Toyota Highlander

Quazimoto

I was driving the 6 cyl HL.

Based on the feedback you all are providing me, I need to drive the HL again.

I agree with the feedback. The RX is nice, but that nice will cost ~$6-8k. So, if the HL is quiet enough (I am somewhat deaf, so quiet means I can hear peole talk) then the HL is the deal.

cliffy1

Front wheel drive vehicles are not ideal for towing. Neither are "unibody" construction vehicles. For short distances or infrequent trips, you're fine, but for more frequent use, you should look for something with a frame like the 4Runner.

You indicate the ramp is very close to where the boat is stored so the unibody issue isn't so much of a problem. The big question is going to be the quality of the ramp. If its very steep, you'll wish you had the AWD or better yet, a 4WD like the Runner. If its a mild angle and grooved and doesn't get a lot of slime, you should be fine.

2003tls

I also looked at the Pilot. It was about the same price as the Highlander, when similarly equipped.

Pluses: More cargo room, bigger 3rd row seat, standard AWD.

Cons: No Stability Assist, no side curtain air bags, some quality issues (check the Edmunds Pilot: Problems forum), heavy.

In the end, the safety issue was most important (and I won't really need the rear seat), so I went with the Highlander.

Also, the Pilot is based on the Honda Odyssey, which is based on the Accord platform. It is a uni-body and thus car-based, not truck based which is generally frame on frame. Still, the Highlander does ride more like a car than the Pilot since it is narrower, lower, and about 700 pounds lighter.

jbollt

Just for your information, and in case I missed that you already knew this, I apologize in advance...

The Highlander is based on the Camry platform. It is a uni-body and thus car-based, not truck based, just like the Pilot. IMHO, I find that Toyotas ride softer, smoother and quieter then the equivalent Hondas.

zorglub

Thanks everybody for your feedback, that is quite helpful.

I'm starting the process of selling my car before I get the new one.

opus5

I also researched between the Pilot and Highlander for about a year before jumping in and getting the Pilot. Both are excellent vehicles with great quality. Sure, some may say that the Pilot has it share of problems, but also weigh the fact the even Edmunds noted the excellent build quality of the Pilot verses some build quality issues of the Highlander during its own comparison testing. Now maybe the problems with the Pilot and Highlander were isolated issues, but it tells us to keep in mind that overall, both vehicles are generally of high quality.
The Pilot may not have side curtain air bags or vehicle stability assist, but it does have greater resistance to roll over (as calculated by the NHTSA and lower injury measurements for certain seating positions during offset impacts as tested by the IIHS.
So in the end, you need to quantify what elements of all this information is most important to you. Do you need a little more cargo and seating space? Do you prefer a lower ride? How about design and interior layout. These items can be just as important when quality and safety can be called a wash.
Good luck in your final decision. Either way, you come out ahead.

03bluestone

Hi, I've ben racking up quite a few miles. Does anyone have over 150,000 miles on their Highlander yet? or more?

jrfiero

For those of you who have gone with 235 series tires (up from 225 stock), what are your thoughts on the speedometer error introduced? Using TireRack figures, the stock Bridgestones rotate 736 revs per mile, the Michelin Cross Terrain 235s 712, so an indicated 65 would be an actual 67.2 (I think - you get the idea). Do you care?

jfeng2

I have a 2002 Highlander Limited bought in June 2002. The first winter I noticed the windshield fluid wouldn't spay when temperature dropped near or below Zero. Even I warmed car for 30 or 45 minutes or drove about an hour, still no washer fluid came out. The washer fluid was original, white color like water.

This year the problem becomes even worse. I bought a bottle of winter washer fluid from TrakAuto that claims anti-freezing to -20F. Still no wash in low temperature! Three days ago I sent my Highlander to 355 Toyota dealer who told me that they didn't trust the commercial washer fluid I bought. I left the car to the dealer who thaw it out in room temperature, flushed out the old fluid and poured TWO bottles of concentrate anti-freezing fluid (usually need just one bottle!) But after driving only five minutes in the cold, the washer system froze up again! I stopped the car and use my own hands to warm up the litte nobs on the hood and the water sprayed again. I noticed the three holes are very tiny.

