Toyota Highlander

mobilmom · July 2001

I was in the process of submitting a bid on a Highlander on Priceline.com when I ran into a snag. They list, for each trim level, a "Natl" version and a "GS" version. I printed out the specs that they list for each and they are identical. I am sure that there must be some difference, otherwise they would not designate. I noticed the same indications for the Sequoia as well but not for other manufacturers. Does anyone know what these stand for? Thanks in advance - Mobilmom

rdhgirl1 · July 2001

To davida5: Check out cars direct.com, you can configure the HL with all the options your folks want. It'll ask you for your zip, so you'll know what the going price is in your area. You can print out the guaranteed price of cars direct and use it to negotiate, or avoid the stomach ulcers and just use the online service itself. They'll try to find the closest match to your specified vehicle, and it's up to you to say go or no-go on the deal. Purchased mine this way and I wouldn't do it any other way.
Hope this helps.

rdhgirl1 · July 2001

To: Mobilmom,
GS stands for Gulf States. I believe their destination charge is different from the National.I'm not sure what other differences there are.

rdhgirl1 · July 2001

Priceline is indeed a gr8 service in buying new autos. Hoping to meet my VG babe early next week. So excited, I can't stand the wait!!!!

mcw31762 · July 2001

Just got back from vacationing in San Francisco and read the comments concerning Carson Toyota and Diane...I bought mine from her and had it shipped to Missouri because no one in my area or region could find what I wanted. She did not hound me or solicit my business, she just answered all my questions along with everyone else's on this site.

I never thought I would buy from a place 1300 miles away but when I saw that they had the exact vehicle I wanted I couldn't resist. I'd been waiting for 3 months for dealers around me to come through but to no avail.

I wish Carson, CA was closer to SF, I would have enjoyed going down to meet her face to face.

Ok, sorry about the ranting but just couldn't help coming to Carson Toyota's defense...I love my Bluestone V6 AWD Limited....just hit the 2000 mark.

jimxo · July 2001

"Natl" means National and "GS" means Gulf States. Just used "National" to be sure.

mtwallace · July 2001

I had the same question when I was pricing out the Highlander on Priceline. I noticed that the Natl and GS versions also have different option packages. For example the GS version offers the "Extra Mile" package, whatever that is.

I wonder why they do this. I also wonder if the Gulf States version is available outside the Gulf States.

msjhop · July 2001

I'm currently negotiating a Highlander purchase with a dealer located in the southeast region, whose invoice prices includes both a destination fee of $515, an administration fee of $550, plus a clerical fee of $100. I live near the gulf States region, and wondered if their invoice prices also included an administration fee. While it is nice to find a dealer who deals with invoice price versus MSRP, it doesn't take too many additions to the invoice price to make a $600 over invoice price no longer a bargain. Would appreciate any input - I've found this board a great help in making my buying decision.

gunga64 · July 2001

If they continue to add all those fees, on top of all the stupid options many of us don't want, I don't see any reason to stick with toyota. They love to claim they are the best in the industry, but that only gets them so far. If they continue to add fake fees they won't get my business. I also noticed they keep making up destination fees that don't jive with any of the price quoting services. By the way for the toyoguard their invoice price is 159, they try to charge 619. When you guys make your deal make sure you don't overpay for this item. Between the toyoguard fee, admin fee, the ad fee. Your talking about 1500.00 in flufff fees. While the dealer states your only paying 2.5% over invoice this don't jive with me.

