Toyota Highlander

dean2sm1 · July 2001

Just pulled my boat on trailer, about 2600 lbs, 60 miles. HL did great with Hidden Hitch 70777! In drive gear: 2750 RPMs at 65 mph, 16.7 mpg by info computer. )Only downshifted briefly 6 or 7 times. When disabled overdrive (stayed in 3rd gear): 3750 RRPMs at 65 mph; mileage 14.2mpg. I know manual says stay in 3rd gear, but I am not convinced: makes motor and transmission run alot more. When trailering, I think I'll only disable overdrive in city and when quite hilly.

dean2sm1 · July 2001

Post #3155 was with 6 cyl,AWD HL.

oldbulldog · July 2001

After driving my HL for a few weeks, and never hearing any wind noise, I made a final effort to create some yesterday - the only conditions that create a problem are with front windows tightly closed and rear windows fully opened, (and obviously the car moving). The minute the front windows are open even an inch the noise goes totally away. If this is what people are complaining about this does not seem to be a real problem. How many times do you drive with the windows configured in that manner - for me never. Would be interested if those who complained about wind noise hear the noise with the front windows open.

scanner · July 2001

Why drive like that anyway? Is this some kind of smoker's thing?

weichi · July 2001

To oldbulldog,
No that is not the wind noise that a lot of people are referring to (although that one has also been referred to on this site, it can be handled by ajusting the window opening as you mention).
The general complaint is about a howling noise that comes on at high speed in certain cross wind conditions. After 8,000 km on mine, I got to hear it recently while on the highway. It is very annoying and hopefully Toyota will do something about it. It appears to come from the front roof rack area.
Robert.

scanner · July 2001

I have a question now that I have wasted time searching through 3000+ messages about, cup holders, consoles, carpets, and oddball noises.

Is there anyone out there who is technical enough to know how to program the Toyota VIP RS3200 Plus security system for passive arming? The dealer, owner's manual, and previously provided links aren't much help.

Also, I saw some inquires about keyless entry tricks. Anyone figure anything out like hidden window controls or automatic locks?

tfuzz · July 2001

oldbulldog: There are two different wind noise issues. One is the beating noise when the rear windows are down. This is annoying, but can be fairly well controlled by adjusting the front/rear windows. To me this is a minor issue, although it makes it hard to adjust when my dog is in the back (he doesn't like the beating noise at all--hurts his ears).

The other is a very loud reedy howling that only occurs at high speed (60-70 mph+) with strong cross winds (around 30+ mph). Many haven't heard this, but I suspect that is because they haven't driven in the right conditions. I don't know if this affects all HLs, or only those made during a certain period. This noise is apparently caused by the door seals leaking air and vibrating. Supposedly Toyota is coming out with a fix soon. My HL is virtually undriveable in a heavy cross wind (common here in KS) because the noise is so loud and constant. I have discovered that I can stop the noise by closing a towel or something in the door to compress the seals, but my patience is starting to wear thin waiting for Toyota to fix the problem.

scanner · July 2001

I remember seeing somebody inquire about HL gear ratios somewhere, but I don't recall seeing an answer.

http://pressroom.toyota.com/mediakit/toyota/2001kit/2001highlanders.html

I find it odd that 4th gear really isn't an overdrive gear.

ctec005 · July 2001

To Scanner,
I have a 2000 4-Runner and I installed the same Toyota factory system in my vehicle. It should be the exact same system used in the HL except for the wiring harness. Unfortunately, I cannot find the installation manual and user guide right off hand.

I ordered mine over the counter from my dealer and when I looked in the box there were no details for connecting things up. After speaking with the dealer service manager he indicated that you have to call the fax-back system of the folks that make the unit (I believe it is Fujitsu-Ten) and they will send you via fax all that is required to install and setup/program the unit.

