Toyota2003–2017 Critical issues documented

Toyota Wish ZE10: common faults & what to check

The ZE10 is the Toyota Wish built 2003–2010. It was sold here with the 1.8L petrol (1ZZ-FE) and 2.0L petrol (1AZ-FSE). Of the 32 faults documented for the Wish, 19 apply to this generation, each with its symptoms, what to inspect and a typical repair cost. Free, no account needed.

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Documented faults

Critical

Most serious

$400–$1,400

Typical repair

Service milestones

You're looking at the ZE10

2 engine variants are documented for this generation. Pick yours to narrow further, or keep reading for the generation as a whole.

Toyota Wish, ZE10 (2003–2010) (KickTyres illustration)

2003–2010ZE10 Selected2003–2010ZE101.8L petrol (1ZZ-FE)PetrolDocumented issues13 knownSee faults & what to checkKickTyres illustration, not a photograph.

2003–2010ZE10 Selected2003–2010ZE102.0L petrol (1AZ-FSE)PetrolDocumented issues17 knownSee faults & what to checkKickTyres illustration, not a photograph.

Choose a different generation

Now narrow it to the engine

A 1.8 and a 2.4 of the same car do not fail the same way, so the faults below narrow to the engine as well as the year. Free, no account needed.

Which engine is in it?

1.8L petrol (1ZZ-FE)· 1.8 litre petrol 2.0L petrol (1AZ-FSE)· 2.0 litre petrol

A 2003 Toyota Wish is the ZE10 generation (2003 to 2010).

Start your free check on this Toyota Wish

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Toyota Wish ZE10Engine not picked yet

Pick the engine above first: the Wish came with 2, and without it the report has to show all of their faults. Pick the engine

Can't confirm for this car

Toyota Wish · 2003

Narrowed to the year. No engine is recorded for this vehicle. Pick an engine to see which faults apply.

Tell us the engine, or check the engine code on the car, before relying on this.

No engine is recorded for this vehicle.

matched on year only

What to look out for

The checks worth doing on a Toyota Wish before you hand over any money. Every documented fault is listed below, each with its own page.

Costly issue
Visually inspect the bush for radial cracking, rubber extrusion beyond the sleeve flange, or complete rubber separation.
See why
Front Lower Control Arm Bush Deterioration
The front lower control arms on both ZE10 and ZE20 Wish models use rubber-bonded bushes at both the forward pivot and the rear subframe attachment point. The rear bush experiences combined torsional and lateral loading and typically fails first, with the rubber compound cracking and separating from its steel inner sleeve. The failure is accelerated by Australasian road conditions and is often not discovered until WOF inspection reveals excessive movement. A collapsed bush allows the front wheel camber and toe to shift under braking and cornering loads, causing the car to wander and pull unpredictably.
What you would notice
- Steering wanders or pulls to one side under braking, with the pull direction varying between braking events
- Clunking from the front suspension over sharp bumps or when reversing on a steep camber, localised to the front lower arm area
Typically $350–$750 to put right.
Costly issue
Check rear tyre wear pattern closely — feathering or inner-edge wear is a reliable indicator.
See why
Rear Independent Suspension Trailing Arm Bush Wear
The Wish uses a multi-link rear independent suspension across both ZNE10 and ZGE20 generations. The trailing arm rubber bushes deteriorate with age and mileage, allowing the rear trailing arms to move outside their designed arc. This causes rear-end imprecision, rapid uneven tyre wear, and handling instability. Failure is progressive and often goes unnoticed until tyre wear becomes severe.
What you would notice
- Rear end feels loose or imprecise in corners
- Uneven or accelerated tyre wear on rear axle (inner or outer edge)
- Clunking from rear suspension when traversing bumps or dips
- Vehicle pulls or wanders under braking
Typically $400–$900 to put right.
Costly issue
Inspect boot for splitting.
See why
Front Lower Arm Ball Joint Wear
Front lower arm ball joints wear causing clunking and handling imprecision.
What you would notice
- Clunking from front suspension over bumps
- Imprecise handling when cornering
Typically $300–$700 to put right.
Costly issue
Scan for EPS fault codes.
See why
Electric Power Steering Failure
EPS system can develop a fault causing loss of power assistance.
What you would notice
- Sudden loss of power steering assistance with EPS warning light
- Heavy steering requiring effort at low speeds
Typically $600–$2,000 to put right.
Common issue
Open the tailgate to its full height and release — it should hold itself open without any support.
See why
Rear Hatch Gas Strut Failure & Tailgate Drop
The AZE10 Wish rear tailgate is held open by two gas struts that lose internal pressure with age, causing the tailgate to slowly drop or fall without warning once released. At minimum this is a repeated inconvenience when loading the boot; at worst the heavy glass-laden tailgate can fall rapidly causing head or arm injury to a person standing in the opening. The condition is near-universal on examples that have not had struts replaced, typically by 12 to 15 years of age. Replacement struts from OEM or quality aftermarket suppliers are widely available in NZ.
What you would notice
- Tailgate will not hold itself open without manual support
- Hatch drops slowly or falls suddenly when raised
- Strut shafts feel loose or offer minimal resistance when pushed by hand
- Oil seepage visible on strut shaft indicating internal seal failure
Typically $120–$350 to put right.
Common issue
Cycle both sliding doors multiple times.
See why
Power Sliding Door Cable Failure
Wish power sliding door cables fray at guide pulleys causing slow or stuck door operation.
What you would notice
- Sliding door slowing or stopping partway through open or close operation
- Unusual motor noise or grinding during door operation
Typically $350–$1,400 to put right.

