Toyota Previa Common Problems and Solutions
Hesitant Acceleration
Problem:
When the engine is cold, the acceleration is extremely hesitant.
Solution:
Have a look at the ignition coil inside the distributor, as this has been known to fail on the Previa. If you have the tools to access the distributor, then installing a new one from our parts list is very simple. If not, then you can instead order a new distributor.
Difficulty level
Ignition Coil
Rattling Sound When Idling
Problem:
You can hear a rattling sound when the engine is running on idle.
Solution:
The rattle is being caused by a loose crankshaft pulley bolt. In some cases, you will be able to remove the bolt, apply a thread locker and then install it. If the thread has become too worn, then you'll need to find a replacement from the Breakeryard parts page for the Previa and completely replace it.
Difficulty level
Crankshaft Pulley
Stalling
Problem:
The car stalls very regularly and idles rough.
Solution:
This will usually be a problem with your mass airflow sensor, so you won't need to replace the entire MAF unit. You can find MAF sensors in our online store, and they are very easy to install.
Difficulty level
Air Flow Mass Sensor
Rough Idling
Problem:
The car is idling rough. If you go in for an MOT, then you may fail on emissions levels.
Solution:
The exhaust valves have been knocked out of place, or they may have become too tight. This leads to gradual valve failures. If you're being affected by this problem, then you're going to need to order replacement valves from BreakerYard.
Difficulty level
Valves
Engine Misfire
Problem:
The engine is constantly misfiring.
Solution:
This is a common fault with the Previa and is being caused by a faulty fuel safety cut-off system. The whole system is going to need replacing, and you can find a new version on our parts list.
Difficulty level
Fuel Cut Off Unit
Excessive tyre wear
Problem:
The Previa is known for wearing down the tyres pretty quickly. They are estimated to last anywhere from 15-30,000 miles.
Solution:
You will need to keep a check on the tyre tread depth. The legal limit is a minimum of 1.6mm on 75% of the tyre. If you are coming towards this or are under the limit, you will need to change the affected tyres as quickly as possible.
Difficulty level
Turbo failure
Problem:
You may be hearing a whistling noise coming from the top of the engine or are having a lack of power. If this is the case, you most likely have turbo problems.
Solution:
If the turbo has failed, you will need to fit a replacement one. This can be quite expensive, but we can help you find one at an affordable price.
Difficulty level
Suspension problems
Problem:
The rear track control arm is known for failing on this vehicle. If this part has failed, you will hear a knocking noise coming from the suspension area when you are driving over speed bumps or rough surfaces.
Solution:
Fitting a replacement rear track control arm will fix the problem.
Difficulty level
Track Control Arm
Arm rest problems
Problem:
A common issue on the Previa is for the arm rests to become loose. When they become very loose, they will not stand up when you try to move them out of the way. Instead they will fall straight back down.
Solution:
If you have this problem you need to fit replacement arm rests to sort it out.
Difficulty level
Arm Rest
Engine management warning light
Problem:
The oxygen sensor is known to fail on the Previa. If this part has failed, the engine management warning light will appear on the dashboard. Another symptom of this part failing is a higher than usual fuel consumption.
Solution:
You will need to replace the oxygen sensor to resolve these issues. The video below will give you an idea how to replace this sensor:
Difficulty level
Oxygen Sensor