I used the same washer fluid for my Lexus RX300, no freezing problem at all! Does anyone have the same problem? Basicall, this Highlander is not drivable during winter time when I need it most!! It is a serious safty hazard!

sarto

I've been on this message board since 2001. I have an '01 4cylinder (2AZ-FE). The check engine light came on and the dealer had to reprogram the engine computer (toyota service bulletin May2, 2003). It was a software flaw and the bulletin is titled 'ECM CALIBRATION UPDATE: M.I.L. "ON" DTC P0420 OR P0430. Apparently this is not enough. After the update on my ECM (engine computer module), the check engine light came on again after a hundred miles or so. I took it back to my toyota dealer mechanic friend and he said that the catalytic converter and several sensors has to be replaced (under warranty) and I have to wait since they're back ordered. He said that it's a design flaw on the catalytic converter (remember the design flaws on the brake fluid cap and gas tank hose that were recalled?). The question is, what if the engine light turns on after warranty? The good thing is, I don't feel any performance change on the HL with the light on. I'm still happy with the HL although but my confidence is a little bit shaken. But then my HL is one of the first batch manufactured (April '01).

2003tls

Thanks for the catch. Although I knew that the Highlander was also car-based, I should have mentioned it in my post. And yes, I agree that the ride in the Camry is definitely nicer (i.e. more luxury feeling) than the Accord/Odyssey.

lite112

Thank you for your input. My hubby would love to have the 4runner but this will be my primary vehicle (been driving a van for 11 yrs) and dont think I want the truck ride. I test drove the HL this past week and loved it! It just feels right, and drives just like my van. What I really liked that I haven't seen mentioned here are the captain seats for the front!! Other SUV's that I have looked at dont have the armrest on the seat. I thought I would have to give it up till I saw the HL!! I think for the few times we may have to launch our boat we will be ok. The ramp is not steep or slippery. I'll pass on your info to my husband and thanks again!

cliffy1

I'm glad it helped. Don't be afraid to tow with a Highlander. Just know that if you are towing frequently, there are better choices.

banner1

Any Highlander owners having the air bag light flashing a code in very cold weather? When the temp. goes up--light stops flashing. Any information would be appreciated.

bigdad

open bow deep vee Rinker that weighs 4300 pounds (not including the trailer) from florida to Tenn. and aside from low gas mileage (from 24 to 14mpg) have had no problems. Mine is 2 wheel drive V6, 2002 model. Have loaded and unload at local boat launches with no problem.. I have to towing packaging and still am reallly overloading the vehicle (the boat is bigger than the tow vehicle). Don't worry, its great.

bigdad

The error introduced is usually from the aspect ratio, but You did the right thing by going to Tire rack to check the rev.per mile and diameter of the tire. and comparing to original. Most of the time it is minimal if you haven't done something really weird like +3 sizing...Everybody has a slightly different tire diameter (the most important consideration) even for the same "size" tire. Usually 3-5% difference for an aspect ration change of "05", or from something like a change from a 225x55 vs. a 235x60/ In our case it will be a 70 series tire (aspect ratio) but a difference in width that determines the actual size change (aspect ratio is a percentage of the tire tread width). I wouldn't get too worried about it being so minimal.

lite112

Thanx...so V6 FWD should launch our partybarge. Well, my mind is made up. Now I just have to wait for uncle sam to send my money, then start the pricing process. Looking for the Oasis Green with 3rd row seat! Wish me luck!

awchan13

Before I switched to the larger tires, I checked the speedometer reading 2/3 times and found that I was not actually traveling as far as the meter was reading. Not such a big deal, but my vehicle is a lease vehicle and every mile counts. After installing the new tires, I've found that I'm gaining about as much as I was losing with the old tires. I feel much better now that I'm not getting screwed once again by toyota.

590116

jfeng2: same happens to me. I thought it was my choice of fluid, but now maybe it's not me!

It is very annoying (and it's the only real complaint I have about my HL) and dangerous. I've not been able to use washer fluid for over a week now and I'm only in Richmond VA, not Michigan or Vermont!

Any ideas from the group will be much appreciated.

mysticb

I just got through talking to a salesman who told me that the 04 LTD 4x2 can come with the tow prep package, but it doesn't come with the tow/hitch bar. He said that the redesign with the third row seat caused the change to the spare configuration under the vehicle and they have a hard time putting the hitch on (i.e., they can't do it), but it can be put on the 4x4. Now I can't tell if this BS or what, but has anyone purchased or seen a 04 LTD 4x2 with a hitch?

thoon

awchan13- What size tires did you change to? Are you sure it's not the error that jrfiero mentioned above?

john361

I recently took a trip to Quebec from Sarnia, Ontario. The highway was almost always wet the complete distance (600 miles), at a temperature of about 5* F. After 250 miles I had to stop for more washer fluid since I was using the washers every 10 minutes or less. I purchased some fluid from Canadian Tire that was rated good for -40*F or *C. I had no problems with washer freeze up.
( I did have problems with the crazy drivers out there, but hey, too many cars, not enough highway!)
Anyhow, sorry I can't really help you other than to recommend putting a known good washer fluid in and it appears you've already done that. I'd still try a different brand. Good luck!

dgrayson

Hey-

Just think... the new Hybrid Highlander would have allowed you to make the whole trip from Quebec to Sarnia on one tank of gas...

