Toyota Highlander Accessories and Modifications

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Comments

  • landdriverlanddriver Member Posts: 607
    gwkiser:

    Never seen the rear of the head unit and not clear from the electrical manual whether the JBL head unit has speaker-level outputs, but if it did and if they were in the same locations as those of the non-JBL head unit, then the head unit would have three output connectors, and the speaker-level outputs would be divided among two of these connectors:

    Connector A:

    FL+ pin 2
    FL- pin 6
    FR+ pin 1
    FR- pin 5

    Connector B:

    RL+ pin 2
    RL- pin 6
    RR+ pin 1
    RR- pin 3

    If, however, the JBL head unit does not have speaker-level outputs, then for reference here are the JBL head unit line-level outputs and other useful pins:

    Connector C:

    FL pin 9
    FR pin 8
    RL pin 19
    RR pin 18
    Return pin 16
    Shield pin 10

    +12V pin 11
    GND pin 20
  • dominor5dominor5 Member Posts: 58
    Just installed 18" wheels--no spacers needed! The 255/55VR18 Kumhos have incredible grip: night and day between these and the stock Bridgestones when it comes to handling and steering response; a bit more tire noise though, but I'll take that anytime for what I got back on driveability. I'll probably have the highly recommended Bridgestone winter tires insatlled on the stock rims.
  • wwlccpwwlccp Member Posts: 25
    Hi!
    I've read all the discussions about HID's and bulbs. I'm not going to put in a HID system, but most likely change the bulbs. I recently bought these bulbs on ebay(link below) and I was wondering if I could use them without having anything done to the car. In addition, I was wondeirng if having these kinds of bulbs in the car would effect the car in anyway(wiring, etc..). Are these bulbs like the PIAA XTreme Whites, where I can jsut plug the bulbs in and start using them? Thanks!

    http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item- - =2437157050&category=33710&rd=1
  • gwkisergwkiser Member Posts: 326
    Hey, thanks a bunch landdriver. According to another site, http://www.the12volt.com/index.asp , the JBL head unit does have line-level outs (wires).

    I had the unit out from the dash the other day and I do remember that it has 2 separate groups of pins on the back of the head unit. However, on our system, looking at the rear from left to right, only the right set has a harness going to it. The left is unused.

    I wonder if it'd be safe enough to use a volt meter with probes to test each pin, with the meter set to a low scale...

    Either way, thanks for the help. I'll take your info and see how it matches up to the unit.
  • landdriverlanddriver Member Posts: 607
    Thanks for the link to that site.

    If it is possible to probe the pins with the head unit powered up and outputting sound, you could set the meter to read AC volts on a low scale (200mV or 2V) and probe the pins you suspect are the speaker-level outputs, while adjusting the head unit speaker balance controls so only one speaker is being driven at a time, for example only the front-right. Another technique is with the head unit powered down to set the meter to read resistance and measure the resistance associated with the pins you suspect are the speaker-level outputs to see if all four of the resistances are approximately equal. If the outputs appear to be transformer driven, then measure the resistance between the + and - pins of each speaker output, and if the outputs appear to be power-transistor driven, then measure the resistance between each speaker output and a reference, such as +12V or GND. (Be sure to not short anything out while doing this, such as shorting +12V to a speaker output!!) Let us know what you find...
  • gwkisergwkiser Member Posts: 326
    Thanks landdriver. I'll check out the pins with a meter. On a side note, I did notice that some of the wires are a heavier guage, and I'll avoid those as I assume that they are most likely power related.

    It may be a few days before I can verify everything as I go back to work today after being off for two weeks.

    Thanks again for the suggestions.
  • pda97pda97 Member Posts: 91
    Dominor5,

    What wheels and tires did u go with ? Brands and models ? Thanx,
  • pjaatpdx1000pjaatpdx1000 Member Posts: 16
    Wanting to put studded snow tires on my Highlander, but find our size hard to find. Anyone running studded snows, and if so, who is the manufacturer?

    Thanks
  • fogertytfogertyt Member Posts: 1
    Probably stating the obvious, but...

