Toyota Highlander

sagman

For obvious reasons, I think the power seat option is a must for anyone concerned about headroom and overall comfort. And forget the sunroof if you're six feet plus and worried about overhead space.

On another issue, the seats are really a little too short for the taller person, but I haven't found that to be that big a deal (though I haven't done a long trip yet, either).

gsn

Having driven a 4X2 4 cyl. HL for 3,000 miles, I would have to agree with hlltd regarding 4 cyl. fuel economy. While I find the power to be very adequate, and the engine to be fairly smooth, I have been somewhat disappointed with mpg so far. The majority of driving has been in town with mileage in the 20-22 mpg range. For the one trip that was predominantly highway driving (60-65 mph in VA mountains) the mileage was 24 mpg. I've met or exceeded EPA mileage estimates with previous vehicles so that adds to my disappointment. From what I've read here from V6 owners, their mileage hasn't been much different from mine in the 2WD model. While I'm very happy with the HL, I would buy a V6 next time.

normp1

As someone who is interested in purchasing a 2002 Highlander, I read this news release with great interest. According to the article this sludge problem affects 3.0-litre engines built between 1999 - 2001. Am I to conclude that this years models have a differently designed engine or is this the same engine. I hate to purchase an expensive vehicle with the knowledge that it could sludge due to a design flaw ( as mentioned in Automotive News) even If I maintain the vehicle as per Toyota's instructions. Would it be prudent to wait for six months and see what develops ?
Any thoughts ?

robert_ca

I just purchased a 2002 HL 4WD V6 a month ago. The vehicle was manufactured in November, 2001 so I would assume the engine is a 2001. Had I known about this possible engine sludgging issue I would have waited awhile and see what develops. As it stands even with proper oil service maintenance this issue is somewhat of a concern to me.

Good luck in your decision.

john_lise

I have owned the HL LTD AWD V6 (LTD in Canada is fully loaded) since Feb 2001. I have 13000 miles on it (21000Km). I still have no regrets owning this amazing vehicle!

The JBL sound system rocks!!! Extremely happy with it!!! As for the paint...I throw own some wax twice a year...looks like the day I drove it off the lot!!!

Regarding the sludge problem: guys really change your oil at the dealership....I mean 25$ every 6 months...big deal!!! Also don`t forget: less then 0.1% reported problems. Anyway, isn`t it on the 4 cyl engine?

By the way the VSC and AWD work incredibly well on snow...helps when you swerve around a family of moose!!!

This vehicle is worth every cent. Now get on the other discussion board Highlander vs Envoy and try to convince those saps that GM can't make a proper vehicle!!!

cmcardle

I too am in that 6'4-6'5 range, and have recently picked up my HL (11 days ago)... no problems to date. I have the power seat and the sunroof, and with the seat all the way back/ down, it is just fine. It's close, but it's not an issue.

Can't speak to the long distance aspect - no long trips yet.

drewsters

I test drove the HL last week and was really impressed. My problem is after speaking to several dealers about getting a 4 Cyl 4x4 with VSC and Side Airbags, they state that Toyota does not make them that way. I also inquired about factory ordering one and they said that they don't do it. Can anyone recommend a Toyota Dealership in the NY tri-state area that will factory order. Can I really get the car I want?

Any info would be greatly appreciated.

-Drewsters

ranell

To tombarb3: My husband and I purchased an HL V6 2WD last month and already driven over 3000 miles. We purchased this auto for long distance freeway driving (6 hours at a time) and purchased the auto driver's seat with lumbar support. We are both tall, he is 6'3 and I am 5'10. The only minor bother is the emergency brake location which is directly over the foot rest. However, more importantly, the seats are quite comfortable and offer excellent support.

cattman

While shopping for a LTD v6 HL(which in SoCal all seem to be leather equipped), I couldn't understand why all ten LTD's with leather on a local dealer's lot had some kind of flaw in the upholstery... either uneven seems, the "ripple effect" mentioned earlier, or just shoddy workmanship altogether. Then I noticed they were all PIO leather. After visiting another dealer with factory-installed leather units, I was amazed how much better the interiors looked! All I can come up with is that dealers are having a hard time getting factory leather units, so they're adding the leather themselves... I don't know about anyone else, but I certainly don't want MY new vehicle torn apart and reupholstered by anybody before it's even a month old(... and aren't you then paying for TWO sets of seats??)...personally, I don't like the beige color offered this year, I'm hoping the '03's will offer a different color choice... anybody know?

