2009 Toyota Highlander

Introduction:

The 2009 Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV known for its spacious interior, reliable powertrain, and comfortable ride. It is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces up to 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Despite its popularity, several issues have been reported across various components.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Valve Spring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken valve springs can cause reduced engine power, misfires, and excessive oil consumption.
  • Solution: Replace the defective valve springs and associated parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Pump Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: A faulty oil pump can lead to insufficient oil circulation, causing engine wear and ultimately failure.
  • Solution: Replace the oil pump and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibrations during acceleration or deceleration can indicate a faulty torque converter.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter and fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Slipping Gears:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into or staying in gears can be caused by worn or damaged transmission components.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Bearing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged strut bearings can produce clicking or clunking noises when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut bearings and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Deterioration:
  • Description/Symptoms: Deteriorated control arm bushings can lead to poor handling, excessive tire wear, and vibrations.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: A faulty alternator can lead to electrical system malfunction, dim headlights, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: A malfunctioning starter motor can prevent the vehicle from starting.
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Paint Peeling on Sunroof Panel:
  • Description/Symptoms: Peeling paint on the sunroof panel can occur due to exposure to harsh sunlight and extreme temperatures.
  • Solution: Repaint or replace the sunroof panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Bumper Scuffing:
  • Description/Symptoms: Scuffs on the rear bumper can occur from loading and unloading cargo.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the scuffed bumper.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: A loose or detached dashboard can cause rattling noises while driving.
  • Solution: Secure or replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Belt Tensioner Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning seat belt tensioners may not properly restrain occupants in the event of a collision.
  • Solution: Replace the seat belt tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V347000

Summary

While the 2009 Toyota Highlander offers a comfortable and reliable driving experience, it is not without issues. The most significant problems lie in the engine, transmission, and suspension components, which can be costly to repair. However, most of these issues are relatively rare and can be addressed by a qualified mechanic.