Models · Toyota
Toyota Hilux (2005–2016) buying guide
The seventh-generation Hilux, sold in the UK from 2005 to 2016 with 2.5 and 3.0 D-4D diesels in single, extra and double cab forms. It is known for covering very high mileages, and the checks centre on a few well-documented diesel and driveline issues.
The versions
- 2.5 D-4D diesel: 101bhp at launch, later 118bhp and 142bhp (142bhp was the standard engine from 2012)
- 3.0 D-4D diesel: 169bhp, on the top Invincible trim, with manual or automatic gearbox
- Single Cab, Extra Cab and Double Cab bodies; most UK trucks are Double Cabs
- Part-time four-wheel drive with a high and low range lever, plus two-wheel-drive work trucks
What to check on a 2005 to 2016 Hilux
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
2.5 D-4D injector seals and the oil pickup
What to look for: On a 2.5 diesel, ask for paperwork showing the injector seal recall was done by a Toyota dealer, and that the oil pickup was checked for carbon. Look for regular oil changes in the history.
Why it matters: Leaking injector seals let combustion gas into the oil, which can turn it to carbon and clog the oil pickup in the sump, starving the engine of oil. Toyota ran a UK recall. A dealer can check the pickup with a probe through the drain plug without removing the sump, and a truck with the work done and regular oil changes is the one to look for.
3.0 D-4D smoke and tapping at idle
What to look for: On a 3.0 Invincible, watch the exhaust as the engine starts and listen at idle with the bonnet open. Smoke on start-up or a tapping noise at idle are the signs to note.
Why it matters: The 3.0's injectors are sensitive to poor-quality fuel, and those are the usual symptoms of worn injectors, which then need replacing.
Clunks from the propshaft
What to look for: On the test drive, pull away gently and change between drive and overrun. Listen for a clunk from under the truck and feel for vibration through the floor as you accelerate. Ask whether the tailshaft support bracket recall has been done on a four-wheel-drive truck.
Why it matters: A clunk is a recognised Hilux problem from this era, usually cured with a replacement tailshaft (rear propshaft), so it's best done by the seller before you buy. Toyota also recalled four-wheel-drive models in 2010 over possible failure of the tailshaft support bracket.
Also in the full guide
- Driver's side sill and the underside
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the 2005 to 2016 Hilux
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Toyota.