BHPian 2TR-FE recently shared this with other enthusiasts:Restoring my 2010 Toyota PradoWe have a 2010 Toyota Prado in UAE that was purchased brand new and has been a faithful companion over the years. The odometer now reads 310,000 km. Despite 15 years of heavy use, the vehicle is still mechanically solid, with only the usual wear and tear expected at this age. After long debates and discussions at home on whether to replace it with a used 2 year old VW Teramont or restore the Prado and use it for another 5 years, we’ve chosen to stick with the Prado and give it the attention it deserves. The vehicle is currently in the workshop for its first step i.e full body repaint. We have lined up several mechanical repairs and cosmetic upgrades for the next 4 months. Here is the list of tasks planned.Full exterior repaintOn speaking with the repainting garage for a full repaint, they also offered to get our exteriors facelifted to 2022 model for a minor increase in the total price. This was confirmed and our vehicle is at the garage now with majority of its panels removed. Retaining the original silver shade to avoid the paperwork. But adding a slight tint of blue and red along with increased glitter (pearls in their language) for a custom shine and depth under sunlight.Headlight upgradePlanning to install a powerful LED bulb for the low beam. For the fog lamps, we are looking at yellow coloured LED bulbs with strong throw to assist in the foggy weather.Fluid flush for transmission, coolant, brakes and both differentialsRegular maintenance has been done but I don’t ever recall replacing the steering fluid, brake fluid or front differential oil. Therefore, going with a full fluid flush to reset everything.Suspension overhaul including shock absorbers and bushesUnlike earlier, even the smallest bumps like rumble strips are being transmitted. Planning to replace all four shocks with Non-OEM brand (while maintaining the stock height) and related bushes.Steering rack repair or replacementThe steering boots were recently replaced due to a leak. Currently, there is a faint tik-tik sound from the steering when driving over uneven roads. We have planned to inspect the rack and either repair or replace depending on the condition.4WD actuator replacementThis is a known issue with Prado 150 models which disengages teh cruise control. The error has been cleared for now but the system isn’t engaging the cruise control. May have to replace the entire unit to get the CC back. A big expense for a feature never used!Full AC service including heater pipe repairThe AC is functioning perfectly. In 2021, the evaporator was replaced and during that work, the technician disconnected the heater pipes without our knowledge assuming it won’t be of any use. Since then, we carry big blankets in our trips to KSA during winters. As the dashboard needs to come out for the heater fix, planning to get a full system check & clean under preventive maintenance.Interior part replacementsAll front AC vents are broken. For some reason, Prado vents are fragile and expensive at about 250 AED. If any BHPians have hacks or reliable aftermarket options, would love to know. The IRVM has also been a regular victim of UAE heat. It’s been replaced about 3 years back and now, it has again lost against the force of gravity. Planning to try a non-OEM option this time.Seat and Floor upholsteryPlanning a full refresh for both. Also exploring whether ventilated seats can be retrofitted during the upholstery job atleast for the driver’s seat. If anyone has done this, please share your experience. Sound dampening for floor, doors and firewallWe’ve received quotes ranging from 2500 to 6000 AED. Trying to see if this can be done at a lower cost with the best quality. How about carrying those sheets from India!Infotainment and speaker upgradeLooking for a head unit that supports Android Auto and has inbuilt navigation. Also planning to add a rear camera and parking sensors. One priority is to improve audio for the third row passengers, who get excluded on highway speeds.All four tyres to be replacedPlanning to replace the current tyres with a slight decrease in width similar to the lower variants of the Prado for better fuel economy. Spacers will be added to maintain the overall visual appeal and width.Window polishing and tintNot sure about the polishing part yet as I am unaware of people doing it here. Inspired by a fellow prado owner on T-Bhp. Need to also check out the available tint options in the market.Ceramic CoatingPlanning to get this done roughly two months after the repaint in order to allow the paint for proper curing. Looking for a mid-range option that gives decent protection without costing a bomb.PPF on door edges, handles and front bumperPlanning to get PPF applied on the usual contact areas. Still unsure about covering the full front bumper due to concerns about how well PPF holds up in UAE heat. For now, Kindly provide your suggestions on the below as I am planning to purchase these in India within a week. Getting it from India usually turns out a lot cheaper.High powered Reliable LED bulb for low beam (H11, Current is 55W)Yellow Coloured LED bulb for Fog lights (H11, Current is 55W)Damping Sheets and associated materialsThanks in advanceCheck out BHPian comments for more insights and information.