Toyota Wish service schedule

The 3 engines a 2003 Toyota Wish was sold with, each with its own intervals. Pick your engine above to narrow this to one. These are the model’s intervals — the car’s own service book is the only thing that can tell you what has actually been done to it.

First Generation (Mk1) · 2003–2009 · 1.8L 1ZZ-FE

Petrol

Due by distance

150,000 km
Make sure the main cooling system hoses and the radiator have been checked for brittleness.
200,000 km
Check suspension parts such as the strut mounts and control arm bushings for play.
250,000 km
Give the alternator and starter motor a thorough check, as parts of this age may be near the end of their life.

First Generation (Mk1) · 2003–2009 · 1.8L 1ZZ-FE

Petrol

Due by distance

150,000 km
Flush the cooling system, as the plastic radiator tanks on older Toyotas go brittle.
200,000 km
Plan a check of the engine mounts; vibration at idle usually means the rubber has finally had enough.
250,000 km
Check the alternator and starter motor brushes, which commonly need attention after years of New Zealand use.

First Generation (Mk1) · 2003–2009 · 2.0L 1AZ-FSE

Petrol

Due by distance

150,000 km
Check the suspension bushings and engine mounts for perishing.
200,000 km
Fuel system parts and the alternator often want a professional diagnostic check at this stage.
250,000 km
From here, keeping an eye on the cooling system hoses and the radiator becomes a priority.

See all 19 issues for this oneDocumented for the exact year and engine you picked, including 3 rated critical.

Electrical3

01Electric Power Steering Failure

Scan for EPS fault codes.2003–2009Electrical$600–$2,000

OccasionalElectrical $600–$2,000 to fix

EPS system can develop a fault causing loss of power assistance.

Symptoms to notice

Sudden loss of power steering assistance with EPS warning light
Heavy steering requiring effort at low speeds

What to check

Scan for EPS fault codes.
Test steering — any heavy or inconsistent feel indicates a fault.

Where to look: EPS column motor and control unit

Parts involved: Steering rack.

Ask the seller

“Has the electric power steering failure been inspected or repaired?”

02Power Sliding Door Cable Failure

Cycle both sliding doors multiple times.2003–2009Electrical$350–$1,400

CommonElectrical $350–$1,400 to fix

Wish power sliding door cables fray at guide pulleys causing slow or stuck door operation.

Symptoms to notice

Sliding door slowing or stopping partway through open or close operation
Unusual motor noise or grinding during door operation

What to check

Cycle both sliding doors multiple times. Listen for grinding or slowing. Doors that stop mid-travel confirm cable or motor wear.

Where to look: Power sliding door mechanisms both sides

Ask the seller

“Has the power sliding door cable failure been inspected or repaired?”

03Electric Power Steering Rack Rattle and Mounting Knocking

The ANE11/ZNE10 Wish uses a column-assist electric power steering system where the motor drives a worm gear on the steering column.petrol2003–2009Electrical$350–$1,200

CommonElectrical $350–$1,200 to fix

The ANE11/ZNE10 Wish uses a column-assist electric power steering system where the motor drives a worm gear on the steering column. The rack-and-pinion itself sits on two rubber mount bushes bolted to the front subframe; these bushes deteriorate and allow the rack housing to shift under steering load, producing a knocking or rattling noise from the front of the cabin. A separate but concurrent failure involves wear in the column EPS motor coupling, which transmits a clunk or rattle through the steering wheel rim during low-speed parking manoeuvres; this can be misdiagnosed as a suspension fault. Both failures result in imprecise steering feel and customer-perceived safety concerns that require workshop diagnosis to isolate correctly.

Symptoms to notice

Clunking or knocking sound from the front cabin area during slow parking turns
Rattle from below the dashboard or front subframe when driving over rough surfaces
EPS warning lamp illuminating intermittently, particularly in cold or wet weather
Steering feel that becomes vague or requires more effort on one side of centre

What to check

With the vehicle stationary and the engine running, turn the wheel slowly lock-to-lock and listen for a knocking, clunking, or grating sound from the footwell or below the front of the car. Inspect the EPS motor wiring connector at the column for corrosion or chafing. Check for EPS warning lamp or codes C1511–C1515 in Toyota-specific scan data. If a workshop inspection is possible: On a hoist, grasp the rack housing and attempt to move it relative to the subframe; any movement indicates failed rack mount bushes.

Where to look: Steering rack mounted to front subframe below the engine bay; EPS motor and coupling on the steering column behind the dashboard

Parts involved: Steering rack.

Ask the seller

“Does the steering make any knocking or clunking noise when you park at low speed?”
“Has the EPS warning light ever come on?”
“Have the steering rack mounting bushes been replaced or inspected?”

Body, brakes, suspension & interior5

04Rear Independent Suspension Trailing Arm Bush Wear

Check rear tyre wear pattern closely — feathering or inner-edge wear is a reliable indicator.petrol2003–2017Suspension$400–$900

CommonSuspension $400–$900 to fix

The Wish uses a multi-link rear independent suspension across both ZNE10 and ZGE20 generations. The trailing arm rubber bushes deteriorate with age and mileage, allowing the rear trailing arms to move outside their designed arc. This causes rear-end imprecision, rapid uneven tyre wear, and handling instability. Failure is progressive and often goes unnoticed until tyre wear becomes severe.