mrrogers

buying? That way, if the resale value takes a hit if this sludge problem really takes off, you just turn the car in at the end of the lease. It is Toyota's problem then.

tommyg12

Notice that it is not recommended for the Highlander if following the "normal" schedule, and only at 60K intervals if following the "severe" schedule? I know if you don't follow at least a 30K interval for Hondas, you'll pay for a new tranny around the 100K mark. Am I missing something here?

skyreb

I live in northern New England. Yesterday I was (involuntarily) caught on an ice covered Interstate for 4 1/2 hour. The HL (AWD, V6, unlimited, w/out VSC) was stable, and sure footed. There were vehicles off the road all along the road. I especially appreciated the HL and the AWD.
My prior vehicle was a Ford Explorer, and while it was part-time AWD, (it was a 2 wheel drive until slippage was detected). That seemed to cause a short delay, and when the AWD came on line, there seemed to be an ever so slight lurch, which on a road like last night, could spin you off into the ditch.

Normally, I would never try to drive in such weather, however, when you must, the HL is comforting and complementary to careful driving.

Happy HL'ing to all.

stanisor

I just purchased a v6 highlander and I noticed there is a ticking sound coming from the engine when you idle and have the radio and heat off. Has anyone experienced that? is it normal( it almoust sound like a diesel constant knocking but much softer, for some reason you can only hear it form inside the cabin)

llofgren

I have noticed that people who have posted on the ticking sound tend to have newer (?2002) models. I also noticed that the AutoNews article on the engine sludge problem was referenced to HL's built through 7/01. Was there a subtle re-design of the V6 after 7/01 for the sludge issue that made the ticking sound (more) apparent? I realize that these are probably two separate issues but I am also struck by the possible timing here (no pun intended).
Has anyone with an '01 HL (V6) noticed ticking?

robert_ca

I test-drove three 2001 V6 Highlanders prior to purchasing my 2002 HL and they all made the same ticking sound when idling. It is particularly audible when the engine is cold and the service manager told me it is the sound of the fuel injectors on the 3.0L engine. Other HL owners have reported been told the same both here and at the Yahoo Toyota Highlander Club.

gwleong

Here's a strange question. I'm looking to pick up a very large desk w/my HL and was wondering if anyone can tell me the actual opening dimensions from bottom to top, side to side, etc. with the hatch open.

Thanks in advance!

'01 HL 2wd
Millennium Silver

nextmoon

http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2002/02/12/035635.html?NEWS

hlron

Re: your question at the end of your post (4868): Has anyone with an '01 HL (V6) noticed ticking?

Yes. I have a 2001 V-6 and do notice the mild ticking noise, although it does not stand out to me....regular engine working noise. My HL was made in May 2001, so obviously the engine was made about then or a bit before, too. /Ron

robert_ca

The possible engine sludge problems affect Toyota models equipped with 1MZ V-6 and 5SFE inline 4 engines produced between July 1996 and July 2001. I wonder what modifications were made if any to the 1MZ-FE V6 engine for the model year 2002? My 2002 Highlander 4WD V6 has a built date of 11/01.

Seeing as Toyota Canada has not released any statements concerning this problem unlike the US, I called the Central Regional Office for a status update and was told that presently Toyota Canada is studying the issue and a statement would be release in due time. Right!

tweetynator

Is the Highlander 4 cylinder equipped with the 5SFE engine? Are they affected by the "sludge" problem?

tccmn1

I work for a company that offers special deals with a variety of vendors and services. One is with independent "licensed and bonded" dealers who search out vehicles at "great savings". I have two quotes already on v6's with packages I want to have and have been told about the popular 4 month wait. One 'dealer' states $500 over invoice while the other is $1100 over!? Don't understand the great difference, but wondering about after the purchase servicing and Toy warranties....any issues with bringing it to a dealer for service after purchasing in such manner? Both 'dealers' handle a variety of makes of cars and are local. Also, does this 'over invoice' disparity sound reasonable? I live in the Twin Cities and am finally getting more serious on the purchase; willing to wait until July - no rush. We also have a major auto show coming in March and I want to see the new stuff before I sign the line...so late summer could be the result.

