3 Protection Accessories for Your Hilux

Over the past few years, the Toyota Hilux has been Australia’s best-selling vehicle, edged out only by the new Ford Ranger as of last month. There are dozens of trim levels and configurations to choose from, so getting the right HiLux for your needs is simple. Buyers are also spoilt for choice when it comes to accessories, either as dealership offers, or something you can pick up at a lower cost aftermarket. If you plan to use your ute for work or batter it through the Aussie Outback, then a few protective accessories and additions will keep the car looking as new, just like the day you first got it. 

While the accessories list is rich anywhere you look, a few basics will cover most bases. Look for seat covers to keep the interior and cloth in mint condition, bull bars for front-end protection, and side steps for the final touches. These will cost a pretty penny if you get them at the dealership, but there’s more choice in terms of designs, build, looks, and materials elsewhere, but without the head-spinning prices. 

Why You Need Seat Covers

Anyone who’s done more than a few miles in any car knows the wear and tear seats go through. You’re faced with dirt, spills, stains, grease, the odd tear, and the hot Aussie sun. Getting a decent set of seat covers for the Toyota Hilux not only protects the factory cloth from these and other mishaps but keeps the interior clean as well. When the covers do get dirty, then an easy brush or machine wash will have them looking as new in no time. 

Seat Covers: Buying Considerations

When buying, there are a few things to look for. First, seat covers that are compatible with the cab style and model of your ute. Take into account MY and trims so you get covers that fit. Also, stay away from universal covers as they might have the same sizing and fitment issues. Make sure that what you’re buying doesn’t get in the way of headrests, map pockets, back row armrests, ISOFIX points and other details in your seats. 

Next, decide on the materials. For a more premium look, and one that befits mid and upper trims, neoprene is the best choice. This material is 100 per cent waterproof, easy on the touch, and comfortable. It won’t show up stains and spills, does a decent job against dust, and won’t fade when being constantly exposed to direct sunlight. It’s also durable, hard to tear, and will last under heavy-duty use. The extra padding and non-slip surface also help with comfort and safety.

And let’s not forget that seats doused in neoprene covers also look much better. There are different grades and colours to choose from while interesting features, like contrast stitching, or having your or your company’s name embroidered lets you customise the look of your ute’s interior. 

Where durability is a concern, then choose canvas seat covers for your Toyota Hilux. Canvas is flame retardant, performs better against heat, is UV-resistant (when combined with polyester), and doesn’t collect dust or grime. This too can be optioned in standard thickness (14oz) or heavy-duty canvas in 16oz if you need covers for demanding work or off-roading tasks. Neoprene is easier when it comes to cleaning, as it is machine-washable, while canvas requires more attention, either vacuuming out dirt or removing stubborn stains with cold water. 

Bull Bars: Front-end Protection

Bull bars are protective additions that look better on utes than any other vehicle. They keep the front of the bodywork and delicate engine parts protected in the event of head-on collisions with other cars but also do well in potentially dangerous encounters with kangaroos and bigger wildlife when out in the bush. Here, the bar also keeps the car free from scratches, dents, or more pronounced damage when brushing up against rocks, boulders, stumps, and ruts. Designs differ, and you can find traditional single or triple hoop bars, or modern hoopless bars of the same strength. 

There are provisions for useful extras too. Bash and skid plates are often packaged with bull bars to keep the underbody protected as well. There are also winch cradles for fitting winches, recesses for driving lights and antennas, and holes to attach recovery points and hi-lift jacks. 

When buying, consider bars that are designed for the Hilux and are ADR compliant, as well as the materials and the overall build. Old-school buyers will choose steel bars for their perceived strength, but pay a weight and rust penalty compared to much lighter and corrosion-resistant aluminium options. Both materials are quite strong, priced similarly and should last if fitted properly. 

Side Steps: Keep Doors and Side Panels Intact

Side Steps are another useful yet inexpensive accessory that does well in protecting your Hilux from side impact. These are the metal platforms that run the length of the wheel arches just under the doors. They keep branches, rocks, and animals away, and also prevent mud and dirt from building up when on unsealed roads and trails. In city driving, side steps fend off scratches in the paintwork when getting too close to kerbs, or dents in parking lots. 

Perforated designs have a non-slip surface, so make getting in and out of your Hilux easier. And you can keep the interior clean and not spoil your new seat covers, by using the side steps to get rid of dirt and water before climbing in. Like bull bars, go for bolt-on variants that fit into the Hilux’s chassis rails.