Used Toyota Hilux

What to know before buying: Toyota Hilux

From 4 video reviews, 1 forum thread and 3 press tests · updated 26/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The Hilux combines rugged construction with confident off-road ability; drivers of the 2016 model praised its comfort and capability away from tarmac.[1][3]
• The 2021 update made the unladen ride slightly more comfortable, but it remained firm and short of class-leading.[4][5]
• The 2021 double cab is tight around rear passengers’ knees and feet, making it less than ideal for carrying people regularly.[4][5]
• The 2021 cabin offers plenty of useful storage, but hard plastics dominate and the infotainment looks dated and responds slowly.[4][5]

Typical faults

• A deployment-sensor defect was reported for the newest-generation Hilux: the warning lamp may illuminate and the airbags may fail to deploy in a crash.[2]one source
• Owners reported warped front brake discs at low mileage; in one case vibration appeared at 32,000 km and was confirmed at 40,000 km.[3]one source

  32 000–40 000 km

• Injector seal failures and blockages have been reported, potentially causing misfires or difficult starting.[8]one source
• A diesel Hilux subjected to harder use may develop clutch slip over time, bringing forward clutch and flywheel replacement.[8]one source

  diesel

• Some manual Hilux models are difficult to shift into fifth gear, with synchroniser rings or worn gear teeth cited as possible causes.[8]one source
• Water-pump leaks have been reported; bright coolant around the gasket or beneath the vehicle may reveal a fault capable of damaging the engine.[8]one source
• The body and chassis are vulnerable to corrosion; a review of the 2026 4.0-litre V6 recommends applying rust protection immediately.[7]one source

  2026–2026 · 4.0 V6

Which engine and version to take

• The 2021 2.8-litre turbodiesel, with 204 hp and 500 Nm, is the stronger choice for towing and livelier performance; the automatic gets the full 500 Nm.[4][5]
• The 2016 2.4-litre turbodiesel, rated at 110 kW and 400 Nm, is a sensible workhorse choice and was judged punchy and sufficiently powerful.[6]one source

What to check at the inspection

• On newest-generation vehicles, check the airbag warning lamp and paperwork confirming completion of the recall inspection or repair.[2]one source
• During the test drive, warm the brakes and check for steering-wheel vibration under braking, which may indicate warped front discs.[3]one source
• From cold, check for misfiring and difficult starting, as either symptom may point to injector trouble.[8]one source
• On a diesel, test the clutch under load for slip, especially if the pickup has seen demanding use.[8]one source
• With a manual gearbox, select fifth repeatedly and ensure it engages easily and without grinding.[8]one source
• Inspect around the water-pump gasket and beneath the vehicle; traces of bright coolant suggest a possible leak.[8]one source
• Inspect the frame, chassis and load bed carefully for corrosion, and establish whether rust protection has been applied.[7]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]iauto.lv — Toyota Hilux 2016 tests, atsauksmes un iespaidi - Forums · forum
2. [2]actualidadmotor.com — Toyota atsauc Hilux drošības spilvenu problēmu dēļ · press
3. [3]autoesporte.globo.com — Toyota Hilux: os problemas e defeitos mais comuns da ... · press
4. [4]carwow — New Toyota Hilux 2021 review - the ULTIMATE pick-up truck! · ▶ video
5. [5]CarsGuide — Toyota HiLux 2021 review: Updated Ford Ranger ute rival tested! · ▶ video
6. [6]Drive.com.au — 2016 Toyota HiLux Workmate 4X4 Review | CarAdvice · ▶ video
7. [7]Клубный сервис — Toyota Hilux V6 2026 - Пикап для мужиков, а не детей · ▶ video
8. [8]milneroffroad.com — Common Faults With The Toyota Hilux · press

Spotted an error? Tell us