2005 Toyota Highlander

Introduction:

The 2005 Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV known for its reliability, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. It is offered with two engine options: a 2.4-liter inline-four producing 160 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque and a 3.3-liter V6 producing 230 horsepower and 242 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

2.4-liter Inline-Four

• Leaking valve cover gaskets:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks onto the engine and exhaust components, resulting in a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Clogged PCV valve:
  • Description/Symptoms: Buildup of sludge and debris in the PCV valve leads to reduced engine performance and increased emissions.
  • Solution: Replace the PCV valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150

3.3-liter V6

• Timing chain rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise from the engine, especially during startup or acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant or engine oil from the intake manifold area.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or rough shifting:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates or fails to engage gears smoothly.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000

Suspension

• Front strut bearing failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: A grinding or clunking noise when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Blown rear shocks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced stability and handling, especially over rough roads.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, difficulty starting the vehicle, or dashboard warning lights related to charging.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
• Starter failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The starter motor makes a clicking or grinding noise when attempting to start the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500

Exterior

• Tailgate corrosion:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust or corrosion on the tailgate, especially around the license plate area.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the tailgate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Interior

• Center console lid breaking:
  • Description/Symptoms: The lid of the center console fails to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Replace the center console lid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
• Dashboard rattles:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises coming from the dashboard, especially over rough roads.
  • Solution: Locate and secure any loose parts or components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Summary:

The 2005 Toyota Highlander has a few known issues but is overall considered a reliable vehicle. The most common issues include timing chain rattle, leaking valve cover gaskets, and center console lid breakage. The severity and cost of the issues vary, but most can be fixed for a reasonable price.