Toyota HiLux Problems

If it’s damaged you should be able to see it. But to be sure it needs to be put on a bedplate, so I would take it to a panel beater or a chassis aligner who should have the required equipment.

There’s no reason why the Hilux won’t carry a one-tonne payload. A Workmate will haul a payload of around 1200 kg.

Check that the key fob is working, try the spare. Was something dislodged when the engine was cleaned, or is it just a coincidence that the problem cropped up at the same time? Have your dealer look at it for you. Or you could disconnect the battery and then reconnect it hoping the computer has reset itself.

Both would be improved, but I wouldn’t necessarily think they would be the same. Talk to an off-road suspension specialist for a more definitive opinion.

A number of vehicles of your vintage using that engine suffered from a lack of oil pressure due to accumulated contamination on the oil pickup. Remove the oil drain plug and inspect the oil pickup and make sure it isn’t clogged up with accumulated crud that could affect the oil pressure.

It depends somewhat on the condition of the sand. If it’s well packed and solid all-wheel drive would suffice, but I wouldn’t rely on it on loose, deep sand. For that I would want a proper four-wheel drive.

You are right to want to get the manual back, and if the dealer is unwilling or can’t help them contact Toyota direct (1800 869 682) and request their help. At the very least the dealer should be able to give you a report on the service history of your car, which should help when it comes time to sell it.

I doubt the airbag is on the same fuse as the cruise and horn, so it might be something else, but checking the fuses is a good starting point.

It would be worth $5000 to $7000.

You’ll struggle to find a diesel 4WD dual-cab HiLux less than 10 years old for $15,000. Any you find will be around the 10-year-old mark and will probably have high odometer readings.