Parts for your 2020 Toyota Hilux-Struts

2020 Toyota HiLux struts — are they actually used on this ute?

Short answer: no, the 2020 Toyota HiLux does not use MacPherson struts. Toyota’s own technical literature lists the HiLux (AN120/AN130 series) with a double wishbone front suspension using a separate coil spring and shock absorber, and a rear live axle with leaf springs and shock absorbers. That layout means there’s no structural “strut” up front. The Toyota Repair Manual and New Car Features documents describe the front as “double wishbone type” with a coil spring and shock absorber, while the rear is “leaf spring” with dampers. By definition (per standard engineering usage), a MacPherson strut replaces the upper control arm and carries lateral loads, the HiLux keeps both upper and lower control arms, so its damper is not a strut.

Why doesn’t Toyota fit struts to the 2020 HiLux? It comes down to chassis design and duty. The HiLux runs a ladder-frame chassis and is built for load-carrying, towing and off-road work. A double wishbone front end provides strong control of camber and caster under heavy loads and suspension travel, while the rear leaf springs handle payload and durability. That combination suits Aussie and Kiwi conditions, offering robustness, ground clearance and wheel articulation that a MacPherson strut set-up (common in passenger cars) isn’t optimised for.

It’s worth noting that some parts catalogues and workshops casually call the HiLux front damper-and-coil assembly a “strut”. Technically, it’s a coil-over shock absorber with a top mount, not a MacPherson strut. If you’re shopping for front-end components for a 2020 HiLux, the correct parts are front shock absorbers, coil springs, top mounts/bearings, and bushings, in the rear, leaf springs, shackles, and shock absorbers.

• Front: Double wishbone with separate coil spring and shock absorber (not a structural strut)
• Rear: Leaf spring live axle with shock absorbers
• Technical references: Toyota Repair Manual and New Car Features for HiLux AN120/AN130 (lists double wishbone front, leaf-spring rear), engineering definition of MacPherson strut (structural damper replacing the upper arm)

For servicing, the sensible approach is to inspect front and rear shock absorbers for leaks, fade and uneven rebound, check front coil springs and top mounts for noise or sag, and ensure rear leaf packs, bushes and shackles are in good nick. After any suspension work or lift, a proper wheel alignment is a must to keep tyre wear even and steering feel tidy.

Popular questions about 2020 Toyota HiLux “struts”

Does the 2020 HiLux have front struts?
It doesn’t. The 2020 HiLux uses a double wishbone front end with a coil spring and separate shock absorber. Some shops call the coil-over unit a “strut”, but it isn’t a structural MacPherson strut because the HiLux still has both upper and lower control arms handling side loads.

What should be replaced instead of struts on a 2020 HiLux?
Think in terms of shocks, coils and mounts. Up front: shock absorbers (dampers), coil springs and the top mount/bearing as required. In the rear: shock absorbers, plus leaf springs, bushes and shackles if worn. Replace in axle pairs and get an alignment afterwards.

Are aftermarket “strut” lift kits OK on a 2020 HiLux?
Many kits labelled “strut” lifts are actually coil-over shock assemblies. They can work well when matched to the HiLux’s weights and intended use. Keep lift heights sensible to protect CV angles and ride quality, and always follow up with alignment and checks for brake line and droop clearance.