2008 Toyota Highlander Consumer Discussions

Toyota Highlander Oil Leaks

• WARNING! 2008 Highlander Oil Leak

  Written by: tarugs on Feb 5, 2012 3:41:29 PM

  Holy cow, I have some major oil leak on my 2008 Limited highlander this morning! On our way back from church, I noticed a "low engine pressure" message pop up for a couple of seconds and then it went away. When we reached our driveway, I saw a big puddle of oil where the vehicle was parked at the previous night, underneath the engine on the right side (left side if ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump [ghbyram]

  Written by: luckyseven on Jan 7, 2012 7:56:58 PM

  luckyseven - I've spent a few hours googling and can't seem to find instructions for water pump swap on a Gen 2 Highlander from the PS wheel well. Nor can I figure out how to PM you on this Edmunds forum (and I'm a techie guy). Any leads in the right direction are appreciated. Hint: Try going on toyotanation highlander forum, there was a poster who replaced the water pump by ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump [ghbyram]

  Written by: phrosut on Jan 6, 2012 9:19:11 AM

  I can't help with the procedure but I WOULD suggest that you install a Toyota water pump. I have friends that own auto repair shops and I've been told aftermarket pumps don't last as long as the factory part and can cause timing belt problems if they fail. These shops would normally install aftermarket parts but not for this car. One shop had a HL in for repairs after an aftermarket ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump [luckyseven]

  Written by: ghbyram on Jan 6, 2012 7:27:03 AM

  luckyseven - I've spent a few hours googling and can't seem to find instructions for water pump swap on a Gen 2 Highlander from the PS wheel well. Nor can I figure out how to PM you on this Edmunds forum (and I'm a techie guy). Any leads in the right direction are appreciated.

Toyota Highlander Tires and Wheels

• Re: Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1 [mtngrl08]

  Written by: pole5 on Jan 15, 2012 12:42:34 PM

  I had the Toyo tires replaced on my 2008 Highlander at 29000 miles. Very disappointed with the quality of these original tires on the vehicle. In my opinion, Toyota is paying the price (will and should continue to) for all their sins of cutting the corner with quality. The premium customers pay to buy a toyota is not worth anymore. This happened, if you see, to other arrogant Japanese manufacturers like ... Read More

Toyota 4WD systems explained

• Re: Highlander and RAV4 [reneeg1]

  Written by: luckyseven on Jan 11, 2012 9:56:27 AM

  Highlander has very effective AWD system that had proven itself to pretty much every HL owner. wwest never owned or rode a HL but has his own, not shared by anyone home grown conspiracy theories about Toyota AWD implementation in HL. HL doesn't have any switches to engage AWD, it on all the time. Use common sense, make sure that your tires are good and suitable for snow/all weather driving. If ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Accessories and Modifications

• Toyota highlander changes between 2008-2010 and 2011

  Written by: nikon5400 on Dec 6, 2011 7:55:26 PM

  I'd like to update some of the interior on my 2012 base highlander. I'd like to get leather seats and it seems like SE interior can be found on junk yards for less then katzkin leather would cost, plus I'd get power driver seat, lumbar support and heat (with SE dashboard). I know it's not new and katzkin is probably better, but I'd like to weigh pros and cons. I know ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Bluetooth

• Re: 2008 highlander bluetooth issues [jack1942]

  Written by: lonnie_toyota on Oct 16, 2011 4:36:51 PM

  iPhone's work great with Toyota. To change the volume use the plus and minus button on the steering wheel.

