakes!!).
Vote:In the market place we behave like sheep, and a fool and his money are quickly parted.
May 6th, 2008 at 2:30 pm
Why have i been slammed for being Dingo, i am not Dingo. I work for BHP-Billiton and corrected Tonyn’s statement because it was incorrect. Have a look at the sales Bret because it proves alot more people accept Toyota then just Dingo or TP for that matter. If you want to think i am Dingo then go right ahead, i couldn’t careless. Toyota has obviously achieved market balance because how else would they be able to sell so many cars otherwise.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
A handful of people have managed to change the appeal of this site. Great source of information from the articles and some of the most stubborn opinions around.
Vote:———————————————————————————————————————-
The poor people behind the Caradvice brand now have to figure out how to put a stop to this!!!! Good Luck……
May 6th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
Agreed reader, this blog is becoming a waste of time. BTW that applies to both the Toyota faction and non toyota faction. Some of you people are so self centered that a few of you are actually ruining this for many.
Like it or lump it people.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 2:43 pm
Millatime, you are correct about working vehicles because the environment is harsh and the vehicles are not cared for and work 24/7, 365 days a week. Regardless, Toyota vehicles get the job done and get it done well which is why they sell in numbers to the resource industry, supply also plays it’s part.
Believe it or not, drum brakes actually work better then discs in commercial environments because they are able to arrest heavier loads easier. Most heavy equipment that i have had exposure to utilise drum brakes and that includes molten metal carriers from my previous place of employment.
Vote:Check out the rear brakes on a truck or even the trailers for that matter. Forklifts are another good example.
May 6th, 2008 at 3:22 pm
Who’s the idiot TP? What solid data do you have to indicate what you just said about Toyota having less problems? A survey involving a small sample of people? Don’t make me laugh, you crass blandophile.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
I recall atleast 4 local surveys last year with Toyota, Mazda and Honda rating as the top 3 most reliable and highest quality in all of them while Holden and Ford would have been somewhat embarrassed. I suggest you retouch on those surveys before you forget any further. If my memory serves me correct i think there was one from RAC, 2 from JD Powers and that leaked Ozzie publishing. If you want prove, there is your evidance. Say no more.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 3:45 pm
George it looks like youre the only kluger owner with problems.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 5:34 pm
“Halfway between Brisbane and the GoldCoast is a place called Dreamworld, which is obviously where Fenno forms his opinions on motor vehicles” is what you say Millatime. No, I form my opinion from the mines that I have travelled to right around this country, engaging the employees in driver training and 4wd training. And if you think I am Biased towards Toyota…I drive a Mazda currently, but have owned nearly every brand of vehicle over the last 15 years. I base what I write here on Car advice on what I see out there in the real world, not on blogs written by somebody whose name indicates that they are ready for a weak, watered-down Seppo draught! Have you been to India Milla?…Well get that India!
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 5:43 pm
Okko, disc braking systems provide greater stopping performance than drums, have greater resistance to brake fade and importantly for a 4WD, recover faster after water immersiom.
Vote:So without question they provide superior braking performance and evidence of this is they are now being fitted to Mercedes Benz Prime Movers with other manufacturers following.
However for a given size discs are heavier and more expensive than drums. So are Toyota saving weight or cost?
And by the way Okko, if drums are so good why are they not fitted to the landcruiser ute?
May 6th, 2008 at 5:47 pm
The Most Recalled Cars 2006
From SUVs to sedans, a look at which 2006 model year cars experienced the biggest recalls
So much for Toyota’s vaunted reputation for quality. On July 18, the Japanese auto giant announced a recall of 418,570 vehicles worldwide for faulty engine parts. This follows an even larger global recall of nearly one million cars and trucks at the end of May for faulty parts that could cause drivers to lose control of the steering wheel.
The current recall affects about 150,000 cars sold outside of Japan, mainly in the U.S. and Canada, though no accidents have been reported due to the faulty engine component that could lead to oil leakage. In the U.S. more than 34,000 cars were recalled, including 26,200 Echo and 8,500 Prius models. While Toyota (TM) is no stranger to recalls—in May 2005 it recalled more than 750,000 pickup trucks and every single 2006 Toyota model line from the Avalon to the Tundra has experienced some form of recall—this latest round may finally dent its Teflon image if steps aren’t taken to improve quality.
RECALLS ABOUND.
businessweek.com/autos/content/jul2006/bw20060717_855947.htm
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 7:11 pm
Millatime – Discs brakes are unarguably superior for regular and performance adaptation but rear drums remain more robust for arresting momentum on heavy and commerical orientated vehicles. That said, they are also generally less maintenance intensive because disc brakes have a tendancy to warp under continuous heavy loading.
Correct me if i am wrong but a much greater percentage of heavy and commercial vehicles continue to utilise rear drums because of the reason i have stated. Cost factor also plays it’s hand.
Water affecting drum brakes has never been notable for discussion but were commercial utilisation is the topic, the longevity and robust utilisation of rear drums remain favourable. With exception to commercial orientation, i am not justifying drum utilisation otherwise while the effectiveness of rear drum and discs are negligable so what is the diifferance otherwise.
And just for the sake of the arguement, the Hilux is 4 star NCAP rated compared to the Nissan Navara, Ford Ranger, Mazda BT50 and Holden Rodeo each with an official rating of 3 stars. Actually, the Nissan Navara has struggled to even achieve 3 stars.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 7:28 pm
i have dead set heard it all now!!!!!!
so now drum brakes are better than discs? ha ha ha ha ha
how come they use discs on the front where most of the work is done?
why use inferior discs where most of the braking is done and the superior drums where less work is done?
that argument is in the FWD argument basket.
drum brakes and FWD setups are economical ways of manufacturing vehicles and still delivering them at champagne price.
all the light trucks are of the same origin and hence are built with a common list of suppliers and work ethic. dont go telling me that a hilux light years in front of the others as that is a ridiculous statement.
ability and value for money wise, the hilux is a mid pack performer. i would have thought that even old mate who claimed to be a 4X4 instructer would realise that hilux’s arent the best off roaders. yes they are reasonable but they are not the best.
Vote:also, how many patrols do you see with the slogan “Toyota recovery vehicle” stickered across the rear window?
well you city folks prob have never seen the sticker before, but there are plenty of nissan drivers that take the piss
May 6th, 2008 at 7:32 pm
Boss – i can research and supply an abundance of current recalls affecting any manufactuer particularly General Motors and Ford and that is not making mention of the 279 lives lost because of the Ford Explorer saga in the US or the 3 recalls that have affected the VE in the first 2 years.
I took time to familarise myself with the 4 quality surveys released last year and i am sure if you followed suit you will discover that despite a spate of recalls from Toyota, they remain as one of the leading companies for supplying quality and reliable motor vehicle.
1. Leaked Oz Quality Survey. You will locate this on DRIVE.com, click under features and scroll down to about the 3rd topic. Read it in full and educate yourself how strongly Toyota performed.
