Which Hilux Headlight Fits My Car? Every Generation Explained

The registration year is not enough, because facelifts happen mid-year. Look at the compliance or build plate (usually in the driver's door jamb or engine bay) for the build month and the model code, such as GUN126R or KUN26R. The first three letters of that code tell you the generation: GUN for 2015 onwards, TGN, KUN or GGN for 2005 to 2015, and RN or LN for older models. Every headlight listing shows the codes and build dates it fits, so match both.

This generation has three headlight families, and the trim decides which one you need. Workmate and SR models with halogen headlights take the halogen non-projector lamp, which is listed separately for builds from May 2015 to August 2020 and for the facelift from August 2020 to 2025. Higher-spec models from 2015 to 2020 with projector headlights and LED daytime running lights, such as the SR5, SR5 Hi-Rider and Rugged X, take the LED projector type. From August 2020, SR5 models use a full LED headlight with a chrome and black finish, while Rugged, Rugged X, Rogue and GR Sport models use a dark grey and black version. The listings note where the two LED styles interchange.

The 2005 to 2015 Hilux had three headlight designs, split by build date: February 2005 to August 2008, August 2008 to April 2012, and the facelift from about mid-2011 to August 2015. They are not interchangeable across the facelifts, and listings for the earlier lamps say they do not suit the 2011 to 2015 models. This range also includes right-hand drive (RHD) and left-hand drive (LHD) versions. Australian-delivered Hilux utes are right-hand drive, so choose RHD unless your vehicle is a left-hand drive import, because the dipped beam pattern differs.

From September 2001 to February 2005, the SR5 used a larger headlight, often sold together with the corner light. Some of these listings are marked for vehicles with a VIN starting with MR only, so check the first two letters of your VIN. Base models of the same years kept the older square headlight style covered in the next section.

Many older Hilux utes use standard 7-inch headlights. The 1978 to 1980 RN3# takes round 7-inch lamps, and a wide range of RN and LN models from 1983 to 2005 take square 7-inch lamps. These come in a standard glass look as well as clear and diamond-look styles, some with LED globes included. The 1991 to 1997 SR5 4Runner and Surf-style models (LN/RN13#) use their own headlight, listed separately.

A halogen headlight, a projector and a full LED unit have different housings, mounting points and plugs, so you cannot swap one type for another without changing the wiring and often the bumper or grille trim. Replace like with like. Some listings include LED globes for a halogen housing. If you fit LED globes, check that the setup is acceptable under your state's roadworthy rules.

Each headlight listing states the certification it carries, such as E-Mark (E1, E4 or E13) or SAE / DOT, and some listings do not state one. Rules on aftermarket lighting vary between states and inspection stations, so if your vehicle is going in for a roadworthy or you are unsure, check with your state road authority or a licensed inspector before you buy.

Replacing a headlight usually means removing the grille and sometimes part of the bumper, so we recommend a qualified mechanic or auto electrician, especially for LED and projector units. Whoever fits them, have the headlight aim checked afterwards. A new housing seldom sits at exactly the same angle as the old one, and a poorly aimed dip beam either dazzles oncoming drivers or lights up only the road just ahead. Many people replace both sides at once so the lenses match.