Toyota Highlander

kazoo3 · July 2003

My 2002 HL6 Limited has a rattle coming from the front brakes - most noticable when I'm driving slowly on a mildly bumpy road with the window down. The dealer recently resurfaced the rotors and has tried once to fix the rattle. They said there was a loose brake shim. Whatever they did it did not work. Is this a common problem? What else might it be? Thanks for any help you can give.

bojack1 · July 2003

I have a set of the Cross Terrain 225/70/16 and the UTOG rating on the sidewall says "Treadwear 520 - Traction A - Temp B".
Anyone else with this size tire have the same sidewall info?
Michelin web site says it is 700,A&B rating. Whats the difference ?
Thanks

alimin · July 2003

After I read your post, I checked my CTs - sidewall had "700/A/B" for the P22570R16. Perhaps Michelin has two versions of the SUV tire?

mikey00 · July 2003

A tire with a treadwear rating of 700 will last 1.3 times as long as a tire with a treadwear rating of 520 (700/520).
I just checked my P225/70R/16 CT's and they are treadwear 700. I had a little trouble finding it. It is only on the raised white lettering side of the tire which I have mounted on the inside.
Michelin continues to confuse the consumer with treadwear ratings. If you go to both the TireRack website and the Michelin website and read all the fine print listed in the specs, you will find that the P235/70R/16 CT only has a rating of 420, which means the 225 CT will last 1.6 times as long as the 235. Ever wonder why TireRack sells the 235s for less than the 225s?
However, from reading the specs it looks like you have a valid beef with Michelin. According to the fine print in their specs the only CTs that should have the 520 rating are CT sizes that carry a "H" speed rating, which is not the 225 size. I would double check your size, wear rating and speed rating on your tire, then read all the fine print on the website and call the 800 number on the site and see what's up.

bojack1 · July 2003

Thanks for the feedback. Looks like my set came from an early mold (purchased 10-02).I did call Michelin and they said originally the Cross
Terrain had no milage warranty, not until March of 2002 did they give such a
warranty of 65,000 miles and any purchase after that date would have the 65,000 miles warranty.
As far as the 520 treadwear rating they said at the time my tire was made they were uncertain of the tread life expectancy and once they became aware on how long it lasted they raised it to 700.

stever · July 2003

This message may be of interest, Bojack1

capriracer "Tires, tires, tires" Jan 31, 2003 7:48pm

Steve, Host

alimin · July 2003

Bought four CTs July 11 - received the $50 check and a nice letter from Michelin today (July 26). Whew!

mgabel2 · July 2003

The 2004's, of course. The ONLY (web) place I've seen them discussed is here. Anyone have new news?

toys · July 2003

2003 Ltd. Has anyone experienced intermittent noise in the air conditioning unit. It is a high pitched whine, sounds like a shaft bearing and is most prevalent at low MPH 10-15 on a slight upgrade. Not noticeable at stopped idle.

hawkeye70 · July 2003

Are you sure it is related to the air conditioning? I have a 2001 V6 FWD and I have noticed that high-pitched noise from the time it was new. It is independent of the air conditioning being on or off. It happens whenever the engine is between 1800-2000 rpm and has a medium load, such as going up a hill. Above 2000 rpm, the noise fades away. My wife took it to the dealer when it was near new and they told her everything was normal. It is more noticeable with the windows down, and especially if you are traveling close to a wall that reflects the noise back to you. I'd be interested to know if anyone else has noticed this, and what they have done about it. Thanks.

jackmick · July 2003

Has any one purchased genuine sheepskin front seat covers for your HL? I am in the market for a set, any help is appreciated.

toys · July 2003

Mine is in the air conditioning as it stops immediately when the AC is turned off.

oldshoe · July 2003

I test drove a Toyota Highlander today and when I questioned the sales guy about the side sirbag option, he said there was not a side airbag option, but there was an option for putting a sensor in the side, but that still jst deployed the front airbag.... I think he is full of it but I did not tell him.... can anyone confirm that there is actually a side airbag option on the highlander and where it is mounted ???

Thanks,

JO

rqc · July 2003

There absolutely is a real side airbag option! I believe they are mounted in the side of the seat. (Don't use seatcovers.)

We had a horrible time trying to get a dealer to sell us a Highlander with side airbags. We went to four dealers and all of them told us that the regional distributor didn't feel the side airbags were popular, so they don't order them with it. We really wanted the side airbags. It's surprising that a company that promotes safety so much doesn't make these standard and doesn't offer curtain airbags.

Have you ever tried to custom order a Highlander? Next to impossible. We have one on order (with side airbags!), due to be here in about a month. The effort it is requiring is unbelievable. It took contacting the regional distributor and they called a fifth dealer and it still took us a month to convince the dealer to order it they way we wanted it. Nothing fancy, just options listed in the brochure.