As far as quoting services go, I'd use priceline for quotes , they seem to have it down. I would avoid carsdirect. I'm pretty sure carsdirect for toyotas the price is too high.

gunga64 · July 2001

For you guys that used priceline to get your car, how many bids did you have to go through before they agreeded and how much off invoice as stated on priceline site did you agree on?

llofgren · July 2001

Does anyone know if Yakima, Thule, etc. make a roof rack for the HL that does NOT incorporate the factory luggage rack? Doesn't seem to be anything on their respective web sites.

gwkiser · July 2001

msjhop, if you live close enough to visit a dealer in the GS region I would recommend that you do so. I just looked over my sales contract and found the following fees, etc.: documentary fee $50.00, license fee 71.30, title fee 13.00, deputy fee 5.00, state inspection fee 21.75. There were also 2 taxes listed : dealer inventory tax and sales tax. I happen to live in TX so the taxes and fees may vary from where you are depending on what the laws there allow.
Whether or not you decide to check out a GS region dealer, I would recommend that you print out a copy of the Edmund's invoice/MSRP listing of the model and options you want ( I did and also printed out a FULL lisitng of the model/options available) and walk in with it in hand to your dealer. If they are serious, they will deal with you. Additionally, others here have recommended using various buyer services. I used the Sam's Club auto buying service (free to members) as a starting point in my negotiations.
On a final note, don't go for any of the GS add-ons like the "Extra Mile" packages. While they may offer a discount versus the options priced separately, you have to make sure that you want these options to begin with, such as paint sealant, etc. Good luck.

litzinger · July 2001

Has anybody whose bought a highlander in, say, the last 6 weeks experienced the infamous reed wind noise? I'm trying to figure out if it was "just a bad batch" of 10,000 or so cars.

ktdavis · July 2001

We bought our HL 2 weeks ago tomorrow and have not heard the wind noise. Ours is very quiet. Going down the road you can't hear anything but the clock ticking (except that it does not really tick.)

I don't know if ours does not have the problem or we have just not been in the right wind conditions. Anyway we love this vehicle so far!

guinvere · July 2001

Fine, the Highlander is okay. But it is NOT a Camry station wagon, which is what I WANT. Does Toyota still manufacture a Camry wagon anywhere? What about in Canada? I do NOT like SUVs and my Corolla wagon is just a little bit too small. Bring back the Camry wagon, PLEASE!

cliffy1 · July 2001

The Camry wagon was only built in the KY plant and they are no longer produced for any Norther American market. I don't even think they are built for any international market, but I could be wrong about that.

jagarland · July 2001

Guinvere: Since the Camry wagon is no longer available in the US, take a look at the Subaru Outback or Legacy. It is a terrific wagon well built and it has AWD. In addditional Subaru is willing to do some negotiating on the price. It is probably fairly easy to find what you want at 2% over invoice or less. I have one and I really like it.

Jack

mtwallace · July 2001

I was very disapppointed when they discontinued the Camry wagon (my dream car) in 1996. Even pre-owned ones are very hard to find. Last I checked, the Camry wagon was still available in Australia. I would love a Camry wagon, but I don't think I'd go that far for one. Next best thing: the Passat wagon - fun to drive, great looking (I think I'd get the extended warranty)

steeph123 · July 2001

Litz: I purchased my highlander may 17 and have been experiencing wind noise ever since. There seems to be few people who have posted with this problem. I wish i could be as passionate about my highlander as most people in this room are.
When i purchased my silver highlander i was so excited but in a few weeks the wind noise along with the extra firm seat and stiff ride left me disappointed. I know its not popular to say anything negative about the highlander in this room but thats how i feel.

dshenmdyn · July 2001

Toyota still makes it in Japan and is called "Camry Gracia". Too bad they are not available here.

Here is the main link:

<L>http://www.toyota.co.jp/Showroom/All_toyota_lineup/gracia/index.html</L>

drew_ · July 2001

Not only is the Camry wagon still sold in Japan, but it (and the sedan) is available with all-wheel drive too! Probably the very same system that is used in the Highlander (Toyota Kludger) and the RX300 (Toyota Harrier), considering that they're roughly built on the same platform

Drew
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gwkiser · July 2001

While most of us don't have any significant complaints about our HLs, I for one am willing to listen (allow) good OR bad comments about them. How else are we to keep up with the long term reliability, etc of them? I say "Bring it on, good or bad".

jblaze13 · July 2001

I think its refreshing that you're honest about your experience with the highlander. I follow this board for both sides of the story. On the other hand, I respectfully disagree with your comment about the stiff ride. I have experienced wind noise while driving about 75 mph with a strong crosswind but I haven't heard the loud screeching one that was reffered to.