2. RAC Australian National Survey
3. JD Powers survey of Western Australian motorists
4. JD Powers Australian National Survey
and just for good measure :
5. Consumer Choice of USA
Be sure to familiarise yourself with these surveys before any further questioning of Toyota quality. I am sure you will discover the quality and results of these surveys speak for themselves.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 7:52 pm
OKKO!
Im not questioning Toyotas quality. I merely copy and pasted an article i thought was relevant to the recent banter.
I believe Toyotas quality is equal to or better than that of Holden and Ford.
Be sure to understand a post before you write a patronising response.
Do you know what the word patronising means?
:)
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 7:53 pm
Andrew, i am not suggesting drums are better then discs however for commercial application without justifing them otherwise, rear drums are infact robust, less maintenace intensive and of course cost plays it’s part. Drum utilisation in commercial vehicles still plays it part and remains effective in such applications.
Regarding the off-road ability of the Hilux, i agree they are about mid pack these days because the suspension has been designed to improve on-road manners which Toyota has been able to achieve.
However, the Hilux remains the most reliable and durable choice in it’s class which is why it remains popular with so many in the industry sector aswell as farmers, tradies and private consumers.
Todays Hilux retains commendable off-road ability with much improved on road manners while being strong, reliable and durable backed by a good NCAP rating and market availability which means it is an all-round balanced vehicle for commercial application.
And Andrew, don’t get excited about stickers and for the sake of the arguement, i work for BHP-Billiton in the country so don’t give me the city folk thing will ‘ya.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 7:59 pm
oh no OKKO, here I go again. Just incase you dont know….
patronize
One entry found.
patronize
Main Entry: pa·tron·ize
Pronunciation: \ˈpā-trə-ˌnīz, ˈpa-\
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form(s): pa·tron·ized; pa·tron·iz·ing
Date: 1589
2 : to adopt an air of condescension toward : treat haughtily or coolly
— pa·tron·i·za·tion \ˌpā-trə-nə-ˈzā-shən, pa-\ noun
Vote:— pa·tron·iz·ing·ly \ˈpā-trə-ˌnī-ziŋ-lē, ˈpa-\ adverb
May 6th, 2008 at 8:03 pm
Yes Dingo, ah ha, ah ha.
by the way,
Vote:you have never visited any building sites if you envisage sites ruled by hilux’s.
i would hate to break it to you that tradies dont flock to hilux’s like you think.
there are a lot more falcon utes cruising the building sites then your loved hilux’s
May 6th, 2008 at 8:08 pm
….and so the spin continues
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 8:15 pm
Boss, please do not insult my intelligence by comparing the quality of a Holden or Ford to that of a Toyota.
Toyota has always been and still remains a much higher quality product that is far more reliable and dependable then a Holden or Ford ever has been.
Forget the patronising accusing act and familiarise yourself with each and every quality survey i have taken the time and effort to provide.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 8:17 pm
do u still front the plastic Ono band?
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 8:21 pm
How come the majority of high mileage utes in the used market are Falcons?
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 8:21 pm
Yes Dingo, ah ha, ah ha.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 8:23 pm
Andrew, i am not Dingo but i will not defend myself on the matter again. Just for the sake of the arguement, maybe you should visit a biulding site or two and count the number of Hilux’s and while you are at it, take a drive to the country and visit a few farms, mines and industries as i am certain you will discover very quickly that my comments hold truer value then yours. Actually, you will not just find Hilux’s but a great amount of Toyota commercials in general.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 8:27 pm
Okko Says:
May 6th, 2008 at 7:32 pm
Boss – i can research and supply an abundance of current recalls affecting any manufactuer ***particularly General Motors and Ford*** and that is not making mention of the 279 lives lost because of the Ford Explorer saga in the US or the 3 recalls that have affected the VE in the first 2 years.
Who brought Holden and Ford into it?
The Ford Explorer problem, as you brought up, was actually a tyre problem. Sure Ford used Firestone tyres from the factory, but you cant claim that Ford is responisble.
So get off your high horse and back into reality.
I thought Holden supporters were bad, they have nothing on these Toyota lovers!
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 8:29 pm
There ain’t no arguing that the hilux rules the sales lists. Good product even if it has cart springs for suspension.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 8:30 pm
Realcars, never noticed.
Boss, i am not interested in the dictionary. This subject is about the can of whoop ar*e the popularity of the Hilux has generated.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 8:31 pm
I love these Toyota zealots as they always pick their argument.
Hilux in it’s latest iteration is unfortunately a show pony.
When work needs to be done and distance covered Falcon Ute with passenger car handling and performance comes to the fore.
I value my backbone too much to risk it in a rickerty Hilux!
So Yoko Ono save your jibber jabber for your zealot mates as Falcon the Great Australian Road Car has all bases covered.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
Dingo,
well since i visit building sites for 10 hours during the day, every day, i would have thought my observations held some merit. i also grew up in the country, and i can tell you that falcons appear in many driveways too.
i will personally take you for a drive through the country and building sites if you like, and you can keep a tally board of fords versus toyotas just like the dole people do.
but hey, i forgot only your tales were credible, so i do apologise.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 8:35 pm
High mileage Falcon Utes are far more common as operators know they go the distance.
Many companies buy Toyota for reflected Halo value i.e Kaizen bullshit etc and turn them over often.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 8:37 pm
agree realcars,
Vote:is comfort and drivability too much to ask for in a work ute?
thank god the falcon ute exists, because the jappers are pigs to drive.
its gonna be interesting to see what ford does to the ranger platform when it gets designed here.
im hoping that it will be based in the territory.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:39 pm
Im pretty sure there would be more couriers driving tray back falcons or transit vans than there would be driving hilux/hiaces…….
And couriers tend to be pretty hard on their cars. Maybe they dont realise how “Whoop A*se” the Toyotas are…..
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 8:49 pm
Boss,
i see plenty more hiaces.
toyota has the government fleet market tied up with hiaces.
my uncle has a courier business and he has a hiace because it carries slightly more than some of the others (Transit is an exception).
the Hiace carries 6m2, and he tells to gain some contracts, you need that as a minimum.
the kia pregio was starting to flood the market because you could get a diesel van for a whisker over 20K, and not the typical toyota price premium.
i have been told that toyota has brought out the pregio or something like that.
Vote:i would like to check it out further though. it makes sense for toyota to do that though, as the pregio’s were selling in numbers, and there is no way toyota would compete on price
May 6th, 2008 at 8:58 pm
Boss – here is reality for you. The conflict and court cases resulting from the Ford Explorer saga still continues today because Ford claims the tyres were faulty while the tyre company claims the design of the Explorer was at fault causing unconditonal problems with the tyres. However, 279 deaths were recorded before Ford acted upon the issue. And lets not forget the global recall associated with faulty cruise controls fitted to approx 10 million Ford and associated owned subsidary vehicles.
Stop accusing me of being a Toyota lover because i am not but more rather dedicated in correcting uneducated and often incorrect attacks aimed at particular manufactuers. If i have read many of these posts correctly in the past, it is usually another party that starts critising Toyota but when people begin defending the brand, the same people start passing all sorts of weird and wonderful accusations.
