2004 Toyota Hilux

Engine - 3.4L V6 Petrol
Transmission -  5 Speed Manual
Suspension - Stock
Tyres - 235/85r16 BFG KM3
Equipped For - Daily & Camping

What drew you to the Toyota Hilux, and how has it lived up to your expectations over the years?

I’ve always loved the silhouette of these older Japanese built utes, something so simple and classic about them. Along with their cheaper price, it’s hard to find a 4wd Toyota of better value. They also fall into those golden years of being simple enough to work on yourself, modern enough for good reliability, but not old enough to be dealing with rust and other old car issues.

You've owned a couple of Hilux’s, what advice would you give someone in the market for one?

I’d say similar to any 4wd, a good service history would be a great start. But more specific to these models, don’t be afraid of the petrol variants as they are cheaper to buy, cheaper to service and maintain, are super reliable and have plenty of power. Anything around the 300km mark still has plenty of life left, as long as the timing belt, water pump and radiator have been done. 

What modifications have you made to it since owning it?

I’ve replaced all the aftermarket barwork with stock parts, found a low top colour matched canopy and threw on some tall skinny tyres. That’s about all. Less is more with this one and I was lucky it hadn’t been damaged before I got it.

They say the Toyota Hilux is one of the most reliable cars of all time, how has the reliability of your Hilux been since you bought it?

I can honestly say with the 4 I’ve owned, not one of them has given me a single issue. Stay on top of servicing, do all your preventive maintenance, keep them clean and they’ll run forever. And if something were to go wrong, parts are plentiful, cheap and most mechanics will be familiar with them. They earned that title for a reason!

Photos & Words by Tim Reed