2009 Toyota Highlander

The 2009 Toyota Highlander is a popular mid-size SUV known for its reliability, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Available engine options include a 2.7L inline-4 producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L V6 producing 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. The 2.7L engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.5L engine is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Highlander for its longevity and practicality. However, some common complaints include higher-than-average repair costs for certain issues and less-than-stellar fuel economy for the V6 model.

Engine

2.7L Inline-4

No Issues Found

3.5L V6

• Oil Leak from Timing Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil accumulating on the engine block near the timing cover, low oil level, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing cover gasket and resealing the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Paired with 3.5L V6)

• Harsh Shifting or Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable harsh shifts between gears, especially when cold; transmission slipping or failing to engage a gear.
  • Solution: Transmission flush and fluid replacement, or replacement of the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (flush) or $3,000 - $5,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.7L Inline-4)

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle noticeably lower than the front, especially when loaded; reduced ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of rear shocks or struts, potentially including springs if severely worn.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door lock failing to lock or unlock on one or more doors; unusual clicking or grinding noise when attempting to use the power locks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Failure/Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen freezing, failing to boot up, or displaying incorrect information.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage/Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the frame, suspension components, and other undercarriage parts.
  • Solution: Rust removal and undercoating, or replacement of severely rusted components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (rust repair) or varies greatly depending on component replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ (replacement) or $50 - $200 (cover)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Toyota Highlander exhibits a range of potential issues, with engine oil leaks and transmission problems being among the more expensive to address. Electrical problems like door lock actuator failure can be annoying. Dashboard cracks are another common cosmetic concern. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the vehicle’s condition and maintenance history.