Don't Buy the Wrong 1KD Injectors!
Different Part numbers
For the Toyota Hilux and Prado, there were only 3 main 1KD injectors designs throughout the prolific 10 year run of these Diesel Engines. Of course, all these common rail systems are supplied by Denso, from the Fuel pump, the common rail itself and the injectors themselves.
11 code injectors found only in 2005-2006 Hilux
These are usually 23670-0L050 or 095000-8290 (Denso Part number). They can be found by clicking here
13 code injectors found in 2006-2009 Hilux & Prado
These will be 23670-30140 (early poor performers) - Denso part number 095000-7030. We do not sell these as they should be updated to the later version below
The later 'better performers' were 23670-30280 or 23670-39316 - Denso part number 095000-7780. You can find there here
18 code injectors found in 2009-2015 Hilux, Prado and Hi-ace.
These are 23670-39365 or 23670-30400 - Denso part number 295050-0460. You can find these here
Within the above, Its a little known fact that there were actually 2 different 13 code part numbers and 2 different 18 code Common Rail Injectors.
Are all 1KD Injectors the Same?
No.
G2 Denso Common Rail 1KD Injectors
The flow rates of the 11 and 13 code injectors are infact, very similar, but the ECU will not read the respective codes. ie, if the vehicle has 11 code injectors, the ECU can only interpret 11 codes, and will reject 13 codes if you try to input them.
The update and improvements that were sent to Australia from Toyota after this period improved the injector. They changed the upper section to include a stronger spring to stop the injector from getting stuck open when cold causing that horrendous cold knock. They also coated this armature in DLC coating to aid in its ability to close.
Change from Denso G2 to G3 common rail Injectors
in 2009 with the change in the diesel fuel injector from G2 to G3, came a change in injector performance and flow (faster reaction times, slightly lower flow and beter atomization). But the best improvement came in 2012 when they also coated the control piston inside the injector with DLC also.
These 'FULL DLC' injectors are by far and away the most robust of the 1KD Injectors.
What Year did the Toyota Hilux have Injector Problems?
The most robust injector that Denso and Toyota made was that found in the later (2013+) 1KD. In true Toyota style, updates and improvements came along the life of the injector, and therefore, over time, they made the design more robust.
The MOST problematic injectors were the first of the 13 code, from late 2006 until the around June, 2008.
2005-2006 were the second worst.
2008-2009 later 13 code AND the 2009-2012 G3 injector were fairly similar in terms of the wear characteristics despite their generational differences.
The 2012 late to end of run in 2015 were easily the best injectors. I have seen numerous sets of these, with over 350,000kms and the feedback values all sub +/-1.0mm cubic.
The word injector, and the "c" in the serial number was the only tell. Otherwise, we don't know how else you'd know this was not legit
In the above case, the word injector was again the tell, and the fact that this part number has had a 'dull gray matte' finish on the cap nut for the past few years. If you were not familiar with these, you'd easily think this was genuine.
These were harder to distinguish. There was no indication at all in the above image.
Notice the code is missing the shape that is at the end of these injectors on genuine injectors. it's a SUPER minor point and not easy to spot.
How Often Should 1KD Injectors be replaced?
Many in the industry use scare tactics and say that Injectors should be replaced at 150,000kms (insert arbitrary number here) or you risk cracking a piston. Truth be told, the cracking piston issue is a piston issue. And whilst some have damaged engines due to poor Fuel Injection system condition, the vast majority had injectors well within specification.
The Toyota Hilux Injectors should be considered wearing items in all models that were manufactured pre 2012. Those manufactured after, the injector is likely to last the life of the engine - PROVIDING they're not subject to fuel contamination.
Injectors found in these diesel engines are likely to last 200,000 to 250,000kms if they are ran on quality Diesel and not subject to water or physical particulate contamination. Injectors may only last 10's of thousands of kms if fuel condition is poor.
For our Clients, Diesel Geeks recommends that you use a competant mechanic who will proactively and routinely look at your injector feedbacks as a part of the servicing process. Also - make sure the sump pick up is inspected everytime also - see our blog for white smoke on start up here
Those manufactured 2009-2012 - you're lucky in that you can upgrade your injector to the latest 'long lasting specification' without any issues with the ECU at all.
Contact us if you need help - its what Diesel Geeks is here for.
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