Toyota Highlander Tires and Wheels

• Re: Toyo HTs in 245/55 R19 at Les Schwab [jim_bo]

  Written by: newelca on Sep 19, 2011 10:35:23 AM

  My original Toyo tires P245/55R19 103S which came on my 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Ltd (bought new in July 2009) wore very quickly. We replaced them with another Toyo set early last winter in 2010... and Toyota is already monitoring the tread depths. I did an internet search yesterday to see what was out there for a winter tire to at least use in the winter - since I got stuck ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Broken Sunroof! [lavalamp1]

  Written by: krb1 on Aug 1, 2011 9:41:22 AM

  I have 2008 Toyota Highlander Ltd. The roof failed after about 2 years of ownership. I have hardly ever used the roof - up to that point maybe less than 10 times. I purchased the car used and so maybe the previous owner used the sunroof more often, but I could not believe that it failed so quickly. I had a similar problem. The roof did not want to close. When ... Read More

Honda Pilot vs Mazda CX-9 vs Toyota Highlander

• Re: If CX-9 is so great, how come.. [davicho]

  Written by: luckyseven on Jul 6, 2011 9:09:21 AM

  1. I've owned Hondas and Toyotas for long time and can tell you a dirty secret - no one buys these cars for looks. 2. 0-60 number tells a lot, if you live in busy city try to merge on the freeway on slower vehicle. 0.7 sec makes a big difference. 3. In spite of its sporty persona, the 2008 Mazda CX-9 ends up with the slowest slalom speed (58.4 mph) ... Read More

Highlander vinegar smell?

• Re: Highlander vinegar smell? [forthill]

  Written by: toyotachevyguy on Jul 4, 2011 2:05:48 PM

  Same problem, same "vinegar" smell in our 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Only happens after the AC has been running. First noticed it right after purchase. Didn't know at that time that anyone else had the same problem yet. The smell will turn your stomach and make you roll down the windows, which of course negates any cooling effect of the AC. There is a service bulletin for 2008 Highlanders on this, ... Read More

Honda Pilot vs Mazda CX-9 vs Toyota Highlander

• Re: If CX-9 is so great, how come.. [sixth_gear]

  Written by: luckyseven on Jun 15, 2011 2:10:21 PM

  The reality is that Highlander is very competitive vehicle and gets on average 2MPG better fuel economy then CX9 which is major plus with today's gas prices. I'm not going to go over advantages or shortcomings since this is endless topic. Make sure that you test drive one before making any decisions. I live in Ohio and noticed that Highlanders almost never have been advertized by the Toyota dealers in the ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump [dieselclyde]

  Written by: luckyseven on May 19, 2011 7:28:56 PM

  It is doable from the passenger wheel well, google it. This would DIY way though. I'll quote a poster from another forum who had to replace the pump on his own "Here is the official scoop: Toyota TIS says flat out the engine needs to come out at the tune of 11 hours. Even Toyota corporate follows this declaration. At 74k they were willing to pay half of the repair which ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump [slade1]

  Written by: dieselclyde on May 19, 2011 3:29:42 PM

  I spoke to the Lead technician last week at our local Toyota Dealer and asked about the high cost. He related that the labor is high because the engine has to be lowered from the engine bay to get access to the pump. He told me there is not enough room to replace it otherwise. Toyota has an engineering problem with this repair and those affecting the Camry models with the ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump [slade1]

  Written by: herzogtum71 on Apr 6, 2011 3:31:54 PM

  4-cylinder 2004 fwd -- I had the water pump replaced at the dealer in a small town an hour from where I live with 101,218 miles on the odometer. I had taken it in for recall work with the brake seal and asked them to do a 5K maintenance including tire rotation and oil change. They also replaced the cabin air filter, turned rotors and freed up a sticking brake caliper. ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump [mikefm58]

  Written by: toledo73 on Mar 30, 2011 8:36:28 AM

  Hmmm, never checked the section if you are towing. Haven't towed a thing in years. But, a good heads up. Funny about the 699 ddeal! Take care, man.

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump [shagnat]

  Written by: mikefm58 on Mar 30, 2011 6:46:19 AM

  My 04 HL has been rock solid like yours, just tires, oil changes, and a battery so far, still running on the original brake pads at 65K miles. That has really impressed me. I'm driving my wife nuts telling her to listen for the chirp chirp of the break pad wear indicator, LOL. And I'm anal on keeping records.

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump [toledo73]

  Written by: mikefm58 on Mar 30, 2011 6:43:24 AM

  I have an 04 HL and apparently my owner's manual in regards to the tranny fluid is different than yours. Mine says something like replace at 6yrs/72K miles if towing, otherwise, check and replace if brownish in color or smells burnt. Good for you though that you know and trust your dealer. I'm in Florida, home of the $699 dealer fee so that should speak for itself.

