2004 Toyota Highlander problems
The Toyota Highlander, also known as the Toyota Kluger (Japanese: トヨタ・クルーガー, Hepburn: Toyota Kurūgā), is a mid-size crossover SUV with three-row seating produced by Toyota since 2000.
Announced in April 2000 at the New York International Auto Show and arriving in late 2000 in Japan and January 2001 in North America, the Highlander became one of the first car-based mid-size SUV or mid-size crossovers. The Highlander is the crossover counterpart to the more rugged, truck-based mid-size 4Runner and became Toyota's best-selling SUV before being surpassed by the smaller RAV4 in 2006.
The first-generation model was sold in Japan as the Kluger, which was exclusive to dealership network called Toyota Netz as a larger alternative to the RAV4. The Kluger nameplate is also used in Australia because "Highlander" is a trademarked trim line name owned by Hyundai. The name is derived from the German word klug, which means smart or clever (Klüger – with diacritics – means "someone who is smarter than another" in German).
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Common 2004 Toyota Highlander problems
Based on the information provided in the sources, here are the common problems reported by owners of the 2004 Toyota Highlander:
- Engine Bolts Becoming Stripped: One common issue is engine bolts becoming stripped, leading to coolant leakage and overheating engines. This problem typically occurs around 130,000 miles and can result in the need for a total engine replacement if not addressed promptly.
- Engine Failure: Engine failure is a significant concern with the Toyota Highlander, often linked to stripped engine bolts causing overheating. While this issue is more prevalent around 120,000 miles, it can occur earlier in some cases, necessitating engine replacement.
- Using Engine Oil Faster Than Average: Some Toyota Highlanders, especially in certain model years like 2002, are known to consume engine oil at a faster rate. While this issue is more common in specific years, it can be managed with regular oil checks and top-ups.
- Check Engine Light Issues: Owners have reported problems with the check engine light, particularly related to the EVAP system. Resolving this may involve replacing the charcoal canister or the EVAP vacuum switching valve to prevent costly repairs.
- Brake Caliper Seizures: Lack of regular maintenance can lead to brake calipers seizing, impacting the vehicle's braking system and safety.
- Heater and Air Conditioner Problems: Loose solder joints at the circuit board behind the temperature control knob can cause issues with the air temperature fluctuating on its own, affecting the comfort and functionality of the HVAC system.
- Water Pump Failures: Models from 2006 and 2007 have been prone to water pump failures, which can lead to cooling system issues and potential overheating problems.
These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any warning signs to ensure the longevity and reliability of the 2004 Toyota Highlander.
How many miles will a 2004 Highlander last?
300,000 miles
How Long Does a Toyota Highlander Last? The Toyota Highlander is one of the longest-lasting midsize SUVs available, with the ability to continue running up to 300,000 miles after your drive it off the lot.
What is the most common problem with Toyota Highlander?
Common Issues With The Toyota Highlander
- Engine Bolts Becoming Stripped. ...
- Engine Failure. ...
- Using Engine Oil Faster Than Average. ...
- Fuel Tank and AC Condenser Problems. ...
- Faulty Head Gasket and Oxygen Sensor. ...
- Q: What Toyota Highlander years should I avoid in the used car market?
How good is a 2004 Highlander?
Very reliable and spacious car
Our Highlander has the larger motor variant (V6 3.3l), which made it more economic for the weight of the car. When well maintained the car is very reliable. We rarely had issues and usually problems were common wear and tear issues.
What year did Toyota Highlander have problems?
Defective airbags were common in some 2013 and 2016 Highlanders. Airbags from these model years did not deploy upon collision, increasing the risk of injuries. While no recalls were made for them, Toyota issued a recall for the 2020 redesign because of the same issue.
Is Toyota Highlander 2004 a good car?
The well-rounded Toyota Highlander has always been one of our top-rated SUVs. For the 2004 model year, the Highlander received a larger V6 engine and a small third-row seat capable of accommodating two children in a pinch.
What is the most common problem with Toyota Highlander?
Common Issues With The Toyota Highlander
- Engine Bolts Becoming Stripped. ...
- Engine Failure. ...
