Rojie

11 hours ago, starider said:

Your comments about these mirrors take me back many years when teaching Motor Vehicle Studies to Years 10,11 and 6th Form. I had on VHS Tape a BBC program about parking in Japanese cities which always fascinated the students. If you lived in a city and wanted a car, you couldn't buy one until you had an authorised parking space. The film was quite funny as once you had found a suitable space, a permit was applied for and a little man turned up on a push bike and took the appropriate measurements. If the size was suitable for the car you wanted to purchase, a permit was issued and you could purchase your new car. I can't remember which city it was filmed in, but so obvious parking was at a premium.

The next restriction was that everyone who owned a car was only allowed to keep it for a certain number of years when it had to be replaced with a new one. The "old" usually immaculate vehicle was either scrapped or moved into grey exports, hence our Alphards. Japanese motor cycles were also on the same scheme.

The point of this little tale is that the extra wing mirror was especially useful for getting your vehicle into very! confined parking spaces.

Several years ago I had a grey import Australian spec. Toyota Hylux which had one of the extra wing mirrors[it also had an Altimeter??]. If anyone knows where I could get this VHS onto disc, I would "dig" it out of where ever it's stored?

I have seen them on other Toyota vehicles, mainly 4 x 4 s.

Hello Tom,

Do you encounter the same problem if the engine is running ?

If so, charge your battery fully.

Is it both doors ?

I am wondering if you may have a problem with the obstruction sensors

3 hours ago, Derek B said:

Hi Rojie thanks for the reply I am not sure if the seller serviced the vehicle they said it had been serviced and brake pads checked The brake pedal does pump up slightly then goes down again The seller is quite far away so may have to get it checked near to me Thanks again Derek B

Hi Derek,

Some of the better dealers will renew the rear bushes before sale.

I believe this involves lowering the rear axle.

More learned members will comment, I hope; but I think the rear brakes need bleeding afterwards.

Sorry to be so cynical, checking brake pads is not the same as replacing them if needed !

If this situation has just occurred it seems strange to happen so soon after an MOT pass.

2 hours ago, Gareth said:

Thanks Roger

I'll report back should I find my own mystery 'gadget' has an use 

 

will give the dash mat option some more thought

Not finding "non-slip silicone particles" very reassuring

I'll check mine, but I don't think it has a silicone base.

Mine is not secured but does stay put.

2 hours ago, Paul Kelly said:

Hi- My 2008 Alphard camper has just failed its MoT due to the indicator lights on both side mirrors not working. We purchased the vehicle in august and I don't think the electric mirrors have ever worked- not that that was a problem as they were perfectly adequate due to the size of them anyway. Now that the vehicle has failed its MoT I really want to get this fixed. Thinking it could just be a fuse - is it likely to be the same fuse for the electric mirrors and indicator lights on them? I have looked in the drivers side fuse box but it looks nothing like the layout diagram for that fuse box - any help at all would be appreciated.

It may be worth checking the DVLA Guidance to MOT Testers; just to check that these features are part of the MOT.

Does your vehicle have the usual indicators in the head light and tail light clusters ?

Do they all work ?

It may be worth asking another testing station for their opinion.

8 hours ago, Mary999 said:

I was told by my dealer that its a cycle mirror, apparently they are mandatory in Japan (so you don't squash a cyclist). 😊

 

Rubbish.

And they are not mandatory, as most Alphies do not have them.

1 hour ago, Alasdair said:

I'm at work offshore India and have not seen our Alphard up close and personal yet but will when i get back home on the 30th of this month then pick up the van on the 2nd April. Cycle mirror certainly makes sense right enough. 

 Hi Alasdair,

It isn't a cycle mirror.

You will never see a cyclist in it unless you have run over them !

There is another recent thread about this.

It is a kerb and front bumper mirror.

2 hours ago, billy mcc said:

no never did get any info the one i was offered for sale came in at 2.8m which would not fit under the car porch at the time i was keen to know if the there was a smaller high top than this, I ended up getting one with a pop top roof but would have preferred the high top had it not been the restriction of the height of the car port 

 

High Tops on Alphies are very rare.

