Toyota Highlander

rqc · August 2004

Probably mean either "drive-by-wire" or more accurately "throttle-by-wire" - this would mean the gas pedal is not directly connected to the throttle. Pressing the gas pedal triggers a computer to increase the throttle.

This hesitation doesn't happen on our 2003 V6 FWD.

hsvillage · August 2004

I drive an 2001 HL AWD V6 with 45k miles and I've never experienced a lag when accelerating. In fact I have the opposite problem, I have to be careful not to punch it and throw my wife back in the seat. Maybe the 04 has a different accelerator (electronic rather than mechanical) than previous models.

goldston · August 2004

We have 2 Highlanders, 2001 & 2002. Both are 2WD, V-6, Limited and we are the orginal owners on both. Neither one has ever had a hesitation problem. So, is this a 2004 model problem I wonder?

casanova2 · August 2004

I just purchased a 2004 HL V6 and want to ditch the built-in stereo in favor of something with XM-capability from Circuit City. There is an indicator on CC's web site that tells you whether their radios fit in the '04 HL but I would like to know whether anyone hear can comment on CD player & speaker combinations to replace the crappy stuff that Toyota puts in in the first place.

toyotadriven · August 2004

OE integrety's after 20k have poor wet traction. I need to replace but cannot commit to a decision. My priorities are in this order wet traction, snow traction, noise+ ride comfort, dry traction. The tires I like are Nokian WR AWP, Michelin ltx m/s, Michelin cross terrain, BfG long trail ta and Toyo open country a/t. I would appreciate advice from all who have personal experience with these tires on their HL (especially FWD). I want to get the best snow traction possible, while maitaining wet grip and comfort.
You input will be appreciated.
thanks

secondrig · August 2004

There are adapter kits for replacing the full size highlander radio with the din sized aftermarket headunit. It looks great. I wanted XM, too, so I opted for an Alpine 9835 and absolutely love it (the sound is so good I've opted not to replace the speakers), but--and this is a major problem--you need an XM tuner (in addition to the headunit receiver) to complete the XM service and there is currently a gap in availability of those tuners. I've heard the tuners for the Sony headunits may be available sooner rather than later, but the Alpine units are delayed for several months. Alpine makes one all -in-one unit, the 9820, but there have been some problems with that unit--low display lighting and a chip problem in older units that causes loss of settings when changing between fm and xm. Hope this helps. I found the xmfan.com site helpful in my search.

felt · August 2004

I opted to use the XM casette adaptor (I have had it for over a year). While a built-in unit would be far superior (visually), what my message really is ... the sound, even with the Toyota speakers, is fantastic!! BTW, XM is coming out with a modulator on the power plug that will eliminate the need for a casette adaptor, I think it is already available in the Roady, I will eventually buy that unit. The sound quality and the programming are both terrific with XM.

casanova2 · August 2004

I thought the Alpine 9835 already had XM capability? Why would you need an additional tuner at all?

secondrig · August 2004

It is XM "ready." That means it can act as a receiver but it still needs the xm tuner to work. The 9820 is the only model that has the tuner built in.

griggo · August 2004

I have 2001 HL V6 FWD. Experienced the same hesitation when accelerating. Gets very annoying in heavy traffic. If I engage "Snow Mode" button hesitation is almost gone. Complained to my dealer without any success. Hope something can be done, but learnt to live with it.

590116 · August 2004

I have a 2002 HL 2WD V-6 and I experience the hesitation, too. I agree with griggo (#9514) that engaging Snow mode seems to eliminate the hesitation, though I don't know why.

toyotaken · August 2004

I think that what you're all describing is the TRAC system working. This is integrated into the throttle by wire system and the VSC system as well. When the vehicle senses wheel spin, it will apply brakes to the wheel that is spinning and also de-throttle the engine which is what I think you're experiencing. The only way to reset the system is to take your foot off of the trottle altogether when it happens. Then when you apply the gas again, it will give the full throttle you're hoping for unless it spins a wheel again. Once the TRAC system engages, no matter how much gas you give it, it will de-throttle until is senses that there is no longer wheel spin for a specified amount of time.

Give this a try and hopefully this will help.

Ken

wwest · August 2004

THe anti-lock braking system is able to detectIMPENDING wheel-loadup based on the rate at which the wheel's rotational speed is declining.

Does Toyota/Lexus have some method of detecting IMPENDING wheelspin?

If so then that would explain a lot of this.

I wonder...

