A used Hilux holds its price because buyers assume it is unbreakable. Across seven Hilux inspections in the Instant Auto Reach Inspection Index, most were good trucks. Two had a rear diff lock that would not engage, and one we advised the buyer not to proceed with.
The seven Hiluxes
| Instant Auto Reach Case File | Year | Odometer | Rating | Main finding |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A2C1A922 | 2022 | 102,148 km | Good to very good | Oil around front differential solenoid |
| A297D0ED | 2021 | 156,267 km | Drove well | Rear shock lower bushes perished, heavy mud underneath |
| A199B7F6 | 2020 | 103,808 km | Good | 11 stored fault codes, front rotors need machining |
| A2DDA521 | 2019 | 164,390 km | Good to very good | Front tyres low, control arm bushes cracked |
| A2EDF056 | 2018 | 113,981 km | Good | Rear diff lock not engaging, rear tyres worn to indicators |
| A1C0DB68 | 2018 | 210,047 km | Fair | Low range and diff lock not engaging, rough idle |
| A2CA560B | 2011 | 271,809 km | Good | Recently washed engine, low coolant |
The median was 156,267 km.
What to check on a used Hilux
4WD and diff lock
This is the one a road test around the block will never show. On two of seven Hiluxes the rear differential lock failed to engage when tested, and on one of those low range would not engage either. Ask the seller to demonstrate both, or have us do it.
Signs of hard work
Mud packed underneath, rusted hose clamps, dust inside the air cleaner housing and a deep-clean interior all tell you how a ute was used. None of them are faults on their own. Together they tell you to look harder.
A freshly washed engine bay
On the 2011 Hilux, our inspector noted a strong degreaser smell and oil residue still visible at the rear of the engine. Cleaning can hide a leak for a few days. We flagged it for recheck after driving.
Suspension bushes and tyres
Cracked front lower control arm bushes and worn tyres appeared on three of seven. These are negotiation items. Read control arm bushes explained.
The one we said no to
The 2018 Hilux SR at 210,047 km had a rough idle with active fault codes, a knocking noise, low coolant and no working low range or diff lock. Our inspector’s view was that it had not been looked after. Full story in the Hilux SR case file.
Buying a Hilux for work
Most Hiluxes are bought to earn money. A week off the road costs more than the repair. A reviewer who bought a 4WD after a same-day inspection said our inspector went through every inch of the car. For one ute, book a ute and 4WD inspection. For several, see fleet vehicle inspection.
See how Hilux compares with other Toyotas in what 53 used Toyota inspections found, or book a Toyota inspection.
Book online or call 0402 220 178. Mobile across Greater Melbourne, 7 days.
Test the Diff Lock Before You Pay for It
Two of the seven Hiluxes we inspected had a rear diff lock that would not engage, and you will never find that on a drive around the block. We test low range, the diff lock, the injectors and the underside, then tell you what the ute has really been through.
Buying a Hilux for work or touring? Book before you hand over a deposit. We come to the seller, the yard or the dealership.
CUSTOMER REVIEW
“Great experience with instantautoreach called up last minute and within an hour I was able to have an inspection done. Had a 4wd inspected by Diaa which ultimately lead to me buying they car, he was very thorough in he’s inspection going through every inch of the car he took he’s time to really see what was going on and he was very informational if you are looking at buying a car I highly recommend you use instantautoreach you won’t be disappointed it was worth very dollar 100%”
Check Review
Buying several utes for a business? Ask for a fleet inspection quote.