Symptoms to notice

Rear end feels loose or imprecise in corners
Uneven or accelerated tyre wear on rear axle (inner or outer edge)
Clunking from rear suspension when traversing bumps or dips
Vehicle pulls or wanders under braking

What to check

Check rear tyre wear pattern closely — feathering or inner-edge wear is a reliable indicator. Bounce-test each rear corner and listen for clunking. If a workshop inspection is possible: On a hoist, inspect trailing arm bush rubber for cracking, deformation, or separation from the steel sleeve.

Where to look: Rear trailing arm mounting bushes at the sub-frame and arm junction, visible under the rear of the vehicle

Ask the seller

“When were the rear suspension bushes last inspected or replaced?”
“Any clunking from the rear over bumps?”
“Is there uneven or unusual wear on the rear tyres?”

05Front Lower Control Arm Bush Deterioration

Visually inspect the bush for radial cracking, rubber extrusion beyond the sleeve flange, or complete rubber separation.2003–2017Suspension$350–$750

Very commonSuspension $350–$750 to fix

The front lower control arms on both ZE10 and ZE20 Wish models use rubber-bonded bushes at both the forward pivot and the rear subframe attachment point. The rear bush experiences combined torsional and lateral loading and typically fails first, with the rubber compound cracking and separating from its steel inner sleeve. The failure is accelerated by Australasian road conditions and is often not discovered until WOF inspection reveals excessive movement. A collapsed bush allows the front wheel camber and toe to shift under braking and cornering loads, causing the car to wander and pull unpredictably.

Symptoms to notice

Steering wanders or pulls to one side under braking, with the pull direction varying between braking events
Clunking from the front suspension over sharp bumps or when reversing on a steep camber, localised to the front lower arm area

What to check

Visually inspect the bush for radial cracking, rubber extrusion beyond the sleeve flange, or complete rubber separation. Check both sides; failure is often bilateral. Any visible caulk-like rubber squeeze-out around the sleeve indicates the bush has already collapsed. If a workshop inspection is possible: With the vehicle on a hoist and suspension hanging free, grip the lower arm and apply firm fore-aft and lateral force — movement of more than 2 mm relative to the subframe indicates bush failure.

Where to look: Front lower control arm rear pivot bush, both sides

Parts involved: Ball joint.

06Front Lower Arm Ball Joint Wear

Inspect boot for splitting.2003–2009Suspension$300–$700

CommonSuspension $300–$700 to fix

Front lower arm ball joints wear causing clunking and handling imprecision.

Symptoms to notice

Clunking from front suspension over bumps
Imprecise handling when cornering

What to check

Inspect boot for splitting. If a workshop inspection is possible: With vehicle raised, lever the lower arm and check for ball joint play.

Where to look: Front lower suspension control arms

Parts involved: Ball joint.

Ask the seller

“Has the front lower arm ball joint been inspected or repaired?”

07Front and Rear Brake Caliper Guide Pin Seizure

petrol2003–2009Brakes$150–$500

Very commonBrakes $150–$500 to fix

Both front and rear brake calipers on the ANE11/ZNE10 Wish use sliding guide pins to allow the caliper to float and apply even pad pressure across both disc faces. The guide pin boots are prone to splitting, admitting road salt moisture and brake dust that corrodes the pin bores; once the pins corrode in place the caliper can no longer centre itself, resulting in one pad dragging continuously against the rotor. This causes thermal overload on the affected corner, rapid and uneven pad consumption, rotor warping, and can ultimately cause brake fade or brake pull under heavy application; in NZ's coastal and wet road conditions this failure mode is considerably more common than in the vehicles' original Japanese domestic market environment.

Symptoms to notice

Vehicle pulling to one side under braking, often more pronounced when brakes are hot
One wheel or wheel area noticeably hotter than others after a drive
Brake pads wearing unevenly between inner and outer on the same caliper
Grinding or squealing from one corner even with adequate pad thickness remaining on the outer pad

What to check

After a normal drive, carefully check disc rotor temperature at each corner by hand proximity — a noticeably hotter corner indicates a dragging caliper.
Inspect boots for tears or perishing.
Check pad thickness on both inner and outer pads of each caliper — unequal thickness confirms a seized pin.
Inspect rotor surfaces for scoring grooves or blue heat-staining.
If a workshop inspection is possible: Remove the caliper and extract guide pins; they should slide freely in and out of the bore by hand with only light resistance from the grease.

Where to look: Caliper guide pin bores on both front and rear calipers at each wheel corner

Parts involved: Brake disc and pads.

Ask the seller

“When were the brake calipers last serviced — guide pins cleaned and re-greased?”
“Does the car pull to one side when braking?”
“Have the brake pads and rotors been wearing evenly on all four corners?”

08Rear Hatch Gas Strut Failure & Tailgate Drop

Open the tailgate to its full height and release — it should hold itself open without any support.2003–2009Body & Rust$120–$350

Very commonBody & Rust $120–$350 to fix

The AZE10 Wish rear tailgate is held open by two gas struts that lose internal pressure with age, causing the tailgate to slowly drop or fall without warning once released. At minimum this is a repeated inconvenience when loading the boot; at worst the heavy glass-laden tailgate can fall rapidly causing head or arm injury to a person standing in the opening. The condition is near-universal on examples that have not had struts replaced, typically by 12 to 15 years of age. Replacement struts from OEM or quality aftermarket suppliers are widely available in NZ.

Symptoms to notice

Tailgate will not hold itself open without manual support
Hatch drops slowly or falls suddenly when raised
Strut shafts feel loose or offer minimal resistance when pushed by hand
Oil seepage visible on strut shaft indicating internal seal failure

What to check

Open the tailgate to its full height and release — it should hold itself open without any support.
Check both struts for oil seepage around the shaft seal, which indicates pressure loss.
Push each strut closed by hand and feel for gas resistance; collapsed struts offer almost none.
Inspect the strut mounting brackets for corrosion or cracking at the weld points.

