Toyota Highlander

1…181182184186187…211

Comments

  • mas23mas23 Member Posts: 38
    Thanks for the input. I currently drive a 00 4 cycl. Camry and really had no issues except for passing sometimes. But we just recently had a baby so the extra security would be nice. I am getting deals for about $300 - $400 over invoice but I think I can do better on the 04's. Does anyone know are any new features on the 05 that is worth buying over the 04's. Thx.
  • poto1xpoto1x Member Posts: 26
    While we’re at risk due to Toyota’s transmission/drive by wire screwup that they won’t fix, we’re paying way too much for the diminishing quality from Toyota/Lexus.

    In fy 2003, their profit was $10.24 BILLION, more than GM, Ford and Daimler-Chrysler combined. Why do we keep overpaying?
  • lmacmillmacmil Member Posts: 1,758
    The AWD Highlander is about 600# heavier than the Camry so that 4 cyl would be working pretty hard. The HL was "freshened" (3rd row seat, more powerful V6, stability control standard, etc.) in 2004 so there probably aren't a lot of enhancements for 2005 but check Edmunds or ask the dealer. FWIW, our HL is my wife's car and she absolutely loves it, much better than the 1996 Explorer we traded in.
  • sundevilsundevil Member Posts: 28
    I don't think there are any new features in the 05 models. Roof rack, keyless entry and cargo cover are standard in 05 but were optional in 04. Almost all of the 04 models I saw had these options.
    I got a 04 FWD V6 in early August at $750 below Edmunds TMV ($600 below invoice from other sites) in the chicagoland area. $300-$400 over invoice do not look like good deals to me.
    I have never experienced the hesitation on mine but did notice slight hesitation on the demo car at the dealer lot.
  • mikefm58mikefm58 Member Posts: 2,882
    << In fy 2003, their profit was $10.24 BILLION, more than GM, Ford and Daimler-Chrysler combined. Why do we keep overpaying? >>

    Ummm, you think incentives from the big 3 have anything to do with profit margins? Sorry, but I totally disagree with you here. Basic supply and demand economics at play here. From my past experiences with ALL the maunfacturers you listed, Toyota's profit gap with them will continue.
  • gpoltgpolt Member Posts: 113
    what gas mileage (city'highway) are you getting on your fwd v6?
  • budhbudh Member Posts: 109
    Back in 2001, I bought a Toyota Highlander V6 Limited. A big reason being that it had AWD (all wheel drive) and I had just moved to the lake effect snow ridden area of northern Indiana/southwest Michigan. The Highlander has VSC (vehicle stability control) and ABS (anti-lock braking system) as well as the AWD.

    I am thinking of trading it in next year for a Toyota Matrix or other vehicle (that I can fit into - I'm 6'3" and head/leg room are issues). I have found that the VSC seems to be the BIG thing I like on the Highlander - that VSC system saved my bacon twice last winter when I started getting into a skid and the VSC almost magically got the car going straight down the road in only a second or two.

    So I am starting to get the impression that the AWD feature is important only for getting the vehicle MOVING, and that the ABS and VSC are what keeps the vehicle on the road and stopping when you want it to stop which is WAY more important.

    Since I live in a fairly flat area, I therefore have come to the conclusion that I didn't really need AWD after all. And that ABS and VSC are the must have options.

    So when looking for a new vehicle in the near future, does it make sense that AWD isn't nearly as important as the ABS and VSC? (It's not that I can't monetarily afford to add the AWD, it's because gas mileage, horsepower, and even gasoline tank size suffer on many AWD models.)

    Feel free to comment on the differences in the AWD types that the Highlander and Matrix have if important.

    Bud H
  • gpoltgpolt Member Posts: 113
    I am also 6'3" and considering a purchase this week. I notice the seat cushion on the HL seems short on thigh support. Was this an issue in your decision?
  • lmacmillmacmil Member Posts: 1,758
    AWD will help in situations where traction is low but VSC isn't activated. If VSC kicks in, chances are you were driving too fast for conditions. Overall though, I think your analysis is probably right. We have AWD but haven't used VSC yet. I know the AWD has been useful. I'm in the same area you are (northern Indiana).
  • hmurphyhmurphy Member Posts: 278
    I read in the Trib today that 2005 Highlanders have rollover-sensing curtain airbags. That might be a feature worth waiting for.
  • poto1xpoto1x Member Posts: 26
    Historical performance isn't always an indicator of future performance.

    Why should customers continue to pay a premium for what TM is building? Their quality and integrity reputation is rapidly disappearing, check the latest JD Powers survey. Why pay a Toyota, let alone a Lexus, premium of $5-20k to have a transmission problem or an oil sludge problem that they lay off on their customers.

