Toyota Highlander Accessories and Modifications

bort

thank-you, it was a knuckle buster, but i got the grills out.
p.s. What kind of fog lights did you use? the stock ones are not cheap, so i bought these universal ones but they are kinda small, i was hoping to get something a that fits tighter in the hole, any ideas?

jbollt

I went thru that same excercise, then, after buying and returning at least 2 different sets of aftermarket fog lights (one set had blue lenses, looked cool, but not on my gold Highlander). I finaly bit the bullit, and bought the fog lights from Toyota. An internet Toyota parts place, put all the parts needed together, and I think it cost me about $225-$250. I am very happy with the look and functionality. I wired them in directly with the headlights, so when the lights are on, the fogs are on also. No seperate switch. So far, I haven't missed the ability to turn off the fog lights.

racerx1

I like the Husky mats - not the prettiest but very effective. I had some concern that the lip would get in the way in the second row (since the floor is not sunken like my Highlander) but it has not posed a problem for my 5-yr old.

These mats are like a cargo tray for the front and second row, which makes it easy to clean and captures almost all the dirt.

As for the rear cargo, the supports for the rear seats will get in the way when folded down.

pdx85048

I wonder whether or not an insert can be found for the center cupholder (next to the driver seat.) So, I can convert it for practicality. The curent shape doesn't work very well for me, my round coffe mug doesn't fit well.

phrosut

pdx85048,

On our '03, that center cupholder has a movable divider. I'm assuming you've tried that and still can't get it right, or your model is different.

Phil

pdx85048

Hi Phil,

Based on your description, my cupholder is same as your '03. By moving the center divider, the size of the openning can be adjusted, but it is still a square shape of openning that not holding the cup very well.

thanks

pdx85048

skwar

I have the same problem too and the same car and wondered if anyone came up with a response or solution?

lgjava

I bought some cool tube steps--Aries Off Road from autoanything.com--but I'm having problems with the supplied bolts. The attachment hole on the right side of the car at about the centerline has a blockage underneath the rubber gasket/plug. Has anyone tried the WAAG tube steps, and were the supplied brackets any good? The Aries steps look nice, at least the tubes, but the brackets are junk. Unless I get some good bolts, I won't be able to attach the kit #202005 to my '03 Highlander, and back they go....

scoti1

There is a Hesitation discussion at Edmunds where this problem is being discussed quite extensively. There you will find links to some news articles stating that Toyota is looking for a fix and also about NHTSA considering opening an investigation into the problem.

http://townhall-talk.edmunds.com/direct/view/.ef4cdbd/610

sage3

Does anyone know what the offset is on the stock 16'' aluminum wheel?
Thanks in advance.

hawaiiv6

sage3:

i recently installed tsw 18 x 8 wheels with a 20 offset with 255/55-18 Nittos...they protrude from the body just a little, but the fit is clean and without any rubbing or spacers. the danger with a higher offset would be the rear spring plates...they come quite close to the tires.

sage3

hawaiiv6
Are you the one with the burgendy HL on cardomain.com?
Well that's the car that gave me the idea for 18'' wheels with 255/55/18 tires.
So, I went to Sears and they ordered me some 18'' Epic chrome wheels with that tire size. I told the sales guy to double check the fitment but he assured me that "if Epic says they fit, then they fit!" OK... and gues what? my rims came in yesterday and they dont fit. My guess is that the offset was near +35mm, because the side of the tire rubbed on the strute. They refunded my money.

Can you send me a pic of your ride with those wheels on it? s3a3g3e@yahoo.com
Thanks bro..
tom

lgarnick

I'm annoyed by this too. Did you figure out how to defeat this or the "I Accept" screen at startup?

lgarnick

Does anyone know how to disable the "I Accept" screen at startup or how to enable all features while driving?

dominor5

The offset for 18" wheels has to be +20 or more negative (can also be accomplished thru spacers) otherwise the rear tires will hit the struts. You can check tires.com where they verify the fit of the wheels they offer. This is where I got mine and had a smooth install after receiving them. Good luck.

hawaiiv6

sage3:

No, that's not mine...I'll take some pix and send them off.
hawaiiv6

dkm44

I'm thinking about adding fog lights to my 05'. Did you use the unused/existing "white plug" that is coming from the headlights for your fog light connection? Did you experience any other complications beside removing the grill?Can you let me know who you purchased the lights from?