Turning heard during acceleration the outside front wheel will turn faster than the inside wheel. ECU thinks outside wheel is slipping?

Or a secret way to alleviate torque stear??

ddpstc · August 2004

Did anyone out there try to clock the acceleration of the 4 cyl. AWD Highlander?
So far all car reviews only test the V6 Highlander, which is about 8 + seconds. I found no information about the 4 Cyl. HL

nimrod99 · August 2004

I have just turned over 29,000 in my 2003 V6 Ltd Highlander.

The OEM Bridgestone Dueler H/T have died. They showed excessive signs of wear on the left hand side - outside shoulder. The rest of the tread was 1/8" deep. Could have been due to entering / exiting freeways (right hand turn - car leans to the left). I replaced the tires with Michelin LTX M/S. Wow - what a difference. The cornering is much better. The ride is great. They are also quiet, yet the tread is aggressive enough to venture into snow and gravel.

On another note - I contacted my dealer about my front mud flaps tearing (like many others have experienced). I explained it was due to the wind pressure - which caused the flap to tear. The service manager was great - he told the service writer to order new ones under warranty. The service writer came over and looked very skeptical at the flaps - he felt the bottom edge to see if I had hit something. He treated me like I was a liar. There was some road dirt that had splashed up on the side of the front door. The service writer rubbed his fingers through the dirt (which I was annoyed about - as he was scuffing my paint). Again - he was trying to find some excuse to blame me for the issue.

Cutting a long story short - when the flaps came in - I demanded to put them on myself - as I didn't want them to "work" my vehicle over.

Not sure how much longer these ones will last - as they seem to be made identical to the last pair - same design, same material. If they last another 29,000 it will cost me about $50 each to replace (on-line parts specials).

And finally - I installed a Toyota Hitch (class II). It was about $330 with the mount and 2" ball. Fits and looks great.

anthony921 · August 2004

Historically, Toyota has made major changes every 5 years on most models. Since the Highlander Hybrid is only coming out as a 2005 model, does anyone know if the 2006 Highlander will be changed ? I have an 01 and am looking toward 06 for a completely new vehicle.

hlfan · August 2004

I think the hesitation is caused more by the tranny than the throttle or TRAC. If you accelerate with the peddle pushed half way down, from a dead stop, the 3.3 V6 has plenty of power. If you take your floor of the pedal for a few secs, and then accelerate, it always hesitates. It always downshifts as well. This was actually noted by reviewers right from the introduction of the 5 spd gear box. I recall one said it was for new emission guidelines ?

There are ways to minimize it, step on the the gas slightly for a second or so trying before trying to accelerate a lot, to force the tranny to pick a high gear (if you step on it too hard, if shifts too low). Also pay attention to the RPMs before trying to accelerate...

But I do hope they can fix it in firmware...

toyotadriven · August 2004

Have you considered any tires other than the ltx m/s?

lmacmil · August 2004

I just read that in 2006, the HL will be stretched to make the 3rd seat more usable.

anthony921 · August 2004

Thanks for the information. Can you post the link or website where you got this information. Thanks again !

lmacmil · August 2004

I saw it in the most recent issue of Automotive News. They had a large article on what each Asian automaker was doing model by model over the next 4 model years.

racerx1 · August 2004

I read reviews here and Tire Rack that the Michelen Cross Terrain is excellent all-around tire.

suvshopper4 · August 2004

Odd.

This sounds like the hesitation of the RAV4, '01 and later, that many experienced.

I had it ('01 RAV A/T), but it only happened sporadically, about 4 times in the first 4,000 miles, and not since. Almost like it sorted itself out. Maybe it has to do with fuzzy logic.

But in your case, at 9,000 miles, and your being able to create the condition at will, it sounds like a more serious problem.

Good luck.

-ss4

nimrod99 · August 2004

I considered Michelin Cross terrain SUV, and Bridgestone Dueler AT's, and H/T's.

Cross terrains - although they may be a better tire - I didn't want raised white letters (they don't option black lettering) even if the white lettering was mounted on the inside.

Bridgestone - well - I emailed their corporate office about 8 times requesting information. They never replied. Based on the lack of response and the lack of performance with the Dueler H/T's - I wasn't going to give them repeat business.

I choose the LTX M/S because there was a lot of good reports "tirerack.com" and millions of miles logged. The tire came in black lettering (which is what I wanted). The tread depth is 13/32 vs the CT SUV's 11/32. The tread width is wider than the equivalent Dueler H/T's.
The tread on the shoulder of the LTX is open (ie blocks) I like this feature - as it provides better handling in poor weather (water can be directed away from the contact patch).