Where to look: Rear tailgate, one gas strut each side mounted between upper hatch frame and body

Parts involved: Shock absorber / strut.

Ask the seller

“Does the rear tailgate hold itself fully open without needing to be propped?”
“Have the rear hatch gas struts ever been replaced?”
“Is there any rust or damage around the tailgate hinge and strut mounting points?”

Depends on the exact engine — 11 moreDocumented for a specific engine we could not confirm from what you picked. Check the engine code on the car.

Engine, transmission & cooling11

011ZZ-FE Piston Ring Oil Consumption

Check engine oil level at every visit; dipstick will show 1+ litre low between standard service intervals.petrol2003–2009EngineCan't confirm for this car$2,800–$5,500

Very commonEngine $2,800–$5,500 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The 1ZZ-FE 1.8-litre engine fitted to ZE10 Wish models suffers from a design flaw in the piston oil control rings. The narrow, low-tension rings introduced for reduced internal friction are prone to carbon fouling and sticking in their grooves, preventing them from scraping oil from the cylinder walls. The engine consumes engine oil at rates exceeding 1 litre per 1,000 km without producing visible blue smoke at idle, making the problem easy to overlook until severe engine damage occurs. This defect was the subject of a US class action lawsuit settled by Toyota in 2012 covering multiple 1ZZ-FE applications.

Symptoms to notice

Engine oil level drops 1–2 litres between 5,000 km oil change intervals with no visible leak under the vehicle
Spark plugs show wet, dark carbon fouling on electrode despite recent replacement
Brief puff of blue-grey smoke on deceleration after sustained motorway running

What to check

Check engine oil level at every visit; dipstick will show 1+ litre low between standard service intervals.
Pull spark plugs and inspect for oil fouling on plug tip.
Request oil consumption documentation from seller.
Check for carbon tracking on the underside of the intake manifold plenum.
If a workshop inspection is possible: A compression test alone may not reveal the fault — a leak-down test is more diagnostic.

Where to look: Engine internals — piston ring land grooves on all four pistons

071AZ-FSE High-Pressure Fuel Injector O-Ring Leak

Look for a raw petrol smell from the engine bay with engine running.petrol2003–2009EngineCan't confirm for this car$400–$1,200

OccasionalEngine $400–$1,200 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The 1AZ-FSE D4 direct injection fuel injector O-rings harden and shrink causing fuel to weep around the injector body into the cylinder head, causing a raw petrol smell from the engine bay and rough running.

Symptoms to notice

Raw petrol smell from engine bay when engine is running
Engine misfire or rough running from fuel distribution disruption

What to check

Look for a raw petrol smell from the engine bay with engine running.
A fuel leak detector or soapy water applied around the injector bodies will reveal leaking O-rings.
Scan for cylinder misfire codes from lean conditions.

Where to look: High-pressure fuel injectors in cylinder head

Parts involved: Fuel injector.

Ask the seller

“Has the 1az-fse high-pressure fuel injector o-ring been inspected or repaired?”

08Water Pump Seal Weep on High-Mileage 1ZZ-FE and 2ZR-FAE

petrol2003–2017CoolingCan't confirm for this car$450–$900

CommonCooling $450–$900 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

Both the 1ZZ-FE (ZE10) and 2ZR-FAE (ZE20) engines use a coolant-lubricated water pump whose shaft seal deteriorates from approximately 120,000–150,000 km. The mechanical face seal between the impeller shaft and the pump housing begins to weep coolant, which is deposited on the accessory belt and pulley, and onto the front of the engine block below the pump. If undetected the coolant loss leads to overheating, and the coolant contaminating the belt causes premature belt failure. On the timing chain 2ZR-FAE the water pump is externally mounted and accessible; on the 1ZZ-FE it is driven off the timing belt and the belt must be replaced simultaneously.

Symptoms to notice

Dried coolant residue or crystalline deposit visible on the front of the engine below the water pump housing, with no visible cracked hoses or loose clamps
Coolant level in the reservoir drops gradually between service intervals without any visible external leak under the vehicle while parked

What to check

With the engine cold, inspect the front of the engine below the water pump housing for dried coolant residue — a crystalline white or orange deposit indicates a weeping seal. Check the serpentine or accessory drive belt for coolant staining (dark, glossy appearance on the inner face). On vehicles over 120,000 km, run the engine to operating temperature and re-inspect for active weeping at the pump-to-block joint. Check the coolant reservoir level against previous service records for unexplained top-up history.

Where to look: Water pump shaft seal at front of engine block, below alternator on 1ZZ-FE; below intake manifold on 2ZR-FAE

Parts involved: Water pump.

09K311F CVT Belt Judder Under Light Throttle

Conduct a test drive with light throttle application at 20-60 km/h and feel for any rhythmic shudder through the seat or steering column.petrol2003–2009TransmissionCan't confirm for this car$300–$4,500Read the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

10ZE10 U341E Torque Converter Lock-Up Shudder

Perform a road test at steady 70–90 km/h in Drive with light throttle and note any rhythmic vibration or judder through the seat and floor.petrol2003–2009TransmissionCan't confirm for this car$1,600–$3,200

CommonTransmission $1,600–$3,200 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The U341E four-speed automatic transmission fitted to the ZE10 Wish 1.8 develops a characteristic shudder through the drivetrain at light throttle in the 60–100 km/h range when the torque converter clutch attempts to lock. The friction material on the lock-up clutch glazes over time, particularly when ATF service intervals are ignored. The shudder can be mistaken for engine misfire but disappears when the converter clutch is disengaged by a sharp throttle blip or by selecting third gear manually. Contaminated fluid accelerates lining degradation and can eventually cause total converter failure.