wgrafer

I too am interested in hearing if the 2 white unused plugs are for foglights (I too have a '05 and am thinking about installing them). Anybody done this recently?? The dealer said his service department wouldn't tackle foglight install because it was not prewired, but I see two empty white plugs suspiciously coming from the headlight wiring...

wgrafer

I see from other posts that a spoiler can be added reasonably and with about 1 hour's labor, but I am wondering if the spoiler is merely an appearance enhancement or if it really does any functional good. For example, does it improve gas mileage by reducing drag?? Or does it at least keep the rear window from getting as dirty as without??? Beauty alone or beauty AND functionality????

jbollt

I installed the foglights in a 2003 Highlander. There were not any unused/existing "white plugs" that I saw. I just used a coupler, like a trailer wiring coupler, that clamps on the wire, and allows another wire to connect without cutting any wires. I am not an electrician, so my terms may be wrong, but the fogs have been working everytime the lights are on for a year and a half without incident.

I purchased the lights as seperate parts from toyotaparts4u.com. Remember, mine is a 2003, so your parts may be different. Also, I didn't install a switch, so they come on anytime the headlights are on, and I bought the relay localy for much less.

2003 Highlander part numbers
Bracket 81481-28040 $1.33 ea 4 required
R Lamp 81211-48010 $98.56
L Lamp 81221-48010 $98.56
Bulb 90981-13057 $16.28 ea 2 required
Bearing 90075-10811 $2.06 ea 2 required
Relay 90987-02020 $47.49
Switch 84140-48020 $101.18

PS, the foglights were not even a factory option on the 2003 base models, only available on the Limiteds. It's posssible, that there is a wiring provision on the newer models, as fog lights are now an option on all models, I believe.

ronm2

My 2005 Highlander has the tow package. I am interested in experiences with the different aftermarket class III hitches (maximize road clearance, minimize visibility). Also, posts on this system indicate that to complete the tow package pre-wire one must buy directly from Toyota (it includes a converter). To avoid the Toyota rip-off can one purchase a kit for Highlanders not equipped with the tow package that has plugs that connect directly to the two tail lights (this would also include the needed converter)?

fred82

Where was you able to find the # 08942-48870-BB wire harness I have been unable to find on to look at. Dealers say it is not in the parts list only in their computer so have no information. I need harness with white,4 pin male plug
about 7/16 inch square on one end. The Toyota hitch and wire comes as a kit and the refused to give me information on just the wire Harness.

fred82

I found toyota deale to order hitch wire # 08942-48870-BB do not know what it fits
but the White 4 pin plug is right for the 2004-2005 but the length is a bit short and it is covered with suppension hooks that there is no place to us them. Has the flat 4 plug and bracket on other end. Will work but not right or the best

ronm2

I ended up at a Cleveland Toyota dealer and found both wiring kits to complete the job. My small town dealer was lost and not really into the search. The converter (08921-48860) - $54- alone would have permitted me to cut off the smaller four pin plug and splice my own wires out to the 7 pin round connection that I need for my pop up. But rather than mess with potential warranty problems, I also purchased the plug in that terminates in a four pin flat (certainly not worth the $35 cost). Now I will either cut the four pin flat off and hard wire directly to a 7 pin round or terminate in the four pin flat and purchase the four pin flat to 7 pin round adaptor. At a U-Haul outlet I noticed a generic converter that I am certain I could also have hard wired into the pre-wire package (cut off the 10 pin plug provided).

fred82

I am having a problem finding the right hitch wires for the 2004 Highlander . I have tried
Toyota # 08942-48870-BB. plugs on both ends are good but the mounting clips
no place to hook them and wire could be longer. Could you post the harness part number you used. Local dealers no help. Thanks

styln

THIS IS MY SECOND HIGHLANDER AND I DID NOT HAVE THE DELAY IN THE FIRST ONE. I WAS GOING TO ASK AT THE FIRST OIL CHANGE. THOUGHT IT WAS ME...

xraykid

I'll buy the 3rd row seat from you if you want to sell. Bob

lfdy13

After much research, I finally settled on the sound system for my '05 Highlander. I now have over 1000 watts of power surging through all six speakers and a 10" sub-woofer. I kept the factory head because I actually like it. Besides, I am waiting for one that my i-pod plugs right into. There where no issues, no odd sizes, no weird modifications that I am aware of, etc. However, I did discover a little secret!!! If you can live without the tray that holds your spare tire tools (put them in a tool bag or something), you can fit two moderate sized low profile amps in the area. Out of sight out of mind. I had my Bass volume control mounted in the little goodie compartment on the left. Everything looks totally stock, but it's a mixture of Sony and Alpine. This this hits hard as nails!!! I Love my "metal" music, now I love it even more!!!!