- Using Engine Oil Faster Than Average. ...
- Fuel Tank and AC Condenser Problems. ...
- Faulty Head Gasket and Oxygen Sensor. ...
- Q: What Toyota Highlander years should I avoid in the used car market?
How many miles will a 2004 Highlander last?
300,000 miles
How Long Does a Toyota Highlander Last? The Toyota Highlander is one of the longest-lasting midsize SUVs available, with the ability to continue running up to 300,000 miles after your drive it off the lot.
What is the fuel consumption of a 2004 Toyota Highlander?
2004 Toyota Highlander
| EPA MPG | Owner MPG Estimates |
|---|---|
| 2004 Toyota Highlander 2WD 4 cyl, 2.4 L, Automatic 4-spd | |
| 19 combined city/highway MPG 17 city 23 highway 5.3 gals/ 100 miles | View Estimates How can I share my MPG? |
| 2004 Toyota Highlander 4WD 4 cyl, 2.4 L, Automatic 4-spd | |
| Regular Gasoline | Not Available How can I share my MPG? |
2004 Toyota Highlander car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Highlander problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Steering problems
- Service brakes problems
- Visibility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Toyota Highlander vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Toyota Highlander
The NHTSA has received 285 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Toyota Highlander. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Toyota Highlander vehicles.
AIR BAGS,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEEP21AX40
- Components: AIR BAGS,WHEELS
- Summary: My car malfunctioned my tire locked up while I was driving on the high way causing me to spin out of control and skid all the way into a guard rail totalled my car out and not one air bag went off
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-01
- VIN: JTEDP21AX40
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The passenger airbag occupancy sensor in my car has stopped sensing a passenger has been stuck on "OFF" for the past 2-6 months (I believe) even when an adult is sitting in the seat. I don't know exactly when this problem began because there was never any warning light or error message which is a massive safety oversight since I could have been in accident with no knowledge that it wasn't working properly. The car is currently at the dealership and they are telling me it's $1300 to replace the sensor and that there is no way to bypass the sensor and just have it "ON" for the safety of my passenger. There is already a recall for this same system in newer Highlanders, but why is there no support for older Highlanders?
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-27
- VIN: JTEEP21AX40
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front bumper inadvertently detached. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was determined that the front lower bumper covers had been attached with mounting tabs and that the bumper assembly had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed of an unknown recall. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 190,000.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-31
- VIN: JTEEP21A340
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE AND PRESSING TO BRAKE PEDAL, THE PEDAL FAILED TO RETURN TO THE IDLE POSITION. THE VEHICLE STABILITY CONTROL MESSAGE DISPLAYED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND THE VEHICLE FAILED TO EXCEED 40 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN DRIVEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER GROOVE TOYOTA LOCATED AT 5460 S BROADWAY, ENGLEWOOD, CO 80113 HOWEVER, THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT YET DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT YET CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 126,000.
STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEDP21A940
- Components: STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING THROUGH A HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION ZONE MY CAR SUDDENLY BECAME HARD TO STEER, AND MY SPEED BECAME GREATER, TRIED TO (BREAK) DECELERATE THE CAR BEGAN SLIDING OUT OF CONTROL-PLOWING INTO THE ROAD CONSTRUCTION BARRIERS PART LODGED IN FRONT PASSENGER WINDSHIELD. THE CAR WENT THROUGH THE DITCH BECAME AIRBORNE THROUGH A ROD IRON FENCE SHATTERED THE REAR SECOND-ROW RIGHT SIDE WINDOW SPUN OUT , AND CAME TO REST JUST FEET FROM THE SOME PILEINGS. THIS IS THE INFORMATION OF MY DAUGHTER WHOM IS AN OUT OF STATE COLLEGE SENIOR AND VERY SHAKEN UP FROM THIS ORDEAL, THIS HER STATEMENT TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE. POSSIBLY THE PLACEMENT OF THE 🚧 COULD HAVE BEEN A CONTRIBUTOR, AND THE UNCONTROLLABLE ACCELERATION. VEHICLE WAS BOUGHT USED A YEAR AGO. CAN YOU HELP UP LEARN WHY?