    As an example, our 2004 highlander has spent as much time in the shop (and still isn't fixed) as the 2001 Ford, (And the Ford has a unique feature compared to the HL-- it accelerates rather than hesitates when the gas pedal is pushed).
  • ch1133ch1133 Member Posts: 43
    Because TM does not depreciate as much as a Ford...

    >>Why should customers continue to pay a premium for what TM is building?
  • lmacmillmacmil Member Posts: 1,758
    Your appears to be different from the majority of Toyota and/or HL owners. The only time our HL was in the shop in 6000+ miles was for an oil change. There are always people who have troubles with their vehicles but on average, your typical Toyota or Honda is more trouble-free than your typical Ford or Chevy. If that weren't the case, the domestic sales wouldn't be falling at the expense of the imports.
  • poto1xpoto1x Member Posts: 26
    Don't know why you believe TM has less defects, or what data you cite to support the majority position.

    Looking at NHTSA 2004 data and approximate annual sales, Ford Escape is best crossover in terms of least complaints per vehicle sold.. MDX is 1.8 times higher than Escape, HL is 2.4 , Pilot is 3.2 times and Lexus RX is worst at 5.9 times higher. While these aren't pure reliability stats, they do represent buyers who a) had a problem and b)thought it serious enough to report

    If TM doesn't satisfy it's customers on items like the current transmission complaints, their price premium and high resale will disappear. Incidentally, month over month, HL sales were down about 20% in August (vs TM sales down 3%)
  • lmacmillmacmil Member Posts: 1,758
    I could cite Consumer Reports reader responses on reliability data. I'm not familiar with the NHTSA data you are referring to. JD Power typically shows the Japanese brands to have higher overall satisfaction ratings.

    Overall I think HL sales are up on the year vs. 2003. You can't draw any conclusions from one month. We have drawn different opinions based on the same data. So be it.
  • mikefm58mikefm58 Member Posts: 2,882
    << Don't know why you believe TM has less defects, or what data you cite to support the majority position. >>

    1) Because of MY past experiences.
    2) Because of past experiences of friends and relatives.
    3) Because of the IMPARTIAL (and sometimes anal according to my wife..LOL) research I do.

    I had bad luck with a Maytag washer, which is one of the best brands out there, swore I'd never buy another one, did my usual IMPARTIAL research and bought another Maytag.
  • mas23mas23 Member Posts: 38
    Thanks for all the input. Since I not not getting such a great deal on the 2004's I will probably wait for the 2005. However, I talked to my brother the other day and he suggests that I look at the Ford Freestyle (he works for Ford, BTW). Price is pretty comparable to the HL but there is more cargo space and better 3rd row. Plus I get the employee discount from my brother. I haven't test driven one yet but plan to do so soon. Anyone hear good or bad things about the Freestyle?
  • lmacmillmacmil Member Posts: 1,758
    I believe there is an Edmunds report on the Ford 500 which is the sedan version of the Freestyle. The only semi-negative thing I've read is that it's a little underpowered but certainly no worse than a 4 cyl HL. I think it's a larger vehicle overall (external dimensions) if that's a consideration. I don't think they're out yet but shouldn't be too long.
  • sundevilsundevil Member Posts: 28
    I am getting 20MPG in city(<15% highway miles) on my FWD V6. Have not had the chance to take a trip that would give me a good estimate of highway mileage.
  • wwestwwest Member Posts: 10,706
    With FWD or front biased AWD (RX, HL Camry, etc,) Trac is an absolute necessity for safety's sake.

    If the front wheels begin to slip as a result of engine leading or lagging torque, slippery surface, or too much lateral stearing force this combination will often save your bacon.

    Not saying that they aren't also helpful with RWD but if those tires slip you still have stearing control.
  • razzy2razzy2 Member Posts: 10
    My last Ford was a 97 Eddie Bauer Explorer. The first time we took it out on the highway the cruise control wouldn't work. During the next 4 years (approx 100,000 miles)the only thing that didn't break was the transmission. During the last 12 months I had to be towed 3 times. The last time was because the gas peddle fell off while driving in heavy traffic. (the welds/rivets had rusted away). That was the final straw. After 3 Fords I finally smartened up and bought a 2001 Highlander Limited v6). I've got 83,000 miles on it and it's been back to the dealer for repairs exactly once - the steering wheel started squeaking when it was 20 below here last January. My wife is on her second Camry (94 and 2002). Her only complaint about Camrys is that she usually sees old people driving them. Last year my daughter finally got tired of fixing her Cavalier and bought a Corolla. She loves it.

    It's my experience that Ford really does mean "Fix or Repair Daily" and "Found On the Road Dead".
  • lmacmillmacmil Member Posts: 1,758
    For another data point, our 1996 Explorer was virtually trouble free. The only actual repair was the outside mirror adjustment mechanisn which broke but I replaced the mirror myself so my out of pocket cost was $70.