    Seats with air bags must have custom seat covers fitted and designed to permit proper air bag deployment. Unfortunately, many seat cover manufacturers seem to fail to mention this critical consideration.
  • pjaatpdx1000pjaatpdx1000 Member Posts: 16
    Has anyone purchased an aftermarket wood dash kit for the non-limited Highlander. Are you pleased with it? Where did it come from?
    Thanks
  • sibiryaksibiryak Member Posts: 5
    Edmuns gives different prices for 2004 Highlanders v6 w/3rd seat 4WD v. 2004 Highlanders v6 w/3rd seat AWD (the latter is $1000 more). However, when I look on all Toyota sites they only differentiate between 2WD and 4WD, but not the subsets of 4WD (assuming there are any). Are there really 4WD and AWD 2004 Highlanders? If yes, what is the difference? I always thought 4WD was better than AWD, but it does not seem to be the case with Highlander becuase you pay more for AWD than 4WD. I am totally confused!?
  • cmunizcmuniz Member Posts: 604
    There is no Highlander 4WD - they have only AWD and FWD. The higher price may be for the AWD with stability control.
  • crv139crv139 Member Posts: 41
    i have an 03 highlander and i want to add fog lights. Does any one know if toyota has a fog light kit for the highlander or does anyone know of an aftermarket fog light that will fit in the fog light slots
  • steveg44steveg44 Member Posts: 21
    See my post 526.
  • crv139crv139 Member Posts: 41
    could you send me information on the bracket that you used. for the Pilot PL-362W fog ights
  • steveg44steveg44 Member Posts: 21
    I took the existing bracket and shortened it by cutting off the ends and drilled new holes in the brackets for the lights. I bent the bracket so that I could screw it in to the holes left from the old grill guard. I cut off the nut end of the grill guard and glued it into the hole in the fender backward so I could attach the bracket to the fender. Someone else used plumbers tin stuff that is flexible and has holes to attach to the fender. I bought a Toyota rocker switch and placed it in the empty slot to the left of the steering wheel that, I believe, is for the skid control which I don't have. Good luck. Two things about these lights. They are blue. Second, they have a ring that lights with different colors, all of which wiring I cut off since I am not interested and is probably very cheesey.
  • ch1133ch1133 Member Posts: 43
    Blue lights = Ugly look
  • jbolltjbollt Member Posts: 736
    I bought (and returned) the Pilot 362 lights, cause the looked awful next to the Gold paint of my 2003 V6 HL. Resigned myself to paying more, and happy that I did! I bought the factory lights from an online Toyota dealer. VERY happy with the results.

    Here's what I did...

    Bought the lights (minus bulbs), 2 "bearings" and 4 mounting "brackets" In reality, the 4 brackets are already there, attaching the dummy grill/plug, and can be re-used. I bought the H3 55W bulbs, relay and in-line fuse at Autozone, and wired the "switched" connector of the relay into the low beam wire right at the L side headlight, using a "t-tap" connector. This way, I have the fogs on anytime I have the low beam lights on, which is what I have done in all previous cars anyway. Also, eliminated the need for an in cabin switch and related wiring) The unexpected, but welcome result is the fogs are on with the high beams also. I don't think this is legal in all states, but I figure I don't use the high beams when there are cars in front of me anyway, so little chance of a fix-it ticket.

    If anyone wants the part numbers, let me know.

    Love the Highlander...next project??? Hmmm..Let's see, I already did the auto-dimming mirror w/temp and compass...
  • crv139crv139 Member Posts: 41
    i to look at the pl 362 and was not happy with the fit. Toyota does not make a fog light kit i am told for the 03. i would like to know what you paid for the toyota fog lights and where you got them. thank you
  • normy04normy04 Member Posts: 6
    Can you help me out i would like to install auto-dimming mirror w/temp and compass on my 04 highlander. What is the best one to use? and how do i install it to the windsheild ? do i need any special adapters? Thank you
  • gwkisergwkiser Member Posts: 326
    There are several companies who produce them. The link below is to one made by Donnelly. You might try a Google to find dealers.

    http://www.donnelly.com/products/interiorvisionsystems/prismaticc- ompass.asp

    I have no personal experience with them, but I understand the install is pretty straight forward. The replacement mirror usually mounts to the existing mirror mount and wiring is hidden/routed along the headliner.