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump [mikefm58]

  Written by: shagnat on Mar 29, 2011 8:47:32 PM

  I let my dealer do all my work. Thank goodness I own a Toyota and have had NO repairs necessary to my '03 Highlander Limited. He does a good job, keeps all the records for me (I'm terrible at keeping records) and can tell at a glance the last time my cabin air filter was changed, the engine air filter was changed, IF I need to have my coolant replaced, in ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump [mikefm58]

  Written by: toledo73 on Mar 29, 2011 7:55:00 PM

  My 2010 HL has been serviced by the dealer since I bought it. First 2 were free, and the 15K was 59 bucks. My service station couldn't beat that price. Been very satisfied. The owners manual indicates that a tranny fluid inspection is required at 30K miles. I was not aware that the fluid she go brown before you replace. I do not allow the engine oil to go black before ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump [tsotsi]

  Written by: mikefm58 on Mar 28, 2011 6:11:13 AM

  So I would have to score Toyota about average for reliability and blame the dealer for making it seem worse than it actually is. If I had relied on the dealer for all of my maintenance I would be out over $1000 more. Toyota service advisors in general from my experience are some of the worst rip-offs I've seen. True story here, my wife's best friend took her 4-Runner in for ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump [slade1]

  Written by: tsotsi on Mar 26, 2011 10:02:53 AM

  I had a similar experience with the serpentine belt tensioner on my Highlander. At 60,000 miles the belt failed, leaving me stranded -- no power steering, generator or cooling. The black rubber marks on the tensioner pulley led me and the dealer to the conclusion that the tensioner had a bad bearing, causing the belt to fail. Unfortunately, the cost for replacing the tensioner, water pump (might just as well while ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump [slade1]

  Written by: luckyseven on Mar 23, 2011 8:05:00 PM

  Water pump recently went on my 2009 Camry with only 30K and was replaced under the warranty. I read on another board about leaky HL pump, looks like this becoming a common issue.. If you handy enough it is possible to replace HL water pump from a right wheel well area with some arm twisting. I think new pump shouldn't be more then $100. If you PM me I'll send you ... Read More

• 2008 Toyota Highlander - Water Pump

  Written by: slade1 on Mar 23, 2011 9:35:25 AM

  My water pump went bad in my engine...............How do I know this? My antifreeze is on my driveway and a mechanic looked at. The car is just 3 years with 70k miles. The labor hours are 11 hours. The estimates I received are $3,200 to $1,147.04, Toyota came in at $1,350. I bought the car because Toyota had such a great reputation for the longevity of it's automobiles. I feel screwed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Tires and Wheels

• Re: Need advice on worn out Toyota Highlander 2009 TIRES AT 22,000 Miles [damifinomike]

  Written by: mama2ally on Mar 3, 2011 8:18:26 PM

  I switched sizes, but I'm no longer under any warranty except maybe powertrain. My 2008 has over 60,000 mi.

Lexus RX 350 versus Toyota Highlander Limited?

• Re: RX350 vs. Highlander [wwest]

  Written by: luckyseven on Mar 1, 2011 7:16:04 PM

  I can't comment on "the fairly common "stuck" situation wherein you're trying to start up, initially, from a stop, a slight incline that is icy or slippery" for a simple reason that MY Highlander never got stuck in this situation and started moving with ease. As a matter of fact MY Highlander didn't get stuck even once since the time I purchased it back in 2008. I can see that you ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• 2011 Highlander Limited 4WD V6 MSRP $40,340

  Written by: hyperchickmom on Feb 24, 2011 9:58:40 PM

  Hooray! Thanks to this website...and all the info re invoice pricing, etc. we purchased our new Highlander today! After shopping around, and not getting our offer accept at another dealer due to the color we wanted was not their inventory. We found the exact model (above in Cypress Pearl with beige interior) we wanted in stock at Millenium Toyota (Hempstead, NY)...that is one secret for getting a lower cost. MSRP $40,340 ... Read More