I am completely happy with the tires.

My only worry when getting new tires is the tire shop mounting the wheel on my car. I don't let them near it. I take the wheels off in the parking lot and roll them 2 at a time into their shop. I never have to worry about my wheels being bent from air wrenches or my nuts being cross threaded.

I would suggest that you specify "Road Force Balancing" They index the heavy spot on the rim opposite the heavy side of the tire. It minimizes the weight on the rim.

The first time the tire shop balanced my LTX's - they didn't do that. I ended up with 80 g weights (4" long) on the outside rim and they still weren't balanced. I had to take them off again and they fixed the issue. Now all the weights are 30 g or less and I have perfect balancing.

fvp · August 2004

I have the Cross Terrains [now with around 6,000 miles on them] and love them. I wanted the raised white lettering - it looks great against the Bluestone.
They are excellent in the snow and quiet in the summer - a good combination for the HL. They also have a 65,000 mile tread life guarantee that the LTX M/S does not offer.
I'm not knocking the LTX's - I had a set on a Jeep and like them quite a bit. However, for the HL I wanted a less aggressive tread pattern for quite rides during the spring/summer/fall.

toyotadriven · August 2004

Thanks, both for your comments.
I'm looking for the best winter traction possible,( I only have FWD), while not sacrificing comfort and quite ride. I personally prefer an open shoulder tire, I think they give better snow tracion. Both tires have full depth sipping for good rain and snow traction. Consumer Reports rate the LTX as good in snow and good in ride comfort and noise levels but only fair in wet cornering. CR will have a new SUV all-season tire report out in this November's issue. I hope they review the CT and the Nokian WR.
Thanks again

sdanders · August 2004

these replaced the very dangerous Integrity tires. Even though these are 235's they have no fitment problem at all. Put them on at 18K miles and now have 51K on them and they look new. Great traction on wet, where the Integrity tires would hydroplane...good luck take a look, they were relatively inexpensive $110 included lifetime balance, roadhazard, mounted and out the door.

hmurphy · August 2004

Just traded in an 03 Accord EX-V6 for an 04 Highlander Limited AWD and I couldn't be more pleased.

The interior fit and finish on the HL is much better than that of the Accord. It reminds me of my 94 Camry, which was a quality car in every way.

Now I'm adapting my driving habits to SUV characteristics and probably becoming a more cautious driver than I was in the Accord. No more jackrabbit lane changes or impromptu speed spurts.

Overall, I think the HL LTD is a great mix of luxury and practicality and I look forward to many years with it. I only traded the Accord so soon because of first-year redesign issues.

bdyment · August 2004

You and I have something in common. I traded an Accord EX V6 (2003) purchased in March 03 on a V6 AWD Limited in November 03. I traded the Accord because of first year teething problems and very poor dealer service. The Accord was back to the dealer 17 times in approx. 8 months.

I don't want to get into all the problems right now. The Highlander has almost been fault free and I have had no hesitation problems that some other owners have noted.

Welcome aboard. I think you will really enjoy your Highlander

hmurphy · August 2004

Thanks! I'm glad to hear that you've had a good experience with your Highlander so far.

bdyment · August 2004

Just as an aside. I owned a 93 V6 Camry and a 98 V6 Camry before owning my 03 Accord EX V6. Both Camrys were good cars, but the 93 was by far the best car I have owned in over 45 years of driving.

It was built like a tank and over engineered. If three bolts would secure a part Toyota would use four. The 98 was decontented by comparison.

hmurphy · August 2004

I have to agree. My 94 Camry LE was solid as a rock. I bought it used in 1996 when I got my first job out of college, and it served me well for seven more years.

Then I heard the siren call of side-curtain airbags and decided I needed something newer and safer, hence the Dis-ccord.

otis12 · August 2004

Toyota announced the '05 pricing today on several models, including the Highlander. Apparently, the 4-cylinder engine does not get a 5-speed auto tranny. Bummer

snakehair · August 2004

Just by coincidence, we own both a '01 HL Limited and a '03 Accord EX V6. Can't say I am overly impressed by build quality of either (expected both to be bullet proof). Not much better than the '00 Dodge Grand Caravan we traded for the Accord. Love the way the Accord moves, love the comfortable ride in the HL on road trips and usefulness of it. Not impressed with either dealer network. Plan to keep both until wheels fall off and look at what is out there then.

