2023 Toyota HiLux bonnet protector guide

Those angular lines of the HiLux certainly look tough, but that does leave the bonnet especially vulnerable to damage.

Little stones can chip the paint, and the first time you get caught driving in the country at night you will wish you had something to deflect all those pesky bugs. That's where a bonnet protector becomes a wise investment.

We've taken a closer look at the different types of bonnet protectors available for the HiLux, as well as dissect their features, benefits and drawbacks, to help you choose the right one for your needs.

• What it is: A protective barrier that covers the front lip of the bonnet, which is a common area struck by stones or covered in bugs.
• Why you need it: To provide a layer of protection to stop minor damage that can build over time and affect your vehicle's resale.
• Buying tips: There’s plastic and then there’s plastic. Remember, these things are designed to deflect rocks and sit in the sun.

Whether you're looking to enhance the appearance of your vehicle or protect it from scratches and chips, we have you covered. Here are four products we recommend. They’re intended as a starting point, to give you an idea of what’s available.

JUMP AHEAD

• Toyota OE
• OCAM 4x4
• BushWrapz
• Bossco

Toyota OE bonnet protectors

With clear, matte black or tinted options, this factory bonnet protector certainly looks the part. Constructed with high-strength acrylic, this bonnet protector is resistant to cracking and UV discolouration, and easily removable for cleaning.

Specifications

• Material: Acrylic
• Tinted: Yes, with clear or matte black options
• UV-resistant: Yes

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OCAM 4x4 bonnet protectors

This OCAM Industries bonnet protector guards the leading edge of your hood from stones and other airborne debris. It's made from 2.5mm acrylic for long-lasting durability. This bonnet protector is carwash-safe and designed for easy cleaning, but brush-style car washes are not recommended.

Specifications

• Material: Acrylic
• Tinted: Yes
• UV-resistant: Yes

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BushWrapz bonnet protectors

This is not a clip-on or bolt-on bonnet protector; rather, think of it as a tough piece of tape designed specifically for the front of your HiLux bonnet. More aerodynamic and less obtrusive than your standard bonnet protector, this wrap provides a real alternative for those that don’t like the look of bonnet protectors.

Specifications

• Material: Optically clear protective film
• Tinted: No
• UV-resistant: Yes

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Bossco bonnet protectors

Constructed with 2.5mm acrylic, this bonnet protector from Bossco is UV-resistant and built to protect your HiLux bonnet for years to come. It features a dark tint colour and no drilling is required during installation.

Specifications

• Material: Acrylic
• Tinted: Yes
• UV-resistant: Yes

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How we review products

4X4 Australia has been reviewing four-wheel drive vehicles and aftermarket products for more than 40 years. When looking for the best accessories for your make and model of 4WD, there are some things essential to making sure you have the best off-roading experience.

When we compare products, here are some of the things we consider:

• Warranty
• Build quality
• Value for money
• Time and ease to set-up/install
• Weight
• Fit and finish
• How well it gets the job done
• What materials they’re made from
• Corrosion/UV resistance
• Coatings
• Compatibility with other accessories
• Compliance with ADRs and vehicle safety systems
• Country of manufacture
• Load ratings, to determine what's the best product across each price point.

We also consider user reviews and our own experience with these products to make sure our recommendations are for the best on the market.

Disclosure: When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. We also include products that we do not earn a commission from.

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