Given the xB’s relatively short existence and low sales volume in our market, reliability data is somewhat scarce-- though as Toyota products tend to go, the xB appears to be a fairly solid ride. No major issues were apparent with major vehicle systems, though some common sense and a thorough inspection should still be considered mandatory when shopping.
Take a walk around the vehicle to inspect for rust, dents, paint chips or other blemishes that may help you negotiate a lower price. Be sure to have a look beneath the vehicle for signs of excessive rust or leaks, too. Try the rear hatchback release, which seems to be fairly prone to breaking off or failing.
Check the level and condition of all fluids under the hood, and be sure to double-check the condition of the clutch on models equipped with a manual transmission. Any sensation of clutch ‘slipping’ during high-load, low-RPM situations could indicate that the clutch is nearing the end of its useful life.
On a flat and straight stretch of highway, be sure to ‘feel’ for steering pull to either side of the road, which could indicate an alignment problem or unevenly worn tires. Test the brakes lightly, moderately and aggressively, ensuring the vehicle stops sharply and in a straight line each time. Remember that if the brake pedal feels excessively soft, travels to the floor or exhibits pulsation during any of the above stopping manoeuvres, a brake-job is likely on your horizon.
If you’re not the mechanically inclined type, arrange to have the xB you’re considering inspected by a qualified mechanic. On a hoist, said mechanic can quickly inspect the condition of the used xB’s tires, brakes, suspension, engine and chassis, ensuring that no major repairs are lurking in the vehicles immediate future. A pre-purchase check up should run under $200 and take around an hour to complete. It’s a small investment, especially considering it could save you money by revealing an expensive repair that’s lurking in the shadows.
Ultimately, shoppers settling on a nicely-priced, well cared-for xB should find it a unique little machine that’s big on utility and uniqueness. If you’re after something slightly more familiar and proven, vehicles like the Honda Element and Nissan Cube are worth checking out, too.
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| Photo: Toyota |
Take a walk around the vehicle to inspect for rust, dents, paint chips or other blemishes that may help you negotiate a lower price. Be sure to have a look beneath the vehicle for signs of excessive rust or leaks, too. Try the rear hatchback release, which seems to be fairly prone to breaking off or failing.
Check the level and condition of all fluids under the hood, and be sure to double-check the condition of the clutch on models equipped with a manual transmission. Any sensation of clutch ‘slipping’ during high-load, low-RPM situations could indicate that the clutch is nearing the end of its useful life.
On a flat and straight stretch of highway, be sure to ‘feel’ for steering pull to either side of the road, which could indicate an alignment problem or unevenly worn tires. Test the brakes lightly, moderately and aggressively, ensuring the vehicle stops sharply and in a straight line each time. Remember that if the brake pedal feels excessively soft, travels to the floor or exhibits pulsation during any of the above stopping manoeuvres, a brake-job is likely on your horizon.
If you’re not the mechanically inclined type, arrange to have the xB you’re considering inspected by a qualified mechanic. On a hoist, said mechanic can quickly inspect the condition of the used xB’s tires, brakes, suspension, engine and chassis, ensuring that no major repairs are lurking in the vehicles immediate future. A pre-purchase check up should run under $200 and take around an hour to complete. It’s a small investment, especially considering it could save you money by revealing an expensive repair that’s lurking in the shadows.
Ultimately, shoppers settling on a nicely-priced, well cared-for xB should find it a unique little machine that’s big on utility and uniqueness. If you’re after something slightly more familiar and proven, vehicles like the Honda Element and Nissan Cube are worth checking out, too.
 |
| Photo: Toyota |
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