A cutaway automatic transmission torque converter showing the internal turbine and stator. — A torque converter, sectioned. The lock-up clutch inside is what shudders.
No machine-readable author provided. BerndB~commonswiki assumed (based on copyright claims). · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Symptoms to notice

Vibration or shudder felt through the floor and steering wheel at 60–100 km/h under light steady throttle in top gear
Shudder disappears instantly when accelerating firmly or manually selecting a lower gear, confirming torque converter clutch engagement as the trigger

What to check

Perform a road test at steady 70–90 km/h in Drive with light throttle and note any rhythmic vibration or judder through the seat and floor. Drop into third gear — judder should cease immediately if the torque converter clutch is the cause. Inspect ATF colour and smell; burnt brown fluid indicates overdue service or clutch deterioration. Drain and check for metallic particles in the sump pan.

Where to look: Torque converter lock-up clutch pack inside bell housing

Parts involved: Torque converter.

11Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Shudder

Test drive at 80-100 km/h with very light throttle and feel for rhythmic vibration.petrol2003–2009TransmissionCan't confirm for this car$400–$2,500

CommonTransmission $400–$2,500 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

4-speed U340E automatic transmission develops torque converter lock-up clutch shudder under light throttle at highway cruise.

Symptoms to notice

Rhythmic vibration at highway speed under light throttle
Shudder clears under firm acceleration

What to check

Test drive at 80-100 km/h with very light throttle and feel for rhythmic vibration. ATF condition — brown fluid indicates degraded fluid.

Where to look: Automatic transmission and torque converter

Parts involved: Torque converter.

Ask the seller

“Has the automatic transmission torque converter shudder been inspected or repaired?”

Other Toyota Wish engines and years13 documented issues that do not apply to the one you picked.

Engine, transmission & cooling6

01Water Pump Plastic Impeller Erosion at High km

Check coolant colour and concentration - should be Toyota pink Long Life Coolant at 50% concentration and within service life.petrol2009–2017CoolingDoes not apply$400–$950

OccasionalCooling $400–$950 to fix

Does not apply

The 3ZR-FAE uses a water pump with a plastic impeller that is susceptible to erosion and de-bonding from the shaft at high mileage, typically beyond 150,000 km. Electrochemical corrosion from degraded or non-OEM coolant accelerates erosion of the impeller vanes, progressively reducing coolant flow without any visible external leak. The engine may overheat under load or at highway speed while remaining near-normal temperature at idle. In advanced cases the impeller can spin free of the pump shaft entirely, causing rapid overheating. This is an explicitly documented weakness of the 3ZR-FAE and is a known cause of head gasket failure if not caught early. Mechanics widely report the 3ZR-FAE water pump as one of the most problematic components on this engine.

Symptoms to notice

Engine temperature gauge rising above normal during highway driving
Overheating under load but near-normal temperature at idle
No external coolant leak but coolant level dropping slowly
Heater output reduced despite engine reaching operating temperature
Coolant appears old, discoloured, or has low concentration

What to check

Check coolant colour and concentration - should be Toyota pink Long Life Coolant at 50% concentration and within service life.
Inspect the coolant for contamination, oil contamination, or sludge indicating mixed coolant types.
Monitor temperature gauge during a sustained motorway drive above 100 km/h.
Shake the coolant recovery tank gently and look for bubbling that indicates combustion gas intrusion.
High-mileage examples above 150,000 km should have the water pump replaced proactively regardless of symptoms.

Where to look: Front of engine block, driven by the accessory serpentine belt

Parts involved: Water pump.

Ask the seller

“Has the water pump ever been replaced, and at what mileage?”
“What coolant type and mix ratio is currently in the cooling system?”
“Has the engine ever overheated or triggered a temperature warning light?”
“When was the coolant last flushed and replaced with Toyota LLC?”

022ZR-FAE Excessive Oil Consumption

Check oil level and condition on the dipstick.petrol2009–2017EngineDoes not apply$2,500–$4,500Read the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

032ZR-FAE Valvematic Actuator Motor Failure

Scan for P3400/P3401 codes.petrol2009–2017EngineDoes not apply$900–$1,800Read the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

042ZR-FAE Timing Chain Tensioner Cold-Start Rattle

Start cold engine and listen for metallic rattling from the front of the engine that clears within 5-10 seconds.petrol2009–2017EngineDoes not apply$600–$1,600

CommonEngine $600–$1,600 to fix

Does not apply

The hydraulic timing chain tensioner on the 2ZR-FAE relies on pressurised oil to maintain chain tension. When the tensioner's internal check valve wears or the plunger O-ring degrades, oil drains back from the tensioner bore during extended shutdown periods, leaving the chain slack for the first several seconds of each cold start until oil pressure rebuilds. This repeated momentary slack accelerates chain stretch and guide-rail wear, and if ignored can ultimately allow the chain to jump a tooth, causing significant valve-to-piston contact damage.

Symptoms to notice

Metallic rattling or chattering from the front of the engine on cold start, clearing within seconds as oil pressure builds
OBD codes P0016 or P0017 (camshaft/crankshaft correlation) in advanced cases of chain stretch

What to check

Start cold engine and listen for metallic rattling from the front of the engine that clears within 5-10 seconds; pull the timing cover inspection plug if accessible; check engine oil level and condition for signs of low oil pressure; inspect for stretched chain using factory timing marks after cover removal.

