Toyota Hilux: Maintenance guide

The current Toyota Hilux first entered the Philippine market back in 2015. This popular 4x4 pickup has withstood the test of time, earning it a reputation for being both rugged and reliable.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2018, the Toyota Hilux is still a favourite for those who like to traverse through various terrains. While known for being a powerful vehicle — carrying a 2.8L diesel, 4-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC turbo engine with 174 hp at 3,400s rpm — it still requires thorough maintenance to keep it consistently performing at its best.

It can be overwhelming with such a huge and complex vehicle. Which is why we compiled this simple maintenance guide to point you in the right direction.

Don’t miss your scheduled service days

Automakers offer regular service maintenance for a reason. Think of them like your annual health checkup, except for your vehicle. Service days usually consist of checking parts to ensure that everything is still in good working condition. No matter how tough the Toyota Hilux is, major car parts still require replacement over time.

Your car manual booklet indicates your scheduled service days. Check it often to make sure that you’re not missing any of your scheduled days. Keep a record of all your service reports and take note of the parts that are due for inspection or replacement later on.

Maintain your fluids and oil

The Toyota Hilux has an excellent mileage. However, performance can deteriorate after just a few months of frequent use. To maintain mileage, be mindful of the quality of oil you put into your vehicle. For the engine used by the Toyota Hilux,

the oil is crucial in maintaining its mileage. Always use the oils recommended according to the engine’s configurations. Experimenting or going for lower-quality oils could seriously damage your engine in the long run.

Oil changes for the Hilux should typically be in three to four month intervals, or at least after 4,000 kilometres. However, take the initiative to still check your oil at least once a month. A general rule of thumb is to change both your oil and oil filter every 3,000 to 5,000 kilometres. While you’re at it, also check under the hood for any leakage or coolant issues. Check if your fluids are at adequate levels. If you’re anticipating a long drive, carry extra water for your Hilux.

Look after your tyres

Your tyres can seem like the least of concerns when you’re on the road, but they’re the parts of your vehicle that receive the most wear and tear. The Hilux is resilient on various kinds of terrain, but that doesn’t mean it’s immune to damage.

Exposure to different driving surfaces and varying weight loads can take a toll on the tyre pressure. A flat tyre is only one potential problem. Low air pressure can lead to the bursting of tyres if not maintained at the recommended level. Check your car manual for the correct pressure figures for your vehicle.

Also, keep an eye on the tread of all your tyres. The lower the tread, the longer the stopping distance required when wet. For 4x4 vehicles, it’s ideal to have them replaced before reaching their absolute minimum.

Check your cambelt

If you’re keeping a record of all your service reports like we told you to, they should mention when your cambelt was last replaced and when it’s due for a replacement.

If you’ve experienced your cam timing belt light coming on, this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s falling apart. However, this is a signal that it’s time to have it changed

.

The light only switches off by resetting the cambelt service interval when the cam belt has been inspected or replaced. While cambelt replacement is generally pricey, having a faulty cam belt is one of the major causes of engine damage when not addressed properly.

Inspect your brakes

Brake pads get worn out over time. Having a worn-out brake pedal can lead to all sorts of trouble just waiting to happen. It’s better to be safe than sorry and have them replaced at the first signs of wear and tear before waiting for them to be completely faulty. However, there’s also more to your brakes than just the brake pads.

Brake fluids should be replenished at least every two years. This is what absorbs the heat, preventing contamination in the hydraulic system. When air bleeds from the hydraulic system, it can result in less effective brakes.

Keep an eye on your wipers, hoses, and belts

After you’ve inspected all the major parts, take some time to also check some of the minor (but still equally important) ones such as your windshield wipers and your hoses and belts. Your wiper blades can accumulate wear and tear for battling inclement weather for you while you’re driving. On the other hand, hoses and belts are liable to rust. Checking on them occasionally will keep you aware of when they might due for replacement.

These are just some of the key steps you can take to ensure that your Toyota Hilux is always in good shape. Just by following the points mentioned, you can add more years to your vehicle’s life span and keep enjoying high mileage. However, if you ever find yourself at a loss with what to do when trouble does spring up, visit an authorized Toyota service centre to be assisted by a professional.

Also Read: Toyota Hilux: Top Alternatives