I wouldn't mind seeing some "well founded" opposing views.

11223344 · July 2001

Just a note to report how pleased I am with my Toyota Highlander! We have had the vehicle since April and have had zero problems with it. My wife and I and another couple took it on a trip this weekend from Chicago to Michigan and it was wonderful. Plenty of room for all of our stuff and comfortable!

11223344 · July 2001

Just my $0.02 - I have had my Highlander since April and have not experienced any wind noise to speak of.

7332high · July 2001

We have had our Highlander 3 weeks and love it. The wind noise we have experienced occurs when the back windows only are rolled down more than a quarter way down. The first time we heard this, it sounded like a helicopter was going to land on the car. Very scary. Since we rarely would drive with only the back windows down it's not much of an issue for us. To alleviate the noise we have found we only need to roll down the front windows to various degrees. As far as the cross wind noise mentioned we have yet to experience this and don't anticipate hearing it anytime soon in the San Diego area. Not much wind where we are. We hope to continue to enjoy this vehicle as much as we have our previous Toyotas.

stever · July 2001

pf_flyer "Talk to the Hosts" Jul 9, 2001 10:49am

Steve
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trixie413 · July 2001

I've been away w/o internet for a coupla weeks and I'm bleary-eyed trying to get current on these posts. Broke my heart to subject my HL to the Shore with all that nasty sand and salt air. Couldn't wait to get home and give it a bath, and somehow in this Jersey heat, a full wax...for any of you on the fence, that's the most ringing endorsement I can come up with. Anyway, in the course of this labor of love, I noticed that the passenger rear mud guard is much smaller than the others in how far it goes into the well. Is there some mechanical reason for this? Can't believe I didn't notice before but... And for the love of God, is there a once and for all cure to the glove box rattle? I bought little rubber thingies but they only lasted about ten hours. Happy HL'ing all.

squeakersadie · July 2001

Seems that wind noise is the prime recurring complaint about this vehicle. We live in western Oklahoma-you know...where the wind comes sweepin' down the plain-and I tend to exceed the legal speed on the interstate. So I usually drive about 75 to 80 mph (east and west on I-40) with prevailing southerly winds at 20-35 mph and gusts to 45 mph. Never any reed type noise and 3600 miles on the odometer. However, while using my chamois after my weekly wash, I noticed that there is a 'flap' of rubbery material extending about 1.5 inches from the front support of the roof rack into the channel running forward to the windshield. Looks sorta like a reed that goes into my kid's saxophone, and wouldn't be a stretch to picture a side wind coming over the rounded edge of the roof 'lifting' this flap sufficiently to allow it to vibrate like a reed with sufficient forward speed. I guess this theory would be blown if anyone has had this noise who doesn't have a roof rack. Meanwhile, I'm knockin' on wood and shakin' beads & feathers to ward off the 'noise'. So far, the HL is the best vehicle I have owned...except for the '89 Merc 300CE that sold for $54000 new and now has only 95000 miles, and incidentally, is for sale.
Luv my HL!!

maulana · July 2001

dear folks...

We got our HL about two weeks ago, and have taken it on a 1700 mile trip so far. Rides like a dream...

one small annoying factor, which I was wondering if anyone has any solutions for: when we first start driving, there is a loud "clicking" sound which comes from the roof. Some people have mentioned hearingsuch a clicking sound associated with the rear spoiler, but our does not have one. It definitely seems to come from the sunroof.

