Is Modifying an Old Car a Budget Hack? My Toyota Grand Hiace Experience

‍Welcome to the Money254 Car Series — where we spotlight car owners across Kenya and their experiences behind the wheel. From first-time buyers to seasoned motorists, we dig into the motivations, costs, lessons, and joys of owning different car models in Kenya today.

‍This week, we feature Samson, who shares what it’s like owning a 2000 Toyota Grande Hiace.

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In 2023, I made a move that any pragmatic businessman would appreciate: I bypassed the car dealers and bought a 2000 Toyota Grande Hiace directly from a friend. At a price of Ksh 350,000, it was an absolute bargain—dealers were asking over Ksh 500,000 for a similar second-hand model at the time.

Built for Space and Utility

The motivation behind the purchase was simple: I needed space. As a businessman and a family man, I required a vehicle that could handle two very different worlds. With its 8-seater configuration, the Hiace became the ultimate solution.

During the week, it is my silent business partner, helping me transport goods for my shop. On the weekends, it transforms back into a family van, providing enough room for everyone to travel comfortably on the highway. In a market where SUVs are often cramped, the sheer volume of the Hiace stands out as its greatest strength.

Also Read: I Regret Buying My 2006 Nissan X-Trail

The True Cost of Modifications

While the purchase price was a steal, the two years of ownership have been a learning experience in maintenance. Because the previous owner had made several modifications to the vehicle, I inherited a series of electrical issues.

The most frustrating of these has been a persistent battery drain. I often find myself having to jump-start the vehicle because of faulty electrical work—a common complaint among owners of modified vans. Combined with the usual suspects for a van of this age—transmission and suspension wear—I find myself spending roughly Ksh 50,000 a year on maintenance.

However, being a Toyota, the silver lining is that spare parts are incredibly easy to find. Whether it’s a mechanical fix or a suspension part, I’ve never been stranded without options.

Also read: My 5-Year Journey with a Toyota Wish: A Family Car That Just Works

Respecting the Van: Handling and Habits

Driving a Grande Hiace requires a different mindset than driving a sedan. Its tall, boxy body means it has a much higher center of gravity. I’ve learned to be mindful of body roll; this is a commercial-grade van, not a sport-tuned vehicle, and it demands respect when cornering at speed.

Fuel consumption remains respectable for a vehicle of this size, ranging between 9 and 12 km per litre, which makes those highway goods runs economically viable.

Final Thoughts: A Lesson in "Originality"

If I were to give advice to anyone looking for a similar van, it would be this: look for one that hasn't been modified. The "custom" touches that look good on paper often translate to electrical headaches on the road.

Despite the battery jumps and the annual maintenance costs, the 2000 Grande Hiace remains a vital part of my business and family life.

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