I can say that if you indeed do have the RS-3200 Plus system in your HL, then you should have the glass breakage sensor located in the dash to the left of the steering column. The sensitivity for this can be adjusted via a small adjustment hole in the side of the actual RS-3200 Plus control unit. If installation is similar between the 4-Runner and the HL, the control unit is under the dash to the left of the center console. It is a bear to reach, but you should see a small access hole that can be reached with a small screwdriver to adjust the sensitivity of the glass sensor. I do believe there are other programming options (which I did not activate) but I cannot recall them as it was almost 11 months ago.

Bottom line, your dealer's service manager should be able to provide you with the number for the manufacturer fax-back system so you can obtain what you need. It is possible that one of the service department mechanics may have a copy if they have installed any for customers after purchase.

I will see if I can locate where I put this install/programming manual and see about posting it up (if possible) in the event you cannot locate any info from the dealer.

As for the keyless entry tricks, if you find any out let us know as well. The systems are probably similar between the 4-Runner and the HL and it would be nice to be able to utilize those features. It is a shame Toyota does not put them in the manual, but that is probably due to they could change manufacturers and that would require reprinting all those owners manuals.

I hope this helps.

ejay2 · July 2001

I plan on getting a hitch just for towing bikes. Given that, would I need to install the wiring harness at this time, or can it be installed independent of the installation of the hitch itself?

Anyone have an installed u-haul hitch?

Thanks

jetscreamer1 · July 2001

You can install the hitch less the wiring harness. Toyotaguys.com offers a plug-and-tow wiring harness(q14467) for around $30 that will let you avoid the frustration of hard wiring into the HL's electrical system. It features a metal tab for housing the end connector of the harness which is easier to hang once the hitch is installed.

hl26k · July 2001

I am getting close to buy a AL V6, 2WD with a few options. My target price is $800 over invoice.

Can anyone explain the RS3200 Security System? I could not find the alarm system in their standard option (V6, 2WD, on-limited). What is the best way to add the alarm? Thanks in advance.

joer325xi · July 2001

I would like to get Wheel locks for my wife's Highlander. Dealer said no such part is listed as an accessory. Is this true? Any one purchase or receive wheel locks for their Highlander.

scanner · July 2001

Joer325xi,

My dealer included wheel locks for free, so I'm not exactly sure what they would cost, but they are available. KBB.com has wheel locks listed as an accessory for $52 MSRP, and $31 invoice. I bet you can get them from any Toyota dealer's parts department, or any other auto parts supplier as they don't appear to be anything special. Just make sure to get the right size and don't loose the key.

http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/kw.kc.tp?kbb&&1&nc1

cmacleod · July 2001

We received wheel locks for our Highlander. They were on back-order so they weren't on the vehicle when we picked it up. I picked them up about a week later and to me it didn't look like they were made specifically for a Highlander. It appeared that they were just a standard Toyota part. Perhaps that is why your dealer said that no such accessory was listed for the Highlander.

cmacleod · July 2001

Just for the record: I hear the reed-like squeal any time I get the vehicle over about 40 mph. Doesn't matter if there is a cross-wind or not.

I'm nervous about bringing it to the dealer until I hear of a definite solution. Don't want them tearing things apart on a hunch or guess.

scanner · July 2001

I do have the instruction manual that came with the VIP RS-3200 Plus, but the passive arming instructions don't to apply to the HL. Oddly enough, the instructions given for passive arming and automatic locks are said to work with the 4Runner. Let me know if you want them.

Finding that fax-back number looks like my next step.

I did find the following link among the previous messages.

http://rav4world.com/brochure/alarms/rs3200plus/rs3200plus.html

scanner · July 2001

I don't think the RS-3200 Plus Security System is necessary with the Limited package, as the Limited package comes standard with anti-theft and engine immobilizer systems.

I did notice the HL brochure apparently goofed by stating the RS3200 Plus Security System is for vehicles "without" keyless entry. Seems there is a separate non "Plus" model that's for vehicles without keyless entry.

