2004 Toyota Highlander
2004 Toyota Highlander
Overview
The 2004 Toyota Highlander, a popular mid-size SUV, is generally recognized for its solid reliability and practicality. It offered a comfortable ride and a spacious interior, making it a favored choice for families. Under the hood, buyers could choose between a capable 2.4L four-cylinder engine or a more powerful 3.0L V6, both paired with a smooth-operating automatic transmission. While most owners report a positive ownership experience with minimal unexpected repairs, like any vehicle, certain components can experience issues over time. This analysis focuses on documented common problems beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential areas of concern for prospective buyers or current owners.
Engine
2.4L 4-Cylinder (1MZ-FE)
Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets)
- Symptoms: Visible oil on the engine block, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Timing Belt Replacement
- Symptoms: No immediate symptoms, but failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Recommended replacement interval.
- Solution: Replacement of timing belt, tensioner, and water pump.
- Cost: $500 - $900
3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE)
Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets)
- Symptoms: Visible oil on the engine block, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Timing Belt Replacement
- Symptoms: No immediate symptoms, but failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Recommended replacement interval.
- Solution: Replacement of timing belt, tensioner, and water pump.
- Cost: $500 - $900
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
Standard System
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Exterior
Body and Paint
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Cabin Components
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2004 Toyota Highlander stands out as a highly reliable vehicle, particularly for its era. The powertrain, including both the 2.4L four-cylinder and 3.0L V6 engines, is generally robust, with the primary documented concerns revolving around routine maintenance items like timing belt replacement and potential oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, which are not uncommon for vehicles of this age. The automatic transmission and other major systems like suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior components show a strong track record with no widespread significant issues reported. Owners can expect a dependable vehicle, provided regular maintenance, especially the critical timing belt service, is performed.