On the Highlander itself. I had to trade up my '04 PreRunner 4X4 because getting into it was hurting my back. I really love my Toyota trucks, so this was a serious sacrifice. I decided on the V-6, 4X4, version (not limited). All of the wonderful reviews and it's mechanical prowess made it a solid contender. I think 4 wheel disk brakes, 4 wheel drive and a 230 HP V-6 make for a nice combination. I also got the "tow package" which means I have a transmission cooler, larger radiator and larger alternator (very cool features). The only thing I tow is two bicycles, this thing will last forever. I did wake up in the morning with buyers remorse though. I went from those rough and tumble little 4X4's to, well, this. It's a soccer mom car!!! In one review I read after I bought it, they said it was a great "maller"!!! I guess it's a "sleeper", blends in nicely with the neighbors, but kicks some butt. I picked this Highlander over a Mustang GT, no kidding! The Mustang was just as bad for my back (and a Ford product). I do really love this vehicle. It just does not reflect my personality at all. I went from "bad [non-permissible content removed]" to bla, plain, vanilla.

joecool_tx

Would you mind giving a summary of audio components used and where (like brand of door speakers, brand of amps, location of subwoofers)??

landdriver

Add a Kluger grille from www.myautofashion.com to give your HL a sporty-looking flair -- you'll feel like you're back in your GT again! :shades:

nsxwes

I am taking delivery of a Highlander Hybrid in a couple of weeks. Running boards were not a listed option. I have heard that they are either a port or a dealer installed option. I am interested in the color matched running boards that look like a Toyota option and not one of the aftermarket ones. Can anyone who has running boards like this on their Highlander tell me the approximate installed price and if you had it installed at the port or at the dealership?

desertguy

My local dealer was installing them on some inventory vehicles. Color match with the mud guards etc. was excellent. They then become part of the warranty of course. Mine cost approx. $600 installed.

lfdy13

I wish I had more specifics, but all the packaging is at home stuffed away in the garage. I have Sony "component" 3 way speaker in the front 6 1/2 and Alpine co-axle 5 1/2 in the rear. The 10" sub woofer is also Sony and mounted in a box. I almost went with the Infinity "Base-linx" sub because of space, but it mounts vs. a box which can be disconnected if you need the space. I still really like the Infinity option. Both Amps are Sony, one mono channel dedicated to the sub and the other dedicated to the speakers. All of the Sony components are higher end "X-Plod" series. As I said before, the base volume knob is mounted in the cool little cubby hole on the left of the steering wheel. Everything looks stock, nothing screams "steal me". The Sub box can be easily covered with the privacy cover that comes with the vehicle and the amps are hidden in the tool compartment. The point to my posting was to let folks know there were no weird limitations when upgrading and I thought the Amp spot was great (especially since they will not go under those seats, the Highlander has little heater vents under the seats)! I hope that helps and good luck in what ever you choose.

lfdy13

This is driving me crazy!!! There is NO proof positive way to know that the sun-roof is in fact closed/sealed. My wife has a Rx 330 and there is no mistaking when the sun-roof is secure. I had some minimal leaking at the car wash yesterday and I would have sworn I had that thing shut tight. Anyone with a similar problem? Care to offer any advice how how to correct the problem. This has to be a mistake. Toyota did not make this awesome vehicle and then stop short with the sun-roof !?!? Has there been a recall or is there a "fix" ????