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEGD21A440
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS LOW SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED RAPIDLY WITHOUT WARNING. UPON APPLYING MINIMAL PRESSURE TO THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME STUCK AND THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE, A DUMPSTER, AND ALMOST STRUCK A GROUP OF CHILDREN BEFORE COMING TO A STOP. IN AN ATTEMPT TO STOP THE VEHICLE, PRESSURE WAS APPLIED TO THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND THEN THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE VEHICLE FINALLY STOPPED AND WAS TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE DRIVEN TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED SEVERE PAIN TO THE NECK AND BACK, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS SUBJECT TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V112000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-01
- VIN: JTEEP21A840
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY MALFUNCTIONED AND THE FABRIC MATERIAL STRAP BECAME FRAYED AND SHREDDED AT THE BUCKLE LOCATION. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE LOCAL DEALER (ATLANTIC TOYOTA IN LYNN, MASSACHUSETTS) AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED, BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000. *JS
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-08
- VIN: JTEEP21A840
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE TRANSFER CASE IS LEAKING AFTER ONLY 68000 MILES. THE LEAKING OIL DROPS OVER THE HEATED EXHAUST PIPE WHICH CAUSES FUME IN THE CABIN THROUGH AIR CONDITION AND FAN
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-04
- VIN: JTEGP21A340
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOOR. THE TRACTION CONTROL, CHECK ENGINE, VSC, AND BRAKE INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 10V499000 (SERVICE BRAKES), BUT THE REMEDY FAILED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT OBSERVED BRAKE FLUID LEAKING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 157,489.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-08
- VIN: JTEGP21A840
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY TRAC OFF LIGHTS, ENGINE AND OIL LIGHT CAME ON WHEN I WAS DRIVING TO WORK. I WORK FAR FROM HOME SO I TOOK IT TO THE VALVOLINE NEAR MY JOB TO CHECK THE OIL. I DIDN'T WANT TO DRIVE MY CAR HOME IF THERE WAS NO OIL. THEY CHECKED THE OIL, UNDERNEATH MY CAR AND SAID EVERYTHINGWAS FINE AND TO TAKE TO MY MECHANIC TO CHECK THE ENGINE. I TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC WHO KEPT IT FOR 4 DAYS AND SAID ITS THE OIL SLUGE AND HE WAS TRYING TO SAVE THE ENGINE. MY MECHANIC SAID THEY HAD A LEXUS IN THE WEEK BEFORE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. I CHECKED ONLINE AND FOUND OUT THERE WAS RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM IN 2002, AND TOYOTA ONLY CONTACTEDTHE ORIGINAL OWNERS NOT ALL PEOPLE WHO HAD REGISTERED CARS. I BOUGHT THIS SECOND HAND THROUGH CAR MAX IN 2010 AND THIS SHOULD HAVE BEEN CORRECTED THEN. MY CAR HAS 145,000.00.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-02
- VIN: JTEEP21AX40
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE OUTER RING OF THE CRANK SHAFT PULLEY HAS PULLED AWAY FROM THE INNER RING CAUSING DAMAGE TO ALL SYSTEM AND CAN AFFECT STEERING. THIS ALREADY HAS A RECALL FOR MY MAKE, MODEL AND YEAR, BUT NOT FOR MY VIN NUMBER. IT SEEMS STRANGE THAT THIS EXACT SAME THING THAT HAS THE RECALL AFFECTS MY CAR, BUT REPAIR IS NOT COVERED. SHOULD RECALL BE EXPANDED TO INCLUDE OTHER VIN NUMBERS??
