Help buying an Alphard

[Martin Sutton]

Hi All, looking at buying an Alphard and would be greatful for any assistance or help in picking the right one. 

Which is better 2.4 or 3.0

What should I be looking for? 

Possible faults or issues? 

Is there a buyers guide? 

Thank you in advance

[MonsterS]

I would go for a 3L, there are some outstanding recalls on these (brake master cylinder, airbags).

 

When you get one make sure or do

1. full service including timing belt, water pump.

2. change gearbox fluid

3. get the brakes bled

4. Underseal/wax the bottom of the vehicle.

 

Other than that they are good vehicles.

[Martin Sutton]

Can you get the recalls done in the UK if they are outstanding?

[MonsterS]

Yes, there is a topic to help you get that arranged. I've followed it and got the brake servo sorted within  2 weeks of my email.

[Martin Sutton]

Going to see a 3.0l mzg tomorrow.

Hope it's as good in the flesh as the picture make it.

[steve a]

On the question of which is better, 2.4 or 3.0 I'm about to choose between one or the other. Most of my driving is going to be on 100 mile trips on motorway/A roads with 2 on board. Which is going to more economical and would there be much difference in insurance costs. Sellers I've spoken to say 3 litre is as economical as 2.4 but usually they have a 3 litre to sell !  Any help would be much appreciated.

[MonsterS]

3L is better. Not struggling up hills the fuel ratio works out the same. But longer trips the 3L handles it much better.

 

If you convert to LPG you'll be laughing so many people opt for this. I haven't as there is not a LPG pump station anywhere near me.

[Matthew spencer]

I have a 2.4 and we have just done a holiday to the coast with 3 adults and 3 kids and a shed load of luggage car pulled fine and flew down the motorway couldnt fault it at all and very reasonable on fuel even at speed on the motorway i cant say it lacked pull or power on any hills or over taking 

[Tuli]

Hi All

 

I have a 3L with 80,000 miles, really happy with it. I'm getting conflicting advice when to change the timing belt. Just wondering If anyone has had experience.

[MonsterS]

Always get the timing belt changed. not worth it failing.

[Catweazle]

I'm sure I've read somewhere that it should be changed at 80k km- so around 50k miles.