Well from the exterior there is no indicator to tell you so. If you don’t mind bent down and look at the undercarriage, you might find the rear axle and the rear drive shafts connected to the rear wheels on a 4WD model.
The other way is to look at the model code. In this post, I have briefly mentioned that the first 5 alphanumeric of the model code will tell you whether the car is a 2WD or 4WD model. I thought it would be easy if I put up a simpler table below to help you to differentiate between a 2WD and a 4WD model.
Model | Engine Code | Grade | Transmission |
MNH 10W | 1MZ-FE (3.0L gasoline) | MZ/MS/MX | Front Wheel |
ANH 10W | 2AZ-FE (2.4L gasoline) | AS/AX | Front Wheel |
MNH 15W | 1MZ-FE (3.0L gasoline) | MZ/MS/MX | Four Wheel |
ANH 15W | 2AZ-FE (2.4L gasoline) | AS/AX | Four Wheel |
As mentioned in this post, the model code is printed on the chassis plate. For pre-facelift model, it is on the left side of the engine bay. For new-facelift model, it is on the door pillar at the passenger side.
Look at the above table and if the model code is 10 then it is a 2WD model. If it is 15 then it is a 4WD model. Very straight forward to do the identification.
Being able to identify the correct year and model can really help a potential buyer in getting the right car for him/her. During the last TT as the members are going through each other car, it is unavoidable that the question of how to you determine the year of the car comes up. It is very unfortunate that one of the long time member discovered that a new member has bought a 2002 model that was advertised as 2004. That mean that member has paid more money for that car than it is worth.
I still don’t know how the AP process actually work but it is obvious that whoever approved the assignment of AP to this car didn’t check what year this car is really manufactured in, or that process doesn't have such a need. Anyway, if that person really follows my post here, then he would know right away this is 2002 car and probably reject the car because it is way over the five year periods validity of that AP. Anyway it is too late now and I don’t know if there is any way for this new member to make his claim against the dealer.
I started this blog with the intent to help those buyers who are interested in acquiring a Toyota Alphard. I really wish that those who are looking for their giant at least have a look at some of my postings related to this topic so that they don’t get into such sad situation ever.
Thanks for the very infomative materials.
ReplyDeleteI bought my 4WD alphard (AH-15W)approximately 1 month ago and wonder where I can get the details on the maintenance / services. What items/parts need to be cleaned or replaced during the maintenance shedule. Always appreciate your article & advice. Thanks.
The ANH15W model share the same engine as our locally assembled Toyota Camry. Therefore the maintenance and service of your giant shouldn't be much different from the servicing of a Camry.
ReplyDeleteI have another article on the subject of maintenance too.
Check it out.
hi..
ReplyDeleteI just realised from the chassis no that mine is a 4wd based from yor write-up.Need to know what is d pros n cons of the 4wd compare to 2wd?Tq.
Hi rodin,
ReplyDeleteOther than the drive train, there is not different in the interior features/options that each model have.
The only advantage of 4WD is that is give you better traction on the road since all 4 wheels will be driving the car at the same time. Many has claim to have better pickup on standing start and have better ride going up hill or taking corners.
The theory is that 4WD will have higher fuel consumption compared to 2WD because more power needs to be transfer to all 4 wheels. However some owners claims that the different in fuel consumption between 2WD and 4WD is not alot. I don't have any figure to back this up though. If the 4WD serve you well, enjoy the extra traction you have in your giant.
Cheers
Hi,
ReplyDeleteTnxs for d reply,very useful advise for newbie like me.
Hi,
ReplyDeleteYou are welcome.
tqvm
ReplyDelete