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-11
- VIN: JTEDP21A440
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE PASSENGER SIDE IN THE REAR WINDOWS ARE DEFECTIVE. THEY WILL NOT POWER UP OR DOWN THE WINDOWS IN THE BACK OF SUV. ALSO THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE IS NOW NOT OPERATING UP OR DOWN. THE POWER WINDOW PARTS HAVE FAILED TWO YEARS AGO, AND NOW IT'S HAPPENING AGAIN. THIS 2004 SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE OTHER RECALLS ON NEWER MODELS.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-01
- VIN: JTEEP21A550
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE REQUIRED GREATER EFFORT TO STEER. WHILE STEERING THE VEHICLE, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING INTERMEDIATE STAFF ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 123,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-01
- VIN: JTEDP21A540
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR TWO DAYS NOW. THERE IS A BUZZING LIKE SOMETHING IS MALFUNCTIONING ON MY PASSENGER SIDE COMING FROM THE DASH I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO PEP BOYS AND THEY SAID THAT MY AIR BAG IS MALFUNCTIONING. IS RESULT OF THIS MY JOB WON'T LET ME DRIVE PATIENTS BECAUSE OF THE DANGER. THIS REALLY NEEDS TO BE FIXED. I KNOW FOR A FACT IT'S THE AIRBAG BECAUSE TOYOTA TOLD WHEN I BROUGHT IT THERE BECAUSE PEP BOYS TOLD GO TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR THEM TO CONFIRM AND IT WAS!. THIS HAPPENS IN MOTION AND A LITTLE WHILE IN MOTION. WHEN IT IS HUMID OUTSIDE THE BUZZING IS EVEN WORSER TO WHERE THE SIDE PANEL VY DRIVERS LEFT LEG VIBRATE.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-20
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEDP21A840
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH AND MAKING A RIGHT TURN, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED TO APPROXIMATELY 75 MPH. THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO AN OAK TREE. THE CONTACT WAS KNOCKED UNCONSCIOUS AND TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED KNEE, BACK, SHOULDER, AND CHEST INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND LATER DEEMED DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. *TR
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-26
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ABOUT 15 MPH ON A CITY STREETAND THE VSC INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON AND THE VEHICLE STARTED BREAKING ON ITS OWN. A LOUD SCRAPPING SOUND WAS HEARD. IT WAS ABOUT 70DEGREES AND SUNNY AND THE CAR THOUGHT I WAS GOING DOWN A SLIPPERY SLOPE. I STOPPED THE VEHICLE. EVERY TIME I GOT ABOVE 8-10 MPH THE LIGHT WOULD COME ON AND THE CARE WOULD START BREAKING BECOMING UNABLE TO DRIVE.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-24
- VIN: JTEEP21A440
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: IN FEB 2005 WHILE DOING ABOUT 30 MPH THE VSC LIGHT CAME ON AND STARTED BRAKING, ON IT'S OWN, TO THE RIGHT MAKING IT ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO DRIVE. THE NEXT MORNING THE CAR WAS TOWED TO THE TOYOTA DEALER. THE CAR DISPLAYED NO CODES AND THEY SAID THAT THEY HAD CALIBRATED THE STEERING ANGLE SENSOR. WE HAD NO FURTHER PROBLEMS UNTIL MAR 24, 2016. THIS TIME THE VSC INDICATOR CAME ON AT ABOUT 40 MPH. IF I SLOWED DOWN TO ABOUT 20 MPH THE INDICATOR WOULD GO OFF. WE WERE ABLE TO DRIVE THE CAR HOME BUT THE CAR BRAKED, ON IT'S OWN, SEVERAL TIMES. WE HAVE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE TOYOTA DEALER. I'M AFRAID THAT THE EXPENSE TO REPAIR IT MAY COME CLOSE TO WHAT THE CAR IS WORTH. NHTSA NEEDS TO WAKE UP AND INVESTIGATE THIS ISSUE. IT'S BEEN GOING ON FOR A LONG TIME. THIS PROBLEM COULD RESULT IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT IF IT OCCURRS AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. I CAN'T IMAGINE WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF THE CAR BRAKES ON IT'S OWN AT 75 MPH.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-29
