Toyota HiLux Problems

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

It would be worth $5000 to $7000.

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.

The Navara would seem to fit your requirements, there’s no reason not to go for it. Another one would be the Toyota HiLux.

The HiLux would be my first choice, followed by the Colorado.

Buying a car sight unseen is not a good idea. I would go for on of the big three: HiLux, Triton, or Courier. They are all much of a muchness when you get to the used car market. The important things are service history, odo reading, and previous use.