---

BTW, good catch by the person that found the tow hitch error on Toyota's web site. Those are the kinds of errors usually found in Edmund's data. I wouldn't be too upset about it though, as the tow prep package is only $128 invoice and that's including all the upgrades. But it is listed correctly in the HL brochure as previously mentioned.

jrea · July 2001

Another experience for the record... my AWD, 6 cyl, Limited (with sunroof), manufactured in March (purchased late April), now with 3000+ miles, has not made the "reed" noise (yet?) even at speeds up to 85 mph. This in spite of several trips up and down the front-range of Colorado which is infamous for its high cross-winds swooping down out of the mountains. I know that on two trips I experienced cross-winds (in both directions) exceeding 40 mph. The noise must be on certain vehicles only, and I hope all of you who have the problem are able to get it resolved.

tbuchta · July 2001

For an admittedly unscientific estimate of highlanders affected by this noise, 9% (of 122) of those responding to a Yahoo poll (http://vote.pollit.com/webpoll2?ID=478829) on what owners would like improved listed the "wind noise". Since this may also include the rear window noise which is common in most modern aerodynamically designed vehicles it probably overestimates the % of folks with the "reed noise" problem. Also, people with problems would probably tend to respond to such polls more often than those who are happy with their vehicles, again probably resulting in an overestimate of the actual %. Based on this I would guess the real % is probably somewhere below 5%....My highlander does not have the problem after dring over 12,000 miles in all kinds of wind and weather conditions.

cliffy1 · July 2001

The only consistent and unsolved wind noise issue I have heard is only at higher speeds with a strong cross wind. All others that I have heard about can be cured by moving the roof rack cross members toward the back. Some early Highlanders were shipped with the cross members set too far forward. If yours is one of them, move them to the back and let us know if this helps. Again, strong cross winds may still produce some noise, but this "fix" should solve your consistent 40 MPH noise.

joer325xi · July 2001

My dealer called back and said he found the wheel locks- in stock. We could pick them up today for $30. Thanks for your responses.

betsela · July 2001

I am buying an SUV for the 1st time and have narrowed my choices to the Ford XLT Escape (for about 25K total with dest. charge, etc.) or the Highlander (not Limited --probably 29 K with leather -- this is all in Boston area). The price difference is not what is paralyzing me. I have a bad back, and both are about the same in terms of comfort, I think, though I have driven the Escape for about 2 hours straight and the Highlander for only 15 minutes at a time. Any advice? I am worried about Ford reliability; the Toyotas are more reliable, I think, and there are more safety features on the Highlander than the Escape; plus the Escape didn't do too well in the frontal offset crash testing. Still, I like the look of the Escape better. I plan to keep 4-5 years and need the 4WD/v6 combination. Any advice is much appreciated....I imagine the Toyota will hold its value better?

goldston · July 2001

Just my 2 cents worth here..

Will the local Toyota & Ford dealer allow you take the Highlander & Escape home overnight (middle of the week)? This would give you the extra time to make the right decision for you and your back.

Good luck and let us know the outcome.

Best regards,
Philip

macmac · July 2001

Does any know a web site where I can get good seat covers?
Also is there a braket for the front license plate?

Going on 10,000 miles
Great SUV.

pauleul · July 2001

betsla, you might want to check out the "Mazda Tribute/ Ford Escape problems" forum listed under SUVs here on Town Hall. That will probably influence your decision. Many problems and usual Ford reliability. Also, I believe I remember reading comments about seats being uncomfortable if you don't get the leather.

I think most everyone will agree Toyota will hold its value better.

Now before I get nailed for knocking Ford, let me say I have been driving Explorers for 10 years (now on the third one) and really can't complain all that much. Still, they don't compare to my experience with Toyota (I have had a pickup, 2 Camrys and 2 Celicas).

