13th Mar 2006, 13:39

This is total misinformation. Head gasket "failure" does not cause sludging. There are some Toyota engines of the late 90s which are prone to oil jelling (sludge), but it is because the design of the oil channels in the engine. The engine oil is subjected to larger swings in temperature which can cause this if the oil is not changed, esp. petroleum-based oil. Toyota has admitted this. Toyota offered to replace the engine with a new engine at their cost, as long as the owner can provide proof the oil was changed at least once a year. Toyota also recommends use of synthetic oil. The % of engines which have actually sludged is actually very very small; if you are buying a used car of the affected dates, have a mechanic open the valve cover and check it. Also, ask for oil change records.

PREVIOUS poster wrote: "I wouldn't be surprised if some of your new problems are caused by technician."

I agree. Toyota dealer repair shops in my area (Massachusetts) break things and then give you the car in that condition as if it is not their responsibility. But they make up for it by charging a fortune. I don't believe this type of service would be tolerated by Toyota management in Japan.