    We went with a Highlander early this year primarily because we wanted a car-based SUV and the strength of Toyota's quality reputation. No problems so far.
  • dawneedawnee Member Posts: 59
    I was just quoted $500 over invoice for an '05 base HL. Think we will be looking at another dealership since I think we should be able to get an '04 Ltd for less. Does this sound reasonable to anyone else that we should be able to get nicer '04 for less money than base '05?

    Don't understand why they keep trying to push '05 base on us instead of trying to get '04 off their lot when they have several.
  • mas23mas23 Member Posts: 38
    I have only owned 2 cars, 94 Chevy Corsica and 00 Toyota Camry. I had 140,000 miles on the Corsica and the only major repairs were a tune-up to pass emissions and air conditioning. However, on the Camry I had to repair the fuel injector, water pump, timing belt and trans all within the last 18 months. Now it is in the shop because I had a fender-bender over the weekend (brakes locked up - no ABS). Now why am I still looking at another Toyota? Because in general they are a better car. But I am also not ruling out Ford or GM just because they don't have as good a reputation as Toyota or Honda. Plus, having the A-plan really evens a HL vs Ford Freestyle (if I can only see one live).
  • kimgailkimgail Member Posts: 1
    We are looking to purchase a Highlander. We won't be going off-road or towing. What are the advantages to buying a 4WD rather than a 2WD? Will buying a 2WD affect our resale value? Thanks!
  • lmacmillmacmil Member Posts: 1,758
    4WD is for improved traction. If you don't get a lot of snow, then you probably don't need it. 2WD should get better mileage. You could check Edmunds or KBB used car values to see how much difference there is between 2WD and 4WD.
  • mikefm58mikefm58 Member Posts: 2,882
    There's also add'l maintenance for 4WD. Unless your in the snow belt or do off roading, I wouldn't recommend 4WD.
  • dawneedawnee Member Posts: 59
    Is it ridiculous to think that at this point, a dealership would be willing to go $750 to $1,000 below invoice on an '04 sitting on their lot??

    I know we can offer anything but wondered if this sounded too ridiculous?!

    Anyone made purchase of '04 in last few days, if so, how much under/over invoice did you pay, i.e. $500 under invoice, $500 over invoice, if you don't mind sharing.

    Our problem mainly is our 2002 Olds Silhouette is worth nothing at this point. My mom got more for her 1999 Montana with double mileage than they will even consider giving us for our van. Depreciation really stinks on these vans.
  • glanwinglanwin Member Posts: 28
    You should get better price now because there is a $750 rebate from Toyota. I bought my 05 HL Ltd fully loaded at less than 500 over invoice in Sep when there is no rebate for 05 model and you can not even find 05 HL on most of dealer lots.
  • petlpetl Member Posts: 610
    "you can not even find 05 HL on most of dealer lots" I wonder if and I hope it means an early release of the redesigned HL. Toyota and others seem to be releasing new vehicles in the spring as opposed to the traditional fall intro. Hopefully it won't grow too much in size. I like the size of the current HL. If it's too large I may be barganing for the 2005 model (if there are any left).
  • glanwinglanwin Member Posts: 28
    We bought it in early September when dealers still try to clear out their 04 models. We found this 05 HL LTD parked far away from the rest of the 04 HL's. Their sales told us that it was 04 model until they looked at the sticker and checked their system.

    They claimed it just arrived because the Tire Pressure Warning lights was on which indicated that this car was not prepared for sale yet.

    The 05 HL looks exactly like 04 HL and I can still feel the hesitation problem every one else mentioned here and someone claimed that it is fixed in 05 HL. Of course, it is not.

    By the way, We thought about Honda Pilot but we live at Southern CA and do not want the AWD which usually costs more in maintenance and more problems to worry about.
  • bobgordonbobgordon Member Posts: 156
    The Mrs. and I just returned from a trip to upstate New York, Vermont and PA to check out the fall colors.
    We were gone about 6 days and put on about 2600 miles on our '04 HL. I was quite surprised at how well the HL did on gas mileage, average about 24.6 with the highest reading of 25.3.
    Didn't use a drop of engine oil and over all, am very pleased with the handling and performance of the HL.
    Just need to get a few bugs worked out...
  • snakehairsnakehair Member Posts: 120
    We have driven our '01 HL limited from Maryland to Maine the long way around (through PA,upstate NY, and across Mass. Pike to avoid Rte. 95) and found our mileage to be about the same (24+ MPG) running at 65-70 most of the way. Have never used oil between changes. Comfortable and secure feeling (except for brakes). Could'nt ask for a better non-truck versatile hauler.
  • lmacmillmacmil Member Posts: 1,758
    Was that calculated mileage or what the trip computer says? I found the trip computer to be about 1 mpg higher than actual. Never done better than 22.5 on mine but usually run about 75 mph on the freeway.
  • bobgordonbobgordon Member Posts: 156
    That was with the trip computer calculations so yes, it might be off. I would say we were going between 70-75 on the freeways.
    I never did check it with the odometer because I used "Trip A" for total mileage traveled on this trip and I use "Trip B" to keep track of my oil change interval.
  • edhedh Member Posts: 246
    are the cars 4 or 6 cyl?