Extended Warranty - Toyota Extra Care

• Re: Toyota Highlander/ Rav Extended Warranty [smooth01]

  Written by: smooth01 on Oct 12, 2009 2:38:51 PM

  You have until your vehicle reaches the 30,000 /3yr part of your warranty to buy the Toyota Platinum Plus Extended Warranty. My dealer tried to rip me for $1600.00 and I bought mine from Midwest Superstore, Hutchinson KS. My 2008 FWD Highlander and my wifes 2009 FWD Rav4 was $664.00 ea, for the 6yr/100,000 mi./0 deductible. If you have AWD it will probably be a little more ,but I guarantee ,you ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Center Console

• Re: 2008 Highlander center console [mlkinzel]

  Written by: plaaaaane on Jan 9, 2011 5:28:48 PM

  Not exactly sure which parts you need but a quick search on line for highlander floor console and highlander center console turned up toyota-parts-dealer.com that has door assemblies for low $100s, plus other parts for the console.

Toyota Highlander Tires and Wheels

• Re: 2008 Highlander Sport Tires [jojoman]

  Written by: mama2ally on Oct 11, 2010 5:55:32 PM

  I got mine at Discount Tire and they seemed pretty knowledgeable. Of course I'm outside of warranty, so I wasn't concerned with voiding the Toyota warranty.

Extended Warranty - Toyota Extra Care

• Toyota Highlander/ Rav Extended Warranty

  Written by: smooth01 on Oct 9, 2009 4:40:49 PM

  I just purchased an extended warranty from Midwest Superstore, Hutchinson KS,for my 2008 FWD Highlander Sport and my wifes FWD 2009 Rav4 Limited. The price was $644.00 for 6yr-100,000, -0- deductible,for each vehicle.The quote for the 7-100-0 was $789.00.

Toyota Highlander Tires and Wheels

• Re: 2008 Highlander Sport Tires [steve1979]

  Written by: jojoman on Oct 11, 2010 4:18:10 PM

  I'm in the same boat; I own 2 2008 highlanders with 245/55/19 tires, worst tires I ever owned one with Toyo, the other Brigstone duelers - 28,000 miles and they are shot. Have you or anyone else reading this post found someone with accurate knowledge of tire size substitutes? Toyota Nation.com - folks say 255/55/19 AND 235/60/19 can be used - they are using them without problems. Toyota doesn't know squat. ... Read More

• Re: Does anyone has this tire problem [bfleagle]

  Written by: hotrod28 on Dec 21, 2010 10:12:52 AM

  I have a 2008 Toyota Highlander with the 19" wheels and had the same problem with the original equipment tires. I looked at all the recommended replacements and the only ones recommended were the Toyo or the Bridgestones neither of which were acceptable to me. The best replacement I found was the P255/60 R19 Michelin Latitude tire. This is a larger tire and the Toyota Dealer tried to tell me they ... Read More

• Re: Does anyone has this tire problem [ida4]

  Written by: bfleagle on Dec 21, 2010 9:38:31 AM

  I am currently going through the same issue with my Bridgestone tires. Bridgstone says there is no specification from Toyota placed on the mileage. I'm looking at $200./tire for replacement. My Highlander is a 2008 and 29K miles and my tires are done. Not very happy.

Toyota Highlander Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Moonroof question - Highlander 2008 [krb1]

  Written by: jrfiero on Sep 26, 2010 4:39:26 PM

  "the moonroof leaks " "They did a test when they hosed the car down and saw that some water came through" And they said not to worry about it? If so, of course that's nonsense. Most sunroofs have drains which go down the A-pillars (next to the windshield) to drain water that gets past the seal (and probably into this "tray" thing). The drains get clogged with debris, and need to ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Used 2008 AWD Limited - 2 previous owners

  Written by: eugene123 on Aug 9, 2010 9:38:52 AM

  Hi folks - I have come across a certified used '08 AWD Limited Highlander with premium sound, leather and moonroof (no navigation) with about 30,000 miles on it. I've never bought a used car, but it is a Certified Used vehicle being offered by a Toyota dealership in Maryland. It looks to be in good condition with one big caveat for me - it has had 2 prior owners within the ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Transmission Problems

• THANKYOU EDMUNDS Toyota Highlander hesitation addressed.