My guess is there is more than one type, and, therefore, more than one height !

8 hours ago, Alasdair said:

Not picking up our Alphard until the 2nd April but wondering what this is circled in the photo.

They are not particularly easy to use.

Front cameras are more useful, if you have one.

13 hours ago, GB57 said:

I don't know if I am way behind some of you but I couldn't find anything on the forum regarding Identification of correct Toyota parts for the Alphard, or what to do if you are really struggling to get hold of a specific part from UK. But I have used the below mentioned link to find parts specific to my model from time to time. I have even used this website to order a part from Japan, and the Company - AMAYAMA were very professional and packaged my delicate part really well for the journey. It arrived in perfect condition.

You can insert your precise VIN into the box and find any part number/ exploded diagram of all systems, prices of alternative non-original parts and more. You can look up parts from any car from Japan, and I have found it really useful over the last 8 years since I first bought a JDM car ( now on my 5th - have 2 at present ).

Once you click on a part number, it takes you to the AMAYAMA website where you will see a photo of the part, and prices in U.S. $. Have a browse - info is almost all in English.

https://toyota.epc-data.com/alphard/

If you are really struggling contact Picasso, he will almost certainly get you the correct part numbers.

He will need your VIN.

12 hours ago, Gareth said:

Supply of dash covers for a 2005 model seems limited, plenty post 2008

amazon have one by Frigenn, obviously Chinese

has anyone bought one of these, made of flannel, see quote below, does it fit and stay there?

• "Easy to install, the bottom is made of non-slip silicone particles, just put it directly on your dashboard, it will not damage the car, leave any residue, and will not move during driving."

https://www.amazon.co.uk/FRIGENN-Dashboard-Toyota-Alphard-Vellfire/dp/B09WDLT5MD/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1CX3774DWUXTA&keywords=FRIGENN+dashboard&qid=1678898076&sprefix=frigenn+dashboard+%2Caps%2C99&sr=8-2

 

whilst I'm on here, anyone suggest what the black add on item just below and to the left of the gear change is for, see pic

looks like a camera lens

I have a dash mat, as I call them.

Not necessarily this one though.

Works well, can be secured with Velcro pads.

As a guess, the black gadget looks like a microphone or an on / off switch for one of the many options many Japanese fit to their vehicles.

These gadgets get removed, usually, before auction.

I have three or four non functional gadgets.

I have left mine alone fearing removal damage to trim etc.

13 hours ago, cjlawes said:

Hi, all after extensive searching last year we found our dream MPV the Alphard after trying many others no comparison. Didn't give it a thought at the time but we are going to live in France for most of the year and the French won't transfer plates etc over. This I need after a year. So it is with regret that I sell or part exchange her. It was imported in 2022 and has done 97klm 52k approx everything works and it's had a full UK stereo touch screen with working reversing camera not added original camera. it's a 2003 but looks near new our 2020 grandland X looks older. I paid 6k but offers sub 5k would be accepted. Or part ex for something maybe. Cheers Chris 

Hello Chris,

Welcome to the Forum,

Sorry, I have moved this to the For sale section, where it needs to be.

Hopefully you will get some interest soon.

I have moved this to the For Sale section

13 hours ago, Derek B said:

Hi just purchased alfard 2007 2.4. the foot brake pedal reserve is very low resulting in a near failure to stop it has an mot and just been serviced prior to my purchase it comes with a 6 month guarantee any ideas? Derek B

Hello Derek,

Welcome to the Forum.

Take it back to your seller.

Assuming it was a business sale, they should fix it under warranty.

Was  the seller the garage that 'service' it ?

Presumably, you have checked the fluid level.

Does the braking improve if you repeatedly 'pump' the brake pedal ?

9 hours ago, dezufo said:

Any double din unit will fit you just have to measure the width, they are fairly easy to fit but to use the steering wheel controls you need an adaptor loom, see Dynamic Sounds Ltd, the exist cameras are 6volt so you need adapters or change them for 12v ones which will be a better quality

Hi Pete,

Do the Gen 1 facelift vans have 6v cameras?

