Despite these two unpopular variants, the Highlander has generally been a well-liked car. Even though the 2015 model of the Toyota Highlander may not be the best iteration, you should generally steer clear of the 2003 model.
Overall, it’s a respectable SUV, and several motorists expressed interest in the Highlander as a potential replacement. When looking for these vehicles, aim for the 2017 and 2018 versions, which have had the fewest complaints.
Comparing these two model years to other Highlander model years, these two got the fewest complaints. You can save money and receive excellent auto insurance while looking at those rides.
In This Article...
What year makes a used Toyota Highlander a smart investment?
In 2001, the Highlander’s first version, which included a five-seat SUV, was introduced. The Highlander, in contrast to other SUVs of the era, placed more emphasis on road performance than off-road capability. Toyota was able to accomplish this thanks to their vehicles’ unibody design and 4-wheel independent suspension. A 2.4L I4 engine on the Highlander developed 155 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. At its top speed, the car could tow 3,000 pounds. The Highlander was only offered with a four-speed automatic transmission and a “snow mode.”
On the Highlander, 3.0L V6 engines were an option. The towing capacity rose to 3,500 lbs with this V6. It generated 222 pound-feet of torque and 220 horsepower. While the smaller I4 achieved 18 mpg, the larger V6 achieved 22 mpg, using three more mpg overall. All-wheel drive and front-wheel drive options were also available to customers. The Highlander made up for its lackluster off-road performance with a number of options, including as an available all-wheel drive system and a snow setting on the transmission. AWD models offered an extra 4 inches of ground clearance and an optional skid control system with traction control and selective braking.
The IIHS rated the safety of Highlander as “excellent.” According to NHTSA, the Toyota Highlander received about 100 complaints a year on average. The sun visors of the 2001–2002 versions were the subject of the majority of complaints. Thus, the driver can have obstruction when operating a vehicle.
The 2003 Highlanders experienced a more serious and costly issue. The automobile overheated due to cooling system leaks. The entire engine could need to be replaced by the buyer, which would cost about $3,200. The transmissions of the 2004–2005 models were also flawed, which added to the cost. The 2006-2007 Highlanders are the greatest option because they are less reliable, have more standard features, and come with airbags as part of the package.
How to Choose the Right One for You?
Over time, the Highlander has shown to be a very safe SUV. However, some reported dependability problems exist. For the first generation of the Highlander, stay away from the 2001 and 2005 model years (2001-2007). According to reports, these cars frequently need to replace their engines or transmissions due to expensive issues. The best option for a used Highlander as of 2020 is probably one from the model years 2017–2019.
Is the Toyota Highlander dependable?
The Toyota Highlander has a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating, placing it seventh out of 26 midsize SUVs. It has cheaper ownership costs than the national average due to the $489 average annual repair cost. When compared to all other vehicles, the frequency and severity of repairs are both about average.
which is more trustworthy Toyota Highlander or a Honda Pilot?
The information above makes it evident that the Toyota Highlander outperforms the Honda Pilot in every category, including safety features and fuel efficiency. The Highlander is a much better choice if you’re searching for a three-row SUV that is incredibly dependable in this situation.
Do Toyota Highlanders frequently experience issues?
Toyota Highlander Typical Issues This generation of Highlanders has received comparatively few complaints from owners. However, some owners report concerns with the motorized tailgate becoming caught in the open or closed position, a musty odor coming from the air conditioning system, and excessive wind noise when traveling at highway speeds.
How durable are Toyota Highlanders?
How many miles can a Toyota Highlander travel on average? When you inquire with a Toyota dealer, they will give you the high-end estimate, which is approximately 300,000 miles.
This figure is approximately 50–100,000 miles higher than you would generally anticipate in this price range and size class.
Although 300,000 miles is certainly not unheard of, if you take care of your Highlander, you shouldn’t be surprised to see it go far beyond that number.
However, this is the best-case situation and presupposes that you are most likely the first owner and haven’t been putting off any oil or fluid changes.
A typical used Highlander will likely travel at least 250,000 miles with its original engine and transmission if you’re the third or fourth owner. From then, everything will depend on you.
According to Kelley Blue Book, the typical American logs 14,000 miles a year on their vehicles. Therefore, if you can keep it clear of rust and prevent collisions, your Highlander might live over 20 years, assuming ordinary mileage.
The majority of Highlanders are built on the same Toyota K platform as the Avalon, which has been known to travel more than 500,000 kilometers.
All things considered, driving a Highlander into Guinness World Record zone is possible if you really know how to maintain an SUV.
