2013 Toyota Highlander

Introduction:

The 2013 Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV offered with two engine options: a 3.5-liter V6 or a 2.7-liter four-cylinder. The V6 produces 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, while the four-cylinder produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Highlander is praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive fuel economy. However, it has not been without its share of issues.

Engine

3.5-Liter V6

• Oil Consumption:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, often requiring frequent oil top-ups.
  • Solution: Engine block and piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: 13V122000

2.7-Liter Four-Cylinder

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Six-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Fluid Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking from the oil cooler lines or transmission pan.
  • Solution: Replace leaking parts (oil cooler, lines, or pan).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than the front, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace rear suspension springs or shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electrical System Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical components (radio, lights, power windows) intermittently failing or not working.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system (often involves replacing faulty wiring or modules).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Wiper Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Wiper blades not functioning or moving erratically.
  • Solution: Replace windshield wiper motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: HVAC system not blowing air or blowing warm air when set to cold.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair HVAC system (often involves replacing a blend door actuator).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise coming from the dashboard area, particularly when driving on rough roads.
  • Solution: Tighten or replace loose dashboard components (often involves removing the dashboard to access the source of the rattle).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2013 Toyota Highlander has had its fair share of issues, ranging from minor inconveniences to more serious and costly repairs. While some issues, such as oil consumption and transmission fluid leaks, can be significant and expensive to fix, others, like dashboard rattles and windshield wiper motor failures, are generally less severe and less costly to resolve. Overall, it is important for potential buyers to be aware of these potential issues before purchasing a 2013 Toyota Highlander.