    Others here might be able to give more details.
  • jbolltjbollt Member Posts: 736
    I bought the auto dimming mirror that is specific to the Highlander, from one of the internet Toyota parts dealers..don't have the web site handy right now, but I think I found it by searching on "auto-dimming mirror and Toyota"...it ran about $180-190, if I am not mistaken, and was fairly easy to install. The instructions are good and are available on the same toyota parts website, I believe...They sent me an email with the link to the instructions. The mirror fits over the same windshield mount that the old one uses, and the wires do in fact tuck up under the headliner, (as gwkiser said) just need to remove a couple of screws for the visor, then the "A" pillar moulding just pops off, and the hardest part was running the temp sensor wire thru the firewall, but I got it thru the same area where other wires run. All necessary parts were included, and the mirror is made by Gentex (sp?) for Toyota. The install looks as if it came from the factory with it, and it functions very nicely.
  • jbolltjbollt Member Posts: 736
    I paid about $205 inc. shipping for the 2 fog "lamp units" part #s 81221-4801 and 81211-48010 (Left and Right)--- 2 "bearings" 90075-10811 --- and 4 "brackets" 81481-28040 (didn't need these, as they are the same as what holds in the filler piece in the bumper, but they were only about $1.25 each) from Metro Toyota on the web. I think they are known as "ToyotaPart.com" Additionally, from Autozone, I purchased a relay for about $4, and the 2 H3 55W bulbs for about $4 each and an inline fuse for about $2. Total cost about $220.
  • lobuchelobuche Member Posts: 6
    Is anyone using the navigation system? If so, is it reliable, plus is it true that you don't have to pay a monthly fee, and everything is built into the Highlander?
    Thanks.
  • steveg44steveg44 Member Posts: 21
    In the instructions it says to feed the connector from the bottom of the driver's side dash to the opening at the "A" pillar near the base of the windshield. How does that trim molding come off? Which wire do I use as the power wire to connect to? What color is it?
  • spencer327spencer327 Member Posts: 106
    Have HL with Nav. Operates very well. Completely self contained. All it uses ouside the HL is the location from the GPS satellites. There is no fee
    However the DVD in the HL should be updated periodically to provide the system with the latest road and points of interest info.
    Suggested annually, approximately $100.
    My HL came with it as part of the loaded first to arrive. Didnt really want it, but I am enjoying it
    Should redeem itself with higher resale
  • wiledmuns1wiledmuns1 Member Posts: 2
    Does anyone have experience in installing a cargo net on a 04 HL Limited with 3rd row seats?

    It seems that the 04 is slightly different than the 03. The 03 has grocery bag hook-bar on each of the side panels in the cargo area, whereas the 04 HL Limited does not; may be due to the 3rd row seat configuration.

    I could see the tie-down rings for securing the bottom hooks of the cargo net, but I could not find any place in the cargo area to secure the top part of the cargo netting.
  • wwlccpwwlccp Member Posts: 25
    Hi!
    I'm planning to upgrade my front speakers to either the Infinity Kappa or the Kicker speakers but I don't know which size would fit. People on this board said that they installed 6 1/2" speakers, while the crutchfiled says that the HL will fit 6 3/4" speakers. Can anyone reccomend which model numbers/series of the Kappas and/or Kickers are good? Thanks!
  • thoonthoon Member Posts: 74
    What are some Mods for the Highlander? Is there an intake available? Where can I order highlander modifications? I really like the kluger grill for the highlander.

    Also, have any of you used the blue xexon lights on your highlander? I heard these bulbs get really hot and sometimes burn up the wiring. I want to add these to my HL, but not if they're going to damage the wiring.
  • landdriverlanddriver Member Posts: 607
    I think that both 6-1/2" and 6-3/4" speakers will fit in the Highlander. First figure out which speaker series you want, then worry about the exact size when you're ready to buy.

    The Infinity Kappa series and especially the Infinity Kappa Perfect series are supposed to be good, as well as the Boston Acoustics Pro, Polk Audio, MB Quartz and Focal Utopia -- it all depends on how much you want to spend and what sound quality you're looking for. Listen to them in the store to see which appeal to your ear; play at a high volume level to approximate the volume level you'll be playing your music at during highway speed ambient noise. Also, if no one else offers any opinions, search previous posts to this board for recommendations; there have been several discussions on the topic.
  • landdriverlanddriver Member Posts: 607
    I have a Kluger grill; ordered mine from www.myautofashion.com, as well as door handle protectors and their sunroof wind deflector. I also have a Toyota hood deflector, available from www.toyotaguys.com and other Toyota parts online distributors.

    Other popular mods include adding leather seats if you don't already have them, adding side-steps if you don't already have them, adding mud guards if you don't already have them, adding fender flares, two-toneing the exterior, changing the wheel rims, adding wheel spacers so the wheels protrude outward more giving the vehicle a more aggressive appearance, adding WAAG-style front and rear bumper guards (www.waag.com).

