Motoring
The Uncompromising Icon: Your Guide to Buying a Used Toyota FJ Cruiser
On our roads, surrounded by sleek crossovers and sensible family SUVs, the Toyota FJ Cruiser has always felt like a glorious anachronism. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t whisper; it shouts. With its boxy, retro-futuristic looks inspired by the legendary FJ40, it arrived in South Africa in 2011 and promptly carved out a niche for drivers who valued capability over conformity.
If you’re looking at the used market for an adventure-ready 4×4 that’s more personality-packed than a Fortuner, the FJ Cruiser is a compelling, if unconventional, choice. But owning a legend requires a clear-eyed understanding of what you’re signing up for.
The Allure: Why You’re Already Sold
Let’s be honest, you’re probably drawn to the FJ for its sheer presence. It looks like it drove straight out of a cartoon, and that’s a big part of its charm. But beneath the bold paint jobs (remember that iconic “Sun Fusion” yellow?) and the sideways-mounted rear spare tyre lies a seriously capable machine.
It’s built on a rugged, body-on-frame ladder chassis, just like its Land Cruiser siblings. The heart of the beast is Toyota’s legendary 4.0-litre V6 petrol engine, a unit known for its near-bulletproof reliability. It delivers 200 kW and 380 N.m of torque, paired with a robust five-speed automatic gearbox and a proper part-time four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case. With a 3,100 kg towing capacity and generous ground clearance, it’s a proper overlanding and weekend warrior champion.
In the South African context, its cult status means its resale value has remained remarkably strong. It’s a vehicle that people desire, not just need.
The Compromise: What You Must Accept
The FJ Cruiser’s design is a series of deliberate trade-offs, and its quirks are not for everyone. That iconic styling comes with significant blind spots caused by the chunky C-pillars and the rear-mounted spare tyre. The rear-hinged “suicide doors” are cool, but they require you to open the front doors first, which can be a hassle in tight parking spots.
Inside, the cabin is unapologetically utilitarian. The plastics are hard-wearing, not soft-touch. The dashboard is upright and simple. While this means fewer things can break, it lacks the plushness of a modern SUV. Rear seat space is best described as “cozy” for adults, making it better suited for kids or occasional use.
Then there’s the thirst. The V6 is powerful and reliable, but it is not shy about drinking petrol. If your daily commute is a long, stop-start affair, your wallet will feel it. This is the price of admission for that glorious, naturally-aspirated power.
The Smart Buyer’s Checklist
When you go to inspect a used FJ, you need to look past the charm and check its bones. This is a vehicle often bought for adventure, and that can leave scars.
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Service History is Non-Negotiable: A full, stamped service history from Toyota is your best assurance. Many later models may still have an active five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty that is transferable, but only if the service schedule has been meticulously followed.
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Inspect the Undercarriage: This is the most critical step. Get on your hands and knees and look underneath. Check for significant scrapes, dents, or rust on the chassis rails, suspension components, and differentials. These are telltale signs of a hard life off the beaten path.
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Check for Drivetrain Clunks: Listen carefully at low speeds for a clunk when shifting between drive and reverse, or when lifting off the throttle. This could indicate worn universal joints on the prop shaft or other driveline issues.
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Test the Quirks: Operate all the 4×4 functions to ensure they engage smoothly. Check the rear differential lock. Test the reverse camera (a vital aid given the poor rear visibility). Inspect the seals around the quirky rear doors for any signs of wear or water leakage into the boot.
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Look for Modifications: Many FJs have been modified. While a well-fitted aftermarket bull bar or suspension lift can be a bonus, poorly executed modifications can be a red flag for underlying electrical or mechanical problems.
The Verdict: A Love Affair on Four Wheels
Buying a used Toyota FJ Cruiser isn’t a purely rational decision. It’s an emotional one. You’re buying a piece of automotive character, a vehicle that promises freedom and adventure.
It asks you to compromise on fuel economy, on modern luxuries, and on practicality. In return, it gives you a near-indestructible engine, go-anywhere capability, and a constant feeling that your next great trip is just around the corner. If your heart says yes, and your head has done its homework, you’ll be joining a club of enthusiasts who drive not just a car, but an icon.
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