Stock #7055
Exterior Overview
As years go by and old trucks continue to wear down, it’s refreshing to see Hilux Surf models keeping the classic Toyota spirit alive. Models like this 1996 SSR-X turn it up a notch, especially when updated with a more modern aesthetic. This special rig is one of those SUVs and is fresh off a recent service. This 4×4 is fresh as a daisy, having logged only 111k verified/documented miles on the clock. Cosmetically, this five-seater is in above-average shape, with its fresh coat of Quicksand (6V4) paint. It has also been adorned with refinished 16″ aftermarket alloys and comes with an OEM spare tire swingarm to enhance its visual appeal. Safe, sturdy, and surprisingly sporty, this stupendous Surf is a bona fide Japanese Classic!
Interior Overview
The interior is spacious, includes a number of factory upgrades, and a few important safety features. The driver can find the ideal driving position thanks to a tilt-adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support. Dual SRS airbags are standard on this Surf, for added peace of mind. The controls for the automatic climate control are close by in the center stack, and the A/C blows ice cold. The heat is piping hot, too, in case you live in a more seasonal climate. Below, a brand new BOSS USDM headunit pipes in the tunes and includes Bluetooth integration. Power windows and power rear glass funnel in some natural ventilation, should you choose to forgo climate control. Electric mirrors and electric locks also work in typical Toyota fashion, making daily use more enjoyable. The moon mist seats are in good nick and lack any major rips, stains, or tears aside from a repair on the driver’s right side seat bottom. The matching material can be found in the door cards, which have resisted major use and abuse over the years. The rear row has split folding seat backs that also four-way recline. The headliner is in good shape, and aside from some dashboard distortion and lifting, and some minor misalignment of the faux woodgrain accents, it is hard to critique this cabin overall. Even the OEM carpet mats are included with the purchase of this terrific Toyota.
Mechanical Overview
The 3RZ-FE under the bonnet is a fan favorite, and for good reason. Parts are plentiful, inexpensive to source, and wrenching is made simple for any shadetree mechanic. Ours is fresh off a recent service, including some beneficial preventative maintenance. It fires right up, care of a new 12v battery, and we got straight to work by performing an oil and filter service. A new set of accessory belts were chucked in and keeps things quiet under the bonnet. To ensure all the new dinosaur juice stays internal, we installed a new oil pump seal, oil filter housing seal, and we even threw in a new set of spark plugs while we were in there. A new engine air filter and fuel filter aid combustion, and with the maintenance performed, this Surf feels healthy as it hustles up to highway speeds. Power is sent straight to an automatic gearbox, which slots into gear nicely with new shifter bushings. It distributes it via a selective transfercase. Equipped with on-demand 4WD, high and low gearing are standard to provide extra traction when needed. Some hefty drivetrain maintenance was performed here in the shop. This Surf passed its state safety inspection, thanks to new front lower control arms and lower ball joints. We also went through the effort of tearing down the steering rack for a full rebuild. New rack and pinion seals were installed, and we mounted up new inner and outer tie rods, steering rack boots, and bushings before it went back into the car. Fresh power steering fluid was flushed in, and we dialed in a fresh four wheel alignment up on our rack. The ABS brakes were tended to as well, with new front brake pads and rotors. Four new 31″ tires keep you glued to the pavement, and they’ll also keep you covered on loose surfaces should you decide to go camping or crawling. For a 30 year old truck, this Japanese Classic is reliable, rugged, and ready to trudge along on stateside shores for another three decades!
*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB compliant first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.