I drive Toyota’s daily at work and privately own a Diesel Prado and a Mazda 2. Stop calling me a Toyota lover because i am not but at the same time i am not going to accept rotten comments aimed at Toyota which usually hold no value or even remotely true.
Noname, give me an example other then leaf springs that are robust for supporting heavy loads in commercial applications.
The Hilux is a dedicated commercial vehicle and designed for no other purpose other then modifications in some models to improve the competancy of the vehicle in avenues such as road going manners and/or cabin comfort but it’s it’s true marketed purpose is always maintained.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 9:11 pm
Andrew, Hiaces don’t interest me in the slightest so i’m not even gonna talking about the van. Regarding Toyota’s premium prices, not always. Take a look at thier normal passenger cars for example as they are all competitively priced but they do charge more for thier commercials because it is dictated by the market. If you owned a business to make a profit and could sell a product at a higher price then not, wouldn’t you do the same. You would be a fool not to.
Earlier, you stated that Toyota is selling many Hilux’s to fleet markets because it is heavily discounted but in another sentance (above) you talk about premium prices. I think you are confused in exactly what you are saying as i believe you are arguing for the sake of arguing. It is evident in your replys.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 9:14 pm
Boss, check out the number of Toyota commercials that are sold compared to Holden and Ford. What more can i say.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 10:02 pm
Wow, 3814 Hilux’s! I didn’t know there were so many councils that needed this type of vehicle. Totally stunned, they (councils) even don’t pay tax on these vehicles.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 10:11 pm
Stop now OKO you are a crazy Toyotaphile fool.
We are all sick of your Toyota jibber jabber.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 10:48 pm
Local Councils, the last bastion of the bludger.
Vote:Hiluxs kept shiny new and very low klms.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:02 pm
Weren’t Toyota giving away free cardigans last month every vehicle sold ?
Vote:Australia’s bogans love their Toy-yodas. HAHAHAHAHAHAH
May 6th, 2008 at 11:10 pm
Seriously The quality of this site has gone down in a big way recently!! It’s the toyota fanatics vs the bogans!!
Vote:Normally i can’t stand Toyota fan boys spewing the “Toyota unbreakable” rubbish, but on this site, the anti-crowed is even more lame!! OKKO has given a few good arguments yet a lot of the bogans look past them and accuse him of being dingo!! Who Gives a toss?!!
Ok, I hate Toyota Arrogance, their crap value for money, and their fwd cars, but I’m a recent convert myself…
I would seriously love to buy a full size serious 4wd from Holden or Ford, but they just don’t have any?!! Thats why i got myself diesel Prado…
Same goes for a 4×4 ute such the Hilux, sure the BT-50 is serious competitor, but the hilux would still be my preferred choice!!
Besides how many mine sites use Commodore or falcon utes??
May 6th, 2008 at 11:10 pm
TRD racing cardigans I think?
Complimentary lap blankets for Driver and front passenger as well!
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 11:12 pm
are u a council worker John?
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 11:14 pm
Tomas79 u sound like a bit of a bush bashing bogan yourself.
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 11:34 pm
Okko Dokko OK – Leaf springs. Whats the Hilux payload about 1 tonne?? heavier payloads are not permitted in civilised coutries therefore you argument is as TP says Floored (Flawed). The ONLY reason Toyota wack on cart springs is due to the overloading commonly found in the Middle East i.e 20 Taliban troops sat in the back of one.
Vote:Coilovers, were deemed a better solution but too costly to install for civilised markets alone. So there we have it an admittedly insufficient suspension possibly the cause of Hilux rollovers forced on Joe public. Thats great customer service.
No i’m not a ford fairy or a holdenite I actually don’t mind Toyotas before you have-a-go back.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:36 pm
Realcars,
Sure I’m a bushbasher… There are parts of my previous Jeep hanging on the scrubs out in the bush somewhere…. But I’m no bogan, i’m not even a true auusie!!The brands that I’m really into, I doubt most of you ignorant bogans have ever even heard of!!
I’m starting to realize why most of the bogan Holden and Ford crew hates Toyota with such a passion… Thats because it has become the 3rd aussie brand!! Seriously the The landcruisers built this country!!
Sure, the FWD aurion might be a bit more boring then the RWD commodores and Falcons!! But the Landcruiser are much more important for developing this country out in the sticks, and personally much more fun too!! Too bad Ford and Holden only offerings in the 4wd range are some stupid softroaders, and some boring small utes!! I’d genuinly love it if the FORD would offer a serious 4wd wagon! No softroader rubish!! Bring back the maverick, and preferably not a rebadge this time!! Holden please bring back the overlander, on a truck chassis and dana axles and 32″ tires!!
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 11:46 pm
NO NAME, the main reason for Hilux and other serious utes having leaf springs in the back is that in a number of countries, especially our neighbors in asia, for a vehicle to be classified as a commercial ute, and therefore receive tax break it requires to have leaf springs in the back…
Vote:It might be a fairly out of date rule, but that is the case!!
Of course, it also has the advantage of being able to be easily propped up with another leaf spring, to adjust for an extra heavy load up the back… But the Commercial Ute classification and it’s inherent tax discount is still the main reason to this day!!
May 6th, 2008 at 11:47 pm
Best u stay in the bush Tomas79 out of broadband range.
Landcruiser built this country what a crock!
The same could be said for Landrover.
Although it shows you have lapped up all the bullshit toyota advertising spin so good on you.
Perhaps you aren’t a bogan but u definitely sound like a wanker.
Not a council worker are u?
Vote:May 6th, 2008 at 11:57 pm
okko wot planet u from, do u know why heavy vehicles are going to discs? its because they are far superior “ie” NO BRAKE FADE which is a common occurance when arresting momentum on heavy and commercial orientated vehicles.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 12:02 am
So TommyToyota79 – you basically in one form or another agree with me. Thankyou.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 12:04 am
Truckie – I do believe you may be wrong – back in the late seveties my dear old mum had a clubman, it used to suffer badly with brake fade so alarming is was that I could never go to my favourite beach at the bottom of a steep hill. ;(
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 12:05 am
okko arent the brakes on heavy mining machinery emmersed in like an oil bath which cools them and also keeps dust and crap off them
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 12:08 am
no name not on trucks had one with drums and one with discs drums constant fade when stoppng in a hurry discs never let me down yet
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 12:22 am
Realcars,
Yeah, I’d love to stay out in the bush, but unfortunately I work and live in the city!! Although beginning of this year i worked up in Pilbara for a few months, and in 2 months time I will be up in Africa for a few tax free months!!
And no, I’m no Council worker, I’m an Electrical Engineer working for an Engineering consultancy firm!! What do you do? Manager at macas? Or a check out dude at Kmart??
And no the same thing cannot be said about landrovers!!
And no, I haven’t bought into Toyota’s advertising campiagn!! Even though i drive one, I hate their arrogance and their one eyed fan boys!! As I said there is no genuine alternatives for what I wanted in my 4wd!!
