2014 Toyota Highlander

Introduction:

The 2014 Toyota Highlander is a popular mid-size SUV praised for its reliability, spacious cabin, and impressive fuel economy. It offers two engine options: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter V6 with 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

2.7-liter Four-Cylinder

• No Issues Found

3.5-liter V6

• Engine Sludge Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Formation of sludge in the engine, causing reduced oil flow and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of engine components or entire engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the timing chain tensioner, leading to excessive noise, potential engine damage, and loss of power.
  • Solution: Replacement of timing chain tensioner and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Six-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Fluid Leakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Leakage of transmission fluid from the transmission housing, pan, or seals.
  • Solution: Identification and repair of the leak source, such as replacing seals or gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability of the transmission to hold gears, causing rough shifting or loss of power.
  • Solution: Overhaul or replacement of the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the rear shock absorber mount, resulting in excessive noise, handling issues, and potential tire damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorber mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Rapid discharge of the battery, even when the vehicle is not in use.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing and replacement of faulty components, such as the alternator or electrical system wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the headlights, affecting visibility and safety.
  • Solution: Replacement of defective headlights or headlight wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Bumper Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive sag or misalignment of the rear bumper.
  • Solution: Adjustment or replacement of the bumper.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Formation of cracks on the vehicle’s dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or incomplete functioning of the climate control system.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing and replacement of faulty components, such as the blower motor or temperature sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

While the 2014 Toyota Highlander is generally reliable, it is not immune to potential issues. The most significant concerns relate to the 3.5-liter V6 engine, transmission fluid leakage, and rear shock absorber mount failure. The severity and cost of these issues vary, with some requiring major repairs. However, the majority of issues appear to be isolated and relatively affordable to resolve.