Where are the 12v cameras available from, as I could use more clarity from the front cameras ?

As they east to fit ?

9 hours ago, NickC said:

Greetings from NickC. How have I ended up here? Having experienced a lifetime of camping in one form or another, my wife and I decided to get a SWB Motorhome with the intention of going on day trips and short trips away. After a few days of excessive rain, a very wet and dirty dog (we were in the New Forest) and nowhere to dry the multitude of towels combined with the lack of space, my wife decided enough was enough. We still wanted to go on day trips and have a bit of comfort with room to move around. This is when I spied an Alphard recently purchased by a neighbour and my interest was raised. 
My wife and I began to look into owning one ourselves, put our campervan up for sale and found a local dealer specialising in Jap imports. Looking around we decided on a Vellfire and as the van was not yet sold went away and delved deeper into the pros and cons. With the possibility of the van being sold (a very interested buyer !) I joined this forum to find out further information. Having read a number of the threads and the guidance on what to look for when purchasing a vehicle, all of which was extremely helpful…..thank you. 
Result, viewed a number of Vellfire’s and will be picking up a 2012 Vellfire 3.5 GGH25W on Saturday.

My wife has ordered a decent suit and cap for me already…….I think that she believes I will be acting as her chauffeur while driven around in luxury (laughing!!)

Hello Nick,

Welcome to the Forum and your impending Vellfire ownership.

As a Gosport Grammar School 'boy' I have progressed through life, without too much regret.

My wife travels by train to London several times a year and I collect her from the railway station.

Although we have a choice of vehicles to choose from she always prefers our Alphie MZ G.

Although I have the regalia, cap, trousers, etc., she prefers that I not to wear it !

However, as I arrive, and glide to a halt, and the rear side electric door slides open with a whisper, exposing all the beige leather. she smiles her beautiful smile.

We both feel like a million dollars !

"Welcome home" mutters our Japanese guide, as we serenely move away towards our home.

I forgot to mention Tye, our extremely energetic Sprollie who is extremely excited to be reunited with 'Mum', and is going absolutely bonkers with total disregard for the surrounding luxury.

Enjoy your new van, I am sure you will.

3 hours ago, kazarp said:

Can anyone tell me how to programme a new remote key fob with a transponder please.

Hello Karen,

You will probably (almost certainly) need an auto electrician.

Are you located in South, Mid or North Devon?

I can recommend one in South Devon.

You will need a Master key, and 80 to 100 pounds !

2 hours ago, Torq2u said:

I am looking for someone in the Exeter(ish) area who can fit a roof aerial to give my DAB+ a better chance. I have a stick-on screen variety at the moment and DAB isn't much cop in these 'ere parts.

 

Also, I'm not convinced about the effectiveness of the FM aerial in the rear windows - I often lose signal momentarily or get interference. So I'm happy to try a roof aerial for both formats.

 

Apologies is this is an incorrect post. Happy to be redirected / have hand slapped.

Hello Graeme,

When you speak of FM reception, and the window aerials, are you using an OEM Head Unit ?

If so, are you aware that the OEM units will only receive Radio 2 on FM (analogue) without a band expander ?

4 hours ago, kazarp said:

Hi My toyota alphard 2007 won't start, turned the key, lights came on, mirrors folded and everything went off. Nothing working now. Went out in it on Friday bit stop start journey, it was parked up for a day then tried it Sunday and this happened, any ideas? Help

Hello Karen,

Flat battery, probably.

It is essential in cold weather to keep your battery fully charged.

Also, ensure all your courtesy lights (room lights) are off. The room lights can be difficult to notice during daylight hours.

Halfords or Kwik Fit, or most garages, will be able to test your battery under loaded conditions.

If you need a battery charger take a look at CTEK; good but not cheap.

Alternatively, you could consider a unit that can jump start your van (when) if needed.

They are like battery packs for phones, but much bigger.

2 hours ago, Lina said:

Hello there! 👋 

We are looking for our 1st campervan and have discovered the Alphie which we have decided is the right choice for us but which model, layout etc should we pick? 🤔

Is low mileage mote important than year?

