Hybrid system health
Hybrid batteries usually last well, but warning lights, poor fuel economy or the engine running constantly can point to battery or inverter problems.
Used Toyota inspection
Toyota pre-purchase inspection
Toyotas have a well-earned reputation for reliability, and that’s why buyers sometimes skip the checks. A tired hybrid battery, a missing catalytic converter or an older diesel with head gasket trouble still costs real money.
We inspect used Toyotas, including hybrids, at dealers and private sellers.
Known problems
What goes wrong on a used Toyota
Common on Yaris, Corolla, Auris, C-HR, RAV4, Prius, Hilux. Not every car has these faults. They're what we look for.
Catalytic converter theft
Toyota hybrids are a common target for catalytic converter theft. We check it’s there and look for signs of a cheap replacement.
Head gaskets on older D-4D diesels
The 2.0 and 2.2 D-4D diesels from about 2005 to 2009 (Avensis, RAV4, Auris) are known for head gasket failure.
Chassis rust on older Hilux
Older Hilux pick-ups can suffer serious chassis corrosion. Look underneath.
Oil consumption on older petrols
Some older 1.8 VVT-i petrol engines from the early 2000s can burn oil.
Our inspection
What we check on every used Toyota
On top of our standard checklist of up to 180 points.
- Hybrid warning lights and how the system switches between engine and battery
- Catalytic converter present and properly fitted
- Coolant loss and signs of head gasket trouble on diesels
- Corrosion underneath, especially on pick-ups and 4x4s
- OBD2 scan for stored and cleared codes
- Service history, which can extend Toyota’s warranty cover
Prices
Toyota inspection prices
Fixed prices, the same for every make and model.
Basic110-point · No road test£69.99
Full135-point · Road test up to 10 miles£99.99
Premium160-point · Road test up to 15 miles£139.99
Ultimate180-point · Road test up to 20 miles£169.99
Questions
Toyota inspection FAQs
How long do Toyota hybrid batteries last?
Many go well past 150,000 miles. Toyota can also extend hybrid battery cover after a health check at a dealer, so service history matters. We check for warnings and how the system behaves.
Is it worth inspecting a reliable car like a Toyota?
Yes. Reliability doesn’t mean the individual car has been looked after. We often find worn brakes, tyres and suspension, and cars with crash repairs.
How much does a used Toyota inspection cost?
From £69.99 for Basic up to £169.99 for Ultimate. The price is fixed, with no travel charge, in London.
Can you inspect a used Toyota at the dealer or a private seller?
Yes. The inspector comes to wherever the car is, on a forecourt or at the seller’s home or workplace. You don’t need to be there.
RevXpress is an independent inspection company and isn't connected to Toyota. Faults listed are common patterns reported for these cars, not a sign that any particular car has them.
Other makes