The car in question is a 2003 Land Cruiser Prado, that is J120 series. Currently at 220k miles with original struts, engine, transmission and everything. Second owner and owned it since 30k miles. But the 3 drive transmission is clunking mad when putting into gears. It keeps dripping oil every now and then. Most of the driving is either offroad or in the city. The engine has a ticking sound when idle but as I heard it, the 1GR-FE engines naturally develop this sound around this milage. Never missed an oil change and did transmission fluid at 100k-200k. I was wondering if I could ditch this 3 drive transmission and upgrade it with the 5 drive for more fuel economy? If not possible, I believe it is time to depart from this beautiful car. Thanks in advance.
They are nice cars (or better say truck), but unfortunately, as they age, they cost a lot to maintain. If I were you, I would sell the car since it seems to need lots of money for repair and buy another Toyota.
@yaser
I agree with you that the car will certainly start to cost more to maintain as time goes on. But when I take a look at second hand market where I live, a 2015 land cruiser 3.0 liter diesel with 54k miles on it costs 130.000 US dollars. This is pretty crazy imo as I've also looked up how much my car goes for and 2003-2007 land cruiser with the 1GR-FEs are sold around 35-39.000 US dollars. And If I was to sell this car I'm afraid I would not be able to replace it with anything that's close to its performance. This concerns me a lot.
That's why I said go and look for another Toyota. I understand that the Landcruisers are top of the line for off roading, but most of the time you do not need that. Do you?
If you really need similar performance, look for a Toyota Sequoia. If not, consider Toyota 4runner as well. They are solid built trucks and do not cost as near as the Land cruisers for repairs.