Where to look: Front of engine, timing chain cover, tensioner on the left (intake) side of the block

Parts involved: Timing chain.

Ask the seller

“Is there any rattling noise from the engine on cold start that goes away after a few seconds?”
“Has the timing chain, tensioner, or guides ever been inspected or replaced?”

05Valvematic VVT Actuator Failure (P0011/P1047)

Inspect engine oil condition - dark sludgy oil accelerates OCV filter blockage.petrol2009–2017EngineDoes not apply$350–$950Read the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

06EGR Valve Carbon Sticking Causing Lean Misfire

Scan for P0171, P0401, or random misfire codes before clearing.petrol2009–2017EngineDoes not apply$180–$850

OccasionalEngine $180–$850 to fix

Does not apply

The 3ZR-FAE EGR valve accumulates carbon deposits on the valve seat and stem with mileage, causing it to stick in a partially open position. When stuck open, the EGR introduces excess exhaust gas into the intake charge at inappropriate times, diluting the air-fuel mixture and creating a lean condition. This triggers P0171 (System Too Lean Bank 1) and random misfire codes. Idle quality deteriorates and the engine stumbles at low speed. High-mileage grey imports that have operated on poor fuel or infrequent servicing are most affected. EGR cleaning can restore function in mild cases; replacement is required when the valve body is damaged or seized.

Symptoms to notice

Rough idle and engine stumble at low RPM
P0171 (System Too Lean Bank 1) fault code
P0401 (EGR Flow Insufficient) or random misfire codes P030X
Poor throttle response and hesitation at light throttle
Fuel economy noticeably reduced

What to check

Scan for P0171, P0401, or random misfire codes before clearing.
Inspect the EGR passages in the intake manifold for carbon restriction.
Check intake manifold vacuum and all vacuum lines for unmetered air entry.
Review long-term fuel trim values, which will be significantly positive if EGR is stuck open.
If a workshop inspection is possible: Remove and inspect the EGR valve for heavy carbon deposits on the valve seat and pintle - the valve should move freely by hand with no sticking.

Where to look: EGR valve mounted on intake manifold, driver side of engine

Parts involved: EGR valve.

Ask the seller

“Has a check engine light appeared for lean or misfire codes?”
“Has the EGR valve been cleaned or replaced?”
“Has an intake manifold clean or induction service ever been performed?”

Electrical4

013ZR-FAE Valvematic Controller Failure

Listen for mechanical noise from the intake camshaft actuator housing on the left side of the engine.petrol2009–2017ElectricalDoes not apply$850–$2,200Read the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

02Electric Power Steering Motor Brush Wear

Turn the steering lock-to-lock slowly with engine running and feel for any inconsistency in assist weight.petrol2009–2017ElectricalDoes not apply$650–$1,600

OccasionalElectrical $650–$1,600 to fix

Does not apply

The AE20 Wish uses a column-mounted electric power steering (EPS) unit with a brushed DC motor driving the steering column via a worm gear. As the carbon brushes in the motor wear down, electrical resistance increases and the motor delivers inconsistent or reduced assist. The EPS ECU detects the current draw anomaly and illuminates the EPS warning light (orange steering wheel icon). In early stages the fault is intermittent and heat-dependent; in later stages assist disappears entirely, leaving heavy manual steering. The column EPS motor is not individually serviceable in most workshops and the full EPS column assembly must be replaced. Labour for column removal and alignment check makes this a moderately expensive repair. Units from Japanese wreck yards are a common lower-cost solution but vary in remaining brush life.

Symptoms to notice

EPS warning light on dash (orange steering wheel symbol)
Heavy or inconsistent steering assist, especially at low speeds
Intermittent loss of power steering in cold weather
Clicking or grinding sensation through steering wheel
EPS fault codes stored in steering ECU

What to check

Turn the steering lock-to-lock slowly with engine running and feel for any inconsistency in assist weight.
Listen for motor noise from steering column area.
Ask if fault light has appeared even intermittently.
If a workshop inspection is possible: Check for EPS warning light or stored codes using an OBD-II scanner with Toyota enhanced protocol.

Where to look: Steering column, EPS motor assembly behind dashboard lower panel

Parts involved: Steering rack.

Ask the seller

“Has the EPS warning light ever come on?”
“Has the power steering ever felt heavy or inconsistent?”
“Has the EPS unit or steering column been replaced?”

03Power Sliding Door Drive Cable Fraying and Failure

Watch for: Sliding door stops mid-travel or reverses unexpectedly and door warning light illuminates on the instrument cluster.2009–2017ElectricalDoes not apply$400–$1,100

CommonElectrical $400–$1,100 to fix

Does not apply

The ZGE20 Wish uses an electric motor-driven cable loop to power the rear sliding door on both driver and passenger sides. The steel drive cables run through a plastic conduit channel along the door sill and roof rail and are subject to repeated bending stress through thousands of open/close cycles. Individual wire strands fray progressively, causing increased motor current draw, intermittent door stall mid-travel, or complete cable break leaving the door immovable under power. A snapped cable can also jam the manual-release mechanism, trapping occupants.

Symptoms to notice

Sliding door stops mid-travel or reverses unexpectedly and door warning light illuminates on the instrument cluster
Loud grinding or snapping noise from the door sill or upper track during powered operation

What to check

Watch for: Sliding door stops mid-travel or reverses unexpectedly and door warning light illuminates on the instrument cluster. If a workshop inspection is possible: Operate door on power fully through its travel and listen for grinding or hesitation; inspect cable at the sill entry point for visible fraying or kinking; check for door controller fault codes using OBD scanner; pull door trim panel and inspect cable drum condition and cable tension.