Highlander is currently at the top of my short list for replacing my Exploder, followed by Acura MDX (and maybe its new Honda cousin in 02 or 03)

Interesting note, some of the Toyota salespeople who post here are driving The Ford Explorer and Mecury Mountaineer. Go figure.

Do lots of research, don't put to much stock in any one opinion from someone else, then go with what feels right to you.

Just my opinion.

tdat · July 2001

I got this info out of Yahoo Highlander club. I bought a set from Pep Boys. Worked great.

I used McGard #21156 locks for my HL with Aluminum wheels. They were about $25 if my memory is correct. As you probably know, they are 12mm x1.5 metric thread, and they are the shank type (.580 shank). No problems here.
-Steve

mojojojo1 · July 2001

Very happy with the car, but a bit "annoyed" with the dealer sales staff (ironically, their service department seems first rate). I'll keep it as short as I can.

I bought a fully loaded Highlander back in February (with tow package, minus the hitch). The dealer wrote up in the deal documentation they would supply a hitch included in the price (which was list). Toyota has not made the hitch available (believe me, the dealer was not pro active in "finding this out"). When I told them the hitch would not be available, I suggested I get one fitted, and they reimburse me (this is now July). They told me the hitch cost $225. I said, ok, give me $300 to cover the hitch and an hour's labor, and we are done. They said they would not pay to have it fitted - "we just don't do that". They mailed me a check for $225 (which I will cash).

I really don't care about the small price difference, it is not worth any aggravation, but as the sales person kept telling me before making the deal, a deal is a deal. (The sales person said a few other things too which I didn't care for, because at the end of the day, the deal is the deal-I guess I didn't figure on not getting total delivery).

Is it worth putting this "on record" with Toyota Customer Service and / or the Better Business Bureau just so the dealership get some comeback for bad business practices (a mark on their record), or are these just a waste of time ?

On a happier note, my wife and I really like the car. It took us to July to experience the noises from cross winds, and with the rear window(s) open, but for me, these are either so rare or controllable (open a front window a bit or whatever) they are no big deal. I've kept an eye on this forum for a while now, and the people seem really good, so thanks to everyone.

maulana · July 2001

hi folks...

I was wondering if anyone has applied Scotchguard to their Highlander themselves. I am wondering if there are any recommendations out there for or against this.

We have the light color cloth on our Highlander, and have two kids. enough said!

:-)

thanks.

p.s. LOVE this car....

jt4421 · July 2001

I too have had some low back problems from golf. i had a ford truck before the highlander. the seat comfort and support for my back in the highlander is far superior to the lumbar support on the ford. best of luck with it.

gwkiser · July 2001

Hey, it's ok to let out steam. We all do it. Look at it this way. You can go to www.bageco.com and get a nice Hidden Hitch brand tube hitch and adapter wiring harness custom made for the Highlander, get it shipped to you at home, install it yourself (uses existing holes and supplied bolts) and probably still have money left over. I plan on doing this even though I don't have an immediate need for a hitch. FWIW, in Gulf States Toyota area (TX, LA, OKLA) they were installing Dalan brand hitches and not the factory Toyota ones. Good luck.

skyreb · July 2001

You will find many on this forum were standing in line for an Escape, including me. On paper, the Escape was ideal: the right size, power, features, economy and costs. Unfortunately, in reality they have been problem prone, tend to rattle, and many are experiencing electrical (computer) problems. I strongly suggest you read the Escape/Tribute forum on Yahoo. Many have made numerous trips back to teh dealer for repair and adjustments. I, for one, think corporate Ford is the problem. Read blueovalnews and you will discover it is not just the Escape that is having problems. On the other hand, some report absolutely no problems, and express love for their Escapes. But many speak of pushing for resolution via lemmon laws.
You need to make you own decision. For me, the HL (V6, AWD, unlimited) is a wonderful vehicle. If drives so easily, and I am constantly pleased with the fit, finish, ride, power, economy, and quietness of it's ride. I am very grateful the Escape purchase failed!!
Happy HL'ing to all.