When it's all said and done, it will take us seven to eight months to get what we were looking for, which seems like it would be a commonly desired combination of options. At least all the dealers know how serious we are about getting side airbags and not getting stuck with ridiculous options. One dealer even had the nerve to tell us we were just going to have to buy one the way they order it. I told them I'd find another car from another manufacturer before a dealer would force me to buy something I didn't want. I hope they have figured out why I haven't returned their calls.

Toyota needs to tell their regional distributors to help people order cars they way they want them!

tommyg12 · July 2003

I agree with you that side airbags should be standard or at least allow the customer to have better control over the ordering process. Toyota makes great cars but the regional crap makes little or no sense to me. With the current process, you can mix and match many options/combinations. But what good does it do if you have the regional distributors that choose for you?

fvp · July 2003

In our area [SW PA], HL's with side airbags are scarce as well. Ours has them because I was at the dealer when it was delivered and bought it on the spot.
It's tough to figure why this option is so difficult to come by when the cost is only $250.

bostnwhalr · July 2003

2001 Highlander, 4cyl, FWD, 41k miles. roof rack, plus a few other options. Asking $15,900. Trade-in according to Edmunds and KBB is $14,600 and $13,600 respectively, assuming excellent condition.

We're looking at FWD station wagons aka Saab 9-5. Think the Highlander's a good deal?

stever · July 2003

Is this a private party sale or a dealer sale? If the latter, is it certified or warranted in any way?

Why excellent? I doubt that 1% of any 2001 vehicle for sale qualifies for the "excellent" moniker.

There's a glut of used cars out there; I think you can be picky and hard nosed on pricing.

Steve, Host

bostnwhalr · July 2003

Steve,

It's a private party. When I say excellent, I look at the descriptions for what KBB and Edmunds assume condition wise. Excellent to me means no paint blemishes, dings, interior in perfect condition. You're probably right. I guess I should call it clean.

stever · July 2003

fwiw, I got a used '97 Outback creampuff back in April - it was always garaged, well-maintained, etc., and had 34,000 miles on it. I used clean instead of outstanding when appraising it with our TMV appraisal tool.

I might have gone for the excellent pricing if a 12 month warranty had been thrown in. 41,000 miles on your Highlander strikes me as normal wear, not exceptional condition. Or maybe I'm just extra picky?

Steve, Host

bostnwhalr · August 2003

Steve,

Of course I have yet to see the vehicle though I did get this list of options. I just figured that using the pricing information in Edmunds and KBB would be indicative of actual transactions, (by the way, trade-in on Edmunds is $14,800 with the options and a "clean" rating. However, because this vehicle is FWD and 4 cyl, I figure that many buyers would avoid this particular Highlander. I bet dealers would give her $12k on a trade-in.

My suspicions were validated from discussions with the owner. Many people who called on her vehicle expected a 2001 AWD V-6, limited for $15k (even though the ad stated otherwise). Based on my observations on EBAY motors, good luck. Looks like most Highlanders go for at least $20k when equipped with V-6 and AWD.

Therefore, I figured a 4 cyl FWD model would take a big hit, and I'm right. In fact, even though it is a net cost difference of $3,300 or so when new versus a V-6 AWD model, it seems that the net difference when used grows to something like $5,000 for a 2001. In other words, the resale value on the 4 cyl FWD model takes a hit.

Here's my theory on why that is. I would assume that most people who are looking for a Highlander are shopping SUV's, albiet Crossovers. Most want the security of AWD and the power of a V-6.

Many wagon buyers don't necessary care about AWD and most wagons have 4 cyl. But they would probably not consider a Highlander because it is an SUV.

Therefore, you have a Highlander model that either few people know about or would care to buy.

It's really a shame because it is a nice tall Camry wagon.

I'm thinking of offering about $14k for the vehicle.

stever · August 2003

I drove FWD 4-bangers for 20 years in Anchorage with no problems.

I think a lot of people want to buy an AWD SUV not because they want or need the 4WD, but they think the resale will kill them if they don't. I guess they are right, but it's a bit of a self-fulfilling circle. Your gain!

Kelley's numbers are asking prices - ours are based on actual transactions. But ours reflects the average selling price, so a saavy buyer like you should be able to beat TMV.

Enjoy the shopping, Bostnwhalr; sounds like you are doing great.

Steve, Host

rmui1 · August 2003

When I did the shopping for a Highlander earlier this year, it seems the price difference is typically at least about 4-5k. This is because the v6 usually comes with extra options over just the 4 cyl engine.

