Toyota Highlander Accessories and Modifications

eklisiewicz

Thanks for the link, but I already tried that one. Edmunds does not give you a complete list of accessories, or at least, I haven't been able to find it on this site. Rather, it only lists the most popular options. Kelly's Blue Book actually has the invoice cost of every conceivable option or accessory you could possibly want on the car.

Elizabeth K.

zealot

Is there a bug deflector available that is NOT smoke colored. I have a super white HL and the dark bug shield is too obvious, (I think.) Do I have any options?

My other question is... Can you put a wider tire on the Limited's wheels? I think these tires are funny looking on a SUV, too skinny.

Thanks!

brad_22

It IS possible to put wider tires on, but you'll need to do some modifications first. Right now I'm riding on 255-65/16s, but I know a guy who has 275-40/18s (I think that's the size...).

Due to the positioning of the HL strut assembly, you don't have much room to work with. You'll need to buy aftermarket spacers to accomodate the larger width. I believe 30mm is the largest offered.

The Limited rim is only 6.5 inches. I think some 255's will fit, but that's pushing it.

landdriver

eklisiewicz:

You're right about www.kbb.com listing every conceivable option on the Highlander (many of which are not mentioned on Toyota Highlander brochures or on toyota.com). Someone on the "Toyota Highlander vs Jeep Liberty" board priced a Highlander with all the KBB options and came up with $47,000!!!

Real-world MSRP sticker prices for Highlanders on dealer lots tend to range from $25K to $36K.

marioarce

I just purchased a 2003 Highlander LTD, but the dealer did not have my selection with "Running Boards" (only tubes, but didn't like those).

Has anybody added the Running Boards after purchasing the car? How much is a reasonable price? I'm asked $545+tax (not installed). Is there a big difference between the "Toyota" brand and the after market ones (besides the additional charge for the mounting kit/screws)? Any brands suggested or links?

Your comments are greatly appreciated!

-MARIO
New York

archiegates

I added the factory running boards to my new Highlander a few weeks ago. The cost was $710 which included installation. I had this added on to my purchase price when I bought the car, but I did not haggle for a lower price, so that may not be the lowest price possible. Unfortunately, Edmunds doesn't have the invoice price for running boards. I believe the Kelly Blue Book site has them costing $410 without installation, but I'm not 100% sure so you should check on that.

I didn't mind paying a little over invoice for the running boards because I got my HL at $75 over invoice. And the my HL looks much sportier with the running boards, so in my opinion it was well worth it.

One word of caution: When the running boards were installed, there was a pretty big gap between the running boards and the car on one side. I brought it back to the dealer and they made the running boards pretty flush. So make sure you check that your running boards don't have a gap when they install yours.

highlander8

Any suggestions which is the best bug shield and sunroof deflectror fo th 2003 hl?
Best price for running boards ?

slow43

Has any one found any mudguards they are happy with? I am shopping for some and the information on Highlander mudguards is sketchy.

landdriver

A unique-looking though pricy sunroof wind deflector for the Highlander is available from My Auto Fashion. I've ordered a few items from them and they're reputable.

I have mixed feelings about the look of the OEM hood deflector for the Highlander. Looks unique, but didn't mesh with the way I was customizing the exterior of my Highlander. Aftermarket hood deflectors are available on eBay (search "Highlander").

landdriver

I assume you've checked-out the OEM mudguards?

03bluestone

Now that the new Lexus RX 330 has a power opener for the rear door -- Does anyone know if the Highlander can be converted to an automatic open by using the same parts?

slow43

landdriver, I would go with OEM but the dealer here in Winston-Salem says his cost is $67 a piece.

landdriver

Once in a while OEM mudguards appear on eBay -- I've seen them go for $30 for a set of four, but its been a couple of months since I've seen them on eBay, so they aren't available that often. You can also try getting quotes from the various online Toyota dealer parts distributors, such as toyotaguys.com and toyotaparts4u.com. Good luck...

marioarce

Hi all,

I just got my plates for my HL '03 and could not install the front license plate. I could not find the place to screw it in.