tbuchta · July 2001

I scotchguarded my highlander, all carpets and seats, followed the instructions on the can, no problems or discoloration, took about 15 minutes....

suvshopper4 · July 2001

I am impressed that you got the $225 check back from the dealer for the hitch. Other dealers might have strung you along for months and made you wait until Toyota made the part available - anything to avoid giving money back.
ejp

betsela · July 2001

Thanks to all for Escape vs HL advice. I have gone through the "Escape problems" postings in excruciating detail and can see that there are too many issues there to take the risk. I do prefer the braking on the Escape -- do you find that braking on the Highlander is not as tight (you have to press down harder to get the car to stop)? It's not a real problem as C&D says the HL stops more quickly on dry pavement than the Escape...just a matter of how it feels. Also, did anyone wrestle with the VSC option on the HL? Can't seem to find a non-Limited HL with the VSC -- just wondering how important it is, as it is obviously an additional safety feature but can't seem to get it unless I go LTD which I cannot afford. I am getting a non-Ltd version but installing leather -- any tips on that? Is dealer installed leather as good or different than factory installed? Many thanks. I must say that although I have found that there are at least 8 HL "available" in and around the Boston suburbs, they are not moving much on the price -- basically saying 29,750 for non-LTD with the Appearance, Preferred and Convenience Pkgs and including leather installation....how does that compare to what others have paid? Again, many thanks. Not only is this first SUV purchase, it's first car purchase (my ex-husband used to handle these things!)

jlhunterjr · July 2001

Had my Highlander a month now and very happy with it. No extra noises yet. We have a long trip coming up and I need more room. Has anyone found a luggage carrier that they are happy with? I noticed in the brochure a hard surfaced carrier and found a soft carrier at Alliance auto parts. Any help would be appreciated.

michanth · July 2001

Are there any price changes in the 2002 HL? Any option changes etc...
When will the 2002 HL arrive?

thanks in advance

Michael

daniell · July 2001

I read in another SUV forum 2 conflictiong opinions:

1) Highlander's AWD system is basically FWB until slippage is detected, and traction is then sent to rear.

2) Traction is split 50%/50% until slippage is detected, then modified to suit the conditions.

cliffy1 · July 2001

The HL is a 50-50 power split is traction is equal front to rear. The AWD system is explained in detail in the topic "Toyota 4 Wheel Drive Systems Explained" which is the third topic down in the SUV conference.

svtcobraconv · July 2001

I am NOT a Toyota expert - others contributing here know more than I do about Toyotas - but I will pass along what I was told by dealers. I don't think they are usually given a lot of info from Toyota. They are purposely only given just so much information. Cliffy, who seems to know more than your typical sales person, might respond. (I anticipate ordering a 2002 in a few months.)

1. Price increase - I was usually told 2-3%. Once about 1%. Once probably no price increase, Toyota usually increases prices Jan. 1.

2. I was told production for 2001 will end August 24. 2002 will commence August 27.

3. Personally, I suspect there will be no changes in 2002 from the 2001 model. If any, they would be very minor. Remember, this vehicle was released for sale in US in January. The 2001's were really not a full year production run.

cliffy1 · July 2001

There will be no major changes, although we may see some differences in packaging. Prices have not been released for the HL, but every other model we have either stayed the same or came down in price from 2001. Due to the extreme demand, I wouldn't look for a reduction, but I also don't expect an increase either.

daniell · July 2001

In the options list, there is only a mention of "Alarm pre-wiring". Does this mean that HL doesn't have any security system? Not even an engine immobilizer?

cliffy1 · July 2001

The Limited comes with a full alarm. The power seat package HE comes with an engine immobilizer but not an alarm. If you get the alarm pre-wire, you can add the V5 security system. if you didn't get the Limited package.

maulana · July 2001

Has anyone found any good all weather mats for the Highlander? I would like to get some eventually before the winter gets here.