That's probably why the resale values between them are more than the cost difference of the v6/4wd options; and not because of a dislike for the 4 cyl. There is less demand for the 4, but also less supply--notice the new 4's don't get discounted any deeper than the 6's when new.

nsfdbc · August 2003

Can someone please tell me how to locate the drive shaft bolt on on a V6 2 wheel drive. I have found the carrier bushing bolt but could not find the drive shaft bolt. I would like to torque as recommended.
Is it a single bolt or is there more than one?

bostnwhalr · August 2003

Noticed on Ebay that a 2002 4cyl 2wd Highlander with 33k miles and leather (must have been aftermarket) went for the buy it now price of $17,900. Probably helps that the vehicle was in Texas.

Personally, I have no problem with FWD. Heck, I got through last winter's 6 snow storms (including a 20" storm) with a RWD 1991 Volvo Turbo Wagon. Great in the snow as long as you have snow tires. The right tires can make a big difference.

mikey00 · August 2003

It's for AWD only. Check your manual.

nimrod99 · August 2003

IN the case of AWD - where are they located

Seems strange that it must be "re-torqued" every 5,000 miles. What is the torque setting, is it 54 lb-ft?

Thanks for any input

fvp · August 2003

Hi all!
Almost two weeks since we picked up our '03 HL AWD V6 and have had nothing but happy motoring.
I did have a question: the stock tires seem nice for rain/summer driving but for snow?
I traded a Jeep with new Michelin Mud & Snows and they were unstoppable in winter driving. I realize that a HL is no Jeep but should I be thinking about a tire replacement before winter snow driving?
Any advice is appreciated.
Frank

jackmick · August 2003

WOW! just finished reading all 8460 messages on the Highlander Board. After reading the messages I consider myself lucky I chose the HL. I say lucky because I didn't do my homework before I purchased the HL. Doing research after the fact can be depressing, this time it was fun. Thanks to everyone who posted messages and a special thanks to the Host.

stever · August 2003

The host gratefully accepts your thanks - for both of us! ;-)

And thanks for plowing through the entire discussion; few can claim that accomplishment! Now you can start in on the Toyota Highlander Owners club. There's only about about 1500 messages in there :-)

Steve, Host

briggie · August 2003

My wife and I really like the Toyota Highlander and we are considering getting the Highlander with leather. Our other car (Honda Accord) has smooth leather and we love it.

However, we have a young toddler and we are very concerned with how the perforated leather in the Highlander will hold up to young kids - especially when food and dirt get into the tiny perforations.

Does anyone have experience with how the perforated leather holds up to young kids? Is it easy or difficult to keep clean?

We would sure hate to spend $30K on a SUV that looks trashed because of the wear and tear of a toddler.

It is interesting that the mini-vans that we have looked at (Odyssey and Sienna) have smooth leather - that makes us think that the smooth leather is better for families.

Opinions???

tidester · August 2003

Doing research after the fact can be depressing, this time it was fun.

It's even more fun when you do it before the fact! And you'll be all prepared when you set your sights on your next vehicle in - oh - about 10 years! :-)

.. just finished reading all 8460 messages

I am most impressed!

tidester, host

macmac · August 2003

I have 49500 Mi on my 01 HL and its time to change the tires. Thinking about getting Michlien Cross Terrains. I have read that some of you put on 235 70R 16s... did you have to get new rims or did you use the old factory rims, with the 225 70R 16s. Did you need to put Spacers? Also are the white letters on the Cross Terrains on both sides of the tire or just one side?
Thanks

mikey00 · August 2003

I stuck with 225 Cross Terrains when I changed but from reading the posts here, I can tell you 235's fit stock rims without spacers. Some things to consider if you go to 235's: 225's have a treadwear rating of 700 - 235's have a treadwear rating of 420. This means a 225 will last 1.66 times as long as a 235. These specs are clearly listed on the TireRack website but you have to read all the fine print and footnotes to figure this out on the Michelin site. Also remember to change the spare or you will be riding around with an oddball size spare.

capnkirk · August 2003

What IS the hoopla about torquing the driveshaft bolts? I just had my '01 AWD Highlander in for a 45,000 mi. service (not at the Toyota dealer). I've had the usual rattles, brake rotor problems, etc., I asked the mechanic to be sure to check the driveshaft bolts. He did, and had to ask the local Toyota shop about the proper torque rating. They had to look it up. Said they never check them, because they are always OK.

wyeast · August 2003

If you are concerned about the perforated leather, you might consider after market leather. We purchased a non-Limited model last fall because we did not want all the stuff that came with that model and worked through the dealer and an after market company to replace the cloth with smooth leather. We could not be happier with the way it turned out or with the HL in general. Great vehicle.

oldheffe · August 2003

Hi folks, I'm new to this bulletin board. I bought an 03 HL 6 CYL AWD last week. So far it runs great. I have to bring it back to have the paint around the winsdshield looked at as there is some spot discoloration. Looks like bird crap that has somehow marked the paint.

