Used buying guide · Mid-size van · campervan conversions and Japanese imports
The Hiace has a reputation for lasting forever, and many Japanese-import Hiace campers are on UK roads. The diesel injectors and rust are the main things to check.
This guide covers the Toyota Hiace problems owners report most often on used vans and campervans, what each one looks like on a viewing and what to ask the seller. Not every van will have them. But knowing where to look stops you paying for someone else’s repair bill.
Engines you’ll find: 2.4 and 2.5 D-4D diesel, plus petrol on Japanese imports
What goes wrong on a used Toyota Hiace
1. Injector and injector seal problems on the 2.5 D-4D
The 2.5 D-4D is known for injector faults and leaking injector seals that cause a chuffing noise, smoke and rough running. Ask about any injector work.
2. Rust on older vans
Look for rust on the wheel arches, sills, door bottoms and chassis, especially on imports that were not under-sealed for UK roads.
3. Timing belt history
Many Hiace diesels use a timing belt. Ask for proof it has been changed on schedule.
4. Import paperwork
If it is a Japanese import, check the V5C, chassis number and any import records, and confirm the mileage is in miles or kilometres.
5. Cab-over servicing access
Older Hiaces have the engine under the cab, which makes some jobs harder and dearer. Check the service history, not just the mileage.
Our tip: On an import, check the speedometer reads in miles. Some show kilometres, which makes the mileage look lower than it is.
These are problems commonly reported by owners, garages and the motoring press. They are not a diagnosis of any particular van. A van with a full service history and the right repairs already done can be a very good buy.
Checking the conversion as well as the van
On a campervan or motorhome, the living area can cost as much to put right as the engine. Whichever base vehicle you choose, check these before you buy:
- Damp readings around windows, rooflights, lockers and the floor. Damp is the most expensive hidden problem in a camper.
- Gas appliances light and work, and the regulator hose is in date.
- Leisure battery, 12V system and mains hook-up all work and look professionally installed.
- Water pump, taps and tanks do not leak.
- Any added seats have proper fixings and belts, and the V5C body type matches the conversion for insurance.
- A pop-top or high-top roof does not leak, and the mechanism works.
Before you pay for a used Toyota Hiace
- Check the history. Run the free MOT history check online and look for mileage gaps and repeat advisories. Pay for a full history check for finance, theft and write-off markers.
- Match the paperwork. The seller’s ID, the V5C and the VIN on the van should all match. Be wary of a seller who is selling for someone else.
- See it running from cold. Ask the seller not to start it before you arrive. Many faults show up in the first few minutes.
- Never send a deposit unseen. Pay only at handover, by bank transfer, once you have the keys and the V5C.
Can’t get there to see it? We’ll check it for you
SafeBuy views campervans and motorhomes for buyers across the UK. We check the seller and paperwork against the V5C, run a history and finance check, walk you round the Toyota Hiace on a live video call and send you a photo report. Add our Habitation Check and we take damp readings throughout and test the gas, electrics, battery and water.
Viewing & Verify
£149 + travel
Seller and document checks, history and finance check, live video walk-round and photo report.
Viewing + Habitation Check
£299 + travel
Everything above plus damp readings and checks of the gas, electrics, battery and water.
Drive It Home
By mileage
If you buy it, we drive it to your door. Fixed quote before you commit.
A viewing is not a full mechanical inspection. We report what we can see and measure on the day, so you can decide with the facts in front of you. See the areas we cover.
Other buying guides
Looking at more than one van? Read our guides to Mazda Bongo common problems and VW Transporter common problems, or see every model we cover.
Questions about buying a Toyota Hiace
What are the most common problems with a used Toyota Hiace?
The problems reported most often are: Injector and injector seal problems on the 2.5 D-4D; Rust on older vans; Timing belt history; Import paperwork; and Cab-over servicing access. Not every van will have them, so check the service history and see the van running from cold.
Is a Toyota Hiace a good base for a campervan?
It can be. Toyota Hiace vans are widely used for campervan conversions and Japanese imports. The best buys have a full service history, a professionally fitted conversion and no damp in the living area.
Can SafeBuy check a Toyota Hiace before I buy it?
Yes. We view the van for you, check the seller and paperwork, walk you round it on a live video call and can test the living area with our Habitation Check. Prices start at £149 plus travel.
Seen one for sale? We’ll check the Toyota Hiace for you
Send us the advert and we’ll reply within one working day with a fixed quote to view it for you.