Does anyone else hear something like this? any solutions?

otherwise, a great great family car. It was such a joy to take a car trip where our kids actually had enough space and were not fighting!

many thanks,

maulana

osoriob · July 2001

In response to post#3005/brake problem in Kluger V
NOTE: THIS PROBLEM HAS NOT BEEN REPORTED IN THE USA, ONLY IN JAPAN.
I had I japanese friend translate the web page you posted and here is what it says:

The problem has to do with the CAP on the brake fluid resevoir, The hole on the bottom inside of the CAP seems to be too small causing it to shut all the way(when the weather gets cold) creating a vacuume allowing air to get past the rubber seal. this will cause noise when when applying the brakes, and it could lead to a not to good of a response when braking (because the brake booster is not operating properly).
The fix: is to replace the Cap with a new one and bleed the whole brake system.

On the web page they show the two caps side by side an you can magnify and see the different diameter holes indicated by the arrows.

iF ANYONE has questions they should probably write to Toyota and see what they have to say. I live in a moderate climate (Califonia), so I don't expect this to be a problem, but those of you in colder climates might have questions about this.

hope this helps

mvt3157 · July 2001

Took my HL in for first oil change today. This was to a Toyota dealer but not the one I purchased the HL from. I waited about 40 min and finally ask what was taking so long. The response-we had to send someone to get the filter!!!

iceguys · July 2001

I have had my Highlander unlimited but loaded for 3 months and LOVE it. I have noticed now and then that there is a popping sound, actually sounds like someone is popping their gum coming from the area of the sunroof. The sunroof is either in the open or closed position. Can anyone respond to a remedy. Thank you.

gwkiser · July 2001

Thanks for taking the time and effort to get all of us the info on the Kluger V brake page. Many of us contribute when we can but few would go to the lengths you did.

oufan · July 2001

My wife has been coming to the town hall for about a few months now. She informed me of everything that you guys have been talking about on the Highlander, good and bad. Ours arrived in OKC, OK three weeks ago and we have really enjoyed it! We have dodged all of the "problems" except one, the "clicking" or the "popping" sound coming from what sounds like the sunroof area. Please respond if you know what's goin' on! Thank you.

awchan13 · July 2001

I have the same problem. sort of like a wire being snapped across metal, like a spring or something. I submitted it to have Stevens Creek Toyota in CA to take a look at it, don't know if anything will come of it. It seemed to have occurred more often when it was hot, and the weather has changed lately.
I've also noticed today a clicking noise coming from the airconditioning fan motor or something. It's behind the glove box, big round thing (fan?) with a motor in it. It's worse when the fan is on low, and disappears when it's turned up. Anyone else with this problem? I'll have Toyota Service take a look at it same time as with the sunroof. Hope it can be fixed.

hobie1981 · July 2001

I too enjoy the rice crispy theme.. believe I have one of the earlier HL purchased (1/28/01).
It has gotten "way worse" now that the summer heat has arrived in So. NH. Currently playing: front D & P doors, P dash area, sunroof area, roof area in rear seat/cargo area. It's my guess that it's the expansion of plastic parts in the heat that's causing the noise. Have not brought it back to dealer.. yet anyway. have 12,354 miles so far.
Great vehicle other than the "pops"

Hobie

jam1000 · July 2001

I, too, have had the popping sound in the moonroof area of my 2000 LC. I found it would go away temporarily (a day or two) if I gave the ceiling one solid whack. I've since found it went away altogether (at least for the last couple of weeks) by not using the moonroof at all. Much quieter, but kinda defeats the purpose.

jdlaw2 · July 2001

My HL was built in April, and I took delivery in early June. I ordered it without the sunroof. I live in Florida, where it has hit 90+ degrees everyday since I bought the vehicle. I have not heard any popping noises at all. Hope this helps.

gunga64 · July 2001

I really hate sun roofs or moon roofs all they are are annoying problems.

jblaze13 · July 2001

I think the crackle sound is due to the cheap plastic that surrounds the inside of the sunroof. I never heard the sound until after it began to get really hot here.

iceguys · July 2001

It may be correct on the heat and humidity. I took delivery of the Highlander in late April, and it began when the weather in Connecticut became hot. It is definitly a sound like someone popping their gum. I only have 2200 miles on it and LOVE it. I will find out shortly from service as it needs an oil change in 1000 miles.

maulana · July 2001

has anyone here brought this popping sound to the attention of a service department yet?

oh dear Cliffy, do you have any answers for us?

