2002 Toyota Highlander

Introduction:

The 2002 Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV that was offered with a choice of two engines and two transmissions. The base engine was a 2.4-liter inline-four engine that produced 155 horsepower and 164 lb-ft of torque, while the optional engine was a 3.0-liter V6 engine that produced 220 horsepower and 222 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.

The Highlander received positive reviews for its reliability, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical system.

Engine

2.4-Liter Inline-Four Engine

• Oil Consumption: Some owners have reported that their Highlanders consume excessive amounts of oil, especially when the vehicle is driven hard. The issue is caused by a defective piston ring design that allows oil to leak into the combustion chambers.
  • Solution: Replacing the piston rings is the only way to fix the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0-Liter V6 Engine

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to skip or break. This can result in catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: The timing chain tensioner must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Four-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shifting Issues: Some owners have reported that their Highlanders experience shifting problems, such as slipping, delayed engagement, or hard shifts. The issue can be caused by a variety of problems, including a faulty transmission control module, solenoid issues, or worn clutches.
  • Solution: The transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

Front Suspension:

• Strut Failure: The front struts can fail, causing the vehicle to bounce or sway excessively.
  • Solution: The struts must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to drain and the vehicle to stall.
  • Solution: The alternator must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure: The power window motors or switches can fail, causing the windows to become inoperable.
  • Solution: The power window motor or switch must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Roof Rack Crossbars: The roof rack crossbars can rust and corrode.
  • Solution: The crossbars must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking: The dashboard can crack over time, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: The dashboard can be repaired or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Heater Failure: The seat heaters can fail, causing the seats to become cold.
  • Solution: The seat heater element must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Toyota Highlander is a generally reliable vehicle, but it has some potential issues that owners should be aware of. The most serious issues are the engine oil consumption issue and the timing chain tensioner failure. These issues can be expensive to fix, and they can lead to catastrophic engine damage if not addressed promptly. The other issues listed above are less severe, but they can still be annoying and costly to fix. Overall, the Highlander is a good vehicle, but it is important to be aware of its potential problems before purchasing one.