2003 Toyota Highlander

The 2003 Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV known for its reliability and practicality. Engine options included a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine producing 160 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L V6 engine producing 220 horsepower and 222 lb-ft of torque. The V6 was generally preferred for its smoother power delivery and better performance. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Highlander for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and Toyota’s reputation for longevity. Common complaints often revolved around age-related wear and tear, such as rust and failing sensors.

Engine

2.4L 4-Cylinder

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from the valve cover gasket and the front crankshaft seal, resulting in oil spots under the vehicle and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket and/or the front crankshaft seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The oxygen sensor can fail leading to poor fuel economy and illumination of the check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 4-cylinder, the V6 can develop oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and oil pan gasket, leading to oil spots and potential oil consumption.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise at startup, rough idle, and decreased fuel economy. Could be caused by a failing VVT solenoid.
  • Solution: Replace the VVT solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Shift Flare
  • Description/Symptoms: A delay or hesitation during gear changes, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear, along with increased engine RPMs during the shift.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush, replacing the transmission filter, or replacing worn solenoids. In some cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for fluid flush and filter, $300 - $600+ for solenoids, $2000 - $4000+ for rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at highway speeds, especially under light acceleration. Can also cause the engine to stall at idle.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during turns, and increased stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts/shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front or rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the worn sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per link
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slow or non-functional power windows.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge).
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and rocker panels, especially in areas with road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Weak or no cold air from the air conditioning system. Could be due to a refrigerant leak, failing compressor, or a faulty blower motor.
  • Solution: Recharge the refrigerant, replace the compressor, or replace the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the component needing repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The center console latch breaks, preventing the console from closing securely.
  • Solution: Replace the latch or the entire center console lid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Toyota Highlander is generally a reliable vehicle, but age-related issues are common. Oil leaks, transmission problems, and suspension wear are among the most frequently reported concerns. While some issues can be addressed with relatively inexpensive repairs, others, such as transmission rebuilds or extensive rust repair, can be costly. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for signs of these issues and factor in potential repair costs.