I saw some at a local Target store, which were clear color. Not bad. Just wanted to see if anyone else has any recommendations.

thanks.

michanth · July 2001

THANKS FOR SUCH A QUICK RESPONSE CLIFFY1 & SVTCOBRA, Messeges: 3194 & 3195,

I'm considering waiting for the 2002's, that's also when my finacial situation will be on the positive.

svtcobra has is pretty much right by cliffy1 Jul 25, 2001 (11:04 am)

hawkeye70 · July 2001

I bought a Thule Adventurer hardshell cargo box. It is a long, narrow box designed for skis, snowboards, etc. The capacity is 16 cubic feet. The newer box that replaced this model is called the Mountaineer. You can see it at: http://www.thuleracks.com/thule/default.asp. Mine works well, creates very little extra noise, mounts securely with no rattling and holds lots of stuff. The black color makes the contents of the box very hot, so I only carry sleeping bags, tents, blankets and other things that aren't affected by heat. I noticed on their web site that it is now available in white which should help keep things cooler up there.

If you have a rear spoiler and want to be able to open the hatch with the cargo box attached, the box must be mounted forward far enough to clear the spoiler. That puts the front of the box just forward of the top of the windshield. This isn't bad, but it is quite a long distance forward of the front roof rack crossbar, which I didn't like. To solve this, I removed the 12 inch long rubber strips that are mounted near the front of the roof rack tracks and was able to slide the front crossbar forward enough to properly locate the cargo box mounting hardware. The reason the rubber strips are on the roof rack is to keep the crossbar from interfering with the operation of the moonroof. If I operated the tilt feature of the moonroof with the cargo box mounted, the moonroof would interfere and most likely break the glass. So I disconnected the power to the moonroof to avoid any accidental operation. If all this sounds like too much trouble, there are other boxes that are shorter and wider. Sears carries several models like this, but I noticed that the plastic was thinner and more flexible than the Thule or Yakima boxes. Good luck.

jrfiero · July 2001

Re #3189, "do you find that braking on the Highlander is not as tight (you have to press down harder to get the car to stop)?"
I sure do. My HL brakes suck. But I've read that others have had the dealer bleed them back to life, so that's what I'll suggest at the first service. Shouldn't be that way, tho.

theyat · July 2001

Longtime lurker. First time poster.

Picked up HL V6 2WD yesterday for exactly $633 (about 2.6%) over invoice + regional advertising. Never would have thought that was possible in the great northeast. Only 80 miles so far but I cannot believe how smooth and quiet this vehicle is. Just like the ol' 93 Camry it replaced.

Thanks for all of the info over these many months of waiting.

chan128 · July 2001

INFO FROM NHTSA.COM

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 01V228000
Component: BRAKES:HYDRAULIC:MASTER CYLINDER:OTHER
Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR CO., LTD.
Potential Number of Units Affected: 41169

Year: 2001
Make: TOYOTA
Model: HIGHLANDER
Manufactured From: AUG 2000 To: MAY 2001
Year of Recall: '01
Type of Report: Vehicle
Summary:

Vehicle Description: Sport utiity vehicles. The reservoir filler cap of the brake master cylinder may induce a vacuum, introducing some air into the brake
master cylinder reservoir. This could cause abnormal brake noise and increased pedal stroke when the brakes are applied.

The increased pedal stroke will lengthen the stopping distance of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Dealers will bleed the air from the brake lines and replace the reservoir filler cap. Owner notification is expected to begin during July 2001. Owners who
take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact
Toyota at 1-800-331-4331. Also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-DASH-2-DOT
(1-888-327-4236).

chip1951 · July 2001

I will be buying a Limited HL soon. I have never owned a vehicle with leather. How durable is the lether compared to fabric. I intend to keep the car for eight to ten years. I'd appreciate advices and experiences from people who've owned cars with leather seats.

Thanks in advance.

Toyota Highlander

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