1998 Toyota Hi-lux 2.7 from Australia and New Zealand
Summary:
Good 4x4 ute for its age
Faults:
Reconditioned the cylinder head when first purchased due worn vales and replaced 1 CV drive shaft (torn boot).
General Comments:
The Hilux has been very reliable over the last 5 years of ownership. The 2.7 motor is a bit thirsty on fuel, but considering the age and weight of the vehicle, it's reasonable.
It has a 2 inch lift kit and steel bull bar, which doesn't help fuel economy, but in its favour the 2.7 petrol engine is reasonably easy for a home mechanic to work on and service (no expensive injector pump to worry about etc). I didn't have any issues taking the head off, getting it reconditioned and putting it all back together, although having a good service manual helped.
It's a common problem for 3rzfe engines with a few Ks to have issues with the cylinder head, and it's worth checking out if looking at buying a 2.7 petrol. Mine had a lot of money spent on aftermarket accessories (just over $7k), so the engine issue didn't bother me; just helped to knock a few $ off the purchase price.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 6th August, 2015
16th Nov 2014, 11:18
Upgraded the hydrogen kit in this Hilux and now it's 6.5 litres per 100 km, in traffic.
At 425250 km the gear box gave up and I had to change it with a reco.
Now it's at 440,000 km and the rear diff is leaking oil, very slowly.
I change the engine oil and filter every 5000 km and use Caltex diesel all the time. Changing the diesel filter every 10000km. Never touching the injectors when using hydrogen injection.