The Boonies

Has anyone had experience in obtaining spare keys in the UK for a 30 series Alphard ? I am thinking of buying a AYH30W Hybrid from Japan but it only has one key and the Vendor says he cannot get a duplicate from Toyota unless he first registers the car in his name which would slow down the export time. I am keen to have a 4 wheel drive so my choice is either the Hybrid or the AGH35 4x4 but they seem to be very rare and possibly thirstier than the Hybrid. Any advice on either subject gratefully received

I wouldn't be surprised if that is something simple ie not expensive. If you slowly increase the engine revs when stationary does the noise go away ?

On a Motorway run and not exceeding 70 MPH I get 33-34mpg from my 20 series 2.4 Alphard and about 26-27 around town so I would doubt the conversion would be good value at the sort of mileage your LPG man mentioned.

Google translate is often a very useful tool to have if you are a JDM car owner. The translations are not perfect but very useful nonetheless. In case you haven't already read the message in Japanese it says Check Hybrid System. Please stop in a safe place. To me that would indicate to not drive the car until the problem is resolved ?

The chassis number must match the Japanese De-Reg document and your invoice from the Japanese supplier of the vehicle. The model code will be ANH20W but that isn't the chassis number which will be ANH20 followed by 7 numbers. If you look at the chassis plate of the car the model code and chassis number are written separately. Your shipping agent will have access to the HMRC system and will be able to identify any problem.

I have been trying to find a Genuine Toyota or good quality aftermarket set of mudflaps for my 2010 Vellfire. I don't really want to be hacking at a so-called Universal set to make them fit. Can anyone help please ?