  Written by: miyahira on Jun 9, 2010 5:42:03 AM

  This site is wonderful! This is what you call consumer advocacy and protection! Information is power and safety! Got Toyota to address my hesitation problem because of the info i got here! I have a 2008 Highlander. A few months after purchasing my vehicle, I noticed a hesitation in the car auto shifting in lower gears..very dangerous when trying to get onto the highway. Got worse as the year went by. ... Read More

2008 Toyota Highlander

• Re: I got rid of a 2008 highlander after 18 months of ownnership [dowlingdc]

  Written by: knwpsk on Jun 7, 2010 7:12:15 PM

  dowlingdc: I had the same problem with my 2008 HL -- the alarm kept going off randomly while parked and turned off. (It was inevitably in the middle of my son's soccer games!) Toyota couldn't diagnose it. One day on a whim, I looked under the hood and noticed some small rubber plugs near the front frame (close to me), and two of them had come out of the frame and ... Read More

• Re: I got rid of a 2008 highlander after 18 months of ownnership [skf2002]

  Written by: dowlingdc on Jun 7, 2010 7:59:19 AM

  So I am not alone - somehow that's comforting. The nightmare on my 2008 Highlander has to do with the panic alarm. Goes off for no reason - repeatedly. Can't tell you how many times people have said "do you have the tan Highlander? Do you know your lights are flashing?" UGH!!!! Brought it to the dealer several times, and even called and filed a claim with headquarters (no follow up ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• What would you pay for this car?

  Written by: 5cs on Apr 18, 2010 2:21:28 AM

  Dealer is asking $27K 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport SUV Bodystyle4 door SUV Engine3.5L V-6cyl Transmission Automatic Ext. Colormagnetic grey Mileage19,020 POWERTRAIN Engine liters: 3.5 Torque: 248 lb.-ft. @ 4,700RPM Limited slip differential Cylinder configuration: V-6 Variable valve control Fuel economy highway: 23mpg Manual-shift auto Sequential multi-point fuel injection Variable intake manifold Number of valves: 24 Recommended fuel: regular unleaded Transmission: 5 speed automatic Horsepower: 270hp @ 6,200RPM Fuel economy city: 17mpg ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Tires and Wheels

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport TOYO 19" tires [jspitzley]

  Written by: berri on May 5, 2010 6:00:27 PM

  I wonder if Toyota will revise the tires to a more common size when they update it in the next year or so?

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport TOYO 19" tires [jer_wag]

  Written by: jspitzley on May 3, 2010 10:49:54 PM

  ">I changed out the 19-inch wheels on my 2008 sport at discount tire for 17-inch wheels and Michelin 50,000 mile m/s tires. Drives great, no problems, no discernible change in performance on the highway. I have much more confidence in these tires in the snow. Paid a total of $1,300 with a $300 rebate from Discount Tires. Lot's more rubber on the road and the wheels look fine. I selected the ... Read More

2008 Toyota Highlander

• 2008 Highlander Recall

  Written by: hlander on Apr 13, 2010 5:52:00 PM

  FYI I got the letter from Toyota about safety recall concerned of " 2008 Through Certain 2010 Model Year Highlander Hybrid Vehicles Potential Floor Mat Interference with Accelerator Pedal Safety Recall Campaign".

