2003 Toyota Highlander
2003 Toyota Highlander
The 2003 Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that offers a comfortable and spacious interior, reliable performance, and a variety of features. It’s powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine that produces 220 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Other engine and transmission options include a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine with 155 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
Owners appreciate the Highlander’s reliability, spaciousness, and fuel efficiency, but some have reported issues with its engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems.
Engine
- 3.0L V6 – Intake Valve Carbon Buildup — Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, rough idling, misfires — Solution: Clean the intake valves — Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 — Recalls: None Found
Transmission
- 4-Speed Automatic (4AT) – Torque Converter Shudder — Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration when accelerating or shifting gears — Solution: Replace the torque converter — Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500 — Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- No Issues Found
Electrical
Alternator Failure — Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, difficulty starting the engine — Solution: Replace the alternator — Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800 — Recalls: None Found
Starter Failure — Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, grinding noise when starting — Solution: Replace the starter — Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 — Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Exhaust — Description/Symptoms: Rust and corrosion on the exhaust system — Solution: Replace the affected exhaust components — Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 — Recalls: None Found
Interior
Sticky Dashboard — Description/Symptoms: Dashboard material becomes sticky and gooey — Solution: Replace or repair the dashboard — Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500 — Recalls: None Found
Seat Belt Retractor Failure — Description/Symptoms: Seat belt fails to retract properly — Solution: Replace the seat belt retractor — Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 — Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2003 Toyota Highlander is generally a reliable vehicle, but some owners have experienced issues with its engine, transmission, electrical systems, and interior. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but most are relatively minor and can be resolved for a reasonable cost.