Any help would be greatly appreciated. :confuse:

jerryfy

Anyone had experience with installation of Hood Protector? Will this need driller or some kind of tools? Thanks.

desertguy

Look in your manual. There is a normalization procedure which you can do your self in less than 2 minutes. From then on, your sunroof will operate as it should.

desertguy

If you are referring to the smoked plexi-glass strip across the front of the hood it is an easy install. No drilling required as I remember when I did it. It uses existing holes.

joecool_tx

Thank You. The information was very valuable. I am shopping for a new Highlander Limited this weekend and I want better sound than what I have heard during test driving. I want to enhance the system with a sub that is not intrusive and the entire system looks stock

apop

I'm wondering what kind of tire life other HL owners are getting on their OE tires.

My '04 V6 AWD will require new tires before it reaches 25,000 miles. Seems like it should be doing better.

goldston

Good morning Apop,

We own two H/L's, both 2WD V6 Limited.
2001 with 30,400 miles tires appear to be still doing well.
2002 with 24,000 miles tires appear to be still doing well also.

I'm pretty good at checking the air pressure every 4 weeks or so, maybe that has helped my tire life.

What type of tire came with your 2004 H/L ?

Best regards,

Philip

jbollt

Does anyone know if there is a die-cast model of the Highlander available anywhere? Or any scale model for that matter? Every web search I have done results in Highlander Action figures....I don't even know what that is LOL

Thanks

apop

Thanks for your prompt reply.

The OE tires were Michelin Energy LX4. I keep them inflated at 36 psi. They are worn down practically to the wear bars.

We live in the mountains of NC and the roads are quite curvy. Perhaps this has something to do with it. In any case, I'm going to have to replace them before the end of the summer.

Any suggestions for a replacement tire would be most appreciated.

goldston

Good afternoon Apop,

In May 2004 I started doing some research on tire replacement so that when the time came I would have some ideas.

I did a post in this Edmunds thread:
link title

From my posting I received the follow reply from Conner @ Tire Rack:

Out of the four tires you have listed i would recommend them in the following order:

1. 225/70/16 Michelin Cross Terrain SUV -- 135.00 each
2. 225/70/16 Geolandar H/T-S G051 -- 77.00 each
3. 225/70/16 Goodyear Fortera HL Edition -- not available in this size
4. 225/70/16 Michelin LTX M/S -- 119.00 each

The Michelin Cross Terrain will offer the best overall handling and ride quality. They are also rated at 65,000 miles so you will have them for some time. The Yokohama Geolander HT-S are also a very good tire. the down side in comparison to the cross terrains is that they will be slightly noisier and are rated at 55,000 miles. all four are good tires but i would rank them in the order as above.

This is the link to Tirerack, incase you wish to do some research:
link title

Best regards,

Philip

ps. If you do follow the link to Edmunds Tire Discussion that I list about (first link), there is a box titled "search this discussion", if you type in "Highlander" you will get 16 matches which I would think would give you some more information on what other people are looking at (tire replacement wise).

junepug

I have been hunting for a model of the Highlander since Oct 2002 and have not had any luck. Apparently, the manufacturers do not think there is a market. The Highlander action figures come from a Si Fi movie of that name. Check http://us.imdb.com/search.html for information on the movie.

desertguy

The Highlander was also a TV show from '92 -'98. Strange that I find many models of the Land Cruiser and even the Rav 4 but no Highlander.

jbollt

Thanks....Maybe a search for Kluger..isn't that what it is called elsewhere? When I have some time I'll look for that..as a diecast or model.

apop

Thanks again! I've dealt with Tire Rack in the past and have had good experience with them.

I'll research your suggestions and talk with Conner.

mighty_atom1

I am looking for a used set (4) of factory alloy wheels for my wife's 2004 HL, We bought her HL a month ago used but it came with some aftermarket alloys that she said does not match the vehicle and so I am seeking the alloys that came with hers. Also, I like doing the 5 tyre rotation and funny enough the spare tire is the factory alloy. We can't figure out what the previous owner was doing. The present rims are not bad looking, they just don't match the looks of her HL. She has the 16" alloy wheels with high gloss finish and these are different than the 01-03 model and so they have to come off an 04 or 05 model, any one know where I can get a good deal? I have been checking ebay but so far I have only seen ones off the 01-03 model.

joecool_tx

I will have a set of four 2005 HL OEM alloy wheels to sell in about a month if you don't find anything. I am replacing them with some custom wheels.

Karen_S

....buying/selling is not permitted in the Forums.

Thanks!