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Number Of Deaths: 45
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEEP21A840
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CAR IN MOTION @45 MILES AN HOUR AT 8AM 12/29/14. DRIVER LOST CONSCIOUSNESS DUE TO MEDICAL EVENT, WHICH RESULTED IN AUTO RUNNING OFF ROAD AFTER HITTING CURB AND SIDEWALK, THEN HITTING A ROADSIDE FENCE AT AN ESTIMATED 45 MPH. THE CAR THEN ROLLED AND LANDED ON ROOF. DRIVER WAS SEAT-BELTED. NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED DURING THE COLLISION. DRIVER SUFFERED TRAUMA TO HEAD AND OTHER INJURIES. CAR WAS RATED BY INSURER AS COMPLETELY TOTALED.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-02
- VIN: JTEGD21AX40
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: HEAT DOESN'T WORK AND A/C INTERMITTENTLY BLOWS COLD OR HOT. WINDSHIELD AND WINDOWS WILL FOG UP IN BAD WEATHER AND WITHOUT HEAT I CAN'T DEFOG THEM FORCING ME TO PULL OVER AND MANUALLY WIPE THE FOG OFF EVERY FEW MINUTES.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-06
- VIN: JTEGD21A640
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: TRACTION CONTROL CAME ON DURING NORMAL DRIVING
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-18
- VIN: JTEDD21A940
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: WE HAVE A VEHICLE WITH A 2.4LITER/4 CYLINGER ENGINE THAT IS LOOSING OIL AT A RATE OF 1QRT PER 1000 MILES AND NOW THERE IS A COOLANT LEAK COMING FROM THE GASKET SEAL BETWEEN THE ENGINE BLOCK AND HEAD. THERE IS NO GUAGE THAT TELLS YOU HOW MUCH OIL IS MISSING UNTIL IT'S TOO LATE AND THE ENGINE STARTS TO OVER HEAT. BOTH THE OIL AND COOLANT IS LEAKING ON ROADS, PARKING LOTS AND DRIVEWAYS, WHAT WE HAVE FOUND IS THAT THE BOLTS THAT ARE NEAREST THE LEAK ARE STRIPPED, THEY EITHER STRIPPED IN ASSEMBLY OR FLAILED DO TO OVERHEATING OF THE BLOCK DO TO THE ENGINE BLOCK NOT HAVING SUFFICIENT COOLING BECAUSE OF A HEAVY FOAM PAD THAT RESTRICTS AIR FLOE AROUND THE ENGINE CAUSING THE HEAD TO FLEX AND LEAK AT THE GASKET SEAL BASED ON ONLINE COMPLAINTS THERE ARE HUNDREDS, IF NOT THOUSANDS OF OWNERS WITH THIS SAME PROBLEM. SEEMS THAT SOME OF THESE ENGINES ARE HAVING SUCCESS BY DRILLING, TAPPING AND INSERTING NEW COILS INTO THE ALUMINUM BLOCK, WHICH MAY OR MAY NOT BE A PERMANENT SOLUTION. IT SEEMS THAT TOYOTA IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND REFUSES TO REPAIR THE DAMAGE. THE MOST COMMON SUGGESTED REPAIR IS TO REPLACE THE MOTOR AND WE ASSUME THAT THEY PROBLEM WILL HAPPEN AGAIN SINCE THEY HAVE REDESIGNED THE PROBLEM.. REPLACEMENT IS AT THE OWNERS COST FOR MATERIALS AND LABOR AT APPROX $6,000-$8,000.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-15
- VIN: JTEEP21A840
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER EQUIPPED WITH MICHELIN LTX M/S2 TIRES, SIZE: P225/75/R16 (NA). WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHAKE. UPON INSPECTION, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE BLEW OUT AND THE THREAD SEPARATED FROM THE BELT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE TIRE WAS NOT REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,000 AND THE TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,000.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-11
- VIN: JTEEP21A540
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: BEGAN DRIVING VEHICLE A WEEK AGO, USED TO BE MY WIFE'S VEHICLE. I NOTICED A SQUEAK IN THE DRIVER'S SEAT, AND NOTICED IT WIGGLED. I EXAMINED THE MOUNTING BOLTS, AND ALL 4 SEAT BOLTS WERE LOOSE, NOT EVEN FINGER TIGHT. THE ONLY SERVICE PERFORMED ANYWHERE NEAR THE SEAT WAS RECALL WORK ON THE FLOOR MAT RETAINING CLIP AND A SEAL IN THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER, BOTH RECALLS WERE DONE SIMULTANEOUSLY AT RUDY LUTHER TOYOTA, 8805 WAYZATA BLVD, GOLDEN VALLEY, MN 55426. RECALL WORK WAS DONE A COUPLE YEARS AGO. I TIGHTENED THE BOLTS WITH MY OWN TOOLS. PASSENGER SEAT BOLTS WERE TIGHT.
