2002 Highlander Review | 150,000+ Miles Later

The Highlander had to start somewhere, and it did with this model. Introduced in 2000, the Highlander made a case for a comfort 4WD SUV as an alternative to the successful off-road-oriented 4Runner. How does this 2002 hold up today after 150k miles and 16 years? Let's find out.

[@batch23mmp59]

I own one of this, 205,000 miles in it, original alignment, original AC still working, original water pump and alternator, no tune up done and still working with no hesitation, original compressor, original power steering, the only thing that was done, replaced brake pads four times, used mobil 1 oil about every 10,000 miles, replace transmission oil about 3 times, replaces tires about 5 times. This is the Toyota Highlander V6 4WD 3.0. Love it.

[@electric1609]

I’m about to possibly buy a 2003 3 L limited four-wheel-drive. Can you tell me if this is all time like a Subaru or is it more comparable to my second generation CRV where it simply automatically kicks in when needed? I can’t find an answer to this anywhere.

[@blinxishere8412]

Would be more comparable to a Honda pilot their transmissions activate awd at around 25mph​@@electric1609

[@Rollingace]

Guys buy these mine has 360k miles and it's a hybrid! Even on a 10° day it starts right up and only problem I had in the last 30k miles I have driven is a new battery and radiator around 400 for both.

[@KirkKreifels]

Awesome testimony man! I have an avalon with the same motor and tranny and mine only has 112k.

[@rileymcmonigle9614]

400 for a battery jesus

[@HITCH13]

Do you have a 3.0 in yours?

[@ys0456]

@@rileymcmonigle9614 battery and radiator together

[@rileymcmonigle9614]

@@ys0456 not sure how I missed that. still seems a little high tho don't ya think?

[@DVAMEKAGK]

I have a 2002 Toyota Highlander limited, black, original paint, 144k miles. I love this car, and I drive it very rough. The engin growled but this car was built to last be extremely Convenient and comfortable. I get oil changes every 3,000 miles. I have never seen my check engine light. I got the timing belt changed at 120k miles and all the bushings replaced at the same time. I had time to save, and it wasn’t really expensive because it lasts if you take care of it. This car is extremely low maintenance and it’s the perfect daily driver. I’m getting a new radio in my car this year. This car saves you money, all you do is put gas in it, change the oil. If someone hits your bumper, you can have it repainted no problem, and very inexpensive. It’s a very durable vehicle. Fun to drive, quick but not fast, extremely comfortable. And the back seats do recline very far. You can lay the front seats flat and sleep on them like a cot. It’s great for what every you need.

[@randycausey5269]

Hey so I have a 2002 Toyota Highlander with 166K miles only thing my car needs is a oil change. I am a college student and my school is 6 hours away, can my car make it?

[@ChuddleBuggy]

Best reviewing style I've ever seen. I feel you could explain your impressions to a blind person extremely well. And if there ever was such a thing as an honest car salesman, you'd be the first I've seen.

[@KirkKreifels]

Thanks for the kind remarks!

[@bigpapa4755]

Fr

[@cinemasenses]

Hands-down the BEST vehicle I have ever owned, and mine is the base model with no bells & whistles except for roof rack & sport rails. I bought it in November 2001 and it's still chuggin' along at 171,000 miles in 2020. The sluggish brakes did take some getting used to but they have never failed. My only issues have been with the electric windows...the operating pad on the drivers side no longer raises the rear windows (down still works) and the front passenger window motor burned out altogether. I did have to replace the original catalytic converter but that was because of rust from ice-melt salt on the winter roadways. Great ride, great handling, fantastic safety, lots of cargo space, and terrific visibility. Gas mileage is okay, typical for heavier vehicle/SUV.

[@alibabaschultz352]

When did you do your timing belt?

[@randycausey5269]

Hey I have one with about 160K miles and I wanna bring it 6 hours away from school do you think it would be okay?