Where is your proof that I lapped up their campaign?? So dont talk sh*t f*ckt*rd!! I bet your sitting in one of those bogen kmart holden shirts right now!! or propably thats just your good sunday shirt!!
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 12:37 am
Tomas79 you are obviously proof of the failings of the tertiary education system. Possibily a good example of the need for IQ testing of potential university students before they are admitted.
What did u mean that u are not a true aussie?
Are u a Martian?
Certainly have a big chip on your shoulder Tomas79!
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 1:02 am
Toyota recalls 90,000 Highlander (Kluger) SUVs
Japanese automaker announces recall to fix a problem with seat belts.
WASHINGTON – Toyota Motor Corp. plans to recall about 90,000 Highlander (Kluger) sport utility vehicles in the United States.
The Japanese automaker wants to fix a problem that could prevent the seat belt in a third-row seat from securing a rear-facing child seat.
Toyota spokesman Bill Kwong said Friday the company had issued a stop sale of the 2008 Highlander (Kluger) SUV and hybrid version with third-row seats to retrofit changes to the seat belts.
The vehicles under the recall were built between May 2007 and March 2008. Kwong says owners will be notified of the recall in June, and dealers will install a newly designed seat belt component.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 1:03 am
okay… opinions are opinions..
but Realcars..
when you said “Kaizen… bull$hit”… thats just pure ignorance..
do you even know what it means… its a form of “law” that is applied not just in a department.. but the whole company. Policies are written up due to such “bull$hit” as you claim…
And all manufacturing companies, automotive have the same principle… just different wordings….
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 1:07 am
Realcars,
You dare to talk about iq??
You haven’t so far countered any of my arguments, nor answered any of my questions!! Only go on with personal insults!!
It probably went right over the top your bogan head, right over your mullet hair cut!!
You talk about IQ, yet you can not comprehend what “not a true aussie” means?! Also my english may not be perfect, but atleast I’m multi lingual!! I bet you would be totaly lost out in the greatewr world!!
Mate if its too easy to get into uni? Why didnt you get in? and now earn the big bucks??
Big chip on the shoulder? Please explain!!
Vote:No actually dont!!!
It is dip sh*ts like you, and stupid moronic comments such as yours that drag down this website for automobile enthusiast down!!
May 7th, 2008 at 2:04 am
Why do post grads always have to talk themselves up. Anyone would think to earn the “big bucks” you have to have some half baked degree in social studies or some other form of irrelevant degree. Simply not true, ever hear of the working your way up. No I don’t have a chip but I do have a degree but I equally respect those that get off there arse and work to the top. So lets move on without the insults.
Ah Toyota – Yep the Toyotaphiles can feel smug yep they are wiping the floor with Ford and Holden in Australia, but as i’ve said before thats only Australia, a small market. Problem with Toyotaphiles they also belive Toyota are the best. But biggest ain’t always the best and they are certainly free from fault. Back in 2006 they recalled 320,000 prius vehicles. Thats a 3rd of all they have produced. So get the blinkers off.
Vote:Just out courtesy of just-auto . com “Toyota recall 628,329 vehicles due to fuel tank faults”. Not exactly insignificant.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:09 am
Oooh and another one C/O BBC website “Toyota recalls 880,000 SUV’s” circa May 2005.
Eight Hundred and Eighty THOUSAND vehicles
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 2:18 am
Oooh and another one C/O Fox news “WASHINGTON–Toyota Motor Corp is recalling 539,500 Corolla and Matrix passenger cars in the United States because the bolts in the power window system. 9 April 2008
Bloody great these Toyotas
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 7:27 am
NO NAME says: “Why do post grads always have to talk themselves up. Anyone would think to earn the “big bucks” you have to have some half baked degree in social studies or some other form of irrelevant degree. Simply not true, ever hear of the working your way up. No I don’t have a chip but I do have a degree but I equally respect those that get off there arse and work to the top. So lets move on without the insults”
NM response: LOL……..I agree. I have had a former battle with a little weed on here if you may recall.
Love your comment on Toyotophile. Its a disease as they think they are miles better then anyone else, think they are massive cool as sell and other BS! Mostly BS. And it is true that you got to get a old MR2 to get a hot svelte look as current range is boring. Then you get the master Toyotophile TP saying that a Corolla is real hot – doesnt deserve a response as he is too green to take a nappy off still!
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 8:15 am
Real Cars: Many companies buy Toyota for reflected Halo value i.e Kaizen bullshit etc and turn them over often.
Don’t you mean the cars over-turn quite often
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 8:18 am
I don’t think there’s a problem with Toyotas cars – I believe the problem is with the owners who should have to be recalled… that is visit their local Morgu to see if they have a Brain let alone a Pulse.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 8:38 am
Some of us can still be a success without attending Uni surprise,surprise!! If money is your measure of success good luck to u.
Don’t really give a toss where u are from tomas69 and I never criticized your “english”. You volunteered this and seems to be a sore point for u.
Just think it’s a waste sending people like Tomas69 to Uni if they haven’t the smarts to start with.
I could have matriculated to uni big deal.In fact u only need average intelligence to complete the majority of courses anyway.
Kaizen is really just commonsense if u think about it.
Giving it a tittle and putting it on the uni curriculum well formalizes it I suppose.
I made my point Tomas69 but u disagree don’t really know what else I can do about that?
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 8:53 am
a little off topic mayb but I for one cant wait untill the dodge ram makes it to our shores. comfortable large interior great ride, effortless power AND all the toughness of the rickety yet brilliant hilux. price,fuel consumption and maybe size will be its only weakness.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 8:56 am
Maximus … no company or no supporter have been more orrogant and one-eyed over the years then General Motors and Ford Motor Co rallied by thier often ignorant fanatatical supporters yet you clowns have the ordasity to speakout against Toyota.
For generations upon generations, General Motors and Ford Motor Co. ruled the roost and so did thier arrogance that the rest of the global population had to endure but how dramatically different is the automotive environment today with the ‘kick ar8e boots’ on other feet yet you idiots continue to display the same shear ignorance as typical Holden and Ford clowns have always done by critising Toyota fan boys.
So how does it feel Maximus … how does it feel to have Toyota kick the living sh*t out of your beloved car companies and have the mickey pulled from you for once. Let me guess, you hate it with a passion but for years upon years it was a ‘god given right’ to display arrogance and one-eyed fanatism but when the tables turn in Toyota’s favour, it is not.
That is called being a sore loser !!
Fact is clown – it is Holden and Ford supporters that are the most ignorant and fanatical of all but yet you people don’t even have an once of dignity in your bones to lose with grace.
Nissan concurs the mountain so Holden and Ford have them banned. Toyota enters NASCAR so GM, Ford and Dodge get sh*t scared of the competition and jump-n-down. Toyota kicks American ar*e yet thier supporters freak out and start occusing Toyota fanboys with the same sh*t that they practiced themsleves for many generations.
Fact is Maximus, GM and Ford are coping a flogging from Toyota fair-n-square yet thier supporters are such poor losers as they always have been that you idiots carn’t even lose with grace or dignity.