    please say
  • thock33thock33 Member Posts: 6
    I just completed a 1600 mile trip around Michigan & Wisconsin in my new 2005 Highlander(1,000 miles at start of trip), four cylinder, front wheel drive. There were four large people and a full load of luggage. The vehicle was flawless, and I averaged 27.25 MPG (calculated).
  • desertguydesertguy Member Posts: 730
    My '04 V6 Ltd, loaded to the roof with "stuff" and two adults averaged 22.5 calculated on a 1800 mile trip from Iowa to Phoenix. Driving was mostly 75 - 80 mph and using 87 octane. I thought this quite good under the circumstances.
  • spencer327spencer327 Member Posts: 106
    Trip from Long Island to Norfolk
    04 3.3V6 5 speed tranny LTD awd, Low 24.5 high 26 using midgrade gas
    Cruise on where possible. AC on, 2 people usually about 5 MPH over the speed limit.
    Chesapeake bay bridge route
  • snakehairsnakehair Member Posts: 120
    Ours is '01 AWD 6 cyl. On long trips over interstate we usually get 24-25 MPG. On rural two lanes in eastern Panhandle of WV we still get 21.5-22 in most instances. I am not a conservative driver and most often we do 75-80 on interstate and 55-60 on rural. AC on and cruise where I can. Mileage is figured at the pump, not trip computer. Good idea to use Trip B for oil change mileage. I have been using it for trip segments and Trip A for overall trip mileage.
  • lmacmillmacmil Member Posts: 1,758
    Anyone done an experiment with regular vs premium in the V6 to see if there's any mileage difference? My 22.5 figure was with midgrade.
  • erikd1erikd1 Member Posts: 1
    I read through many of the posts, very informative!
    Just bought an 04 limited V6 AWD for $250 under dealers price yesterday (Seattle area). With a whole 215 miles on it, I'm looking forward to many years of enjoyment!
  • brian23brian23 Member Posts: 9
    Just returned from a camping trip in the SW Colorado area. I have an '04 V6 AWD. Got about 24 to 28 mpg on the highway....depending on whether I was traveling with the wind or against the wind. I usually drive about 65 to 70 mph, though...
      Here in town I usually get about 17 mpg.
    By the way, I was impressed by how the vehicle handled over Wolf Creek Pass...on ice and snow.
      Now, if they could just fix the hesitating transmission problem!
  • bobgordonbobgordon Member Posts: 156
    Interesting that you mentioned Wolf Creek Pass. When my wife was taking our daughter out to school, they were stuck at "the pass" for about 2 hours. Construction on a new tunnel but I guess everbody got out of their vehicles and basically had a big party.
    Anyway, that's why I had to get a new vehicle. Kids.....they go away to college and think (get) the folks car! Damn! :-(

    That BTW is a beautiful part of the country.
  • veggieveggie Member Posts: 1
    I just bought a 2005 Highlander and have experienced problems with the ignition tumbler. I was unable to turn the key in the ignition. While I believe this to be an isolated incident, I am curious to know if anyone else has experienced similar problem/ defect.
  • raj1raj1 Member Posts: 27
    Can we get it as an option on any of the V4 models or is it only available for the V6 models?
    If not, can it still be installed on the V4 model?
    Is it available for the 2005 HL V4 models?
  • lmacmillmacmil Member Posts: 1,758
    I haven't had any real problem but my key seems unusually difficult to insert compared to just about any other car I've ever driven. I'm going to mention it at my next oil change.
  • landdriverlanddriver Member Posts: 607
    If the steering wheel is turned to one side, usually turning the steering wheel to relieve the tension while turning the key resolves this problem.

    lmacmil, definitely mention it as I don't have any problem inserting my key.
  • glanwinglanwin Member Posts: 28
    My wife has her '05 HL LTD for about 6 weeks and she loves it. I do see any problems from it exept the OEM tires. I can feel more of the road from my Sienna. Maybe it is the size of the tires.
  • crawfishcrawfish Member Posts: 39
    2006? I do hope HL will be large enough to compete with Pilot, like what Toyota did with its minivan to Honda's.

    I like Toyota's quietness very much and too bad Honda cannot do much on this issue.
Sign In or Register to comment.

Helpful Tools

Most popular vehicles

Your Privacy

By accessing this website, you acknowledge that Edmunds and its third party business partners may use cookies, pixels, and similar technologies to collect information about you and your interactions with the website as described in our Privacy Statement, and you agree that your use of the website is subject to our Visitor Agreement.