The dealer offered rustproofing the underside of the car for 350.00 and a 7 year 75K extended warranty for another 875.00 . Can anyone tell me if the rust proofing and the extended warranty would be worth it. I live in Vermont and I plan to keep the car forever.

Also, the dealer will be installing a trailer hitch as I plan to buy a pop-up camper that will weigh about 1,800 pounds. Has anyone pulled a camper with their HY? Is there anything I should be concerned with?

Thanks for any reply.

nelsoncm · August 2003

I don't have a Highlander, but I do have a Saab wagon with expensive perf leather, and I have a 3 year old toddler who eats in the car all the time, and have had no problems just wiping up any spillage. Have the car cleaned regularly (including vacumming the seats) and you'll be fine.

cssnostromo · August 2003

I, like many others here, have had problems with the brake rotors on my '01 V6 HL. The feedback in the steering wheel, while braking/coming down from speed was quite noticeable. The inept dealer, Sunrise Toyota, in Oakdale, NY did one of those "grind on vehicle" rotor resurfacing jobs. 2 weeks later-the wheel is shuddering again..nothing, it would seem was remedied. I'd appreciate it if the rest of you could comment on what your dealer did to fix the problem-and if you are still having trouble 'after the fix'. Thanks!

krisz · August 2003

Are leather seats in the Highlander only available on 4wd models? I have no use for 4wd, but I want luxury, and I want a Toyota! Would rather have the Highlander than the Avalon, but if leather and a few other bells & whistles are only avail on the HL, I may change my mind...

gwkiser · August 2003

Our '01 V6 2WD has leather. I'm sure it's an option on all Limited models. If you want it on a base model (non-Limited), you'll probably have to get it done locally.

Go here and check out the Option Packages. Subnote "6" on the leather says "Limited Only".

http://www.toyota.com/html/shop/vehicles/highlander/options/highl- ander_options.html

krisz · August 2003

Yes, it says that but if I go to build my own vehicle I only get the Limited in 4wd! However, I just noticed that Edmunds shows the Limited in 2wd! What's up with that???

gwkiser · August 2003

IIRC, when you use the "Build your own" feature, you have to enter your zip code, which then accesses a database for your region. This may be why certain options/availabilities show up and some don't, as compared to the general pages on the site. Could be that the regional distributor has control. Just my best guess.......

"I just noticed that Edmunds shows the Limited in 2wd."

Well, I don't know about '03, but ours is a 2wd Limited.

fvp · August 2003

I also have an '03 HL AWD V6 that we bought 2 weeks ago and it's running great. Our dealer offered a protection package for $500 that included rustproofing, interior scotchguard and teflon treatment on the exterior paint. I bought the package and they did it before I took delivery. In my opinion, it was worth the $500 because we have a 2 year old son and he sometimes throws things around the car. Plus our HL is parked outside, so tree sap and bird droppings are an everyday occurence. I will say that the protection works as advertised - the exterior of our '03 Sienna [6 months old now] looks like it just came out of the showroom. I expect the HL to hold up the same.
By the way, the rustproofing that our dealer does will not void the factory Toyota warranty. They do not drill holes like aftermarket rustproofers - they use the drainplugs as access to the inside of the door panels.
The extended warranty price you quoted is about right - I have not purchased one yet but I plan to.

ted83 · August 2003

Has anyone done their own transmission service for the HL V6? Is there a drain plug or do you have to drop the pan? Also, is there a screen filter at the pan, a screw-on filter, or is there any filter at all? Obviously I have not invested in the service manuals. Thanks

brad_22 · August 2003

Sounds like you've got warped rotors - mine are feeling the same way. I believe they're commonly caused by the impact wrenches used to tighten the wheel bolts. I've heard that grinding them will fix the problem, but this makes the rotors thinner, hence more susceptible to warping again.

I recommed taking them to an actual brake repair shop. Or new rotors can be purchased for about $75.

mikey00 · August 2003

Check your owners manual, unless you are a NYC cab you should have lifetime fluid.

gwkiser · August 2003

Go to the site below and get a quote. Print it out and take it to your dealer. Most likely they will pricematch it. I was able to do that 2 years ago when we got ours. The site is owned by a dealer in Iowa and the warranties offered are Toyota, not third party.

http://www.toyotawarranty.com/

gwkiser · August 2003

Just curious, but why is the "Dealers and Service Experiences" thread closed?

stever · August 2003

Always a pleasure.

The pricing/dealer boards are all getting organized into a sub-board over on Smart Shopper. Sometimes we forget to link to the new discussion during the reorganization.

Check out:

Toyota Highlander: Prices Paid & Buying Experience

See ya!

Steve, Host

Toyota Highlander

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