The mechanic where I took it to for the security inspection told me: "Ah, you bought it out-of-state, right? You’ll have to buy a plate holder"

In New York we have to install both front and rear plates.

The out-of-state dealer tells me "100% sure" the front bumper has the screw holes. Maybe I'm not looking hard?

Any ideas, suggestions, pointers, prices for the holder? Anything greatly appreciated!

brad_22

VA requires front and back plates too. The HL didn't come with the front holes drilled - the dealer took care of that. My guess is that any dealer in the area could do it for you.

marioarce

Brad (brad_22)

Thanks for your reply. I spoke to a local dealer and the parts department did not find a plate holder in stock listings for any year in HL models. I was advised to look harder for the screw holes in the bumper.

phrosut

There are two very small dimples on the front bumper where holes can be drilled for the plate and/or holder. My state requires front plates too, but I was fortunate that the dealer didn't have time to fully prep my vehicle and didn't drill the holes. If they would have drilled them, they'd normally just install their dealer frame (I've seen this on other HL from the same dealer). I'm taking the chance that the CA CHP doesn't notice, as the car looks better without the front plate. IF I'm forced to comply at some time in the future, I plan on manufacturing a bracket and mounting the plate on the lower driver's side below the air slot... at the very bottom of the car.

The prototype HL that uses hydrogen has the plate mounted on the driver's side in front of where my foglight is.

awchan13

I purchased my limited highlander in CA, where the dealer drilled two holes in the front bumper, and secured the plate with two screws. Unfortunately, the screws don't quite fit, or are stripped because the plate isn't very secure. Pretty cheap if you ask me. I'm now in AZ, where it's not required to have a front plate, and I've got two nasty holes in my front bumper.

marioarce

Phil (phrosut)

You were right. A harder look under day light revealed the two dimples in the front bumper. Just ran to a local auto store and got a plate frame and mounting screws ($16 total).

--Thanks.

robls

Have the base stereo in my new 2003 Highlander.
What is the best solution, which will enable me to play my MP3 collection? I do not want to replace the existing stereo system. Any ideas? Thanks in advance.

brad_22

Why don't you want to replace the stereo? There are several quality headunits out there that will play CD/WAV/MP3 files for not a lot of money.

Otherwise, your options seem to be limited to getting one of those tape-deck adpaters for your portable MP3 player.

dcmike

I have a 2001 HL Limited AWD (Bridgestone Dueler H/T's). Anyone purchased new tires yet? Bridgestone has a new version of the Dueler (the H/L), but I can't say that I am pleased with how quickly the originals wore out (27,000 miles). Any suggestions? Making the road trip from DC to Myrtle Beach next month, so getting everything done (30K service, new tires) in advance. Thanks for the feedback.

brad_22

I'm riding on 255/65-16 Pirelli Scorpion S/T's. Aggressive styling and good durability. A lot better in the snow, ice, and mud compared to the stock Bridgestones.

dcmike

How much did something like that set you back, if you don't mind me asking. I've been checking the Tire Rack prices and have been surprised that the prices really aren't that bad...

brad_22

I used TireRack as well. Can't remember the exact pricing - around $450 for all, I think. However, my HL uses a larger tire size ... it might be cheaper for the stock size 225/70-16.

robls

Thanks brad_22. Can you recommend 2 or 3 good
quality headunits that play CD/WAV/MP3 files?

bbouch57

Cooper 225/70-16 Discoverer HT tire is an excellent choice. They are less than $100 a tire. Much better than the Goodyear Integrity.

brad_22

Well, I have the Alpine CVA-1003, but that might be more than you need. Best bet is to go to Crutchfield.com - they have several models to choose from.

