2002 Toyota Highlander

2002 Toyota Highlander

Overview

The 2002 Toyota Highlander is a compact SUV that was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability. It offered a choice between a 2.4L four-cylinder engine and a more powerful 3.0L V6, both paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. While generally a dependable vehicle, like any car of its age, some common issues have been reported by owners over the years. This analysis focuses on documented mechanical and electrical concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for prospective buyers or current owners.

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Engine

2.4L 4-Cylinder (2AZ-FE)

Oil Consumption

• Symptoms: Excessive oil burning, potentially leading to low oil levels and engine damage if not monitored.
• Solution: Regular oil level checks and top-offs. In some cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
• Cost: $1,200 - $2,500

EGR Valve Clogging

• Symptoms: Rough idling, stalling, check engine light.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
• Cost: $200 - $500

3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE)

Timing Belt Replacement

• Symptoms: No direct symptoms, but failure to replace at recommended intervals (typically 90,000 miles) can cause catastrophic engine damage.
• Solution: Scheduled replacement of the timing belt, water pump, and tensioner.
• Cost: $500 - $900

Coolant Leaks (Intake Manifold)

• Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke from exhaust.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket or the entire intake manifold.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (U140E/U241E)

Slipping Gears

• Symptoms: Transmission hesitates or slips when shifting gears, especially under load.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
• Cost: $300 - $3,000+

Harsh Shifting

• Symptoms: Jerking or rough shifts between gears.
• Solution: Transmission fluid service, solenoid replacement, or transmission repair.
• Cost: $300 - $1,500

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Struts/Shocks

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of struts and shocks.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Sway Bar Links

• Symptoms: Clunking noise over bumps, especially at lower speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of sway bar links.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Electrical

Standard Electrical System

Power Window Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow operation, or unusual noises.
• Solution: Replacement of the power window motor/regulator.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, difficulty starting.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Exterior

Standard Exterior

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: N/A

Interior

Standard Interior

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: N/A

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Summary Verdict

The 2002 Toyota Highlander is generally considered a reliable SUV, especially when equipped with the 2.4L engine. The V6 engine, while more powerful, has a known timing belt service interval that is critical to follow to avoid severe damage. Transmission issues, such as slipping or harsh shifting, can occur but are often addressable with fluid services or component replacements. Common electrical problems include power window failures and alternator issues. Suspension components like struts and sway bar links may require attention due to age and mileage. Overall, with diligent maintenance and addressing these potential issues, the 2002 Highlander can remain a dependable vehicle.