Toyota Highlander Dealer Problems

• about recall

  Written by: hlander on Apr 13, 2010 5:45:05 PM

  Dear all, Last month(45 days ago), I log into the Toyotaownersonline.com and found out that my Highlander Hybrid 2008 has recall for safety issue concerned with Pedal and Floor mat. Then I called my Dealer (Rohrich Toyota) they declined that they never know of that kind of recall L90. They asked me that I got the letter from Toyota and I said no and explained that I found out online. They ... Read More

Toyota Halts Sales of Popular Models - Accelerator Stuck Problem Recall

• About that list at the top of the page

  Written by: beachfish2 on Apr 12, 2010 2:23:08 PM

  Vehicles in recall include: 2009-10 RAV4 2009-10 Corolla 2009-10 Matrix 2005-10 Avalon certain 2007-10 Camrys 2010 Highlander 2007-10 Tundra 2008-10 Sequoia I have a 2010 Highlander and I have not been notified about any recalls. Maybe because it was Made in Japan. I called Toyota and gave them the VIN just to be certain. Anyway, how about cleaning up the list? Accuracy is important. John

2010 Toyota Highlander

• Re: Do not buy Toyota Highlander!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! [chandara]

  Written by: ronn on Jan 9, 2010 9:31:40 AM

  I tend to differ with you..... I have had my 2008 Highlander limited for 2 years, and it improves with gas. Much of it depends on how you drive it. I have gotten 27 on the highway, and average 17 in town with short distant driving. This SUV has been my favorite Toyota ever, and I have had many. The quiet, smooth ride is by far better than many other that ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Best time to buy? [pcx1]

  Written by: espressoo on Mar 19, 2010 6:53:04 AM

  If you find the exact vehicle you want at a good price and can afford the payments now would be a good time with the 0% APR. Assuming that you finance the whole amount and it cost $35K, with 0% APR vs 3.9% APR, you're saving over $3.5K in finance charges over the life of the loan. The upfront cash incentive equivalent of this is over $3K if you had 3.9% ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Tires and Wheels

• Re: Toyota Service Bulletin - 18 Wheels [tventre]

  Written by: bri719 on Mar 11, 2010 10:54:38 AM

  I didn't initially understand what you're saying, as my fiancee has the exact same car (2008 Highlander Sport) and just wanted to be sure which tires you're talking about that were original. on hers, they've only lasted about 26k and then started to wear unevenly to boot, so I also had the car aligned after only that many miles which also seems strange. we previously had her tires rotated and I ... Read More

Toyota Highlander

• Re: Toyota Highlander Sport [tarpon6]

  Written by: tidester on Mar 8, 2010 4:31:57 PM

  We've had a few people discussing the Sport in the Ride of Sport vs Limited (2008) topic. Have a look! tidester, host SUVs and Smart Shopper

2008 Toyota Highlander

• Re: I got rid of a 2008 highlander after 18 months of ownnership [skf2002]

  Written by: vtgk7 on Mar 6, 2010 7:06:53 PM

  OK, so you got rid of the Toyota Highlander....what did you buy next???

• I got rid of a 2008 highlander after 18 months of ownnership

  Written by: skf2002 on Mar 6, 2010 5:26:05 PM

  Toyota definitely sacrificed quality for quantity. I purchased a 2008 Toyota Highlander from a dealership in Hackensack NJ. This car had been back to the dealership in the past year more for defects rather than regular services. The final straw was what happened on 12/2/08. While double parked in Manhattan, NY, I had the car in aux mode with the radio on for a few minutes and when I attempted to ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Tires and Wheels

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport TOYO 19" tires [jer_wag]

  Written by: damifinomike on Mar 4, 2010 1:47:48 PM

  Greetings: Understand your frustration. I am in same boat. Maybe not quite as bad, but close. My experience is: If you switch to different tire size either rims or tire size, I have been told by Toyota dealership and mechanics that Toyota will void warranty if/when you experience any front end, transmission, or AWD issues. The likelihood of this happening might be "rare", but if it ever did and dealership noticed ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport TOYO 19" tires [jer_wag]

  Written by: hlander on Mar 4, 2010 12:15:23 PM

  Dear "jer wag" I changed my tire at 18500 miles. I already called Toyo Tires and Toyota so many times and I didn't get any response except Toyo Tires agent sent me out to 3 different dealers and the claimed their self that they are not Toyo Tire dealer anymore. The winter was very near at that time and I have baby girl whose enjoy the ride a lot. So I ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport TOYO 19" tires [TekinFamily]