[@cinemasenses]

@@randycausey5269 Sure do! Just be sure to check your oil, make sure it’s registering a normal level on the dipstick, top off as necessary. And before any roadtrip you want to check tire pressure (go to Discount Tire, it’s free!) and top off fluids. Should be smooth sailing!

[@cinemasenses]

@@alibabaschultz352 Didn’t have to, the 2002 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a timing chain versus a belt

[@ptinio2]

I bought mine on November 5 2002, it’s got 251,362 miles, no problems just regular maintenance

[@youvids9820]

Beat used car to buy

[@LinhNguyen-bu1wv]

I planning to buy a used highlander. It's 2012 limited but it has 120k of miles. only 15k. what do you think? thank you

[@Rollingace]

@@LinhNguyen-bu1wv if u can find a 2013 one those r super reliable from my experience

[@rolandroland1485]

Dayofthejackal get anything 200-2007 V6, you won’t regret it ! If u want to go Uber get the 2013 as the guy mentioned

[@alibabaschultz352]

When did you do your timing belt?

[@JNGLifestyle]

The rear seats do recline. Just pull on the handle used to fold them down as you sit and lean back.

[@Jathpor]

I have a 2006 Toyota Highlander with the 3.3L V6 (3MZ-FE), bought brand new with 0 miles in 2006. Just approaching 200,000 miles but she still pulls strong, transmission is still smooth as ever. Gotta love that Japanese V6 smoothness. Interior is still in good shape, just a good car overall, which is to be expected from a Japanese automaker, especially since this generation of highlanders are built in Japan. It's too bad the newer highlanders are built in the US instead of Japan, but what can you do, lol.

[@thas1227]

This is one of the nicest looking suvs ever produced, new suvs are overly bulky or have giant grills. This ones got a reasonably sized grill, a protruding front and rear bumper, straight windows, Glad I own one

[@KirkKreifels]

You have a great SUV!

[@ogkirbo5615]

I own one too just hit 210k miles and not a problem and I drive it like it’s nascar

[@---GOD---]

I've been looking to get a new SUV but there's nothing that excites me like this Highlander. New SUVs are, like you said, very bulky and just don't look sporty and sleek like this. I like the boxy look compared to the fat round curves of newer SUVs.

[@bigpapa4755]

@@ogkirbo5615 😂😂😂😂😂

[@jerrygee941]

I have an ‘07 inline 4 engine (2azfe) with 91k miles. Looks new on inside and out because of me always constantly cleaning/maintaining it. I’ve got several people (co workers and a couple randos) offering to buy it but I won’t sell! Loving the highlander a lot!

[@dashcamjourney4599]

Any oil burning issues? Was the piston heads replaced on this engine. They are known for the oil burning issues.

[@artistnyc123]

I have a 2009 Highlander but I always have eyes out for that first GEN because I just think there's something very special about them.

[@marcoshasagun]

Just joined the community of highlanders and I am happy to see this good review, also my first car!

[@isaac7970]

Has it lasted so far I’m thinking of getting a 2001 Toyota highlander 2.4 vvti Automatic with miles 126000 originals for 3.5k from someone of of Facebook it would also be my first car

[@marcoshasagun]

Isa Ac dude yes go for it mine had 150k such a comfy suv

[@chrispellicci6587]

Just bought a 06 with only 58k in miles. Can't wait to get it on the road

[@randycausey5269]

Dam that’s a steal!

[@keithwhite8610]

I have a SUV 2002 Toyota Highlander and it has been very dependable it's getting close to 200000 MI and they only thing I've done to the motor is put a alternator on it just kept it serviced and brakes Dale run like a new one no complaints very dependable thank you

[@randycausey5269]

Hey I have one with about 160K miles and I wanna bring it 6 hours away from school do you think it would be okay?