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-27
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEGD21A640
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: GAS STATION DID NOT CLOSE HOOD COMPLETELY AND IT BLEW OPEN WHILE TRYING TO ENTER THE HIGHWAY AT JUST OVER 40 MILES PER HOUR.THE SECONDARY SAFETY CATCH DID NOT HOLD OR WORK ! THE HOOD BLEW OPEN AND SHATTERED THE WINDSHIELD AND BENT THE HOOD UP INTO THE ROOF.THE TOPS OF THE FENDERS NEAR THE HINGES WERE ALSO RIPPED UP.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-04-20
- VIN: JTEDD21A240
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY ABOUT 60-65 MPH WHEN ENGINE BEGAN OVER HEATING. PULL OVER RADIATOR WAS LOW. PUT ANTIFREEZE IN DROVE HOME CHECK WAS ALLOW AGAIN. THE NEXT CALLED TOYOTA DEALER, WITH OUT EVEN LOOKING THEY SAID YOU PROBABLY HAVE A BLOWN HEAD GASKET. BUT WHEN WE TEAR IT DOWN AND IF THE HEAD BOLTS ARE STRIPPED OUT IT WILL COST UPWARDS OF 2000.00. SO NOW I HAVE THE CAR IN AN INDEPENDENT SHOP. I'M OUT ALMOST 800.00 NOW, AND THE CARS STILL NOT FIXED. I BELIEVE TOYOTA KNEW ABOUT THIS PROBLEM LONG BEFORE I BOUGHT THIS CAR. I WENT ON THE INTERNET AND FOUND THE HAS BEEN HAPPENING IN 2001-2006 MODELS.I THINK THEY SHOULD BE HELD RESPONSIBLE. *TR
2004 Toyota Highlander recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2004 Toyota Highlander.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 AVALON VEHICLES; 2004 AND 2005 CAMRY, CAMRY SOLARA, HIGHLANDER, AND SIENNA VEHICLES, 2006 HIGHLANDER HYBRID; 2004 AND 2005 LEXUS ES330 AND RX330; AND 2006 LEXUS RX400H VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 1, 2004 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2005, EQUIPPED WITH THE 1MZ-FE OR 3MZ-FE ENGINE. THE AMOUNT OF ADHESIVE AGENT APPLIED BETWEEN THE OUTER RING AND THE TORSIONAL RUBBER DAMPER (INNER RING) IN THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY MAY BE INADEQUATE. IF THE ADHESIVE IS INSUFFICIENT, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE OUTER RING MAY BECOME MISALIGNED AND IT MAY NOT PROPERLY ROTATE WITH THE INNER RING, CAUSING NOISE AND/OR ILLUMINATION OF THE BATTERY DISCHARGE INDICATOR LIGHT.
- Consequence: IN SOME CASES, THE BELT FOR THE POWER STEERING PUMP MAY BECOME DETACHED FROM THE PULLEY WHICH COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND A SUDDEN INCREASE IN STEERING EFFORT, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL CHECK THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY TO IDENTIFY WHETHER IT WAS PRODUCED BY THE U.S. SUPPLIER. IF SO, THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE PULLEY WITH A NEW ONE AT NO CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING EARLY JANUARY 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2006 HIGHLANDER, HIGHLANDER HYBRID, AND MODEL YEAR 2004-2007 LEXUS RX330, RX350, AND RX400H VEHICLES. IF THE FORWARD RETENTION CLIP USED TO SECURE THE FLOOR CARPET COVER, WHICH IS LOCATED IN FRONT OF THE CENTER CONSOLE, IS NOT INSTALLED PROPERLY THE COVER MAY LEAN TOWARD THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND INTERFERE WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ARM.
- Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL MAY TEMPORARILY BECOME STUCK IN A PARTIALLY DEPRESSED POSITION RATHER THAN RETURN TO THE IDLE POSITION. A STUCK ACCELERATOR PEDAL MAY RESULT IN UNINTENDED AND SUSTAINED VEHICLE SPEEDS AND MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO STOP, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FLOOR CARPET COVER WITH A NEWLY DESIGNED ONE FREE OR CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MARCH 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2006 AVALON, MODEL YEAR 2004-2006 HIGHLANDER, MODEL YEAR 2004-2006 LEXUS RX, AND MODEL YEAR 2006 LEXUS GS AND IS VEHICLES. BRAKE FLUID CONTAINING POLYMERS IS USED THAT ACTS AS LUBRICANTS FOR CERTAIN BRAKE SYSTEM COMPONENTS. IF REPLACEMENT BRAKE FLUID IS USED THAT DOES NOT CONTAIN SUCH POLYMERS, OR THAT CONTAINS ONLY SMALL AMOUNTS, A PART OF THE RUBBER SEAL LOCATED AT THE REAR OF THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER MAY BECOME DRY, AND THE SEAL MAY CURL DURING MOVEMENT OF THE PISTON. IF THIS OCCURS, A SMALL AMOUNT OF BRAKE FLUID COULD SLOWLY LEAK FROM THE SEAL INTO THE BRAKE BOOSTER.
- Consequence: A LEAK OF BRAKE FLUID COULD LEAD TO A CHANGE IN BRAKE PEDAL FEEL AND OVERTIME A DEGRADATION IN BRAKING PERFORMANCE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEAL WITH A NEWLY DESIGNED ONE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331 AND LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY AND HYBRID VEHICLES, THE TWO RETAINING CLIPS FOR THE DRIVER'S SIDE FORWARD CENTER CONSOLE CAN BECOME LOOSE. IF BOTH CLIPS SEPARATE FROM THE FLOOR CARPET COVER, THE COVER MAY LEAN TOWARD THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, CAUSING INTERFERENCE WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ROD.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY INTERFERE WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL RETURNING TO THE IDLE POSITION INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TWO FLOOR CARPET COVER RETAINING CLIPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 24, 2006, AND SHOULD BE COMPLETED BY EARLY SEPTEMBER 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331 OR LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES HAVE A CHILD PROTECTION LOCK (CPL) SYSTEM ON BOTH OF THE REAR SIDE DOORS. WHEN AN OPERATOR OF THE VEHICLE CLOSES THE DOOR VERY HARD WITH THE CPL LEVER SET TO THE LOCK POSITION, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE LEVER MAY CONTACT THE BODY PANEL, CAUSING THE CPL LEVER TO MOVE INTO THE UNLOCK POSITION.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD ALLOW THE DOOR TO BE OPENED WITH THE INSIDE WHILE THE OPERATOR BELIEVES THAT THE CPL WAS ACTIVATED. IF THE DOOR WERE OPENED FROM THE INSIDE WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, AN OCCUPANT COULD FALL OUT AND BE INJURED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL SHORTEN THE CPL LEVER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MAY 7, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Negative 2004 Toyota Highlander car reviews
Positive 2004 Toyota Highlander car reviews
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I'm so glad to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your vehicle! It's great to hear that you've been able to keep up with the recommended maintenance and have had no issues. Even the oxygen sensor replacement was covered under warranty, which is fantastic. It's impressive that you've been able to keep the original tires for so long, even with regular oil changes. Occasionally, after a check-up, the tire pressure sensor light comes on, but that's easily fixed with a reset. Your Highlander is truly a survivor, having withstood both flooding and a fallen tree. It's no wonder you're considering adding a Hybrid to your family. Thank you for sharing your story with us!
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This is a fantastic vehicle! It has great fuel efficiency and power performance, and the fun features make it an excellent choice for anyone. I needed the room and convenience of an SUV with a 3rd row, but I didn't want to tow anything. As someone who travels for field sales, comfort was essential, but I also wanted some extras that were available on the Toyota at an affordable purchase and operating price. The navigation system is cool, but it can be complicated at times, and it's tied in with the audio and AC, which can make things a bit confusing. The accelerator has a bit of a 'hair trigger,' so it takes some getting used to, and you may experience some lunges at low speeds until then. The retractable trunk cover was a bit of an afterthought, but it's certainly not enough to give the Highlander bad marks. Overall, I'm really happy with my choice!
