Toyota HiLux: FAQs

The most commonly reported problem with recent-model Toyota HiLux utes is poor fuel economy and a smoky exhaust due to a faulty diesel particulate filter (DPF).

Dusting, the ingress of foreign matter past the air filter, is another well-publicised issue.

The DPF issue affects 2.8-litre (1GD-FTV) and 2.4-litre (2GD-FTV) turbo-diesel engines and has been so widespread a class-action lawsuit has been filed against Toyota by disgruntled customers in Australia.

The DPF is designed to trap pollutants and soot created when the engine burns diesel. To keep the DPF functioning in an optimal state, it must periodically heat up, which burns off noxious particles and then regenerates the filtration system. This does not always happen for the HiLux.

Toyota offers a retro-fit manual override button on the dashboard that forces DPF regeneration on affected vehicles. Toyota claims changes to affected engines’ hardware and software “will continue to improve the way the DPF operates” on vehicles built from July 2020 onwards.

The dusting problem occurs when fine dust particles get past the air filter and into the engine. This can put the engine in limp mode which dramatically reduces top speed and acceleration and switches off safety systems like electronic stability control.

Both major issues affect hundreds of thousands of HiLux vehicles.

The Toyota HiLux is marketed as being ‘unbreakable’ and while Toyota has a very strong reputation for reliability, there are widely reported issues with diesel-powered HiLux utes’ diesel particulate filter (DPF) and air filtration systems over the past 15 years.

The dusting problem can cause the HiLux to enter ‘limp’ mode when fine dust particles bypass the air filter and electrostatically attach to the mass air flow sensor. The vehicle then (incorrectly) thinks lots of dust and grit will enter the engine, which affects reliability by turning off some safety systems and drastically reducing engine output.

Toyota recently stated the dusting issue had been addressed but has not detailed the measures it has taken.

In Australia, the Toyota HiLux has been the best-selling vehicle for four years straight, although the Ford Ranger is always close behind in sales numbers.

Ford also took class honours last year with Ranger in the popular 4x4 sales category.

Based on dual-cab ute comparisons, the Ford Ranger has also consistently been crowned winner for the past several years.

This is largely due to its stronger engine, higher levels of cabin technology and more advanced safety features such as semi-autonomous acceleration, braking and steering.

When it comes to servicing costs and resale value, the Toyota HiLux is better than the Ford Ranger but in terms of almost every other metric, including towing, the Ranger generally outperforms its rivals.

The Toyota HiLux has been the best-selling vehicle in Australia for four years straight and is generally considered the best buy in its class due to its resale value and strong dealer and serving network.

Based on most metrics, the HiLux is a better utilitarian vehicle thanks to its ability to more effectively carry loads as it uses heavy-duty leaf spring suspension at the rear axle.

The Navara uses car-like coil springs, and although this delivers better ride quality it harms its towing and load-lugging effectiveness.

Despite the Toyota having a larger 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, the Nissan’s 2.3-litre turbo-diesel powerplant generates almost as much power.