Personaly, i hope Toyota keeps kick’n for many years yet just so people like myself can have a wonderful laugh at your expense.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 9:03 am
Tomas 79: Mate if its too easy to get into uni? Why didnt you get in? and now earn the big bucks??
There are now so many people going to and graduating from uni – mainly because most of them are doing Bachelor of FARTS.. As a result Australia has an excessive amount of Lawyers Accountants and other Professionals and a Shortage of Carpenters mechanics and Other Tradies
Therefore as this trend continues it will end up that the tradies will be earning the big bucks….Why?
Because with so many accountants around with the same level of skills etc companies will be able to pick and choose who they want whereas with a so few Plumbers and Electricians to choose from .
Tradies [will be ale to charge nearly the same rate as a top flight legal eagle.
As the Tradies will realise that the Doctors Lawyers etc:
are all cashed up and will have to pay whatever the tradies ask because the Professionals:
don’t have the skills or experience to do the job
don’t have the time or can’t be bothered doing the job themselves.
So theres nothing wrong with being a Tradie – At least tradies have time to enjoy their life instead of doing 12 hour days in the office… hardly ever seeing their kids etc
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 9:10 am
I agree Toyota has endured a spat of recalls in recent times and will prove a good shack-up for Toyota executives not to become complacent.
Toyota HODS have acknowledged this and have stated that greater resources and attention will be dedicated in not only rectifing current surfaced issues but to minimse any repeat in the future and undoubtedly, Toyota will achieve thier cause.
As OKKO politely put it, lets not even start on the current recalls associated with Ford and GM with some of them including potential for engine fires.
And no , i am not OKKO – i’m back from my camping trip one early because the young one got ill with the flu.
However, despite an increase in recalls from Toyota – the quality, reliability, dependability and durability of their products remain amoung the best in the world which is why they continue to sell in numbers and retain thier strong reputation.
Have alook at all the quality surveys in recent times alone and you will note that Toyota has always been amoung the top tier manufactuers for quality and customer satisfaction and they will continue to be so into the foreseeable future and no-doubt with much less recalls once the current issues have been rectified.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 9:20 am
Wheelnut … you are WRONG
Hilux’s don’t roll over often so were did you get your uneducated, incorrect and bullsh*t statement from. I am employed in the mines by Rio Tinto in Central Queensland and i have absolutely no idea what you are talking about. Incidents do occur with all types of vehicles from time to time and usually because of operator error.
Companies these days have a duty of care towards thier employees and are extremely strict when it comes to enforcing safe work practices and if the Hilux had an issue of which it DOES NOT – then they simply will not be purchased by the thousands … would they !!
Again – proves how WRONG, uneducated and detached from the reality you truely are.
If the Hilux had rollover issues – they would not be purchased … PERIOD !!
But guess what – the Hilux is a very honourable and honest work hack which is why it is the preferred choice for many.
Please, get your sh*t correct and stop with the utter bullsh*t and rotten cliaims that are not even remotely true. You are a great example of a typical Holden and Ford loser who carn’t take a lose with dignity.
You have no grace !!
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 9:39 am
Supporter, agree whole heartedly, i work for BHP-Billiton and have no idea about rollover problems associated with the Hilux. Accidents do occur on site and yes are often operator inflicted. Cars don’t control operators but operators can control cars or avoid an incident with the correct attitude towards working safely.
Dingo, we are supposedly the same people so i am honoured to be recognised as such a great stirrer as yourself. I understand your frustration with these bloggers because alot of thier claims are incorrect and far removed from reality.
Just one last point, did any of you familiarise yourselves with the quality surveys i took the time to provide yesterday before critising Toyota quality.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 9:58 am
Hilux tops the charts, what else would you expect from such a great ute. Supercharged TRD Hilux, even better and looks mean. Rollover problems, what sort of a lousy claim is that. Far removed from reality thats for sure. Hilux is toughest in it’s class and best for the job, defantly not a Rodeo or Ranger for me. I want a mans utes for a mans job. TRD Hilux i will have after the financial reporting period, tax means.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 10:42 am
WOW !!!! Kevvy, you will have to suck Dingo’s dick, to celebrate your stupid LUX…
Ranger is better, they’re not sold to fleet or hire companies like toyodas…
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 10:50 am
I can vaguely remember when people used to have fun on this website and not take everything that was said so god damn seriously
you could tell when someone was being SERIOUS and when they were being SARCASTIC..
I mean we used to be able to have civil dsicussions and express/accept various alternative points of view even though they might not have liked the same make of car as you do.. Because they are TRUE car enthusiasts!
But sadly not anymore…. Ahhhh those were the days….
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 10:51 am
What is the Problem at Toyota ?????
A $45 million dollar lawsuit recently filed in California Superior Court against Toyota Motor Corp. is bringing to light the recent quality woes being experienced by the once mighty manufacturer. Toyota has based its entire reputation on the quality and long term reliability of their wide range of vehicles.
According to the Associated Press, The suit was brought about by Katy Cameron, a Quality Auditor at Toyota’s NUMMI plant in Fremont, California that manufactures Tacoma Trucks and Corolla models. Cameron alleges that defects ranging from broken seatbelts, misaligned suspension pieces (something very hard to fix at the dealership level), and non functioning headlights were all ignored in the quest for increased output.
In another blow to Toyota’s reputation for how its employees are treated, Katy allegedly suffered personal threats regarding her safety and possible firing. What is clear is that after she brought the quality problems to light and tried to contact executives in Japan about her concerns, she was demoted to a Parts Boxer. At their plant in Kentucky earlier this year, Toyota also came under criticism for firing two employees that exposed a document that talked about the company’s plans to lower pay and benefits to U.S. workers.
It appears that the quality problems Katy saw at the NUMMI plant are finally being exposed in surveys and public perception. Last month Consumer Reports dropped its nearly automatic “Recommended” rating from a number of Toyota products, including the extremely popular Camry V6 model. According to that report the engine suffers from “Poor Reliability.” Subsequently, Toyota dropped from the number one quality nameplate on their list, to number five after rivals like Honda and Subaru.
Toyota has lots of slogans and mantras that they use to help employees understand their “lean manufacturing” technique. Toyota revolutionized auto manufacturing years ago with this technique, which essentially means “We only make as many cars as we are selling.” This also helps cut down on defects because cars are not just made in huge batches at one time. So if a defect comes along and is caught only at a dealership, huge lots of unsold cars will more than likely not be sitting there with the same problem. It makes sense but Chrysler still just pumps out cars at a rate above its sales output.
Back at Toyota, the essential values of the company today are exemplified by something called “The Toyota Way.” Want to know what the “Toyota Way” is? It is a fourteen step process that should be guiding their every step, from Parts Requisition to Design. I am not sure if they are in order of IMPORTANCE, but they all reek of management-speak. If Toyota is to pull itself out of the quality doldrums, it has to do more than come up with more than catchy slogans.
THE TOYOTA WAY (What The !!!!!)
Following is all four principles of the “Toyota Way” following with my comments in brackets.
1. Base your management decisions on long-term philosophy, even at the expense of short term financial goals. (That is a great motto for any company to live by. Short term profit should not be made at the expense of customer satisfaction and loyalty.)