llofgren

tccmn1......did you see my post #278 in the Toyota Highlander Owners Club under "How Much Did You Pay"? I found Maplewood Toyota (Ross) to be very easy to work with on my special order that I did in July. Price was right. I think $500 over invoice is appropriate and I don't think you should settle for paying any more in the Twin Cities on a special order.
As far as servicing at a different dealership after purchase, I can assure you that is no problem. The dealerships are very anxious to have that service business. I just brought my HL in for its first oil change and was treated very well. I had a previous Toyota that I bought and then serviced the same way....no problem. Good luck!

cliffy1

Your deal sounds more like a "fleetail" which is not a genuine fleet purchase. Those prices are very reasonable but not true fleet pricing. Genuine fleet deals are not based on the invoice, but rather a special deal worked out between your employer and Toyota. The car is delivered to a dealer under a "courtesy delivery" deal and the dealer makes absolutely nothing. Honestly. Most dealers hate these things because they are a royal pain in the neck with no benefit to the dealer.

Your deal is a standard buying service type of price. That is why the prices are different. If one dealership strikes you as more responsive and customer friendly, choose them.

yiching

The last snowstorm we had here convinced me to purchase an SUV. We live at the top of a pretty steep hill. Any one have comments about the Highlander's snow traction, especially going up steep hills? Are the original manufacturer's tires good enough and do they need to be changed in the winter?

tccmn1

Thanks for the information. I have not talked with Ross at Maplewood Toy yet. I contacted the "company sponsored" person at Maplewood (Terry) who was not very responsive. I had to call him several times and sounded like I was bothering him. Maybe I'll give this Ross a try too. I had a second "Fleetail" call me back and lowered his over invoice from 1200 to 1100 (wooo!)
He acted like he was giving me the best deal in town....NOT! I bought my 98 Camry from Wilkins (Lee Trapp) who is a nice older gentleman and very low keyed. He just got back from his winter vacation, so I'll chat with him too and see what he spins for me. So far $500 over invoice is my best quote. I'll keep you informed

hlron

If you still need the info, maybe this will be helpful: I'm not sure of the exact hatch opening size, however I hauled a 34" (U.S. inches) wide by 29" tall by 60" long desk in my HL okay. As for approximate hatch opening size, I think the opening is a bit wider than 34" at the bottom (maybe up to 36 - 37"...it is actually up to 50" or so wide at the widest point, but due the curves, etc, I think the widest usable for putting in a big desk is about 35 - 36" wide, if that...or so) and about 32 useable inches high. Again, these are approximate figures. Good luck! /Ron

runpanther

Changed the oil this past weekend. The oil drained out ok but some of the oil floating on top looked like a "foamy Goo". I own a 2001, the engine is a V6 and the oil change was done at 4K. Any suggestions?

robnao

runpanther, was the "foamy goo" the same color as the drained oil or was it a lighter color as if some white had been mixed in making it light brown or tan in color? Sludge caused by excess heat is usually about the same color as the used oil, it is usually pretty firm like cottage cheese, but it usually sticks to the internal parts, that's where it causes the problems. If it is lighter colored and foamy it is very possible there is some water getting in the oil and emulsifying (mixing with the oil due to the moving parts). If it is this lighter color take a sample (if you kept it) to the Toyota dealer and have an experienced tech look at it. If you don't have a sample take your HL in and have them check it out right away. You can also check one more thing yourself when the engine is cold, remove the radiator cap and see if there is an oil sheen on top of the coolant, if not this does not mean there is no leak, but if there is definitely oil on top of the coolant there is a problem. Hope it turns out to be nothing.

runpanther

From what I recall, it was the same color(but not really sure??). If it happens again during the next oil change I'll take a sample and bring to the dealer. Hope it is nothing, I don't even have 8k on the car yet.
Thanks for your advice.

robert_ca

I checked out the oil service intervals for the US and noticed that there are differences between US and Canadian service intervals.

US 1996-current models

The Toyota Scheduled Maintenance Guide stipulates oil changes every 7,500 miles or 6 months; whichever comes first, for normal driving conditions. For severe driving conditions, we recommend changing the oil every 5,000 miles or 4 months; whichever comes first.

Canadian 2000-current models

The Toyota Scheduled Maintenance Guide stipulates oil changes every 8,000 KM (4972.miles) or 6 months; whichever comes first.

