2006 Toyota Highlander

Introduction

The 2006 Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV available with three engine and transmission options:

• 3.3L V6 with a 5-speed automatic transmission (215 horsepower, 229 lb-ft torque)
• 2.7L 4-cylinder with a 4-speed automatic transmission (155 horsepower, 182 lb-ft torque)
• 3.3L V6 with a 5-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (215 horsepower, 229 lb-ft torque)

The Highlander is praised for its spacious interior, reliability, and fuel efficiency. However, it is criticized for its lack of driving excitement and dated interior design.

Engine

3.3L V6 with 5-speed Automatic Transmission

• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can break, causing engine damage and possible catastrophic failure. Symptoms include a ticking noise from the engine, difficulty starting, or loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: The valve cover gasket can develop a leak, leading to oil leaks and reduced engine performance. Symptoms include oil on the engine or visible oil leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.7L 4-cylinder with 4-speed Automatic Transmission

• No Issues Found

Transmission

5-speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Fluid Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission fluid can leak from the transmission case, resulting in fluid loss and potential transmission damage. Symptoms include lower fluid levels, slipping gears, or difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Repair the transmission fluid leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-speed Automatic Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The struts can fail, causing premature tire wear, reduced handling, and a rough ride. Symptoms include noise from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, or difficulty steering.
  • Solution: Replace the struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: The control arm bushings can wear out, leading to loose steering, unstable handling, and a rattling noise from the suspension. Symptoms include excessive play in the steering wheel, difficulty controlling the vehicle, or a rattling noise over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The power window switches can fail, causing the windows to become inoperable. Symptoms include windows not rolling up or down, or the window switch not working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the power window switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator can fail, leading to battery depletion and electrical system issues. Symptoms include dim headlights, difficulty starting the vehicle, or electrical components not working properly.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Roof Rack Noise:
  • Description/Symptoms: The roof rack can create wind noise or vibrations at certain speeds.
  • Solution: Install a wind deflector or replace the roof rack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Bumper Cover Fading:
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear bumper cover can fade or lose its color over time.
  • Solution: Touch up or repaint the rear bumper cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Knobs Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control knobs can become loose or break, making it difficult to adjust the temperature or fan speed.
  • Solution: Replace the climate control knobs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging:
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner can sag or detach from the roof, leaving a loose or drooping material.
  • Solution: Reinstall or replace the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2006 Toyota Highlander has a moderate number of issues. The most severe issues include timing belt failure, transmission fluid leaks, and strut failure. The cost to fix these issues can range from $150 to over $1,200. Most other issues are minor and relatively inexpensive to repair.