2020 Toyota Hiace

The 2020 Toyota Hiace is a popular and reliable van known for its spaciousness, practicality, and durability. It’s a common choice for commercial use, passenger transport, and even camper conversions. The Hiace is offered with a range of engine options, including a 2.8L turbo-diesel and a 3.5L petrol engine (depending on the market). The 2.8L turbo-diesel produces around 174 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Common positive points include its reliability, cargo capacity, and robust build. Some drawbacks include its basic interior, limited modern features compared to some competitors, and potentially higher fuel consumption than smaller vans. Depending on the market, these engines could be paired with a 6 speed manual or 6 speed automatic transmission.

Engine

2.8L Turbo-Diesel

• Excessive Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Regeneration
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent DPF regeneration cycles, leading to increased fuel consumption and potential for engine oil dilution. Drivers might notice the engine running rougher than normal when this occurs.
  • Solution: Ensure proper driving conditions for DPF regeneration (longer trips at higher speeds). If the issue persists, a forced DPF regeneration by a technician or DPF cleaning may be necessary. In severe cases, DPF replacement might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ for cleaning or forced regeneration, $1500 - $3000+ for DPF replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, and potentially black smoke from the exhaust. Can lead to engine misfires.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing to confirm injector failure. Replacement of faulty injectors is the typical solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per injector (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L Petrol

• No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky gear changes, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Check transmission fluid level and condition. A transmission fluid flush and filter change may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body issues or internal transmission damage may be present.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for fluid flush and filter change, $800 - $1500+ for valve body repair/replacement, $3000+ for transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded. Reduced ride height and potential for bottoming out.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn leaf springs. Consider heavy-duty leaf springs for vehicles frequently carrying heavy loads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ per side (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes intermittently.
  • Solution: First, try a system reset. If the problem persists, a software update may be available from the dealer. In more severe cases, the infotainment unit itself may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for reset, $0 - $100 for software update, $500 - $1500+ for infotainment unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Reverse Camera
  • Description/Symptoms: The reverse camera displays a distorted image, a black screen, or fails to activate when the vehicle is shifted into reverse.
  • Solution: Check the camera wiring and connections. If the wiring is intact, the camera unit itself may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for wiring repairs, $200 - $500+ for camera replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding doors, often due to worn rollers or damaged tracks.
  • Solution: Lubricate the rollers and tracks. If the problem persists, the rollers or tracks may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 for lubrication and minor adjustments, $200 - $500+ per door for roller/track replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling from Dashboard/Door Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling noises emanating from the dashboard or door panels, especially when driving on rough roads.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the rattle. Tighten loose screws or clips. Add foam padding or sound deadening material to eliminate the vibrations.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Toyota Hiace is a generally reliable vehicle, but like any vehicle, it has its share of potential issues. The most common issues seem to revolve around the diesel engine (DPF and injectors), automatic transmission (harsh shifting), suspension (leaf spring sag), and electrical components (infotainment and reverse camera). The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to potentially costly repairs. Proper maintenance, including regular servicing and addressing issues promptly, can help to mitigate these problems and extend the lifespan of the vehicle. Costs can range from a hundred dollars to thousands depending on the scale of the repair.