Parts for your 2019 Toyota Hilux-Struts

2019 Toyota HiLux: Struts or not?

Short answer: struts aren’t used on the 2019 Toyota HiLux. Toyota specifies a double wishbone front suspension with a coil spring over a separate shock absorber, and a leaf-spring rear with separate shock absorbers. That’s straight from technical references such as the Toyota Hilux Repair Manual for the AN120/AN130 series (2015–2020) and Toyota Australia’s 2019 HiLux specification sheets, both of which list “double wishbone, coil spring, gas damper” at the front and “leaf spring, gas damper” at the rear. Major aftermarket catalogues for this model year (e.g., KYB, Monroe) also classify the units as shock absorbers rather than MacPherson struts.

Why no struts then? A MacPherson strut is a structural member that locates the wheel and carries vehicle loads, replacing the upper control arm. The HiLux instead uses upper and lower control arms to control wheel location and geometry, with the shock absorber handling damping only. This double wishbone layout is chosen for durability, consistent alignment under load, and off‑road articulation—key attributes for a working ute that tows, carries gear, and sees corrugations and tracks across Australia and New Zealand.

Heard someone call the HiLux front units “struts”? In common workshop chat, people sometimes refer to the front coilover shock assemblies as “struts”, but technically they’re not. On the HiLux, removing a front shock doesn’t change the position of the upright because the control arms still locate it—classic shock absorber behaviour, not a strut’s job.

If you’re servicing suspension on a 2019 HiLux, attention should go to:

• Front and rear shock absorbers (damping performance, leaks, bush wear)
• Upper/lower control arm bushes and ball joints
• Stabiliser bar links and bushes
• Rear leaf springs, shackle and eye bushes, and U‑bolt torque
• Wheel alignment and tyre wear patterns after any suspension work

Many owners find shocks start to fade between 80,000 and 120,000 kilometres depending on loads and off‑road use. Regular checks at routine services (say every 20,000 km) help pick up weeps, uneven tyre wear, or a bouncy ride early. If upgrading for touring or towing, choose shocks matched to actual accessory weight and get a proper alignment with caster/camber set for your tyre size.

FAQs

Does a 2019 Toyota HiLux have struts?

No. It uses a double wishbone front with a separate coil spring and shock absorber, and a leaf‑spring rear with separate shocks. That’s why Toyota and most technical sources describe the units as shock absorbers, not MacPherson struts.

What do people mean when they say “HiLux struts” need replacing?

They’re usually talking about the front shock absorber assemblies (coilover shocks). On this ute, those shocks don’t locate the wheel like a true strut, they just provide damping. Replacement typically involves new shocks (and often new top mounts/bushes), followed by a wheel alignment.

How often should HiLux shocks be replaced, and what are the signs?

Inspection every 20,000 km is a good habit. Many drivers see noticeable fade between 80,000 and 120,000 km, sooner if the ute tows, carries heavy loads, or sees rough roads. Telltales include longer stopping distances over bumps, a floaty or bouncy feel, cupped tyre wear, and oil misting on the shock bodies.