03bluestone

Anyone have over 100,000 miles on their HL?

awchan13

thoon- Sorry, I meant odometer above rather than speedometer. I measured actually distance on the road and compared this to the odometer reading. As far as the speedometer being a little off, never bothered me. If I remember correctly, my speedometer reads a little slower, but it's really negligable...haven't been pulled over yet... Oh, my tire size is 235/70 R16's, Bridgestone Deuler AT's. Haven't had a need for spacers.

reddevilfish

In reference to your point, the same thing happened to me when starting up the vehicle in very cold weather. It did eventually go off after 15 minutes of driving, and has not acted up since then. Not sure if its worth replacing, but would like to know if this affects the air bag operation in this weather.
Anyone else with the same situation?
FYI: I have a 2002 limited

jfeng2

Did you use a dealer-installed washer fluid or store-purchased one? I send my HL to 355 Toyota again and they switched to another brand of fluid. It is a litter better but froze up again this morning.

bigdad

freeze up on my 2002 HL as well. At least until the car warms up and the engine heat thaws the nozzles. I am in E. Tenn and the weather can get to 15-20F at night, but it is not unreasonable to expect these not to freeze up when the fluid is supposed to be good to -20F. Who is at fault? Well, the fluid is doing the freezing, not the HL, so the fluid should be responsible not the HL. I suspect the fluid mfgrs. have a lot more water in these bottles than they should.

2004hl

In 25 years of driving I have never ever had the washer fluid freeze while using the standard parts store blue gallon jug stuff.
The only problem that I have ever had was with a German brand called Sonax that comes in a liquid concentrate that you pour in and then fill up with water. It didn't freeze - it removed the clear coat on the paint for an inch or so around each washer nozzle on my old Nissan! I'm never using that stuff again...

tidester

Try a different brand of washer fluid.

The only time I've had it freeze is after it hit the windshield (while driving - wind chill affect at play) and the outside temp was about 30 below.

tidester, host

snakehair

355 Toyota generally is pretty good at finding solutions. I have been using fluid put in by a shop in Gaithersburg I use for routine maintenance in my 01 HL Limited with no freezing problems yet. I agree with BigDad, it probably is the fluid type (we do not usually have such a cold snap here in this area).

john361

If I can get one WITHOUT third row seating, I'll be taking a good,long hard look. I'm thinking they will be able to sell a bunch of them.

zorglub

Again, thanks to the persons who replied to me a couple pages ago.

This week-end, my wife and I test drove both cars, and I came to the same conclusions as others on this board. Bottom line, we'll go for the Pilot because of the size, and I like the seats better (probably different for everybody), although I liked the Highlander handling better.

Happy driving to everyone.

robmath

I am owning a 2003 HL w/o the 3rd. Is there any way that I could have the 3rd row added onto it?

2003tls

I highly doubt that you can add a 3rd row into a 2003 HL. Way too many modifications are necessary and talk about increased liability. Still, I am sure that someone will try it.

clpurnell

sell your 03 private party and go out and buy the 04.

landdriver

Virtually impossible to feasibly add a third-row -- had the entire rear interior trim torn out on my '01 a couple of years ago and have seen the third row on the '04 and the lowerbody sheetmetal differs significantly between the two.

normy04

What is everyone getting for mileage??
I have a 04 v6 not very happy with the gas mileage.I only have 4500km /2800 miles on the highlander,will my mileage get better?
I'm gettin 400km per tank of fuel.
Works out to 250 miles per tank.

fvp

I have an '03 V6 4WD and average 20-21 MPG with 50-50 city and highway driving. I have 7,100 miles on the clock so far.
Give the engine a chance to break in and your mileage should improve over time.

thoon

I was driving my 03 HL today and I noticed that my car vibrates a lot whenever it is idling at stop lights. I can really feel it in the steering wheel and brake pedal. Sometimes my seat vibrates a tiny bit too. Is this normal? I bought my car last May and have 10,600 miles on it. I would expect this much vibration from a car that is over 4-5 yrs old, but not from a car that's 8 months old. My car is also loud when it's parked. I've heard other HL's that were idling in parking lots and they sounded really quiet.

hlfan

I also have the 04 V6, and it's a AWD to boot ! I get 18 mpg with 80/20 freeway/surface streets, but the freeway is rolling hills (73 in SoCal). That's about 260 miles per tank.

