The Toyota Highlander, a staple on city streets, is a reliable crossover with a long history. However, despite its ubiquity, the Highlander is not immune to common problems that can affect its performance and longevity. This article delves into five significant issues that owners of older Highlanders (five years or more) have encountered, providing a comprehensive overview of potential dealbreakers for non-mechanically inclined individuals.
1. Bursting Oil Lines
A burst oil line is a critical issue, as it can lead to a sudden and sharp loss of oil pressure, causing metal-on-metal contact within the engine. This results in scratches on the cylinder lining and generates tremendous heat, potentially turning the engine into a 'boat anchor'. Toyota has issued a recall for certain model years (2008-2011 standard Highlanders and 2011 hybrids) to address this problem, but owners report concerns ranging from 2005 to 2013. Ignoring a low-pressure oil warning light is strongly advised against.
2. Fuel Pump Malfunctioning
The fuel pump's role is to maintain adequate pressure in the fuel system, ensuring fuel reaches the engine. When the pump malfunctions, the car may start sputtering as if out of gas. The Highlander shares a faulty fuel pump with other Toyota models, leading to a massive recall affecting over 1.8 million vehicles. This issue can result in sudden and catastrophic fuel pump failure, potentially causing an engine stall at highway speeds.
3. Airbag Deployment Failure
Airbags are crucial in frontal impacts, absorbing energy and protecting occupants. The Highlander's specific problem is that airbags may not deploy in accidents, affecting both the driver and passenger sides. Recalls have been issued for 2020-2021 models due to a short circuit in the Occupant Classification System, and 2023 models due to a faulty cable connecting the driver's side airbag. This highlights the importance of addressing airbag deployment issues promptly.
4. Transmission Failure
The Aisin eight-speed automatic transmission in the Highlander is prone to failure, with symptoms like gear slippage, erratic shifting, and the infamous 'Whine of Death'. This issue has led to a class-action lawsuit, with Toyota maintaining the transmissions' safety. Transmission failure is a costly repair, and the poor gear ratios contribute to its regularity. No easy fix exists, making it a significant concern for owners.
5. Failing Oxygen Sensors
Oxygen sensors measure exhaust oxygen levels, providing input to the engine for optimal fuel efficiency. While not as severe as other issues, premature oxygen sensor failures are common. This problem illuminates the check engine light and can lead to various engine issues. Thankfully, it's generally less expensive to fix than transmission problems, and cleaning or replacing the sensor may be possible.
In conclusion, while the Toyota Highlander is a reliable crossover, these common problems can significantly impact its performance and longevity. Owners should be aware of these issues and address them promptly to ensure a safe and efficient driving experience.
