2013 Toyota Highlander

The 2013 Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV known for its reliability, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. 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. Transmission options consist of a 6-speed automatic on the V6 and an older 5-speed auto on the I4. Owners appreciate the Highlander for its longevity and resale value. Common dislikes often involve its somewhat bland styling and limited third-row legroom.

Engine

2.7L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and visible exhaust smoke in some cases.
  • Solution: Replacing piston rings and potentially pistons.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and engine damage. The water pump may develop a leak at the bearing or seal.
  • Solution: Replacing the water pump and potentially other cooling system components (thermostat, hoses).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Cooler Line Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, low oil pressure, and potential engine damage. This is a common problem as the rubber hose degrades over time.
  • Solution: Replacing the oil cooler lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (U660E) - 3.5L V6

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts, particularly between certain gears. Can be more noticeable when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) to $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded. Can affect handling and ride quality.
  • Solution: Replacement of rear springs, shocks, or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or popping noise from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Worn strut mounts can cause this.
  • Solution: Replacement of strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working, intermittent locking/unlocking, or unusual noises from the door lock mechanism.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System/Radio Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, not responding to inputs, display issues, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software update, head unit repair, or head unit replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (update) to $1,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Support Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The liftgate will not stay up on its own and can potentially fall, posing a safety hazard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate supports (struts).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Airbag Light Illumination (Spiral Cable)
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminates on the dashboard. Commonly caused by a faulty spiral cable (clock spring) in the steering column.
  • Solution: Replacement of the spiral cable.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Toyota Highlander generally holds up well, but like any vehicle, it has its common issues. The water pump and oil cooler line leaks on the 3.5L V6 engine are potential concerns. The 6-speed automatic transmission can develop harsh shifting problems, but most issues are not catastrophic. Suspension and electrical problems are fairly typical for a vehicle of this age. Overall, while issues exist, the severity and cost are generally moderate, making the 2013 Highlander a decent used vehicle choice with proper inspection and maintenance.