2. Create a conscious process flow to bring problems to the surface. (Okay, what does that mean exactly?)
3.) Use the “pull” method to avoid overproduction. (This just means essentially that the manufacturing arm only orders more materials when the department that needs them orders them. That this even needs to be in writing disturbs me.)
4.) Work like the Tortoise, not like the Hare. (That means we are not interested in quotas and speed of work, but quality. Then why does Toyota give bonuses based on output? Shouldn’t they just be based on quality?
5) Build a culture of stopping to fix problems, to get quality right the first time. (Duh?)
6) Standardized tasks and processes are the foundation for continuous improvement and employee empowerment. (I AM ROBOT! THIS DOES NOT COMPUTE!)
7) Use visual control so no problems are hidden. (Keep workspace clean and maintain personal hygiene. I wish they had this rule where I work!)
8) Use only reliable, thoroughly tested technology that serves your people and processes. (So I guess that is why Toyota doesn’t have IDRIVE?)
9) Grow leaders who thoroughly understand the work, live the philosophy, and teach it to others. (Toyota can grow people now? Kind of like corn? Wow, Toyota sure is at the cutting edge.)
10) Develop exceptional people and teams who follow your company’s philosophy. (No thanks, I would prefer to hire idiots who don’t respect me.)
11) Respect your extended network of partners and suppliers by challenging them and helping them improve.(COST CUTTING! COST CUTTING! COST CUTTING! All problems at the U.S. Big Three have come from Cost Cutting. It frightens me that Toyota has it in what is essentially its Company Constitution.)
12) Go and see for yourself to thoroughly understand the situation.(Okay, this one gets a Duh again.)
13) Make decisions slowly by consensus, thoroughly considering all options; implement decisions rapidly. (So this explains why all Toyotas look like they were designed in a Committee Meeting.)
14) Become a learning organization through relentless reflection and continuous improvement. (Sorry, I was asleep, what did you say?)
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 10:56 am
Oh What A Supporter of Toyotas Tough Trucks in Motorsport -
In relation to my statement about Toyotas Over Turning which like many other comments etc people post on here you seem to get rather offensive about..
May I suggest that you relax and look up the meaning of the word SARCASM in the dictionary.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 10:59 am
KJ – Dodge don;t have any plans to import the Dodge Ram Pick Up to Oz for the same reason that Ford No longer import the F-Series Trucks… Not a big enough market
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 11:06 am
Toyota Hit with More Recalls in U.S. and Around the World.
Singer Justin Timberlake once crooned, “What goes around comes around,” in one of his myriad, sound alike odes to one time honey Ms. Britney Spears. In an odd turn of events, executives at Toyota must be thinking the ex-‘Nsyncer wrote those words just for them.
In about the space of a week the soon to be world’s largest automaker has been stung with two recalls covering over one million of its vehicles. The first recall covers 630,000 Noah and Voxy minivans in Japan. Apparently the fuel tanks are designed improperly and may begin to crack and leak over time.
In the United States, the Toyota Corolla and Pontiac Matrix had 540,000 2003-2004 models covered in a recall for a power window regulator restraining bolt. Apparently this bolt can come loose, causing the window to shoot out of its guide rails. Let’s just hope the glass doesn’t break itself loose while the vehicle is on the move and into the path of oncoming traffic.
All of this recall nonsense must especially sting after Toyota suffered the embarrassment six months ago of being brought to court by one of its own employees. This employee claimed parts flaws found during the manufacturing process were being ignored for the sake of productivity. Important things like defective airbags and even broken seat belts were allowed to pass.
This employee should know as she was the quality control inspector at Toyota’s New United Manufacturing plant in Fremont, California. Wouldn’t you also know it? The Corollas now being recalled all came from that same plant in Fremont.
Our take? Coincidence? We think not. Why would Toyota, a company that makes a large portion of its sales based on its quality reputation, play fast and loose with quality? We imagine that, contrary to their numerous protestations otherwise, Toyota really wants to take the number one worldwide sales slot from GM. And that has and will continue to require a large growth spurt production wise.
As anyone with any business experience will tell you, expansion and growth are dangerous times for any company. Have you ever noticed a restaurant chain that suddenly sprung up all over town and just as soon disappeared? That company was the victim of too rapid an over-expansion. Even huge companies like Starbucks can experience the phenomenon.
So, any recommendations for Toyota? Simple. Don’t start making them fast and badly built. You’ve still got that great rep which is, for the most part, is backed up by your entire lineup. Lexus still is numero uno, for example, among luxury cars. And we haven’t heard any peeps on Scion even though, personally, they need another run through makeup. hahahahaha..
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 11:09 am
Toyota to Cut Tundra, Sequoia In U.S.
Toyota Motor Corp. made an announcement that starting in May it will significantly cut output at the Indiana and Texas plants that manufacture the Tundra and super sized Sequoia SUV.
The company points to the slow-down in the U.S. economy and rising gas prices as the reasons.
But aren’t we starting to blame every problem under the sun on the economy and gas prices? Oh yeah, we also can’t forget the slumping housing market! But is the housing market really slumping or are home prices merely returning to “normal” levels? We will leave that to the economists. And another blog post, of course.
But getting back to the original discussion. The Tundra could definitely be adversely affected by the bad housing market since Toyota was trying to sell its full-size Tundra to contractors and people involved in the construction industry.
Or could it be that buyers have been turned off by the myriad quality glitches, recalls, and breakdowns? Toyota has not had an easy rollout for its first truly full-size pickup truck. But, to be blunt, is it all that surprising. Not only is the Tundra built on an entirely new platform, it’s also being manufactured at an entirely new factory in Texas. Just having one of those variables in the mix for a new vehicle can spell disaster for even the most “together” of manufacturers. Personally, we are sure the quality bugs will be totally ironed out during its second year. Toyota rarely makes mistakes twice.
As for the new Sequoia–aside from the fact that it now looks like a beached porpoise–it is also suffering from coming to market just as people are starting to downsize their SUVs. It is Suburban-sized in a market that is turning more to vehicles like the Honda CR-V. Toyota just needs to adjust its manufacturing output to keep from saturating the market with too much product. (Are you listening to this idea, Chrysler?)
This method has always been a cornerstone of Toyota manufacturing. Termed “just on time” manufacturing, the practice has helped keep Toyota from overproducing unwanted models. Unfortunately for Toyota, it looks like at this time full-size SUVs and Trucks are not what America really wants.
Vote:The reason this downturn in truck sales is bad for Toyota is mainly due to the fact that they invested a couple of billion dollars in the new Tundra. As a result of this, we suppose now it will take just a few more years to pay off the mortgage for the new factory
May 7th, 2008 at 11:14 am
Recalls for Toyota Corolla & Matrix.
April 9, 2008 – Torrance, CA – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., will launch a safety recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) involving approximately 539,500 Corolla and Matrix vehicles sold in the U.S.