:-)

maulana

michanth · July 2001

I'm just wondering if anyone has a gauge to determine how much impact this Highlander discussion forum has or for that matter any Vehicle forum on Edmunds. And I'm not talking about sales people here or dealerships, but how much impact would these forums have in the manufacturing process to meet market changes. I know Toyota does marketing\ ownership surveys but the info here can be useful and IMHO has merit. Will we ever know? After all if Toyota set up a web site for Highlander Vehicle discussions, could the input be as vast or as successful as Edmunds, I doubt it. I'm sure some of the info can easily be determined as "blow off", but there is a certain portion which can be useful. The internet has evolved to the point of "instant customer feedback" so is it likely the automobile manufacturers will use this information like software companies have to be successfull? We know auto sales people use this forum -(that's not a flame) so maybe marketing and manufacturing are not so for behind.....Sorry to be so long, just my 2 cents worth.

Best Wishes
I truly enjoy this forum
A Toyota Owner

Michael

rthompson20 · July 2001

I am considering purchasing a Highlander AWD and tow a 2000lb boat. Can anyone give me their towing experience (good & bad) with their Highlander?

stever · July 2001

I don't know how to answer your questions, but the Edmunds Drivers' Opinion Panel page may be of interest.

Steve
Host
Vans, SUVs and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards

impe · July 2001

I have had my black HL for approx. 2 months. I just opened the sunroof today for the first time, (my wife and the dog both grumble and give me dirty looks if I even suggest opening it, but I was out alone today).

Yesterday I went back and forth from the mountains (at 84 degrees), to Hotlanta (at 93 degrees) - with no snap,crackle or pops.

Today after using the sunroof for the first time, I had a couple of pops. Just thought I would add my two cents.

I used the sunroof in my 98 Camry a bunch with never a sound.

In the grand scheme of things, the pops are really not a problem for me. With over 3500 miles on it, I really like this car. Maybe I am glad I didn't get the Lexus afterall.

Impe

xcarnut · July 2001

Now that I'm reading this I too, have noticed popping sound like the cigarette lighter would be popped in and was done getting hot. Is this about right most of you've heard ?
I have the moonroof and have noticed it on very hot days when the HL was sitting in the heat all day. Usually I have the A/C blasting and radio running so couldn't pin-point if it was the stereo the first time or maybe the cell phone charger popping out of the accessory socket.
I've only heard about 2-3 times and hadn't paid much attention except to check the cig lighter thinkin thats the source but it could be the moonroof area.
If anyone finds the source and cure for the noise pls. post.

marphylous · July 2001

Thanks osoriob for the translation.

I sent an inquiry via the internet to the Toyota National Customer Assistance center. Having provided my car's VIN, they confirmed that the car is subject to a "service campaign" SSC #10G - Brake Reservoir Cap.

They said to make an appointment with my local dealer. I made an appointment specifically mentioning this "campaign". Unfortunately, I ended up waiting 50 minutes at the dealer, only to be told they don't have the part and don't know when it will come in. I expressed my displeasure with them and with the national assistance center for wasting my time. Both have some responsibility, since it appears that the national organization has not fully informed the dealers of the "campaign". The rapid transfer of information on the internet will, I hope, force global companies to improve their communication, both internally and externally.

I will keep this site informed as to status of this fix.

marphylous · July 2001

This is a follow-up to #3054.

The customer relations manager at the dealership said, aside from an apology for wasting my time the day before, that the recall for the brake reservoir cap was new to them and that they don't have any information regarding the availability of the part. I was told that it was not a safety concern. This is probably true, especially since I live in the mild northern CA climate (see #3036). I figure that I'll give them a couple of months and then start asking more questions.

I am interested in anyone else's experience with this issue.

Toyota Highlander

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