2007 Toyota Highlander

Introduction

The 2007 Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV praised for its reliability, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. It is powered by a standard 3.3L V6 engine paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, generating 215 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque. Other engine and transmission options include a 3.5L V6 with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 2.7L inline-4 with a 4-speed automatic transmission. While the Highlander offers a well-balanced driving experience, there are some issues reported by owners that can vary depending on the specific components installed in the vehicle.

Engine

3.3L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, reduced engine performance
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak, visible oil buildup on engine
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• Oil Cooler Line Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak, slipping gears, overheating
  • Solution: Replace oil cooler lines
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.7L Inline-4

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattle, decreased engine performance, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shudder when shifting into gear
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Fluid Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak, slipping gears, overheating
  • Solution: Replace transmission fluid lines or seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise over bumps, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or rattling noise over bumps
  • Solution: Replace sway bar links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Diagnose and resolve parasitic drain (e.g., faulty alternator, wiring issues)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source of the drain
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights fail to turn on or turn off, flickering headlights
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking doors, door locks not functioning
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Unit Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: AC or heater not working, buttons not responding
  • Solution: Replace climate control unit
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into passenger compartment through sunroof
  • Solution: Inspect and repair sunroof seal or drainage system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2007 Toyota Highlander is known for its reliability, it is not immune to certain issues. Some of the more common problems include intake manifold gasket failure, oil cooler line leak, timing chain tensioner failure, torque converter shudder, suspension strut mount failure, battery drain, and door lock actuator failure. These issues vary in severity and cost to fix, but it is important to address them promptly to maintain the vehicle’s performance and safety.