[@allblackls]

I have a 2002 Highlander I use for work. 3.0 v6 4wd. 230,000 miles and still runs great. I do about 100-150 miles 5-6 days a week and it always starts and always runs good. Gas mileage is not good, averaging about 18-19mpg but it stays around 80mph most of the time. Good power but it does need more gears than 4 on hills. Also at 80 mph, the engine is turning close to 3,500rpm which is why I would recommend a 2004+ with the 3.3 and 5 speed Auto. It has a much lower final gear ratio. But for the $200 I paid for it I can't complain. New struts and new good brakes is all it needed for me

[@ralphkohen8097]

I also have a 2002 Highlander, 85,000 ml and runs great too. I'm a second owner, bought it in 2005 with 55,000 ml. My question is, have you ever preemptively replaced the timing belt? I'm considering to replace the belt preemptively, but since it a costly repair I want to postpone it until a later time. Your information on this matter would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

[@admiralking]

I love the dead pan delivery of sarcasm! Absolutely fantastic review.

[@robwatt7001]

You can recline the back seats. On top of the seat, just pull it up.

[@andremorales394]

My dad owns a 2000 Toyota Sienna Thanks for the highlight

[@gregnixon1296]

Your valves are tapping. High mileage, older vehicle. Not a problem. You have to be burning oil, so keep it topped off when you fill up the gas. It will last forever.

[@AdventureTimeChris]

Every review, IT DRIVES SMOOTH

[@MrLike2surf]

We have a 2003, Highlander Limited, (very similar), and it is a great car. EXCEPT, that the sun visors either stay in the up position or flop straight down when you try to adjust then to block the sun.

[@KirkKreifels]

Small complaint 👍

[@marvisabu1784]

Up for sale?

[@mckav2358]

Hi Kirk, not in the US but luved youre in depth review showing all the features of this beauty. Im considering one SH in the country i live & youre review has helped no end thanx a 'bunch' Kindest Regards

[@shannoncharles732]

Does that one whine when going into gear I have the same model. Mines does that. But is a really good car

[@rolandroland1485]

This guy is so sensitive and overreacting, when you press the gas and expecting the car to go, IT WILL MAKE AN ENGINE SOUND because you are putting pressure on the engine by accelerating, therefore the engine respond based on the amount of gear it has to offer. I have a 2006 v6 version with 88742 currently and for it age mine is pretty fast and it makes the same sound btw 2-3 speed when I press the gas. It’s a 2000-2007 generation, what are you expecting ??? 🤦🏿‍♂️🤦🏿‍♂️🤦🏿‍♂️. Don’t use this video to decide if you want to buy it. It’s very reliable and actually pretty quick ( mine at least ) and I am sure most of them as long as you maintain it. By the way the breaks are GREAT !!!!!!!! Trust me my experience is genuine and honest, if anything I will be very critical of this car ( I am 26 years old meaning most guys at my age buy newer models, modern and much faster cars ) Buy it and you regret it,

[@isaac7970]

What do you think about me getting a 2001 Toyota highlander 2.4 vvti Automatic with miles 126000 originals for 3.5k from someone of of Facebook? It would also be my first car

[@rolandroland1485]

Isa Ac see what the condition of the car is on Facebook .. Good, very good, excellent ? Drive either excellent, smooth or good, new etc .... Also make sure the timing belt/chain has been replaced ( he has to show you prove, receipt that it has been done ) because that will cost you 600-1000$. Make sure the car shift smooth when you test drive it. Also no check engine light. No rust! Tell him you can 3k Take the car on the highway go over 50-60mph and make sure the car doesn’t shake. It should drive solid. Personally I will go with the V6 3.3L engine, they are the better version but the 4cylinder is good and great on gas.

[@robwatt7001]

We bought our 2001 4wd in 2001 new. We have 196,000 miles and still great.

[@marvisabu1784]

Wanna sell?

[@eaglerider94]

I just picked up a '07 with 163K well maintained miles from an elderly family member. First order of business was, clean the engine, cleaned the spark plugs (slight miss is now gone, LED headlights (game changer!), tow hitch. Looking for a slightly more aggressive tire yet maintaining the same 16" size.

[@deibama]

Rear seat recline is on top.

