Thinking about buying a used Toyota Allex (1983–2023) in New Zealand? We've documented 47 known faults for this model spanning engine, body & rust, cooling, and electrical. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated critical. Two are set out in full below — the rest, with the symptoms, repair costs and checks for each, are free with an account.
47
Documented faults
Critical
Most serious
$450–$1,800
Typical repair
7
Systems covered
Known Toyota Allex faults
Every fault below is documented specifically for this model — researched and verified before it’s published.
012ZZ-GE VVTL-i Valve Lifter Failure at High RPM
CriticalCommonEngine $3,500–$15,000 to fix
The 2ZZ-GE engine fitted to ZZE123 models uses a two-stage variable valve lift system (VVTL-i) that engages a secondary high-lift rocker at approximately 6200 rpm. The high-lift finger follower pins and their associated oil passages can become starved of lubrication — particularly in engines with deferred oil changes or low oil level — causing the lifter pins to seize or shatter when the VVTL system attempts to engage. The resulting mechanical failure destroys cam lobes, rocker arms, and valve stems, and frequently drops debris into the oil sump, requiring full engine replacement or an expensive rebuild.
Symptoms to notice
Sudden loss of power or misfire when engine crosses approximately 6200 rpm under load
Harsh metallic rattling or knocking from the top of the engine at high rpm
Check Engine light with misfire codes (P0300–P0304) at high-load operating points
With engine warm, briefly rev to the VVTL crossover point (around 6200 rpm) and listen for a sudden rattle, loss of power, or misfire. Pull the oil filler cap and inspect for metallic glitter in the oil. Check service history for oil change intervals — intervals beyond 5000 km significantly increase risk. Inspect the valve cover area for oil leaks that indicate gasket distortion from overheating.
Where to look: Top of the 2ZZ-GE engine; valve train on the cylinder head, specifically the high-lift rocker arm assembly on both intake and exhaust camshafts
Ask the seller
“Has the engine ever been opened or rebuilt, and do you have receipts?”
“What oil change intervals were followed — was it always within 5000 km?”
“Does the car rev freely past 6000 rpm without noise or hesitation?”
“Has the VVTL system ever been serviced or the rocker assembly inspected?”
02Electric Power Steering Rack Internal Rattle and Knock
MinorCommonSuspension $180–$1,800 to fix
The ZRE142 Corolla's electric power steering (EPS) rack uses a recirculating ball-nut assembly assisted by an electric motor and reduction gear. The rack bush and yoke adjuster wear over time, allowing the rack to develop internal axial play that produces a knocking or rattling noise transmitted through the steering column and floor. In addition, the EPS motor's internal reduction gear can develop backlash, creating a steering wander complaint alongside the mechanical noise. Replacement of the yoke spring and adjuster can resolve early-stage rattle, but advanced wear requires rack replacement.
Symptoms to notice
Clunking or knocking from the steering rack area when hitting small bumps or transitioning from left to right lock
Light rattling noise from beneath the dashboard transmitted through the steering column at low speeds on rough surfaces
Slight free-play or dead-spot detectable at the steering wheel centre position
What to check
With the vehicle stationary on a flat surface, rock the steering wheel briskly left and right through a small arc and listen for knocking from beneath the dashboard or from the front subframe area. Have an assistant observe the steering rack under the bonnet while you move the wheel. Check for play between the steering wheel input and the tyre response — a lag or knock on reversal indicates rack wear.
Where to look: Steering rack mounted across the subframe behind the engine, with EPS motor on the steering column
Ask the seller
“Does the steering knock or rattle over rough surfaces or speed bumps?”
“Has any steering rack or EPS work been carried out?”
“Is there any dead-spot or vagueness when steering through a corner?”
EngineCritical
Body & RustCritical
CoolingCritical
EngineCritical
ElectricalCritical
CoolingCritical
EngineCritical
SuspensionCritical
TransmissionMajor
TransmissionMajor
ElectricalMajor
TransmissionMajor
TransmissionMajor
EngineMajor
ElectricalMajor
EngineMajor
TransmissionMajor
ElectricalMajor
EngineMajor
TransmissionMajor
EngineMajor
EngineMajor
EngineMajor
SuspensionMajor
TransmissionMajor
EngineMajor
EngineMajor
EngineMajor
TransmissionMajor
SuspensionMajor
EngineMajor
SuspensionMajor
SuspensionMajor
BrakesMajor
ElectricalMajor
BrakesMajor
BrakesMajor
ElectricalMinor
EngineMinor
BrakesMinor
SuspensionMinor
EngineMinor
SuspensionMinor
EngineMinor
EngineMinor
45 more documented faults on the Toyota Allex
Symptoms, what to check, where to look and what to ask the seller — for every fault above. Free with an account, no card needed. One account covers one vehicle, so make it the car you’re actually looking at.
This page covers the model. Enter the plate of the actual car you’re looking at and see its year, engine, safety rating and register flags — free, no account needed.
Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 47 documented faults for the Toyota Allex, the recurring problem areas are engine, body & rust, and cooling. A Toyota Allex with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.
What are the most common problems with a used Toyota Allex?
+
We've catalogued 47 known faults for the Toyota Allex, covering engine, body & rust, and cooling. Two are written out in full on this page. The rest — with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each — are free once you create an account.
How much do repairs cost on a Toyota Allex?
+
Most single repairs on the Toyota Allex fall between $450–$1,800 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 47 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Toyota Allex?
+
Yes. A Toyota Allex inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $17.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.