I find I can get 18.5 if I don't try to maintain 80mph on the climbs, and 16.5 if I get bored and impatient on the same hills. So don't complain, I share your pain !

bdyment

To Normy04 and others.
I have an 04 V6 AWD Limited purchased in November 03. Total kms to date 2558 or 1590 miles. Not the best time of the year to get good gas mileage, at least in the Niagara area.

To date using actual fillups--the fuel consumption guage--is on the high side by an average of 1 to 1.5 mpg in Imperial gallons after conversion from the metric read out. I am averaging between 14.5mpg per Imperial gallon--100% city driving to a high of 27.5mpg per Imperial gallon on a 200 mile trip.

This converts to a low of 12.1 per U.S. gallon to a high of 23 per U.S. gallon.

I would imagine that the mileage will increase considerably in the warmer months and when the engine has more miles on it. My consumption seeems to be right in line with a neighbours Honda Pilot. However he does more highway miles than I do.

I guess we have to remember that this is an all wheel drive vehicle with the aerodynamics of a flying brick. Putting things in perspective. I owned a 1970 Ford Country Squire that in the winter of 1970/71 received the grand total of 8 mpg per Imperial gallon or 6.7 per U.S. gallon. This was 90% city driving.

Otherwise the Highlander has been an excellent vehicle so far.

2004hl

4 cylinder or 6? Four cylinder engines are inherently not as smooth as a V6 or V8 but Toyota's 4 cyl is fairly smooth. Really shouldn't be feeling the vibration through the wheel and seat - have the dealer check the mounts.

thoon

2004hl - I have a 2003 V6. When I first start my car I can feel some vibration in the steering wheel, then after I shift it into gear and start driving it goes away and it feels solid. But when I stop at stop lights, it starts vibrating again. It seems like it's getting a little stronger. If I shift into neutral when I'm idling, the vibration goes away too.

fvp

I have an '03 V6 4WD and there is no vibration starting, stopping, at idle or shifting. It's solid in all situations.
I suggest you take it to your dealer, put one of the techs in the passenger seat and show him the vibration. Don't let him out of the car until he has a clear understanding of the problem or you may end up with the dreaded "failed to duplicate" on your receipt.

roadrunner70

over two years ago i posted the vibraton issue which was noticeable on our new 2003 hl ltd 6cyl 2wd. totoyot says no problem. sometimes it goes away completely. it much worse with the a/c on i have also test driven rxs and tghey have the same problem (at least 2003s) forget about it, and enjoy the car. its not going ot be fixed. in my opinion, its not acceptable and it has something to do with the electronic motor mount.

my solution was to make my second car a nissan murano. can't even feel the engine running, and thats with the a/c on. shame on toyota.

rugby65

My 03 HL ltd Vibrate's while idling at a stop sign when the air conditioner kicks on.

This could be due the design of the motor mounts.

The salesman that demonstrated mine told me that the motor mounts were designed to brake away in a front end collision to let the engine fall down to prevent it from being pushed into the driver and passenger compartment.

thoon

I knew I should have gone for the Murano. More horsepower and the CVT transmission. I got the Highlander because all the reviews I read said this car was smooth and quiet, but it's not. The road noise is very harse. The engine noise is pretty loud too. Another awful thing is how bumby this car is. Way too many jolts and bumps on the highway. It's very annoying. My brother's pilot is also very very quiet and ultra smooth. My parents dodge durango is much more less bumpy than my highlander.

spencer327

Have a 2004 HL LTD AWD. Brake pedal feels mushy with a long throw. I can pump pedal to bring it up to decent height. Seems like this varies with different conditions. As it is not always like this. Anybody have similar problem/fixes.
Also own a 2003 Avalon, brakes are hard and high.

thoon

The mushy brakes are normal for highlanders. There were a bunch of earlier posts where people mentioned it. Apparently, the brakes are too small for the size of the car. A couple people mentioned their dealer told them there was no fix except to learn how to use the soft brakes.