[@tamikaventez4151]

2005 WHITE TOYOTA HIGHLANDER LIMITED SPORT NEW JOB DRIVE DRIVING

[@golferpro1241]

Got the ‘04Lexus RX330. Sister to this car. 43,750 on it. Runs perfect! 3.3 Litre 6 cylinder

[@erickisel8668]

Would a 2007 Highlander be a good choice for a first vehicle for a teen driver? I am going to look at a base model with value pkg and AWD that supposedly has 64k on it today. It has the 3.3 V6 and 5 speed auto.

[@joepearlzz8504]

Anyone know if the 2001-2003 have the option for 3rd row or possible to add it yourself?

[@eaglerider94]

Check your brake master cylinder for leakage and fluid. If the fluid dark, have it flushed out. Old fluid eventually absorbs moisture which translates to less than firm braking.

[@JoshRocks712]

One of my best friends has an 04 highlander with 80k miles and it’s really nice. It definitely accelerates fast but I guess it’s something I’m used to. Also she had some trouble with her brakes/shocks but she also took it to a really shady shop that probably didn’t know what they were doing 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@rolandroland1485]

JoshRocks712 that’s what I am saying bro, I bought mine with 75k and now has 88k over a 1 year and 4months, my shit be gone lol, not extremely fast but for a 2006 car you be surprised, I be smoking folks early by the time to come to get me I be out already 🤣🤣🤣🤣. All BD aside the car has descent acceleration

[@JLxavyo]

My dad got this car for 500 and then fixed and gave it to me as my first car, it runs well

[@AHMEDMOOSAJI]

It just shows how much bigger vehicles are getting it looks to be similar in size to the new rav maybe slightly bigger Can you review an Infiniti QX70 what to see how it compares to the 2010 rx

[@KirkKreifels]

Ahmed Moosaji yep, all cars have exploded in size over the last two decades. If we get that Infiniti on our pot I'll for sure review it!

[@DoubleHCreations]

I love how the Highlander is literally just a rav4 wagon

[@johnphom1136]

Found a 2003 v6 with 170k on it for 3500. Worth it? Jus need a beater and dog mobile.

[@dlife7427]

Yes

[@randycausey5269]

Hey so I have a 2002 Toyota Highlander with 166K miles only thing my car needs is a oil change. I am a college student and my school is 6 hours away, can my car make it?

[@MelonSmasher73]

Got an 03 with 85,000 miles 😎

[@Sal12538]

Damn, that car sure has many many more miles to go hopefully. Mind asking how much you got it for? Mine has 198k

[@brianchisnell1548]

Rare to find a car with a mag wheel on the spare! My extra car is a 03 V6 AWD. 40k mi. Garaged.

[@kamalmani695]

Great Reviews. How would you compare this to RX300 of this generation?

[@gsxellence]

Rx is very nice but very poor mileage and requires premium

[@Jonnymg4]

RX300 also had transmission issues at higher mileage, unfortunately

[@gsxellence]

@@Jonnymg4 well that just turned me off

[@joepearlzz8504]

Don’t they have the same engine and transmission

[@cameronh3260]

I have a 2001 Toyota highlander with 206k miles on it, has new tires and just got a new paint job and it drives great....but the back windows don't work

[@nathanfreiner4195]

Same trasmioon

[@randycausey5269]

miles only thing my car needs is a oil change. I am a college student and my school is 6 hours away, can my car make it?

[@ogkirbo5615]

Mines got 200,500 and still going strong

[@randycausey5269]

Hey so I have a 2002 Toyota Highlander with 166K miles only thing my car needs is a oil change. I am a college student and my school is 6 hours away, can my car make it?

[@spicysnowman8886]

Mine has 270,000 the interior is worn and the back windows dont role down but everything else is good

[@HITCH13]

Do you have a 3.0?

[@spicysnowman8886]

@@HITCH13 yes the v6

[@jerrymichael8177]

I just bought a 2001 with 218k in great condition for $3950,everything works except cd player.I hope it last for a iong time.

