Parts for your 2020 Toyota Hilux-Temperature sensors

2020 Toyota Hilux Temperature Sensors

Temperature sensors are absolutely fitted to the 2020 Toyota Hilux. Technical sources including the Toyota Repair Manual for the N80-series Hilux (2015–2020), the Electrical Wiring Diagram (EWD), and Toyota’s New Car Features (NCF) confirm multiple temperature sensors are used: engine coolant temperature (ECT), intake air temperature (IAT), ambient temperature, automatic transmission fluid temperature, and (on diesel models) several exhaust gas temperature (EGT) sensors around the turbo and DPF. These sensors are core to engine and emissions control, cooling fan operation, shift strategy, climate control and dash readouts.

On a 2020 Hilux, the ECT sensor tells the ECU how warm the engine is so it can manage cold starts, fuelling, idle speed, radiator fans and, on diesels, glow plug logic. IAT informs air density so the ECU can trim fuelling and boost. Diesel variants rely on EGT sensors to protect the turbo, manage DPF regeneration and reduce soot. Automatics use transmission fluid temperature to adjust shift feel and protect the gearbox while towing. The ambient sensor feeds the A/C system and outside temperature display.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for temperature sensors, they’re replaced on condition. As part of routine servicing, it pays to check for stored fault codes, inspect connectors and looms (especially around the thermostat housing for ECT and along the DPF/turbo heat shields for EGTs), and confirm accurate temperature readings on a scan tool. Owners should use genuine-quality parts, as incorrect resistance curves can cause poor running or DPF issues.

• Common signs a sensor’s crook: hard cold starts, high idle, the fan running constantly, rich running or poor economy, DPF warnings, limp mode, or erratic temp readings.
• Handy tips: for ECT replacement, expect some coolant loss, fit the new sensor with the correct seal, torque to spec and bleed the cooling system. For EGTs, soak threads, avoid over-tightening, and reroute heat shields and clips correctly. For IAT on diesels, it’s often integrated with the MAP sensor—replace the assembly if the temp side fails.
• Relevant DTCs include P0115–P0119 (ECT), P0110 (IAT), P0070 (ambient), P0711 (ATF temp), and P2471–P2473/P0544 (EGT/DPF temp).

Look after these little sensors and the Hilux will tow, tour and commute without a fuss across Aussie and Kiwi conditions.

Popular questions about 2020 Toyota Hilux temperature sensors

Where is the engine coolant temperature sensor located?
It’s typically mounted in the thermostat housing or coolant outlet on the cylinder head, near the upper radiator hose under the bonnet. Access is straightforward with the engine covers off. On some engines it points horizontally, on others it’s vertical—either way, it sits where coolant exits the head so it sees true engine temperature.

Does the 2020 Hilux diesel have DPF temperature sensors?
Yes. Diesel models use multiple EGT/DPF temperature sensors positioned before the turbo, between turbo and DPF, and after the DPF. They monitor exhaust heat for regeneration and component protection. Faults here can trigger a DPF light or limp mode and should be diagnosed with a scan tool to identify which sensor or circuit is playing up.

When should a temperature sensor be replaced?
There’s no scheduled interval. Replace only when testing shows incorrect readings, an open/short circuit, or a related DTC. Always verify wiring and connectors first—heat and vibration can cause intermittent faults that mimic a bad sensor.