REDLINE ALLEYToyota Hilux N80 buying guide
2015 to now. An N80 suits a buyer who wants a modern, well supported work or family ute and can confirm the DPF update.
Big jobs
- Diesel particulate filter (DPF). The 2.8 and 2.4 diesels supplied from late 2015 to April 2020 had a DPF system that could block, causing foul smelling white smoke, higher fuel use and limp home mode, mainly on trucks used for short trips.
Workshop jobs
- Rear leaf springs and ride. Toyota changed the suspension in 2017, in particular the rear leaf springs, after complaints about the ride. Extreme lift kits are reported to raise rollover risk.
- Underbody and tray. Off road and work use leave crushed exhausts, torn CV boots, chassis damage and tray dents that let rust in under a bed liner.
Small jobs
- Manual DPF regeneration switch. A manual DPF regeneration switch became standard from June 2018. The system is still fully automatic.
- Air filter and limp mode. Dust bypassing the air filter on diesels can trick the engine sensors into limp home mode, and the ECU then has to be reset.
- Brake booster recall (some 2018 trucks). A brake booster assembly moulding issue was the subject of a recall on some 2018 vehicles.
Questions for the seller
- Has the DPF update from Toyota been done, and is it on the dealer record?
- Has it had DPF warnings, white smoke or limp mode?
- Has it mostly done short trips or open road running?
- Is the suspension standard, and is there LVVTA paperwork for any lift?
- Have all recalls been completed?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-01. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.