Which HiLux engine is in yours?
| Engines | Camshaft drive | |
|---|---|---|
| Seventh generation (from 2004) | 2.5-litre 2KD-FTV and 3.0-litre 1KD-FTV diesels, 2.7-litre petrol, 4.0-litre V6 | Confirm from the engine code and the book |
| Eighth generation (from 2015) | 2.4-litre 2GD-FTV and 2.8-litre 1GD-FTV diesels, 2.7-litre petrol | Chain on the 1GD-FTV |
| Hilux Surf (a Japanese import) | A different vehicle: the Japanese-market 4Runner | Tell the mechanic it's a Surf |
Does a Toyota HiLux have a cambelt?
Wikipedia lists a chain drive for the 2.8-litre 1GD-FTV, the diesel in the HiLux from 2015, so a late-model 2.8 has no cambelt to replace. For the older 2.5 and 3.0-litre diesels, and anything older again, have the mechanic confirm it from the engine code rather than trusting a forum.
Where there is a belt, don't let it slide. A worn belt gives no warning before it fails, Wikipedia notes, and on an interference engine the pistons can then hit the valves. No proof of a change on a belt engine? Then it's due, and the quote should include the parts that wear alongside it: tensioner, idlers and usually the water pump. Cambelt replacement covers the job.
Toyota HiLux problems that come with the work
Brakes and suspension. A ute that tows or carries a full tray works its brakes, shocks and bushes hard, especially on long descents. Ask for pad and disc measurements on the invoice.
The particulate filter. AA New Zealand notes that modern diesels carry a filter that traps soot. A HiLux that only does short town runs may not get hot enough for long enough to clear it, so tell the mechanic how the ute is used. Exhaust and DPF repairs explains the warning light.
Leaks. Brown or black drips under the ute are usually engine oil, and AA New Zealand says a modern vehicle shouldn't leak any. Red fluid that has turned brown is usually automatic transmission fluid.
The paperwork side of a diesel. Keep the road user charges current, since RUC applies to diesels. If your ute has an AdBlue tank, the AA says the engine won't start once it runs dry.
What to ask for at a HiLux service
- The service Toyota's book lists for the kilometres, named on the quote.
- Brake pads, discs and any rear drums measured, with the numbers written down.
- Shock absorbers, bushes and the tow bar mounting checked for wear and leaks.
- Diff and transfer case oils, if the book says they're due at this visit.
- Any DPF warnings from the past few months, noted and scanned.
How often does a HiLux need a service?
Toyota New Zealand says most of its vehicles are on 12 months or 15,000 km, but some models, and older or high-kilometre vehicles, need servicing more often, so the book for your ute decides. If it tows or works off-road, ask whether the book has a heavier-use schedule. Toyota's standard warranty doesn't need a Toyota store, as long as the schedule and the right parts and fluids are followed. A local mechanic who specialises in your car.
What we'd do with a HiLux
Find the engine code first, because it settles the cambelt question and the parts. Then book the service by the book's kilometres, tell the mechanic what the ute tows and where it drives, and ask for brake measurements and any DPF history in writing.