[@jerrymichael8177]

@Steven T Hi steven,I've put 400 miles on mine so far and it's doing great.I wanted to get one with less miles but its so clean and drives so well that I bought it.I also only had $4000.check out your car angel here on you tube he talks about these first generation ones that were built in japan the kaizen way,there's a link on his video that explains the kaizen way,it's a good thing to know.also these cars seem to hold more value then say chevy or fords.$3500 is about as cheap as i've seen them but they sometimes have a dent or something to bring the value down and mine is a 2001 which was the first year they made these.the newer years of course are worth more.mine is blue and i really like the color. Hope this helps and good luck!

[@rolandroland1485]

Steven T don’t buy anything higher than 180k, you end up buying ? If so how is the car so far ? Mine has 88k v6 currently ( financed 8k at 75k miles ) which i kinda regret but the car has been running like butter, excellent !

[@BDAILY365]

I'm buying one too tomorrow with 210k miles for 3k. Everything looking okay but not sure what to look for mechanically when I see it. This will be a family car for us. Any thoughts on what to look for. 2nd owner has all maintenance rec and seem to be good shape overall, thanks.

[@rolandroland1485]

Brian Pham ask when was the last timing belt/chain was replaced because it’s an expensive repair ( 800-1400$ ) if it’s a 4cyl you are looking at a timing chain ( cost less and last longer ) if it’s a v6 or hybrid it’s most likely a timing belt ( doesn’t last as long ). Make sure that has been replaced or has at least 60k to go without replacement. Toyota Manuel recommend it to be replaced every 60-90k mileage but some go till 120-150k miles without replacement ( which is risky ). Do some research and you will know better about it. Other than that they are great cars, make sure the transmission shift smoothly, no knock or anything. Obviously NO LEAK !!! I would recommend to get something with less mileage ( 140-180k ) but Good luck 👍🏿

[@isaac7970]

For any of you who have thoughts, Has the car lasted so far I’m thinking of getting a 2001 Toyota highlander 2.4 vvti Automatic with miles 126000 originals for 3.5k from someone of Facebook and it would be my first car so I’m looking for pointers on what to look at or get a feel of if I go check it out it’s not that far too

[@susanevans1294]

Do those rear seats fold truly flat?

[@Sal12538]

Yes, I have one, and the rear seats fold flat, as well as recline (despite what was mentioned in the video). Great flat loading floor.

[@mohammedcohen]

...my 27 year old Towncar was destroyed by an impaired driver in July...my mechanic, who kept it running like a top for 17 years, has a 2002 Highlander in really good condition - with 150K miles - he wants $4300 for it...I'll replace the current stereo system with a navigation/radio/satellite/BT system...if I can find a compatible one...hell it's a Toyota - you can't kill them - the old car had close to 300K miles - so this one will be like new to me

[@alberthall4720]

By the way the French translation is exactly the same We have a 2007 hybrid with over 240,000miled very excellent brakes and acceleration I believe original hybrid battery. Very fast too. Really, really a great cat.; simple is best!

[@josephbayoo5388]

How Much can I get this Car

[@rithyravy7117]

First day of review

[@8ballbowler]

I have one. The only issue is I get a little smoke out of my exhaust pipe about twice a week at start up. Other than that, it’s been a good vehicle.

[@KILORESTORATION]

Smoke out of the tail pipe could be an indication that the head gasket is going I’ve read. Just an FYI.

[@shannoncharles732]

Pcv valve. Mine did that. 6 dollar part

[@ScannersZ]

😎 Review my dude!!

[@anthonychrist7728]

We have uh... An engine, some wheels... Windshield, and over here you can see we have some metal, but inside there's a steering wheel!