On certain 2003 and 2004 model year Corolla and Matrix vehicles equipped with power windows, the driver and front passenger door glass bolts may loosen and come off, causing the door glass to separate from the window regulator. Vehicles that are equipped with manual windows are not involved in this campaign.
If this condition has occurred on the vehicle – in some cases due to the components becoming loose and possibly rattling – an abnormal noise may be heard from the driver and/or front passenger door when operating the power windows.
Toyota will notify owners of the involved vehicles with a Special Service Campaign letter via first class mail beginning in late April. Owners are requested to contact their local Toyota dealer for diagnosis and repair upon receiving their notification. Replacement of the driver and front passenger door glass bolts will be done at no charge to the owners of the vehicle.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 11:19 am
Gasp! Toyota less than successful?
For all of its success in the U.S., Toyota has been unable to get its upscale Lexus division to be the big player its home markets.
Japanese consumers are apparently drawn more towards the European brands. According to Motor Trend, the German brands’ apparent individuality is a strong selling point.
Further blows towards success came in the form of badge engineering. Three of the original Japanese Lexus offerings (the IS, GS, and SC) were originally offered as Toyota models, and at a lower price point as well.
Though it’s understandable considering that we here in the states have seen similar with the likes of the Land Cruiser/Lexus LX, one must not forget that when Lexus made it’s debut here it offered a car that seemingly had no ties with the “lesser” Toyota. The LS.
Our take? Considering that the brand was originally designed for the US market anyway, the lack of success in Japan may be excused. America after all, is world’s away from any other market.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 11:43 am
OMG SIR “FORD G SERIES” WITH YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE WORLDWIDE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY YOU OBVIOUSLY MUST BE A CEO OF FORD USA OR SOME OTHER LAMEDUCK AUTO.COMPANY THAT HATES ANY OTHER CAR CO. THAT DOES WELL (WHAT IS THE AUSTRALIAN VERSION OF A REDNECK? WHATEVER IT IS MATE YOU ARE IT .YOU W.NKER)GO BACK TO YOUR CLASSROOM BEFORE YOU GET INTO TROUBLE FROM YOUR TEACHER.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 11:58 am
Yep I’m a CEO Sir Dennis, do you hate reading the facts about Toyota recalls and world wide failure, or are u blind like all your toyota mates on this site, prime example: just read dingo’s (Toyoda supporter) redneck dribble, your IQ must come from the same mine’s too, keep digging pal the hole is not deep enough yet…
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
Quite agree on the Lexus thing, mate. The LS400 was only sold in Japan as a Toyota Celsior until only 2 or 3 years ago, when Toyota finally made Lexus open for business in Japan. Same with the IS250, LS300, RX (oops, Toyota Harrier) and SC400.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
O look the teletubbies are still at it, over 100 posts in a hilux topic, lexus make a hilux luxury model do they??
you guys are morons.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 3:36 pm
Ford FG – i can paste and post countless negative articles affecting any automotive manufactuer particularly associated with General Motors, Ford Motor Co or Crysler but at the end of the day – Ford, GM and Crysler are in dire straights while Toyota is in an influential position driven by it’s solid reputation for engineering robust, quality, reliable, dependable and durable motor vehicles and it is people like yourself who are challenged in accept market reality.
In recent times Toyota has certainly been faced with an increase of challenges yet Toyota executives have acknowledged and accepted these flaws and in response have dedicated greater resources in rectifying the problems to ensure future occurances are maintained to a minimal.
Oh yeah – and we all know who have themsleves in deep holes and it certainly isn’t Toyota … is it – NO !!
Recently alone GM has been returning constant heavy losses in the value of billions. Infact, last year alone – GM returned the greatest corporate loss in the history American manufactuering recording a whooping $40 billion blow in one foul swoop. That said, Ford Motor Co hasn’t been doing any better.
In any effort to steamline operations and gain much need financial support – Jaguar and Rover were recently sold while Volvo and Mercury are next to go. In Ausralia – Fairlane gone, L6 to cease and even discussion wether it is viable to maintain the V8 option and this comes on the back of the worst sales for not only for the Falcon and Commodore but for Ford and Holden in general. Today we witness sales strength from Toyota that outsell Holden more then 2 to 1 while Ford plays 3rd fiddle a further distance behind.
geee …. i wonder who has got themselves in a hole !!
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
2007 Leaked Oz Survey :
While Toyota scored ‘above average’ or ‘dominate’ in each and every segment, Holden failed in everything scoring ‘below average’ in every category while Ford didn’t fair much better. Infact, Holden and Ford even scored more wooden spoon awards then any other manufactuer … ooch !!
referance – DRIVE.com, click onto ‘features’ and the topic is listed.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 3:45 pm
2007 RAC Australian National Survey :
While Mazda, Honda and Toyota ranked as the top 3 manufactuers for the least problems and most satisfied customers – Holden and Ford were infact described as ‘below benchmark’ scoring poorly against many of the Japanese and European manufactuers.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 3:51 pm
OH! WHAT A FEELING! TOYOTA! #1 AGAIN (HO HUM)
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 3:59 pm
Official 2007 JD Powers ranking for automotive manufactuers sold in the US :
Lexus – 5 stars
Toyota – 4 stars
Scion – 4 stars
Ford – 3 stars
Vote:GM – 3 Stars
Crysler – 3 stars
May 7th, 2008 at 4:07 pm
I will repeat the same dribble like you do Dingo whether my posts are cut and paste or not, people need to know what is happening with Toyota’s global market which is substantially bigger than OZ.
Caradvice don’t give us the global news so I will step in and “make hail while the sun shines” we don’t care about your stupid Nascar results and you forget Toyota has flooded the series with Camrys just so they recieve some false recognition, do any production Camry’s come with V8′ whooooops no what pathetic way to advertise a vehicle.
Ford is not in dire straits fool, they are on a come back restructuring markets and vehicle quality which I might add is much higher than Toyota at present.. as Toyota grows bigger the more problems they will face, funny theory, for me though every Toyota built is bland boring motoring selling face value not genuine like Ford, in the end Ford has more history, more race wins, more reputation, more value, more respect, something dingo Toyo supporter lacks..
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 4:11 pm
When Lexus was originally formed, it had many ties with Toyota but in recent years those links have been lessened to further distant the two brands apart which has been successful at the least. Infact, the corporate structure of Toyota and Lexus today are now completely individual with each having to justify it’s own exsistance and that means Lexus is now sold in Japan and not as a Toyota.
Today, the most popular luxury brand in the world’s largest market – USA – Lexus is comfortably the leading luxury/prestiage brand which is now regarded as one of the greatest automotive brands of all established upon it’s reputation for engineering impeccable quality motor vehicles. Infact, the CRATSMANSHIP of a typical Lexus is arguably the best in the world.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 4:46 pm
Ford FG – just to prove how much of a clown you truely are, you claim the quality of a Ford is higher then that of Toyota which is nothing short of total rot and my comment is backed and supported by countless amounts of quality/customer satisfaction surveys all over the world.
You truely do live in la, la, land with the fairies.