    Haven't heard of any air intakes, although I've seen hood scoops for the Highlander advertised on eBay several months ago but not recently (I think it was just a generic scoop that fit a number of makes). Generally there doesn't seem to be a whole lot of performance enhancers like superchargers available for the highlander, though I'm not up on this stuff (except I've seen chips advertised on eBay occasionally that boosts the performance of the Highlander in some respect, but I don't know how safe it is).

    eBay has other accessories for the Highlander as well.
  • landdriverlanddriver Member Posts: 607
    I should clarify in my previous post on speakers that I meant to point out that most installers and web distributors have cross-references as to which speaker sizes for a given speaker model will fit in a given car model, so you may not need to worry about this too much until you've narrowed down the speaker model as most speaker models (but possibly not all) will have a size that will fit in the Highlander. Also, many speaker manufacturer web sites, as well as www.crutchfield.com, have this cross-reference available online.
  • king_loverking_lover Member Posts: 2
    I plan to add a rear bike rack for my HL..

    Do I need to install a hitch first even with towing prep package? How abt the hitch receiver some posts are talking abt?

    What is a towing prep package anyway if we still have to install a hiddle hitch ourself..
  • cwbarrettcwbarrett Member Posts: 40
    I picked up my 04 Friday and was surprised to find out the towing prep package just upgraded the cooling systm and added some wiring. No mount or ball or anything to pull with. I also need to add a bike rack and want to have a hitch that I can pull a cart to the dump. If anyone has suggestions please post.
  • kbalchkbalch Member Posts: 19
    Do a search on this forum and you will find information on hitches. I need to add one as well. I will probably look into the Hidden Hitch. Check out: www.hiddenhitch.com. I think they run about $140 and you can install it yourself.

    Here are the installation instructions:

    http://www.hiddenhitch.com/images/products/instructions/70777.pdf

    Hope this helps.
  • jay110jay110 Member Posts: 2
    Hi everyone, first time-longtime reader,
    I have a '04 Highlander and it is my duty to let you guys know (cwbarrett & kbalch)that the hitch trailer changes from 03'to 04' due to the spare tire on the bottom of the car, the right part number on "DRAW-TITE" is #75153 and they only have it on Class III (2" Hole), i'm telling you all this ,because I already got the wrong part number which they gave me for a 03'year,and did not worked,again because of the spare tire being on the way, I got mine from www.cheaphitches.com for $116.00 plus shipping to Florida $15.00,another place you can find it is www.etrailer.com for $121.29 + shipping,very easy to install ,no drilling required all the holes are there already, just six screws and you are done,
    One thing i did not see on my car was the "pre-wiring" i looked everywhere under the car and not see any wiring for the trailer, the only thing that i noticed was the small radiator in one of the front intakes on the front bumper,
     *Notice on the instructions that says for "RX330 and Highlander 04' and not RX300 and Highlander 02' and up ----> http://www.etrailer.com/fitguide.htm
    hope this help you guys,........
    c-ya!
  • jrt629jrt629 Member Posts: 8
    Does anyone have a copy of the 2002 Toyota Highlander brochure they would be willing to send me? I have the 2003 Toyota Highlander brochure I would be willing to swap.
  • cwbarrettcwbarrett Member Posts: 40
    Thanks Jay. It looks like the hidden hitch install is really easy oo so I'm going to give that a shot. They also have 2 different models for 03 or 04.
  • wwlccpwwlccp Member Posts: 25
    Hi!

    I got picked up my speakers a few days ago and I was wondering, can anyone tell me step by step on how I could remove the door panels so I can install my speakers. I read the ohther posts and I'm still a bit lost. I just don't want to break off parts of my door when I'm tyring to take it out. I'll post some pics later if that'll help in explaining it. Thanks!
  • landdriverlanddriver Member Posts: 607
    From my somewhat vague memory from a year or two ago (cover all tools with masking tape to prevent scratching plastic parts):

    To remove front door panel:

    Place 6" length of masking tape on rear segment of black window frame where it meets door panel to prevent black paint from being scratched; remove triangular plastic piece adjacent to side view mirrors (use screwdriver to pry and pull straight out); press in on center of round button a few inches below triangular plastic piece to release button then pull it out; remove switchpanel (push in and pry with screw driver at various locations) and disconnect connectors; remove screw cover in door handle bezel and remove screw and door handle bezel (push in and pry with screw driver near handle pivot); remove plastic armrest cubbyhole (push in hard with screw driver at both ends) and remove screw in resulting opening; unsnap snaps along periphery of door panel (pry with screwdriver) (seven of them(?)); disconnect map light connector and remove door panel.