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I bought the Highlander brand new for my wife back in 2004 and it has been one of the best vehicles we have ever owned. We were smart to pay for an extra extended 7-year warranty, which paid for itself in just two visits. Two years ago, the stereo system stopped working, but since it was covered, they replaced the whole unit for free. Then, this past December, we took it in for service and they noticed it was leaking around the water pump. Luckily, it was covered and they replaced it for free. Other than regular service, we have only had to replace the brakes and tires. I even drove it from Virginia to NJ and it was still a pleasure to drive. We continue to get great gas mileage from this SUV.
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This SUV rides very much like a car with excellent handling and acceleration. I am very pleased with both the interior and exterior appearance, which are both a plus.
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At 66 years old, I've shopped for a few cars in my time and have always looked at American made cars. However, at my wife's insistence, I finally decided to take a look at the Toyota Highlander. After researching this Toyota SUV with Edmonds and a couple of other sources, as well as talking to people I knew who owned Toyotas, I was pleasantly surprised to find that this vehicle is so advanced and superior to any car I have ever owned. I can't believe I waited this long to own one of the finest and most dependable SUVs on the market today. I couldn't find a single feature that wasn't superior to all of the competition.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Toyota Highlander problems:
Common issues to look for when buying used Highlander | Toyota ...
Nov 10, 2015 ... ... Highlander, probably 2004-2007 model in the next month or two. Are there any common problem areas I should keep an eye open for? Thanks ...
2004 Toyota Highlander Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Problem with your 2004 Toyota Highlander? Our list of 6 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2004 Toyota Highlander.
2004 Toyota Highlander Reliability - Consumer Reports
IN SOME CASES, THE BELT FOR THE POWER STEERING PUMP MAY BECOME DETACHED FROM THE PULLEY WHICH COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND A SUDDEN INCREASE IN ...
2004 Toyota Highlander Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Feb 15, 2023 ... Kelley Blue Book users give the 2004 Toyota Highlander a glowing 95% recommendation, noting the SUV's longevity, with many drivers passing ...
2004 Highlander Maintenance : r/ToyotaHighlander
Jun 22, 2023 ... The car has served me well and I'm not noticing any other performance issues. Thanks!
Other years of Toyota Highlander
Are you having problems with your 2004 Toyota Highlander?
Olin Runte 2024-08-27
We have been loyal Toyota customers since 1989, but after purchasing a Highlander, we experienced some issues that led us to switch to BMW. Specifically, we had two problems with the car. Firstly, when we opened a window or the sunroof, the air pressure change was drastic, which caused discomfort. Secondly, the bass in the 'premium' stereo varied significantly between when the engine was off and on, which made for an unpleasant listening experience. The feeling in our ears and the sound from the air pressure changes was similar to what it must feel like in a helicopter. Despite acknowledging these issues, Toyota did not take any action to accommodate us. According to Toyota, the car's performance was 'within specification'. We were disappointed with Toyota's response and no longer have faith in their products.
Clyde Hagenes 2024-08-20
Although the Highlander overall is adequate, it does have some noticeable shortcomings. Unfortunately, the gas mileage is quite poor, as I have yet to get more than 16 mpg even on the freeway. Additionally, if you happen to accelerate at the wrong time (when the transmission is shifting on its own), the transmission just winds out while you go nowhere. On the bright side, the seats are the most comfortable I have found in this genre of car, and the car has a lot of pep to it.
Ephraim Zboncak 2024-06-02
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with this vehicle that I bought used. For the first couple of months, everything was great! Even at 125,000 miles, the only issue I had was with the tires. I decided to buy all four tires brand new and they were good for about 20,000 miles. However, after that, they started to hum at speeds of 40 and up. The faster you go, the more annoying the sound gets. I took it to get the front end alignment checked and the tires seem to have worn evenly, but I'm still not sure what the problem is. Do you have any suggestions?