robls

Have a 2003 HL with charcoal interior. Does someone make step shield protection for the gray plastic piece that is between the floor mat and the black step piece? I hope this is descriptive enough. I am concerned about scuffing this piece of gray plastic. Some type of rubberized piece would be great. Thanks in advance.

archiegates

Careful, phrosut, if you get caught without a front license plate in CA you could get a hefty fine. Reason why they requre it is because of the cameras in the intersections that take your photo if you go through a red light.

pli

Hi, can someone on this board provide step-by step instructions about removing the door panel to upgrade the speakers? Thanks.

mtnlaca

Planning on buying a V6 2WD Highlander. Don't have any plans to tow anything with it, but I may want to put a rear bike rack system on someday. My question is: do I need to get the two prep package if I only want to mount a rear bike rack system and I don't have any plans on towing anything? I realize that I may need a hitch, but I can get one put on separately at a later time. It seems that some people prefer a tow hitch made by other manufacturers. Also, one dealer told me that he has not seen a V6 without a tow hitch. Is this true? I don't know much about this topic so any help/advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Karen_S

I don't know if you'll find specific instructions, but try entering "speaker install" in the search this discussion box.

goldston

First off, I'm not here to dispute if your dealer has seen a 2WD V6 H/L without tow prep package because I can't speak on what he/she has seen or not. What I can tell you first hand is that my wife & I each own 2WD V6 Limited Highlanders and neither has a tow package on it. Adding a bike rack should be a simple matter, as there are several very good ones out there that are designed to slip into the receiver slot of whatever hitch assembly you have installed.

Best regards, Philip

rmui1

Before I did my speaker upgrade I found some helpful posts here and under the general Highlander topic, by searching for "speakers"
One thing I would add is a tip on removing the plastic shell just behind the door open handle.

When you look closely at the pivot of the unlock lever, might need a flashlight, you'll see the pivot looks like a black vertical cylinder almost 1/2" diameter. The top and bottom of this small cylinder has a sort of mini door latch that holds the plastic shell to the door. Release the latches by inserting a butter knife or something similar into the gap between the door unlock handle and the plastic shell. Pretend you're jimmying a door Release one end, hold it out and release the other end, then pull the shell out AND TOWARDS THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE (there's a claw behind the front part of the shell that holds it to the door).

You will need to make spacers to move the new speakers away from the window glass, unless you can buy some pre-made. Also, don't bother replacing the rear speakers unless you're replacing the head unit because the factory output to the back in lower power and very low fidelity. And if you're making your own speaker spacers, the rears are not the same as the front. Factory speakers' are 6.5 fronts, 5.25 rears with integrated spacers.
Last week I installed 6.5" Infinity Kappas, 3-ways in front, 2-ways in back. Sounds better than factory, but the factory head unit seems to be lowering the bass output at mid to high volume settings. I notice this because output on the Infinity BassLink I installed with it isn't getting enough signal with the volume turned up.
BTW, just got a new Crutchfield catalog, they recommend 6-3/4" drivers. Good luck.

gwkiser

We bought our '01 2wd V6 Limited with the tow prep but without a hitch. I simply wanted the additional cooling capacity offered in the prep package. There's no reason that you can't install a hitch without the prep package as long as you sure you aren't going to tow. You might want to check the net for prices on a third party hitch versus the dealer's. Chances are stronger that you can find one at a more reasonable price. Most, if not all, will fit up using existing holes in the underbody/unibody so it should be an easy do-it-yourself job.

sinde

Hi everyone, I hope this has not already been asked recently...am new to the Boards..just bought my Limited a few days ago!! (Love it!)
My Question: I am wondering if having a "Bug Shield" on the front hood increases the chances of rocks (pebbles) hitting the windshield? Someone once told me the bug deflector might bounce the rocks up & onto the windshield. Anyone heard any information on that theory? I live in snowy winters with those darn snow plows pouring salt & rocks on the hwy.Thanks in advance!!

nimrod99

I wouldn't worry about rocks bouncing off the bug shield onto your windshield.