  Written by: jer_wag on Mar 4, 2010 9:24:54 AM

  I'm so angry at Toyota right now and these junk Toyo A20's. It's March 2010 and still no good tires in 245/55 19's. I have 19,500 miles and they are seriously worn. With minimal snowfall I slid about 200 yards down a hill and almost wrecked with my wife and 18 month old along for the ride. I consider myself a cautious snow driver, but these tires break lose with minimal ... Read More

• Re: Toyota Service Bulletin - 18 Wheels [topdawg]

  Written by: tventre on Feb 13, 2010 5:05:48 PM

  Try the Toyo HTs. They are the same size and I'm having very good luck with them. I have the 2008 Highlander Sport and I had to replace my original Toyos after 14K.

• Re: 19" Highlander tires [howards1]

  Written by: maryjoleblanc on Feb 13, 2010 4:40:02 PM

  I liked your suggestion and submitted the following at the Toyota site: "My 2008 Highlander Hybrid has 21,000 miles and it needs new tires! This is unacceptable and inexcusable. Like other Highlander Hybrid owners, I am now forced into purchasing replacement tires to ensure the safety of my family. I am not alone in my disappointment and anger around this problem. It will only take one savvy lawyer to make this ... Read More

2008 Toyota Highlander

• Re: Highlander recall + gas mileage [krb1]

  Written by: thardgrave on Jan 27, 2010 8:07:40 AM

  In regards to mileage, I also believe that "winter" gas is a different formula, and that may also partly explain the lower mileage. I also talked to a friend at work, whose brother works for a Toyota dealership in San Diego area, and he said the reason the 2010 Highlander is on the list, and the 2008 and 2009 are not, is that they went to a completely new and differenct ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Tires and Wheels

• Re: 2008 Highlander Limited Toyo Tires [awl1]

  Written by: topdawg on Feb 2, 2010 6:05:12 PM

  NOTE: This is a reply to a post in April 2009 - check the original post to see how this relates. I think you have a problem with your specs. I have not found anyone with a 255/55R19 tire. There are several 255/50R19 tires, but not 55's. Without the 55 aspect ratio, the 50 ratio shrinks the tire about 0.4 inches in diameter and results in a 2% difference in real ... Read More

• Re: Toyota Service Bulletin - 18 Wheels [HoundDoggie]

  Written by: topdawg on Jan 31, 2010 5:15:15 PM

  Thank you for this post. I need to replace the Toyo 19" pieces of crud that came on the 2008 Highlander Sport. I will look into this option. I got the Sport for better handling because the LTD was wishy washy. Now I may have to give up the 19" wheels and give back some performance. I am also looking at a slightly different size Continental tire that would fit the ... Read More

• Re: 2006 Base Model Tire Replacement Needed [mama2ally]

  Written by: wl12 on Jan 31, 2010 7:54:36 AM

  I know how you feel. I find Michelin tires superior and long lasting. Toyota Canada does not want to admit that there is a problem with tire sizes for my Highlander 2008. Officially they say that the recommended tires shall be used and having a different size could/would void the warranty: only when damage to the car components can be traced back to the tires mind you but this is scary ... Read More

Toyota Halts Sales of Popular Models - Accelerator Stuck Problem Recall

• Re: Toyota Denied Sudden Acceleration Problem For More Than 5 Years [revit]

  Written by: kdhspyder on Jan 30, 2010 12:24:01 PM

  Toyota's response: Toyota Answers Questions About the Sticking Accelerator Pedal Recall Toyota answers questions that we see you are asking about the sticking accelerator pedal recall. Please also looks at Frequently Asked Questions For Sticking Accelerator Pedal Recall and Suspension of Sales on this site. 1. Is my car safe to drive until a fix is issued? The condition is rare and generally does not occur suddenly. It seems to occur ... Read More

• Toyota Halts Sales of Popular Models - Accelerator Stuck Problem Recall

  Written by: KarenS on Jan 27, 2010 6:46:18 AM

  This is the place to talk about the recent Toyota recalls and how it's affecting the manufacturer and consumers. Vehicles in recall include: 2009-10 RAV4 2009-10 Corolla 2009-10 Matrix 2005-10 Avalon certain 2007-10 Camrys 2010 Highlander 2007-10 Tundra 2008-10 Sequoia