Where to look: Rear sliding door cable conduit running along the lower sill and upper door track, motor mounted in the B-pillar or door panel depending on side

Ask the seller

“Do both power sliding doors open and close fully and smoothly without hesitation or error lights?”
“Has any work been done on the sliding door cables or motors?”

04ZE20 Electric Power Steering Column Rattle

Drive slowly over a rough surface or speed bump with both hands lightly on the wheel and listen for a rattle or knock transmitted through the rim.2009–2017ElectricalDoes not apply$750–$1,900

CommonElectrical $750–$1,900 to fix

Does not apply

The ZE20 Wish uses a column-mounted electric power steering (EPS) motor and reduction gear assembly. The worm gear coupling between the EPS motor and the steering column develops freeplay as the plastic gear teeth wear, producing a rattle or clunk felt and heard through the steering wheel when driving over minor road imperfections at low speed. In some cases the intermediate shaft universal joint within the column assembly also develops play, amplifying the symptom. The rattle is present regardless of steering wheel position but worsens on rough surfaces. Toyota Japan issued internal guidance on gear lash adjustment and replacement criteria.

Symptoms to notice

Rattle or hollow knocking sound from the steering column area when driving over rough surfaces, audible from inside the cabin and felt through the steering wheel rim
Slight free play in the steering wheel before the road wheels respond, accompanied by a single click when changing steering direction from lock to lock at parking speed

What to check

Drive slowly over a rough surface or speed bump with both hands lightly on the wheel and listen for a rattle or knock transmitted through the rim.
With the engine running and vehicle stationary, rock the steering wheel gently back and forth through a small angle — any free play or clunk before column movement indicates gear lash.
Inspect the EPS motor housing for cracks in the plastic gear cover; inspect the intermediate shaft universal joint for visible play by rocking the column while a second person observes the u-joint from under the dash.

Where to look: EPS motor worm reduction gear housing on upper steering column, cabin side of firewall

Parts involved: Steering rack.

Body, brakes, suspension & interior3

01Front Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Wear

Watch for: Clunking or knocking from the front suspension over bumps and during low-speed turning.2009–2017SuspensionDoes not apply$280–$650

CommonSuspension $280–$650 to fix

Does not apply

The front suspension lower control arm on the ZGE20 Wish uses a press-fit ball joint that carries both the vertical load of the wheel and lateral cornering forces. The polyurethane boot seal degrades in NZ road conditions, admitting water and grit that erodes the ball stud taper and socket bearing surface. Once the joint develops play, caster and camber geometry deteriorates, causing accelerated tyre wear on the inner edge; in an advanced state the stud can pull out of the socket catastrophically, resulting in sudden loss of wheel alignment control.

Symptoms to notice

Clunking or knocking from the front suspension over bumps and during low-speed turning
Accelerated and uneven tyre wear on the inner shoulder of the front tyres

What to check

Watch for: Clunking or knocking from the front suspension over bumps and during low-speed turning. If a workshop inspection is possible: Lift vehicle and grip the wheel at 6 and 12 o'clock positions, rock firmly and feel for play at the ball joint; inspect boot for splits or grease contamination on the knuckle; use a bar lever under the arm to confirm vertical play with dial indicator; check for inner tyre shoulder wear as indirect evidence.

Where to look: Front suspension, lower control arm outboard end, connecting the arm to the steering knuckle on each side

Parts involved: Ball joint.

Ask the seller

“Have the front lower control arm ball joints been inspected or replaced?”
“Is there any clunking from the front suspension over rough roads or speed bumps?”

02Rear Multi-Link Suspension Bush Collapse

Watch for: Rear of vehicle wanders or feels unsettled at motorway speeds with the steering wheel needing constant correction.2009–2017SuspensionDoes not apply$500–$1,400

OccasionalSuspension $500–$1,400 to fix

Does not apply

The ZGE20 Wish rear suspension uses a multi-link arrangement with multiple rubber-bonded bushes at each arm pivot point. The natural rubber compounds used in the OEM bushes undergo hydrolytic degradation and compression-set over time, particularly in the trailing arm and toe-control link mounts where cyclic torsional stress is highest. When the bushes collapse, rear toe and camber geometry shift outside specification, causing the vehicle to crab-walk, exhibit dart-and-weave behaviour on the motorway, and generate excessive rear tyre wear; the condition also shifts the brake balance rearward.

Symptoms to notice

Rear of vehicle wanders or feels unsettled at motorway speeds with the steering wheel needing constant correction
Uneven rear tyre wear showing feathering or inner/outer shoulder degradation inconsistent with inflation pressure

What to check

Watch for: Rear of vehicle wanders or feels unsettled at motorway speeds with the steering wheel needing constant correction. If a workshop inspection is possible: Inspect each rear arm bush for cracking, separation, or visible collapse of the rubber element; push and pull each arm by hand with vehicle on a hoist and look for more than 2 mm of fore-aft play; obtain a four-wheel alignment printout and compare rear toe values to Toyota specification; check rear tyres for diagonal or shoulder wear patterns.

Where to look: Rear subframe and trailing arm pivot points, toe-control and camber link bush seats on both sides

Ask the seller

“Has a four-wheel alignment been performed recently, and were any rear geometry values out of specification?”
“Have any rear suspension bushes been replaced?”