Ford or GM are not renouned for engineering quality motor vehicles. Infact, some of the most disgraceful and troublesome vehicles to have ever graced the road have come from General Motors and Ford and today is not much different.
With regards to ‘paste and post’ – you aknowledge as much as myself i can follow suit with countless examples of negative and down grading articles on either Ford, GM or Crysler for that matter but i need not to because we all know who has got themslves into that big hole of sh*t and it ain’t Toyota by a long shot.
Face value … what sort of rot is that !!
Ford is suffering miserably today because the world finally came to it’s senses and relised how poor quality, unreliable and troublesome they really are with much, much better cars able to be purchased elsewhere and that’s exactly what the market has decided to do. That said, they really sucked hard when it came to monitoring the shifting market and reacted when change had long began not to mention corporate incompetance.
Market Reality must be killing your aspirations … oooch !!
The greatest judge of all – The Market – is the undisputable telling factor of all and you hate it with a passion that Toyota is screwing your beloved Holdens and Ford right up the ar*e with a whooping size 20 steel capped boot and it tears your heart out … doesn’t it.
Get used to it because ain’t gonna change anytime soon.
With regards to Toyota’s hassles in recent times, i agree because they grew to quickly but in-defense to that, Toyota executives have acknowledged the exact thing and have stated that greater resoures and attention will be dedicated to fix the current issues and ensure repeats are comfortably controlled in the future.
If there is any current automotive manufactuer in the world that has the talent, expertise, resources, wealth and corporate brains to achieve such results – Toyota would unarguably have to be the choice.
They are taking the challenge to far more markets in the world then any other automotive manufactuer that exsists today and generally have been having a win bar a few problems that require additional attention but once those have been fixed – watch out because Toyota will not be playing for second place.
The days of Ford and GM ruling the motoring world are long over and apart from Toyota surging forward in a vicious (spelling)manner, so are many other manufactuers.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 5:01 pm
Better still – if Ford has more respect, more reputation and more value … then please ‘o’ please tell the rest of bloggers why thier sales suck so much today not to mention that Toyota now outsells Ford on its own territory in the US while selling about 2.5 cars to Fords 1 in Australia.
Gee wiz Ford FG … you really are in a spin !!
With referance to NASCAR – who cares if it is a Camry, Yaris or even an electric Prius because fact is, Toyota is having wins not to mention arguably the most competitive brand in NASCAR at the moment winning exactly 50% of all events completed this year alone while Chevy, Ford and Dodge between them make up the other 50% …. oooch !!
oh yeah – how is that hole going, getting bigger !!
I’ll tell what – when you do hit rock bottom like Ford Oz, i’ll drag you out with a hanky … he, he, he !!
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 5:07 pm
Ford FG – did you know that the Toyota Way (Kaizen) is studied all over the world by university students not to mention is becoming increasingly adopted by more and more corporations throughout the world including the company i am employed by – Rio Tinto.
Walk around the offices of a Rio Tinto biulding and Kaizen is posted everywhere.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 5:09 pm
YEEEHAAAAA!!!!
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 5:10 pm
COP THAT FORD “G” BOY.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 5:11 pm
Ooops – i forget to correct you on Camry’s flooding NASCAR.
AGAIN … just to prove how little you know because your head floats around with the fairies, Chevy and Ford by far have many, many more cars in the series then what Toyota does so do some quality research and pass factual comment instead of utter rot.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 5:17 pm
Ford G Boy – what’s the odds that the FG will revive Ford’s declining fortunes… my bet, jack all.
The Mondeo comes to market and Ford states they will sell 500 per month but they haven’t even be able to achieve 400 yet.
Better still, i remember when the Holden Epica was launched people taunted that it will be the Camry killer but today it is undoubtedly one of the biggest flops of all in modern times.
Fairdinkum – you clowns have got nothing.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 5:19 pm
Hoorah Dingos back!!!!
FORD G SERIES U ROCK!!!
Bogans,Teletubbies,Hankies etc Love it.LOL.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 5:27 pm
Dingo, Mondeo sales have only been held back by supply, not demand. Demand and sales are strong.
Clearly you have been doing all jacking lately.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 5:33 pm
u’ll find dingo is wrong on many issues but that doesn’t deter him. He is just one Toyota lovin mother !!!
Probably why the Chinese Government will end up owning Rio Tinto eventually.LOL.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Gotta love Toyota. Give commonsense a mystical name,patent it and then sell it to other companies. Perhaps they should just copy and not pay for it i.e ignore the patent just like Toyota did years ago when they copied British and German car makes.
Vote:May 7th, 2008 at 6:06 pm
Bret – WRONG !!
Ford stated that they will be able supply 500 Mondeo units per month but to date have Not even cracked 400 per month.
Pretend Cars – the market speaks and i am loving with a passion.
OH WHAT A FEELING … TOYOTA !!
Vote:May 8th, 2008 at 1:06 am
Ford Passes Toyota in J.D. Power Initial Quality Rankings – Car News June 2007
Ford supplanted Toyota—taking the top spot in five of 19 segments—in the 2007 Initial Quality Survey (IQS) by J.D. Power and Associates.
Ford earned segment awards for the Ford Mustang, Lincoln Mark LT, Lincoln MKZ, Mercury Milan and Mazda MX-5 Miata. Mazda is 33.4 percent owned by Ford.
Toyota, which grabbed the top spot in 11 segments last year, captured only four in 2007 4Runner, Sequoia, Tacoma and Lexus RX350/RX400h.
Porsche again dominated the overall ranking of brands, averaging 91 problems per 100 vehicles as it had last year. That compared with a 2007 industry average of 125 problems per 100 vehicles. Last year it was 124.
Ford’s Lincoln brand jumped from 12th in 2006 to third in overall nameplate rankings, averaging 100 problems per 100 vehicles. It was behind Porsche.
For the study, Westlake Village, Calif.-based J.D. Power collected responses from more than 97,000 buyers and lessees of new 2007 model year vehicles after 90 days of ownership. This year’s survey included 228 questions and asked for information specifically about design and production, such as defects and malfunctions.
Vote:May 8th, 2008 at 7:38 am
Late 2007 USA Consumer Choice Awards :
While Toyota recieved some critism with faults recorded with the Tundra Truck and V6 Camry, they still managed to rank all 3 of it’s subsidaries sold in the world’s largests market – Toyota, Lexus and Scion – within the top 6 meaning Toyota occupied half of the first 6 positions alone.
Ford managed to rank 13th, 14th and 15th respectively while Buick (or was that Caddy) for General Motors ranked 10th but with all remaining GM subsidaries perfroming poorly ranging from ‘mid to end of field’ only.
Vote:May 8th, 2008 at 7:49 am
Freak show. Toyota “wont” stay top of mouintain as you believe always or for many a year.
Vote:May 19th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
Dingo, nope your’e wrong (yet again…….). Ford’s estimation of the model mix was wrong, the demand for the Mondeo is strong, but customers want a specific model (Deisel), and are holding out for increased supply of the model that they want. No matter how you want to spin it, Mondeo sales are restricted buy supply issues. (And Ford have vowed to address the shipping model mix).
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