One of the most rugged if not the most rugged off-road vehicles is the Toyota Hilux. Although there's no official statement saying so, it's not needed as the Japanese 4x4 is able to withstand the rigours of floods, fires, and even a falling caravan. All tested by Top Gear's most recognisable faces, it isn't the only amazing capability of the Hilux.
The Hilux has also been the first-ever vehicle to be used on the magnetic North Pole and it was also driven on the South Pole. The fact that there is no tougher vehicle says a lot about the Hilux but even the toughest vehicles need some sort of protection. This is why a bonnet protector is one of them.
Bonnet Protector
A bonnet guard or bonnet protector is a piece of usually, acrylic, that sits on the lip of the bonnet. This narrow but quite wide plastic can blend in quite well with the colour of your Hilux. A Toyota Hilux bonnet protector is also able to shine bright and make your 4x4 stand out. But looks aren't what you're getting a Hilux bonnet guard for.
Benefits of Bonnet Protectors
Protection
The main reason why you would be getting a Toyota Hilux bonnet guard is to provide protection for the windshield. The angled position of a bonnet protector is what allows it to take care of stone chips and bug splatters. Your windshield will be clean from annoying stains and scratches no matter the speed you're travelling at.
Aerodynamics
Again, because of its angled position, a Toyota Hilux bonnet guard is able to improve the aerodynamics of your Hilux. With a more aerodynamic vehicle, you're able to lower your drag coefficient and thus improve fuel economy.
Cost-Effective
Because a Hilux bonnet guard is such an affordable accessory yet it offers quite important advantages, it's a way better solution than getting a new vehicle. Its cost-effectiveness is unmatched unless you're after quicker acceleration or achieving higher overall speeds.
Types of Bonnet Protectors
Low-Profile
Just like there are different types of Hilux models, there are also different types of bonnet protectors. Quite similar to OEM protectors, low-profile bonnet guards are placed close to the bonnet which is why they're known as of-the-bonnet protectors. Low-profile guards are able to go along with the contours of your Hilux which makes them look just like an OEM part. But low-profile protectors are not as strong as standard ones since their paint is more susceptible to scratches.
Standard
With a standard Toyota Hilux bonnet protector on your Hilux, you get a guard that checks all of the above-mentioned benefits. Standard bonnet guards are the most commonly used today. This is because they are positioned off the panel of the bonnet which makes them perfect in hot climates and better at withstanding impacts.
Bolt-On
There are also bolt-on bonnet guards which are different in the way they get installed. Bolt-on guards require the installation of fasteners in order to be secured to the lip of the bonnet. Therefore, bolt-on guards are able to stay on for longer but they are known to rattle after prolonged use.
Tape-On
Unlike bolt-on guards, tape-on bonnet guards are much easier to fit on your Hilux. All you need is to peel off the backing of the adhesive found placed on the guard itself. No need to drill or use any tools at all. Keep in mind that tape-on guards are not able to stay on for as long as bolt-on guards are able to.
How to Install a Bonnet Protector on Your Hilux
What You Need
Although the installation process of every Toyota Hilux bonnet guard isn't exactly the same, it's also not that different. For example, the items you need will definitely include clips, adhesive strips, a non-permanent marker, a Phillips head screwdriver and screws or washers. The strips and screws can also be used together if the installation process of the bonnet guard allows for it.
Installation
1. First, you need to mark the bonnet protector. To do this, place it in the correct position on the bonnet of your Hilux and mark the holes or position of the adhesive with the marker.
2. Next, use adhesive strips to cover the marked areas so that the clips don't scratch them off. You should also fold one half on the top of the bonnet and the other half under the bonnet's lip.
3. Then open up the bonnet and attach the larger clips that came with the guard. Use the screw plug's washer and screws here to fit the clips in the external holes not the ones in the middle. Don't tighten the clips too much.
4. Next comes the fitting of the bonnet guard itself. With the bonnet closed, place the protector on top. Take out a screw and a washer and fit the protector to the clips found beneath. Then, open the bonnet up again and add the rest of the clips. Don't forget to apply the tape first.
5. Lastly, go over each screw in order to tighten all of them accordingly. You may also need to take off the protector at a certain point which is why you shouldn't make it impossible to open the bonnet.