03Front Brake Caliper Guide Pin Seizure

Watch for: Vehicle pulls to one side under braking, particularly when the brakes are cold.2009–2017BrakesDoes not apply$180–$550

CommonBrakes $180–$550 to fix

Does not apply

The front brake calipers on the ZGE20 Wish use sliding guide pins coated with grease and sealed by rubber dust boots to allow the caliper to float and maintain even pad-to-rotor contact on both sides. In NZ conditions, road salt, water ingress through deteriorated boots, and infrequent servicing cause the steel pins to corrode and seize within the aluminium caliper bracket bores. A seized guide pin prevents the outboard brake pad from fully releasing after brake application, causing the pad to drag continuously against the rotor and generating severe uneven pad wear, rotor scoring, and brake pull.

Symptoms to notice

Vehicle pulls to one side under braking, particularly when the brakes are cold
Outboard brake pad worn to metal while inboard pad retains significant material, causing rotor scoring and grinding noise

What to check

Watch for: Vehicle pulls to one side under braking, particularly when the brakes are cold. If a workshop inspection is possible: With vehicle safely lifted, remove front wheels and manually slide the caliper on its pins — each pin should move freely with light thumb pressure; inspect dust boots for cracking or splitting; compare remaining pad thickness on inboard versus outboard pads (unequal thickness indicates a seized pin); check rotor surface for uneven scoring or a pronounced lip on one face only.

Where to look: Front brake assembly, guide pin bores in the caliper sliding bracket on each wheel

Parts involved: Brake disc and pads.

Ask the seller

“Have the brake caliper guide pins been cleaned, lubricated, or replaced as part of any recent brake service?”
“Does the car pull to one side when braking, especially from cold?”

Toyota Wish faults in detail

Narrowed to the Toyota Wish · 2003. Each of these has its own page: the symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller and what the repair costs. Free, no account needed.

1AZ-FSE D4 Direct Injection Intake Valve Carbon AccumulationMajor · Engine 1AZ-FSE Head Gasket Failure & Coolant LossCritical · Engine 1AZ-FSE Oil Pump Drive Gear and Chain Tensioner FailureCritical · Engine 1AZ-FSE VVTi Sludge Blockage Causing P0011Major · Engine 1AZ-FSE Water Pump Seal FailureMajor · Cooling K311F CVT Belt Judder Under Light ThrottleMajor · Transmission

What these repairs cost on other cars

Some of the Toyota Wish’s documented faults are repairs other models share. Each page lists the documented NZ cost for every model it affects.

Other Toyota models

Toyota Prado64 documented faults Toyota RAV463 documented faults Toyota Hilux60 documented faults Toyota 8629 documented faults Toyota LC Prado29 documented faults Toyota Yaris29 documented faults

Toyota Wish buyer questions

Is the Toyota Wish reliable?

Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 32 documented faults for the Toyota Wish, the recurring problem areas are engine, cooling, and suspension. A Toyota Wish 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 Wish?

We've catalogued 32 known faults for the Toyota Wish, covering engine, cooling, and suspension. All 32 are written out in full on this page, with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each. Free to read, no account needed.

How much do repairs cost on a Toyota Wish?

Most single repairs on the Toyota Wish fall between $400–$1,400 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 32 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 Wish?

Yes. A Toyota Wish 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 $24.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.

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What to look out for

Toyota Wish service schedule

First Generation (Mk1) · 2003–2009 · 1.8L 1ZZ-FE

Due by distance

First Generation (Mk1) · 2003–2009 · 1.8L 1ZZ-FE

Due by distance

First Generation (Mk1) · 2003–2009 · 2.0L 1AZ-FSE

Due by distance

01Electric Power Steering Failure

02Power Sliding Door Cable Failure

03Electric Power Steering Rack Rattle and Mounting Knocking

04Rear Independent Suspension Trailing Arm Bush Wear

05Front Lower Control Arm Bush Deterioration

06Front Lower Arm Ball Joint Wear

07Front and Rear Brake Caliper Guide Pin Seizure

08Rear Hatch Gas Strut Failure & Tailgate Drop

011ZZ-FE Piston Ring Oil Consumption

021AZ-FSE Head Gasket Failure & Coolant Loss

031AZ-FSE Oil Pump Drive Gear and Chain Tensioner Failure

041AZ-FSE Water Pump Seal Failure

051AZ-FSE VVTi Sludge Blockage Causing P0011

061AZ-FSE D4 Direct Injection Intake Valve Carbon Accumulation

071AZ-FSE High-Pressure Fuel Injector O-Ring Leak

08Water Pump Seal Weep on High-Mileage 1ZZ-FE and 2ZR-FAE

09K311F CVT Belt Judder Under Light Throttle

10ZE10 U341E Torque Converter Lock-Up Shudder

11Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Shudder

01Water Pump Plastic Impeller Erosion at High km

022ZR-FAE Excessive Oil Consumption

032ZR-FAE Valvematic Actuator Motor Failure

042ZR-FAE Timing Chain Tensioner Cold-Start Rattle

05Valvematic VVT Actuator Failure (P0011/P1047)

06EGR Valve Carbon Sticking Causing Lean Misfire

013ZR-FAE Valvematic Controller Failure

02Electric Power Steering Motor Brush Wear

03Power Sliding Door Drive Cable Fraying and Failure

04ZE20 Electric Power Steering Column Rattle

01Front Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Wear

02Rear Multi-Link Suspension Bush Collapse

03Front Brake Caliper Guide Pin Seizure

Toyota Wish faults in detail

What these repairs cost on other cars

Other Toyota models

Toyota Wish buyer questions

Is the Toyota Wish reliable?

What are the most common problems with a used Toyota Wish?

How much do repairs cost on a Toyota Wish?

Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Toyota Wish?