Lots of questions!

So we are looking for something primarily for 2 adults, oh is 6'2" and well built, I'm 5'2" and ehhem, a little well built! 11st

We are wondering how 2 adults fit on a r+r bed? How comfortable are they? 

Should we be looking for a back kitchen to have a bigger bed?

Are the pop tops only for children? Could I sleep up there if needed?

What about the height of the pop top, is it an issue? 

What are the pros and cons of a high top vs pop top?

Do we need 4wd? 

What are the main things to consider?

Any advice is greatly appreciated 🙏 

TIA

 

Hello Lina,

Welcome to the Forum.

Lots of questions, so lots of reading for you to do !

I am sure you will get lots of answers, but mainly the answers are down to your own preferences.

I suggest you consider carefully the use to which you will put your van, as that will allow you to make difficult decisions more easily.

Budget is key. Conversions are not cheap, and a pop top will add considerably to the cost.

My quick summary to your questions.

Rock and Roll beds tend to be narrow, although wider ones are becoming available.

Do you intend to buy a van and have it converted, or buy one already converted?

With a Pop Top consider your ability and willingness to get up into the top.

Pop Tops tend to lift at the front which is not very useful with a rear kitchen.

Coastal car parks (at least where I live) often have height restrictions; a pop top can prevent your access, a high top certainly will.

4wd, depends on your intended use. Imho, not needed; just research your grass pitch campsites well and pray for good weather.

My configuration is V6, no pop top and with a rear kitchen; so I do have a bias.

Others will have an equally valid bias in favour of side kitchens, etc., etc.

Go and inspect a lot of vehicles with different configurations. try not to buy the first one you see !

Good Luck.

As an afterthought. Investigate where you will have the vehicle serviced.

Most official Toyota dealers won't service it as it is an import ! But some will, so it's worth checking your local Toyota dealer.

2 hours ago, Freddyk747 said:

Hey guys hope you well i have 2010 toyota vellfire i dont like the grey key fob can i change to black one or to the new vellfire model key fob.

where can i get them  

please advice?

Hello Fred,

Welcome to the Forum.

22 minutes ago, Alph-bard said:

Happy Friday everyone!

My Alphard has squeaking issues from inside the passenger area. I can't sit in the back and drive, so did some Internet searching, an found a common squeak can come from one or more of the sliding door latches. Has anyone managed to buy these rubber replacement parts? I found a place in Malaysia, but they can't post to the UK. If you happen to know of where I can buy these and have shipped to the UK, please let me know. 

 

Happy weekend all 

Hi Dan,

IF that is the correct part number; have you tried Toyota Direct ?

Or ask Picasso

3 hours ago, Phil Tivney said:

I've recently bought a 2009 Vellfire 2.4, and my battery seems to be draining over a couple of nights, too. Has anyone found a solution?

 

Phil

I respectfully suggest you get your battery tested.

Without regular charging over winter the battery takes a beating.

You should be OK if you drive some distance every day.

Although inconvenient, you can disconnect the negative, or fit a 120 Amp (or more) switch on the negative side.

27 minutes ago, Barie said:

Good afternoon all .  We have had to have our rear brake pipes replaced  following a Mot. The garage are able to bleed the fronts with there sytem by telling it . Its a previa . But are unable to bleed the rear . I understand that you have to remove the abs relay for the fronts and put back in for the rear with toyotas techstream. Other internet searchs bring up disconnecting the 12v aux battery.  And not having the drivers door open or opened while performing the procedure . Any advice . Help would be much appreciated 

 

Barry 

 

Halifax England 

Hello Barry,

Welcome to the Forum.

1 hour ago, Feysal said:

How can change odometer Km to MPH .

toyota Noah 2016 hybrid?

Hello Feysal,

Welcome to the Forum.

11 hours ago, ERNEY said:

Hi, just bought a 3 litre Alphard and wondering what engine oil do I need. 

Hello Rob,

Welcome to the Forum.

10w 30 is fine, but 5w 30 is best for fuel economy.

4.5 litres, or 4.7 litres including oil filter.