vcarreras · August 2004

Toyota you goofed. I was waiting for that..

oaky · August 2004

vcarreras
Could you provide a link to the 05 toyota pricing? Thanks

toyotadriven · August 2004

I am also interested in the COOPER DISCOVERER HT. Can you give a update on snow, wet and dry performance? Are they more quiet than OEM Integrity's or Duelers?

vcarreras · August 2004

For oaky..
http://pressroom.toyota.com/photo_library/display_release.html?id- =20040823

crummybuttons · August 2004

Hello:
I own a Highlander with just over 30k on it; and it's not quite 1.5 yrs. old. I drive extensively for my job, need the reliability and the safety I FEEL I get from my Highlander....because I drive so much I generally trade my SUV in every 1-2 years. However, the '04 Highlanders have the third seat now and I don't need that option. I have been considering buying a low mileage '03 or, waiting until a good deal comes up on an '04.. or do I wait until the '05s? I've looked at other SUV's that suit my needs (good size engine, 4wd or AWD for bad weather, not flashy (don't wanna be car-jacked or have it stolen), stuff like that. I've checked Edmunds site and the town halls for Jeep Liberty, Hyundai Sante Fe, Honda Element (Pilot wayy too big and too expensive for a swollen CRV).. there's not alot out there that can compare to the Highlander, so, I want to keep my purchase around 27k or less and it must be a six cylinder (was hoping for Toyota to put in a 280-320 hsp engine for the size ) I'm not quite sure which direction to go as far as my next purchase. Any ideas?

hmurphy · August 2004

The third seat on the 04 HL folds completely into the cargo area, so you could easily ignore it if you don't want to use it.

As an alternative to a V6 engine, you could try the Turbo Subaru Forester XT. It would be fast, reliable in bad weather, and probably not likely to be carjacked

lmacmil · August 2004

You could check out the new Chevy SUV Equinox. It's gotten pretty good reviews in the press.

wain · August 2004

you can get a very well equipped Hil for 27

bikeman3 · August 2004

Chevy Eqinox has a potential roll over problem similar to the saturn vue

vcarreras · August 2004

the Chevy Equinox and it doesn't have 4 wheel disk brakes! Also thought the interior was cheap. No way..

lmacmil · August 2004

I can't comment on the interior but cars don't need rear disc brakes. They may look better thru the wheel openings but functionally they are unnecessary and increase the cost.

specialexport · August 2004

Will the 05 get the 2002 camry platform and any word if the toyota has fixed the hesitation problem with the 3.3L V6 for 05. Got my price (invoice plus 1/2 ad fee and fin.) on an 04 but it had the hesitation problem during the test drive and declined. Dealer was really PO'd when he heard i was not buying because of the V6 problem. I told him to call toyata and tell them they lost a sale.

Thanks for any input

OldStyle

thoon · August 2004

the 2001-2004 highlanders already have the 2002 camry platform. It was on the highlander before the camry had it. Look at the wheelbase measurements.

vlanman25 · August 2004

This is almost the same question I asked regarding Sub Outbacks which I was considering and ultimately decided 4WD was not for me.

I have test driven a Highlander FWD with 4 Cyl. auto trans. The engine to me seemed to be working a little hard both to accelerate and at cruise (3,000 RPMs at 70). Granted I'm used to driving a 6 cyl Olds, 205 HP engine that zooms (yes the car's a piece of junk but it does haul if you step on it).

Do you think: 1. the Highlander 4 cyl will last working that hard? Also, generally what's the feeling about its performance (I know this is subjective)?

What's a good price to pay for a base FWD 4 CYL. and how much more should I expect to pay for a 6 cyl?

-Ken

lmacmil · August 2004

If you are used to a peppy car, I don't think you'll be happy with the 4. I have an Olds Intrigue and my wife has the HL V6. Everytime I drive a 4 cyl car (I've rented a Camry and a Mazda 3 this year), the lack of get-up-and-go is obvious.

You can look up TMV and invoice prices on Edmunds. I think good deals are available now on all 2004 models as well as rebates and/or low interest financing.

vlanman25 · August 2004

Thanks lmacmil, I drove another which performed much better. Not sure what was wrong with the first, I know I had it in drive but at 70 it turned over 3,000 RPMs. The second performed as I would have expected .. around 2400. Maybe I had it out of overdrive? At any rate, I believe it would be OK for me although as you said not overly peppy.

-Ken

Toyota Highlander

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