1) the relative frontal area of the bug shield vs the wind shield is really small. In other words the windshield is about 100 times more surface area than the bug shield, rocks are more likely to hit the windshield directly.

2) If a rock does hit the bug shield and then hits your windshield - the energy will have been absorbed by the bug shield - and make it less likely your windshield will crack.

3) Don't forget - rocks hitting a bug shield is far better than hitting the front of the hood and chipping the paint. We don't have gravel where I live - and in 6 months - the front of my hood (Highlander V6) has a least 6 good sized chips from rocks.

4) A windshield is relatively easy to replace, a chipped hood is much more expensive to repair.

I have just installed a Toyota bug shield - so far I love it - and it works great (protects the paint)

590116

I absolutely agree with Nimrod99 on all points. Pre-bug shield--and only 3 months after buying my new HL--a large rock hit the hood and then the windshield. The windshield was replaced and the hood completely repainted. Prior to painting, however, I noticed nearly two dozen chips on the hood. Since installing the Toyota bug-shield (about a year ago) I have only had to touch-up three small chips. Sure seems that it's doing something good!

sinde

Thanks nimrod99 and 590116 !!
You both have helped me come to the decision to get that BugShield and fast!!
May I also ask about the sunroof wind deflector. Does anyone feel it actually makes a difference with the noise reduction? I love to use the sunroof....I'm not a big air conditioner user if I can help it. Thanks for any input.

dcmike

While on the topic of the bug shield, I am about to make the drive from Maryland to Myrtle Beach, SC this weekend and have been thinking of getting a bug shield for my HL (Indigo Ink Limited). Is it difficult to install or should I cut my losses and have Toyota do it? Pretty good with a screwdriver, just no interest in drilling. Thanks!

590116

I installed mine myself. I didn't have any trouble, but I suggest you read the instructions completely (and maybe more than once!) to be sure you know where everything goes.

landdriver

I agree with 590116. No drilling, only screwing -- plan for half an hour at most -- clean the hood where the adhesive tabs go and use an exacto knife or screwdriver to avoid getting fingerprints on them. You may need to loosen and re-tighten the screws a couple of times to get it perfectly centered. Contrary to the instructions, I chose to retain the existing weatherstrip.

gwkiser

I agree with both guys above. Installation is pretty straightforward and no drilling is required. The main obstacle I had was trying to interpret their translation of Japanese to English. Read the instructions twice before you start and verify that you have all the pieces. Some have reported different small items missing from their kits.

I'm with landdriver on the weatherstrip. Reinstall it after the deflector is on.

BTW, if you need a couple of photos on the details of the install, let me know.

dcmike

Thanks for all the feedback. Picked it up this morning, may try to play with installing tonight. GWKISER - If you could send those photos I would appreciate it (mkelsey@whur.com). Wish me luck!

gwkiser

...you have mail.

hlron

dcmike, I would imagine you have it installed by now - but I just wanted to share a few things. First, I put one on over a year ago, and prior to doing so, gwkiser shared his photos with me, too, and they were VERY helpful. Second, I agree with everyone about the ease of installation, putting the weatherstrip back in, and reading the instructions a couple of times...or more..before putting it on. I hope it either goes well or went well with installing it. By the way, despite having a garage door with a pressure sensor, a few months ago I backed into my garage, but not far enough - my bug shield was destroyed, even though the garage door reversed...just not in time. Anyway, it is even easier to put one on the second time!!! An expensive lesson, though. /Ron

dcmike

Believe it or not, I still haven't installed the shield. We are hitting the road Saturday at 4am, so I suppose I should get started. Thanks again for all of the advice!

dcmike

Thanks for sharing the pictures - without them I never would have gotten it done correctly (boy do those Toyota directions suck!). I also took your advice about keeping the weatherstripping. Looks great, can't wait to hit the road in the morning. Thanks again!

gwkiser

.....and be careful on the road.