[@ezrayin6404]

I see a v4 Highlander is it real

[@Trailcamvideos25]

I'm in a dilemma, here my two options I've found, should I buy a 2001 highlander limited with 138,000 miles for $5000 or a 2005 rav4 with 150,000 miles for $6000

[@JosiahAmankwah]

Get whichever one you like. The Highlander sounds like the best option because of the higher limited trim

[@Trailcamvideos25]

@Luke C. is 2005 a first gen? I would swear these toyotas are made of gold out here for these prices

[@dlife7427]

@@Trailcamvideos25 the ravs are very basic, get the Highlander it will always hold value

[@michellelo2970]

My grandma has that car

[@tamikaventez4151]

2007 BLACK TOYOTA HIGHLANDER LIMITED SPORT NEW JOB DRIVE DRIVING

[@carguy1748]

We got a used certified 2003 Toyota Highlander base model back in 2006. It had a v6 and 4wd. Great car! Probably should’ve bought one brand new though because although the engine was bullet proof, it had sooo many problems. First we had leaking problems in the interior and brought it to Toyota 3 times to get it fixed and they could never fix it. The brake pads constantly had to be changed around 2009, then the exhaust started having problems in 2012-2013 and my mom said it’s probably because the car was originally from the south and was in a flood or something. Idk what was wrong with it the one time but in 2014 we were coming back from the shore and we had just gotten on the highway and out of nowhere the car jolts like crazy. At first I thought it was a blown tire, but then it did it two more times and something happened with the engine and basically we couldn’t go faster then 55 but it wasn’t the transmission. Fast forward to March 2018, that’s when we had to finally say goodbye but it had almost 200k miles on it, so it lasted. My mom bought a 2017 Subaru Outback premium. I do a have a video of me driving the car on my channel if anyone wants to check it out.

[@cjackfly]

BLASPHEME!!! "Take out the 6 disc changer and cassette player" for what?!!! To sell to me? Ok. Do you still have it?! If so, I want it!!! Hit me up!!!

[@saltie.7783]

2022 toyota highlander lololol

[@somunindmeng9355]

Good

[@youngdreflaco]

bro doesn’t know what brake pads are 💀

[@juljasmaharchive]

If you think this is old you know nothing about cars

[@KirkKreifels]

My dad has a 1939 Buick...just a tad older.

[@randycausey5269]

miles only thing my car needs is a oil change. I am a college student and my school is 6 hours away, can my car make it?

[@showgirlsaroundtheworldada4484]

Of this era...omg

[@showgirlsaroundtheworldada4484]

If you just took it in on trade it needs to be checked out before it goes on lot...

[@showgirlsaroundtheworldada4484]

I don't know why you keep comparing to the Avalon?

[@8ballbowler]

Same engine

[@conormurphy8602]

He literally covered that

[@showgirlsaroundtheworldada4484]

Prob needs brakes, Tranni filter kit, tune up ...obviously

[@showgirlsaroundtheworldada4484]

An Avalon and a suv is a entirely different thing...no comparison

[@showgirlsaroundtheworldada4484]

Engines never sound right on video than in person..fact

[@showgirlsaroundtheworldada4484]

You sell cars and talk like that?

[@MusicConnoisseurian]

My mom has 2007, last year of that gen. Borrowed it for week. Decided to get the next, which is still pretty good, but not as comfy as this in my opinion and the seats are better too in the first gen. It's marginal, but noticable on long trips. She actually has hybrid with a v6 is very quick as the electric motors get it moving fast while the engine revs up to take over - smooth and faster than my 2002 gs300 or 2012 3.5 Highlander SE.

[@Hani3]

so if i wanted to put a cheap double din apple carplay navigation interface will it work with this particular car?

[@CodyBosch]

I’ve never noticed how close these are on the interior to the RX300. Especially in the gear lever and outboard air vents. Same V6 too. I guess they would be similar though, as they’re on the same platform in the same era.

[@andrewtibbets]

According to my Haynes repair manual, this car shares a lot of design and structure with the RX 300, 330, and 350. They're all covered in the same book 🙂

[@golferpro1241]

@@andrewtibbetsyes, sister cars. Mostly the same