2001 Toyota Highlander

The 2001 Toyota Highlander marked Toyota’s entry into the mid-size SUV market. It was available with two engine options: a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 3.0L V6 engine rated at 220 horsepower and 222 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Highlander for its reliability, comfortable ride, and car-like handling. Common complaints include dated styling and the smaller size compared to newer SUVs.

Engine

2.4L 4-Cylinder

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often develop around the valve cover gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
• Piston Ring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Causing excessive oil consumption. Symptoms include visible blue smoke from the exhaust, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the piston rings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often develop around the valve cover gaskets and the rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets or rear main seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve cover gaskets $200 - $400; Rear main seal $500 - $800+
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: If the timing belt breaks, the engine will likely stop running, and in some cases, internal engine damage can occur, especially on interference engines. Symptoms include engine misfires, difficulty starting, or a complete failure to start.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing belt and water pump (recommended to do together).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may hesitate before shifting into gear or shift roughly. This can be caused by worn-out transmission fluid, a failing solenoid, or internal wear.
  • Solution: Flushing the transmission fluid, replacing faulty solenoids, or overhauling the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid Flush $100 - $200; Solenoid Replacement $200 - $500; Overhaul $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter clutch (TCC) failure can cause shuddering at highway speeds, especially when the TCC attempts to lock up.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut and Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn struts and shocks can lead to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and increased stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replacing the struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ (for all four)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken sway bar links can cause clunking noises when driving over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replacing the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty oxygen sensors can trigger the check engine light and lead to poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the oxygen sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator may fail, leading to a dead battery and inability to start the car. Symptoms include dimming headlights, a warning light on the dashboard, and the car stalling.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust develops on the undercarriage, especially in areas where salt is used on the roads.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the severity, $200-$2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may fail to operate correctly.
  • Solution: Replacing the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Toyota Highlander is generally a reliable vehicle, but as with any older car, it’s prone to certain issues. Engine-related oil leaks and timing belt issues are common, and transmission problems like delayed shifting can also occur. Suspension wear and electrical component failures are other potential concerns. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely. Addressing these problems promptly can help extend the life of the vehicle and prevent more costly repairs down the road.