2008 Toyota Land Cruiser

The 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser is a full-size SUV known for its off-road capability, reliability, and luxurious features. It came standard with a 5.7L V8 engine producing 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. People generally love the Land Cruiser for its durability, go-anywhere attitude, and comfortable ride. Common complaints center around its poor fuel economy, large size making it hard to park, and relatively high price, even on the used market.

Engine

5.7L V8 (3UR-FE)

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, leading to a burning oil smell and potential oil loss.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Injection Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with codes related to the secondary air injection system. This system helps reduce emissions during cold starts, and failure can result in reduced engine performance and a noisy start-up.
  • Solution: Replace the air injection pump or bypass the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially when the engine is cold, that lessens as the engine warms up. Can lead to exhaust leaks and reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (AB60E/F)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially under light acceleration. Can also cause harsh shifting.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one side, compressor running constantly, or suspension malfunction warning light. The air suspension provides a smooth ride and allows for height adjustment, but is prone to leaks and compressor failures.
  • Solution: Replace air struts, air compressor, or height sensors as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per component
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hydraulic Suspension Problems (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks around the dampeners, reduced ride quality, or the system not working properly.
  • Solution: Replace dampeners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or displays incorrect information. This issue is more common in older models due to outdated software and hardware.
  • Solution: Software update (if available), or replace the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly, erratically, or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the frame, suspension components, and other undercarriage parts, especially in regions with road salt. This can compromise structural integrity.
  • Solution: Rust removal and undercoating, or component replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in hot and sunny climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard cover installation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Driver seat heater failing
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heater not working properly or not at all
  • Solution: Repair the electrical connection or replace the heating element
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any car of its age, it’s prone to certain issues. The most common problems include engine-related issues like valve cover gasket leaks and air injection pump failure, suspension problems, electrical issues, and rust. The severity of these issues varies, and repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for more significant repairs like suspension or transmission work. Prospective buyers should have the vehicle inspected thoroughly, especially for rust and air suspension issues.