We in Canada, are considered "severe" but why is there a 2 month difference between the US and Canada. Interestingly enough Canadian 1989-1999-vehicle oil service intervals were 6,000 KM (3729. miles) or 6 months. I don’t know why Toyota Canada changed the intervals for year 2000 models, but personally I plan on following the 6,000 KM schedules just to be, hopefully on the safe side. It appears that Toyota can't get their act together when it comes to recommended service maintenance.

mikenannie

I'm a new owner of a 2002 Bluestone V6 Limited with the ivory (tan) leather interior. Any suggestion on how to keep them clean - covers? cleaners? protection?
Since we have the side air bags, I don't think that seat covers are an option.

Thanks...
Mike

firewalker2

I have recently purchased a new Highlander and have around 400 miles on it. I love it. I have noticed that when I shut it off, that smoke comes out of the exhaust for 3 or 4 minutes. Is that just something that is burning off since it is a new vehicle.? Thanks

1strider

we just took delivery of our highlander last week. we haven't taken a trip yet, but so far the seats and leg room seem fine. i'm 6'5" and have plenty of headroom with the sunroof. i would not want to sit in the rear seats for any length of time, as they are too low. after owning a plmouth voyager the hlander seats are much more comfortable

soco2

Several weeks after we concluded that we were not likely to get exactly what we wanted (4WD 6 non-Lim., Bluestone, some pkgs., rack, side bags), and agreed to accept what may be called a West Coast Mandatory Option Group, our H/L was delivered last week. The two main oh-wells are no air bags and the fairly expensive power seat package (HE).

We were due to take Amtrak to Santa Barbara (boarding at Martinez, in the Bay Area) the next day. As a more-than-reasonable precaution, I checked departure information before leaving home. Finding the Coast Starlight an incredible nine hours late (it ended up 15 hours tardy, I learned later), we decided to drive to S. B.

The H/L stayed home, though. I decided to follow the factory recommendation that 55 (a hazardous speed on freeways) not be exceeded for 1000 miles. I suppose that we could have taken Highway 1, along the coast.... Anyway, our Ranger Supercab (3.0, A/T) was a good, 23 mpg ride.

H/L impressions later.

toyunki

http://www.autonews.com/article.cms?articleId=38302

Accordings to news above, Toyota many engines produced between 1996-2001 have some serious problems....

tbuchta

This facts related in the article seems to indicate that the "sludge problem" is an owner maintenance problem. Despite the widespread effort to solicit complaints by lawyers and others,

"...Lawyers in Florida, Georgia and Idaho are using Internet message boards to gather clients in hopes of forming class-action lawsuits against the automaker..."

the article says that only .01 (that's 1 in 100,000)percent of folks owning vehicles with these engines have responded. That's pretty much borne out by the reliability and owner satisfaction ratings by Consumer Reports, JD Power etc,

Now I'm no master mechanic but if these engines have a design flaw or a quality control problem there there should be a heckuva lot more problems out there. Its also interesting to note that the article uses as its examples, owners who get their vehicles serviced at "4,000 or 6000 miles at places like jiffy lube. Now no disrespect, but I like to change my own oil so that I know what is being used.

Finally, Toyota's action of offering to repair any sludge damaged engine made from 1996 to 2001 if the owner can show that they changed the oil even one time in the last year is pretty darn good support. How many other other auto manufacturers would do the same?

This is certainly something to watch, but right now I dont see evidence of a problem to be concerned about.

osoriob

What about the engines for the 2002 toyotas, how come they are not included on the list, what is different in those engines?

Now my two cents worth on the oil sludge problem.

I have to say that a lot has to do with the oil quality, kind of service perfomed and of course the vehicle owners are to blame here too.
I have met some people that only change their oil once a year (some even longer) and this is gotta be rough on the engine, you don't see race cars treated that way do you? of course not.... every one should know that good oil is the life of an engine.

I have always changed my own oil on all of my cars, my 1989 MAXima has 200K miles (still going strong) and I expect my HL to last me that long, if not longer.

Happy motoring

tidester

Now I'm no master mechanic but if these engines have a design flaw or a quality control problem there there should be a heckuva lot more problems out there.

