2004 Toyota Highlander
The 2004 Toyota Highlander is a popular mid-size SUV known for its reliability and practicality. Engine options include a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine producing 160 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque and a 3.3L V6 engine producing 230 horsepower and 242 lb-ft of torque. The V6 version is generally preferred for its improved performance and towing capacity. Both engines came paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Highlander’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and Toyota’s reputation for dependability. Common dislikes include lackluster fuel economy, particularly with the V6, and some reports of age-related issues surfacing as the vehicles get older.
Engine
2.4L 4-Cylinder
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often develop from the valve cover gasket, timing chain cover, or rear main seal. This can result in visible oil spots on the driveway or garage floor, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak and the shop rate.
- Recalls: None Found
- Catalytic Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The catalytic converter can fail due to age and contamination from oil leaks or coolant leaks. Symptoms include a check engine light (typically P0420), reduced engine performance, and a sulfur smell.
- Solution: Replacing the catalytic converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
3.3L V6
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 4-cylinder, oil leaks are common from valve cover gaskets, timing cover, and rear main seal.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak and the shop rate.
- Recalls: None Found
- Catalytic Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Same as the 4-cylinder, catalytic converter failure is common due to age. Symptoms include a check engine light (typically P0420), reduced engine performance, and a sulfur smell.
- Solution: Replacing the catalytic converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- VVT-i Oil Line Leak
- Description/Symptoms: The Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system has an oil line that can develop leaks over time. This can lead to oil loss and potential engine damage if not addressed.
- Solution: Replacing the VVT-i oil line with an updated, reinforced part.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)
- Delayed or Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit delayed or harsh shifting, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear. This can be caused by worn solenoids, valve body issues, or general wear and tear on the transmission.
- Solution: Replacing the solenoids or valve body, or rebuilding/replacing the transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (solenoids) - $800 (valve body) - $2000+ (rebuild/replace)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Torque converter failure can cause shuddering or shaking, especially at low speeds or during acceleration. It can also lead to transmission overheating.
- Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Strut and Shock Absorber Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Worn struts and shocks result in a bouncy ride, poor handling, and increased stopping distances.
- Solution: Replacing the struts and shock absorbers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ for all four corners.
- Recalls: None Found
- Sway Bar Link Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Broken or worn sway bar links cause a rattling noise, especially when driving over bumps. This affects handling and stability.
- Solution: Replacing the sway bar links.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per pair.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The power door locks may stop working intermittently or completely.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door.
- Recalls: None Found
- Window Regulator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The windows may become slow or stop working entirely.
- Solution: Replacing the window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Undercarriage and Wheel Wells
- Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the undercarriage and wheel wells, especially in areas with road salt.
- Solution: Rust removal and repair, or replacement of affected body panels.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity, from $200 for minor rust repair to $1000+ for panel replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Cracked Dashboard
- Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack due to sun exposure, particularly in hot climates.
- Solution: Replacing the dashboard or installing a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ for dashboard replacement, $50 - $200+ for a cover.
- Recalls: None Found
- Center Console Latch Broken
- Description/Symptoms: The center console latch can break causing the console to not stay shut.
- Solution: Replacing the center console latch.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2004 Toyota Highlander, while generally reliable, can experience some age-related issues. Oil leaks, catalytic converter failures, and transmission problems are among the more costly repairs. Suspension components and electrical issues are also common. The cracked dashboard is a known aesthetic problem. Overall, the Highlander is a solid vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have a pre-purchase inspection performed. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially expensive repairs.