1998 Hilux Surf 2.7L SSR-X

Stock #7032

Perfect for enjoying the daily commute, this terrific Toyota would also be a joy to take up the trailhead or bop around on a beach trip. Easy to service, reliable, and safe, this Japanese Classic is universally acclaimed and is our best-selling SUV by a country mile!

Exterior Overview

Our bread and butter is the Hilux Surf, and we know what people like. Everyone seems to like ones that are no-nonsense trucks, and Black (204) paint certainly helps the menacing aesthetic. Aside from a few light dings, scuffs, and chips associated with normal use, the body is in good shape, and this SSR-X is set off by a set of refinished 16″ Berg alloys, an OEM bash bar, smoked LED taillights, factory rainguards, a Borla exhaust, and a sizable roof basket. Fresh off a recent service, this 4×4 is offered with 160k verified and documented miles on the clock. Perfect for enjoying the daily commute, this terrific Toyota would also be a joy to take up the trailhead or bop around on a beach trip. Easy to service, reliable, and safe, this Japanese Classic is universally acclaimed and is our best-selling SUV by a country mile!

Interior Overview

The cabin is in good shape and includes some pricey upgrades! The driver benefits from a standard tilt-adjustable steering column, and the optional seat includes lumbar support, too. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading, and dual SRS airbags are standard equipment. The center stack is close by and within arm’s reach. A US Pioneer radio and Rockford Fosgate sub work in tandem to supply tunes and Bluetooth integration is included. The A/C and heat work like a charm, making this a truck for all four seasons. The rear glass, an electric moonroof, and side windows power down if you prefer more natural ventilation. Located by the moonroof controls, an OEM field monitor keeps everyone inside the cabin apprised about outside conditions if you lose cell service. Other electric amenities that improve daily driving include power locks and mirrors. The seats are protected by fitted leather seat covers, and the door cards feature leather inserts. The rear seats split fold, 4-way recline, and can tumble forward to create a flat loading floor for additional storage. Rarely found, the Japanese owners even saved the original cargo security shade. The headliner and carpets are in good nick, and aside from noting the side mirrors no longer power fold, it’s hard to nitpick this cabin. Even a spare key and OEM carpet mats are included at no additional charge!

Mechanical Overview

We love the 3RZ-FE engine for a bunch of reasons. It’s easy to service, was sold here in the US, and offered the best fuel economy of all the gasoline powerplants. Additionally, there is no timing belt service, as a chain was used for the design. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 2.7L springs to life with the twist of the key and breathes freely courtesy of a new engine air filter. To ensure the oil level stays full, one of our trained technicians has given the four-banger a healthy refresh. A new valve cover gasket, oil pump seal, oil filter housing gasket, and distributor o-ring were replaced. We also installed a new radiator, flushed out the old coolant, and replaced it with new stuff. The 3RZ pulls hard to redline and is mated to a stout automatic gearbox. It shifts like a champ and slots into gear precisely courtesy of new shifter bushings. For the best MPG and performance, RWD is the ticket, but the pilot can toggle over to 4WD on the fly. A low range can also be engaged when doing some proper wheeling. ABS is standard, and new front brake pads and rotors keep stopping distances short. The power steering is easy to articulate and has been refreshed with a rebuilt power steering rack. New rack bushings and boots were replaced while we were in there, and we also added new inner and outer tie rods to ensure future alignments go smoothly. New power steering fluid was pumped before buttoning everything back up. For the VA state safety inspection, we replaced the front swaybar links and rear upper control arms. Lastly, mounted and balanced four new 32″ tires. Freshly aligned, turn key, and ready to rock, this handsome, safe, and practical Surf is good to go!

*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.