Now, don't you think you're being just a little too sensible? ;-)

tidester
Host
SUVs

bb8

tbuchta, the engine sludge problem is 1 in a 1,000, somebody sure does jump to finale real fast without really understanding what is it. Dude! it is not 1 out of 100,000.

dielectric7bb

.01%...
1%=1/100 agreed
.1%=1/1,000 you following
.01%=1/10,000 here it is or if you want to do the math 100/.01

How about a compromise of somewhere between 1/1,000 and 1/100,000?

tbuchta

Thanks dielectric7bb, Bb8 and I stand corrected, but I'm 99.99% sure that the conclusion is the same...

regularguy

Rather than get all freaked out, I just want to take the sensible approach with my nice new 2002 6-cyl.

I gather synthetic oil is best. What kind do you folks use/recommend?

I usually try to change oil every 5,000 miles. Sound reasonable?

- Bill

ehl3

Nice article, horrific dealer that happens to be three miles from my house. Kendall Toyota is reputedly the "largest volume dealer in the SE Toyota distribution system" but is regularly lambasted locally for lack of customer service, misleading sales tactics, you name it.

As posted several times before, we drove 35 miles north to Toyota of Hollywood (FL), factory ordered our 2002 HL V6, 2wd, paid $177 over invoice and received it approximately 120 days later, exactly as ordered.

I suspect that there is a bit of alarmism is the recent posts of the sludge problem, and as it references 1999-2001 Toyota engines, are there any HL owners who have received such a notice in the mail? Only 2001 models?

cliffy1

Many owners have not yet received their letters. Toyota is staggering these so as to not overrun their call center. Top priority goes to those who Toyota knows already have had a problems. Next are Sienna owners because they seem to have more reported problems.

The reason the 2002 was not included was because they have not been out long enough for neglect to have taken its toll. Those owners will eventually receive a different letter reminding them of what "normal" and "severe" driving means, along with an explanation of what can happen to an engine that is not properly maintained. Hopefully, they will also include a warning to not ignore time (remember, under the normal cycle it is 6 months of 7500 miles, whichever comes first) when doing oil changes.

hlltd

.01%...
1%=1/100 agreed
.1%=1/1,000 you following
.01%=1/10,000 here it is or if you want to do the math 100/.01

The above IS correct.

HOWEVER, whoever published the article and stated that the problem was in only .01 percent was wrong!

They should have said that the problem is in less than .1 percent of the vehicles.

3000 motors with the problem out of 3,300,000 vehicles is about one in one thousand, which IS
.1 percent ( .1% ), isn't it?

Still too many, but IF these people are NOT servicing their engines properly, what do they expect?

The truth will prevail in time.

I know mine is fine because of the periodic oil analysis that show insolubles at 0.2 percent ( 0.2% ).

388

lfd440

2002 HL. Any owners out there try to do this? I will have to do so prior to my purchase due to a garage door opener and a low ceiling. Had to do it on my 96 Explorer which was a piece of cake.... but how about this? Will it be a project or a disaster? Your imput is appreciated here just 10 miles north of Boston MA.!

hawkeye70

Regularguy,
I use Mobil 1 10w-30 in our 2001 V6 HL and change the oil every 5000 miles, using Toyota filters. One of the main advantages to me is the higher flash point of synthetic oils (470 deg. F vs. 392 deg. F for many conventional oils). Towing a trailer in the mountains in 100 degree heat last summer made me feel better having synthetic oil in the crankcase.

hlltd

Donald,

Haven't done it yet, but have thought about doing so.

Consulted the FSM, and it appears that either ends of the rails will have to be removed, and the crossbars will then slide out.

As a condition of you buying your HL, insist that the dealer remove them for you, or else you cannot complete the deal as you cannot have any vehicle that will not go inside your garage!

Please report back as to how the mechanic did it.

388

ehl3

Not sure if anyone else paid much attention to this, but it has come up in several "Highlander vs. You Name It" Boards.

Residual assumptions at five years, from the American Lease Guide, all 2wd, various models:

Highlander 38-39%
GMC Envoy 33%
Explorer 30-31%
Pathfinder (from memory) low 30's %

This info also supported the long term perception of Toyota quality and had some impact on our decision.

dniehus

The current issue of Money Magazine gives similar info. I had already passed on the issue to a friend. My recollection for the HL was more like 41% (depending upon configuration). Nonetheless still excellent compared to many other vehicles. I did not speciically look at the other vehicles mentioned in ehl3's post. I don't recall if Money identified the source of their info. (Probably buried in a footnote.)