2016 Kaikoura LR4 HSE LUX- Will I ever find one?

[Nel511]

Hi guys. I’m new to this world and I’m not an expert in cars, but 3 years ago, I saw a Kaikoura LR4 (beige interior) on the road and since then, I’ve been obsessed with this specific car. I’ve tried finding one in decent condition, but everytime I’ve tried, they’ve all had pretty big issues. The last 3 have been up north (im from Texas) so I had to send out an inspector to look at them and each one had their own issues.I guess my question is - will I ever be able to find one in decent condition? I’m aware the repairs are expensive and they have their quirks and I’m ok with that because it most likely would be my second car. I’m starting to wonder if I should just buy one and replace the engine, but I’m not sure what that process looks like. The last one I saw was $10K and had a ton of problems but I am at a point where I want to just buy it and replace the engine. I’d rather have this exact car than a brand new car haha, therefore, I’m ok with spending the money on it. Does anyone have an advice on the best way to get this dream car of mine? Whether it’s a specific site or if a rebuilt engine is the best way, etc. Also, as if I’m not already picky , I would like it to be a LUX with beige interior. Any guidance or advice is greatly appreciated.

 

[GunsAndRovers]

If you are looking for a perfect used car you will be looking for a long time. As long as the engine and transmission are operating properly (e.g., no ticking or rattling from engine, transmission shifts smoothly especially through lower gears) and there is no structural rust--pull the trigger. A history of frequent oil changes is a plus. 2016 is the last year of the L319 and the timing chain guides were corrected back in late 2013 so I don't know why you are finding so many with issues. There is no secret website to find a good one. I frequent Autotrader, BAT, & cars.com but you still have to do your due diligence. Good luck.

 

[TrungH]

Instead of spending on getting an engine swap, wouldn't it be more economical to buy an LR4, with a beige interior, in great condition and get it painted or wrapped? Getting an engine or transmission swapped would require you to source a donor unit and pay someone to do the labor of swapping them. That is NOT going to be cheap

That said, if your search is specifically a 2016 LUX, that already will narrow your search immensely. Open it up to 2014-2016 (post facelift and with the SCV6) and/or give up on the LUX (which is probably the tougher ask) your options will expand quite a bit. That color wasn't sold for very long as a 2016 model I don't think. They started selling the Landmark edition and the only brown is Zanzibar.