2004 Toyota Hilux

Introduction: The 2004 Toyota Hilux is a mid-size pickup truck known for its reliability and ruggedness. It is powered by a 2.7-liter inline-4 engine that produces 150 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. The Hilux comes standard with a rear-wheel-drive configuration and offers a four-wheel-drive option. Available transmission options include a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic.

Drivers appreciate the Hilux for its off-road capabilities, durability, and low maintenance costs. However, some owners have reported issues with certain components.

Engine

• 2.7-Liter Inline-4
  • Oil Leak: The engine may develop an oil leak from the valve cover gasket. The symptoms include drops of oil under the vehicle and a burning oil smell. The valve cover gasket needs to be replaced. $250 - $500+
  • Timing Belt Failure: The timing belt can fail prematurely, leading to engine damage. The symptoms include a sudden loss of power and a knocking noise from the engine. The timing belt should be replaced every 60,000 miles. $700 - $1,200+
• 3.0-Liter V6 (Optional)
  • No Issues Found

Transmission

• Five-Speed Manual
  • No Issues Found
• Four-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission Fluid Leak: The transmission can develop a fluid leak from the transmission pan gasket. The symptoms include drips of transmission fluid under the vehicle and difficulty shifting gears. The transmission pan gasket needs to be replaced. $150 - $300+
  • Shifting Issues: The transmission may experience shifting problems, including delayed or hard shifts. The issue can be caused by faulty solenoids or a malfunctioning transmission control module (TCM). $500 - $1,000+

Suspension

• Front Suspension:
  • Ball Joint Wear: The ball joints in the front suspension can wear out, leading to clunking noises and reduced handling. The ball joints need to be replaced. $300 - $500+ per side
• Rear Suspension:
  • Leaf Spring Sag: The leaf springs in the rear suspension can lose stiffness and sag over time. The symptoms include a decrease in ride height and premature tire wear. The leaf springs need to be replaced. $500 - $1,000+ per axle

Electrical

• Battery Drain: The battery can drain unexpectedly due to a faulty starter or alternator. The symptoms include a dead battery or difficulty starting the vehicle. The starter or alternator needs to be replaced. $300 - $1,000+
• Electrical Short: The vehicle may experience electrical shorts, causing fuses to blow or electrical components to malfunction. The electrical system needs to be diagnosed and repaired. Varies
• Recalls: Several recalls have been issued for electrical issues, including: E02, E03, E04, E05, E06, E07, E08, E09, E10

Exterior

• Rust: The body panels, especially around the wheel arches and undercarriage, may rust over time. The rust can be repaired or prevented with rust protection measures. Varies
• Tailgate Corrosion: The tailgate can develop corrosion due to moisture and salt exposure. The corrosion can be repaired or prevented by applying anti-corrosion products. Varies

Interior

• Climate Control Issues: The climate control system may malfunction, leading to insufficient heating or cooling. The issue can be caused by a faulty blower motor or blend door actuator. $200 - $500+
• Dashboard Cracking: The dashboard can crack due to exposure to sunlight. The cracked dashboard can be repaired with a dashboard cover or replaced. Varies

Summary: Overall, the 2004 Toyota Hilux is a reliable vehicle with a good track record. However, like any vehicle, it can experience certain issues. The severity and cost of the problems can vary depending on the severity of the issue and the specific components involved.