What is the Highlander’s Lexus equivalent?
The Lexus RX 350L and Toyota Highlander are two of the most well-liked SUVs on the market. The Lexus RX 350 has far more expensive materials and a sportier ride, but the Highlander is one of the best options for a three-row SUV. These cars are somewhat different from one another.
Can the Toyota Highlander handle snow?
Can a Toyota Highlander Handle Snow Well? The Toyota Highlander performs exceptionally well in snow because to its raised and commanding ride height. This elevates it above many other cars in terms of drivability in snow, along with its assortment of safety measures from the Toyota Star Safety system.
The 2019 Toyota Highlander is dependable, right?
What Is the 2019 Toyota Highlander’s Reliability? The 2019 Toyota Highlander gets a 3.5 out of 5 expected dependability rating, which is slightly above average.
What distinguishes the Highlander Limited from the XLE?
Keyless entry and ignition, blind-spot monitoring, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, second-row window sunshades, a 110-volt power outlet, Driver Easy talk technology, a navigation system, and other equipment are all standard across both versions. The 295-hp, 3.5-liter V6 is a standard feature in both the XLE and Limited variants, and all-wheel drive is an option.
The amenities and seating options offered by the two versions may be their biggest point of distinction. The second row of seats in the eight-seat 2018 Toyota Highlander XLE can be converted to captain’s chairs, bringing the total number of seats down to seven. On the other hand, the Limited trim is only offered with the captain’s seats in a seven-seat layout.
All of the XLE’s features are carried over to the Limited trim, which also adds a number of new innovations not seen on the XLE. These include rear parking sensors for the rearview camera for increased functionality and LED running lights. Additional features include a rear cargo cover, heated and ventilated front seats, memory settings for the driver’s seat, and a 12-speaker JBL audio system.
We encourage you to take a new Highlander for a test drive right away to learn more about all of its features and capabilities. Our distinguished staff is here to address any inquiries you may have and assist you in selecting the ideal car. Come by and say hello!
Toyota Highlanders are manufactured where?
One of the most well-liked midsize SUVs on the market is the Toyota Highlander. It is renowned for its smooth ride, roomy interior, and fuel effectiveness. You might be interested to know where these incredible cars are created if you’re thinking about purchasing one.
The Princeton, Indiana factory produces the Toyota Highlander for the US market. The first Highlander model was created at the Miyata factory in Fukuoka, Japan, although it is also produced in China and Japan.
Not all Toyota vehicles are built in Princeton, Indiana, including the Highlander. This plant produces the majority of Toyota’s SUVs. Along with the Toyota Sequoia SUV and Toyota Sienna minivan, the Toyota Highlander is built on the same assembly line.
What is the Toyota Highlander’s most typical issue?
Knowing what kind of performance to anticipate from each model year is crucial if you’re thinking about purchasing a Toyota Highlander. Although Toyota is a reliable brand and the Highlander is a well-liked and sturdy SUV, not every year for the Highlander was successful. If you want to be sure you get a dependable car that will endure through years of regular use, you must be aware of the Toyota Highlander years to stay away from.
Some buyers love experimental cars, but nobody wants to purchase one they believe won’t be a dependable daily driver.
We’ll also touch on the Highlander model years that have received the best ratings and reviews, as well as any other factors you might want to take into account before purchasing a Toyota Highlander.
Here are a few of the Toyota Highlander’s most frequent issues to stay away from.
- Engine bolts are ripping out.
- Engine malfunction
- Using Engine Oil More Rapidly than Normal.
- Issues with the AC condenser and fuel tank.
- faulty oxygen sensor and head gasket.
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What model of Toyota Highlander is the best?
Highlander Platinum Toyota The most expensive Platinum trim includes heated second-row seats, a 12.3-inch touch screen, a panoramic moonroof, a camera in the rearview mirror, adaptive headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a head-up display, and a surround-view parking camera system. It also costs $47,760.
Do Toyota Highlanders cost a lot to repair?
During its first ten years of use, a Toyota Highlander will need roughly $5,771 in maintenance and repairs.
This is $3,362 less than the industry average for popular SUV models. Additionally, there is a 16.08% likelihood that a Highlander will need a significant repair at that time. Compared to competing automobiles in this sector, this is 5.42% better. The following graph shows how these expenses and the likelihood of repairs will rise over time.
How durable is a 2013 Highlander?
What Is the Toyota Highlander’s Lifespan? One of the most durable midsize SUVs on the market, the Toyota Highlander can keep going for up to 300,000 miles after you drive it off the lot.