Toyota Hi lux problems

toyota logo

The Toyota Hilux (Japanese: トヨタ・ハイラックス, Hepburn: Toyota Hairakkusu), stylized as HiLux and historically as Hi-Lux, is a series of pickup trucks produced and marketed by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota. The majority of these vehicles are sold as pickup truck or cab chassis variants, although they could be configured in a variety of body styles.

The pickup truck was sold with the Hilux name in most markets, but in North America, the Hilux name was retired in 1976 in favor of Truck, Pickup Truck, or Compact Truck. In North America, the popular option package, the SR5 (Sport Runabout 5-Speed), was colloquially used as a model name for the truck, even though the option package was also used on other Toyota models, like the 1972 to 1979 Corolla. In 1984, the Trekker, the wagon version of the Hilux, was renamed the 4Runner in Venezuela, Australia and North America, and the Hilux Surf in Japan. In 1992, Toyota introduced a newer pickup model, the mid-size T100 in North America, necessitating distinct names for each vehicle other than Truck and Pickup Truck. Since 1995, the 4Runner is a standalone SUV, while in the same year Toyota introduced the Tacoma to replace the Hilux pickup in North America.

Since the seventh-generation model released in 2004, the Hilux shares the same ladder frame chassis platform called the IMV with the Fortuner SUV and the Innova minivan.

Cumulative global sales in 2017 reached 17.7 million units. In 2019, Toyota revealed plans to introduce an electric-powered Hilux within six years.

photo of Toyota Hi lux car production

Social links

Toyota Hi lux model years

toyota hi lux 1984 photo
Hi lux 1984
Toyota

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota hi lux 1978 photo
Hi lux 1978
Toyota

1

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Toyota Hi lux problems

The Toyota Hilux is a popular pickup truck known for its reliability and durability. However, there are some common problems that owners have reported.

One of the most common issues is related to the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) in diesel-powered models, particularly those that are left to idle a lot or complete only short journeys. The DPF can block up with frustrating regularity, leading to poor fuel economy and reduced performance. While there is a specific button to regenerate the DPF, taking prolonged drives at faster speeds is a better option to prevent this issue.

Another problem reported by owners is related to the turbocharger. Some Hilux owners have experienced a lack of power and black smoke coming from the exhaust, which are symptoms of turbo issues. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty sensors, worn-out components, or issues with the fuel system.

Misfiring and starting problems have also been reported by some Hilux owners. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors. In some cases, these problems can be caused by issues with the engine control unit (ECU) or wiring.

In addition to these issues, some Hilux owners have reported problems with the fuel system, including issues with the fuel pump, fuel injectors, and fuel pressure regulator. These problems can lead to poor fuel economy, reduced performance, and difficulty starting the vehicle.

In 2023, Toyota admitted to cheating engine tests for the HiLux, Prado, LandCruiser, and other models. The issues in the diesel-engine certification tests are related to power ratings, rather than emissions. The car giant has temporarily suspended shipments of vehicles equipped with the affected engines and has promised a restructure of the diesel-engine-producing division and a "drastic reform of corporate culture".

Despite these issues, the Toyota Hilux remains a popular and reliable pickup truck. However, it is important for potential buyers to be aware of these common problems and to have any issues addressed promptly by a qualified mechanic.

Toyota Hi lux

Are Toyota Hilux reliable?

The Hilux is more than just an immensely popular 4X4 dual-cab ute here in Australia, it's an icon. Toyota Hilux offers reliability, towing, good resale value and occasional family duties. The Toyota Hilux is the first vehicle you think of when someone asks what new ute you're thinking about buying.

Why are Toyota Hilux not allowed in US?

In the '80s, the government introduced a new law that made it harder to import new cars from abroad. Furthermore, in the '60s, a tax called the Chicken Tax added a 25% tax to light-duty trucks, which the Hilux was. To get around these laws, Toyota started making cars in the US, as that would avoid those regulations.

What year did Hilux have injector problems?

The first and most common repair request is for fuel injector replacement. This problem affected the early editions of the 3-litre diesel engine built before August 2007 and there have been a number of updated injectors released - both from Toyota as well as aftermarket companies.

What year is the Hilux most reliable?

Toyota Hilux 5th Generation (1988-1997)

This generation of Hilux is also considered to be highly reliable and durable. It has a simple design and a reliable engine, making it easy to maintain and repair. It was also known for being able to handle tough conditions and rough terrain.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota Hi lux years

We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota Hi lux cars and compiled the top 2 most problematic Toyota Hi lux model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota Hi lux model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota Hi lux years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Toyota Hi lux car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Toyota Hi lux , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Power train problems
  • Structure problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Toyota Hi lux vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota Hi lux . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota Hi lux vehicles.

List of Toyota Hi lux complaints

Toyota Hi lux 1978
  • Date Of Incident: 1998-12-29
  • Date Complaint: 1999-07-15
  • VIN: RN28142246
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I LEARNED BY COINCIDENCE FROM A FELLOW TOYOTA BASED MOTORHOME THAT HE HAD THE REAREND REPLACED WITH A HEAVIER DUTY ONE THROUGH A PROGRAM OFFERED BY TOYOTA AND THE MOTORHOME MANUFACTURERS. HOWEVER, WHEN I CONTACTED ROTTER TOYOTA IN TUMWATER, WA, I WAS INFORMED THE PROGRAM HAD EXPIRED AND WAS OFFERED THE OPPORTUNITY TO PURCHASE SOME PARTS THAT WERE REMOVED FROM SOME OF THE REPLACEMENTS. I NEVER RECEIVED ANY NOTICE OF THIS 'RECALL' OR I CERTAINLY WOULD HAVE TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF IT, BECAUSE I HAVE HAD SEVERAL REAR BEARING FAILURES PRIOR TO THE RECENT FRIGHTENING EVENT OF HAVING THE REAR WHEEL COME OFF. I AM CERTAINLY THANKFUL I WAS TRAVELLING AT LOW SPEED WHEN IT OCCURRED. I BELIEVE IT WOULD BE UNSAFE TO SIMPLY REPAIR THE VEHICLE TO ITS ORIGINAL AND TOYOTA SHOULD EXTEND THEIR 'RECALL' AND REPLACE THE REAREND AND WHEELS WITH UNITS APPROPRIATE FOR THE LOAD OF THE MOTORHOME. THANKS FOR YOUR ATTENTION. BILL MEEKER.
Toyota Hi lux 1984
  • Date Of Incident: 1995-01-27
  • Date Complaint: 1995-01-27
  • VIN: JT4RN50R7E0
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THE ENTIRE FRAME OF THE VEHICLE IS RUSTED AND WEAKENED. TT

Recalls Toyota Hi lux

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the Toyota Hi lux.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Toyota Hi lux 1978
  • Report Received Date: 1978-11-14
  • Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR CO., LTD.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
  • Summary: INADEQUATE WELDS ON THE BED SIDE PANEL OF THE LONG BEDS, MAY ALLOW DISCONNECTION OF THE FUEL FILLER PIPE FROM THE FUEL TANK IN THE EVENT OF A REAR COLLISION. SUCH A DISCONNECTION COULD CAUSE FUEL LEAKAGE TO OCCUR. THIS CONSTITUTES A NON-COMPLIANCE TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY".
  • Remedy: DEALER WILL INSTALL A SPECIAL BRACKET, FROM THE RIGHT SIDE WHEEL HOUSING TO THE FUEL INLET PIPE, TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE WITH THE SAFETY STANDARD.

Are you having problems with your Toyota Hi lux?

Add car complaint
Toyota Hi lux photo