    To remove rear door panel:

    Similar to front door panel removal except no triangular plastic piece or button, and not necessary to remove switch panel.

    I may be forgetting one or two steps; some of above steps may be a little more tricky than they sound; biggest problem is locating snaps when unsnaping plastic parts; set of service manuals invaluable for this and pay for themselves on first use; sometimes on sale on eBay for significantly less than their $200 retail price.

    Good luck!
  • marvindmarvind Member Posts: 16
    Hi guys

    Just bought a Highlander v6 2wd. Love the truck but miss the convenience of Dodge grand caravan. Anyway I am looking to install a self dimming mirror with Homelink garage door opener. I know it is available on the web at certain web stores but wanted to know if it available through retail outlets or has anyone tried it?. Some of the other vehicles that have it as options are Subaru, Kia Sorento etc.
  • normy04normy04 Member Posts: 6
    Is anyone planning on using K & N Air Filters on
    the 2004 highlander 3.3?
  • sirfilesirfile Member Posts: 42
    To normy04 / Message @604:

    A K&N air filter will give you a 'small' but difficult to document increase in power and fuel economy. It will also cause an increase in induction noise when using more throttle. The big advantage is having a lifetime filter, but you will have additional maintenance to perform.

    There are two caveats:

    1. Do not ever let the minute lube centers touch the K&N filter . . . they will mess is up. You will need to know the proper service techniques for self-service.

    2. Over-oiling the K&N will contaminate the mass airflow sensor, causing a noticable loss in performance and economy over time. The filters are oiled by machine at the factory and are over-oiled when new. Even when new, the filter needs to be thoroughly cleaned and re-oiled by only applying the oil lightly to within two inches of the edges of the filter. Let the filter rest for a couple of hours on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. The cotton filter medium will tend to wick the oil for complete coverage.

    If you notice performance problems, even within a few thousand miles, check and clean the mass airflow sensor. It can be cleaned with electronic parts cleaner [spray] but be careful as the sensor is fragile and very expensive.

    Good luck!

    Sirfile
  • bikeman3bikeman3 Member Posts: 85
    does anyone know of another bug deflector than the one Toyota sells? My HL is silver and the smoke colored one looks awful, I did see a Dodge Ram pickup the other day with a silver on silver deflector and it looked great!
  • landdriverlanddriver Member Posts: 607
    eBay occasionally sells aftermarket hood deflectors for the Highlander though the ones I've seen tend to be smoke colored too. A friend who just bought a white Pilot I think said he already has a clear one picked out which he plans to paint white on the inside, so they must be out there. Try www.jcwhitney.com or any of the many other internet car accessories web sites.
  • dream74dream74 Member Posts: 3
    I have been slowly upgrading my 2001 Highlander and have a question. Has anyone thought about upgrading the non-limited temp controls to the limited style "climate control" setup. I wonder if the wiring behind the unit is the same in both models and all you have to do is buy the new cluster. I was looking at Conicelli's online part forms and found the climate control cluster for $531.45. It would be great if I could just add unit. Any thoughts on this mod?
  • dominor5dominor5 Member Posts: 58
    Try weathertech.com. I bought mine from them--the color is charcoal gray, looks good on my silver; also installs with no drilling or adhesives, which I think is better than Toyota's.
  • john361john361 Member Posts: 9
    3m sells a "stone guard" plastic film type of bug and stone chip protector. I think that I paid about $150 can. It is nearly invisible when applied and seems to work very well in my opnion.Most window tinting dealers should be able to fix you up with it.The "weathertech" cargo mat is also a fine investment to protect your Highlander.
  • roadrunner70roadrunner70 Member Posts: 241
    on the v6, i am planning on draining and refilling the cooling system. there is a little drain tube hanging down on the driver's side of the radiator, how do you open it. besides iit is almost impossible to reach.

    did any one remove the bottom plastic cover to reach it. thank.s
  • pjaatpdxpjaatpdx Member Posts: 5
    grenedy (Kevin)...

    Where did you install the outside temp sensor?
    Did you have enough wire to get to the ashtray?
    How did you get the wire through?
    Thanks
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