2008 Toyota Highlander

• Re: accelerator sticking [findme]

  Written by: mdhutton on Jan 26, 2010 5:01:30 PM

  The 2010 Highlanders are not only recalled, but Toyota suspended selling them late this afternoon (1-26-2010.) According to the story on MSNBC.COM, the list includes: 2009-2010 RAV4 2009-2010 Corolla 2009-2010 Matrix 2005-2010 Avalon 2007-2010 Camry 2010 Highlander 2007-2010 Tundra 2008-2010 Sequoia I have an '08 HL LTD 4x4 and have had no accelerator issues either with the factory carpet mats or the WeatherTech ones I use in the winter.

• accelerator sticking

  Written by: findme on Jan 26, 2010 3:47:30 PM

  I'm a bit nervous about this recall of accelerator problems. There are so many cars being recalled and I just heard that they are halting sales on some Toyota vehicles. I know the 2010 Highlanders are being recalled. Are they sure 2008's aren't involved? It just scares me. I know the 2008 was the new design. What was changed on 2010 from 2008 that might be causing this? Anybody else nervous? ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Maintenance and Repair

• Arlington Toyota

  Written by: cracovian on Jan 15, 2010 3:03:48 PM

  We have 2001 Highlander and we've just discovered that our dealer is stealing and telling lies... There's lots of issues and not enough room to type it all out but the most pressing one is the rusted rotors, thin pads and non-working calipers in the rear. My independent mechanic told us the rears are not working at all. Full service (pad and rotor replacement) was done less than two years ago ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Tires and Wheels

• Re: Disappointment [mdhutton]

  Written by: wl12 on Jan 11, 2010 6:22:17 PM

  Like most people here I have found out I had a problem when the car lost traction in snow and I thought I am not going to recover. Then I checked the tires and just did not want to believe my eyes: they were nearly bald. Why didn't I check that before? Well, I had Toyo tires on my Nissan Maxima in the past and they lasted for over 100k km ... Read More

2008 Toyota Highlander

• Front Passenger Air Bag Information

  Written by: mtairyordge on Jan 11, 2010 10:03:43 AM

  Here is my question: When my 85lb daughter sits in the front passenger seat the passenger airbag indicator sometimes says 'on' and other times says 'off''. When I questioned the Toyota Service Manager at my local dealer he told me that the air bag will come on when a total of 65lbs are placed in the seat. Ok can anyone confirm that the airbag turns on at 65lbs? What is the ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Tires and Wheels

• Warranty issues...

  Written by: gqh on Jan 6, 2010 2:22:18 AM

  We have the factory Toyo tires on our 2008 HIghlander limited, and with 30k and a snowy winter they need to be replaced. So we ordered some 255/55/19 Dueler H/L Alenzas from the trusted tirerack salesperson who sells these tires for my identical Highlander all the time being that the 245/55/19 selection for all seasons is pretty limited (not to mention why would we want to buy the same crappy tires ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander Tires [nowlen]

  Written by: brotherjay on Dec 31, 2009 8:53:28 AM

  Nowlen, Hi. Thank you so much for that tip on using disc. tire's calculator. That helped me decide what tire to buy from tirerack.com I ended up buying Yokohama Parada Spec-X P235/55R19 tire's from them to replace the terrible Toyo P245/55R19 OEM tires. Take care and have a great 2010. Thank you again for the link. Brother Jay

• Re: It just got worse [gopcs]

  Written by: steve1979 on Nov 11, 2009 8:35:06 AM

  I'm sorry for being a skeptic----but I think it's absolutely NOT TRUE that the Toyota people don't know about the Highlander tire issue, I think it's just good politics to pretend when asked that you know of no litigation/complaints, etc. I "played dumb" and asked the Toyota dealer I bought my 2008 Highlander Hybrid about any "tire concerns" on this car and he said he hadn't really heard about that issue....and ... Read More

• Re: Toyo Tires [as48]

  Written by: tventre on Nov 9, 2009 12:38:47 PM

  I have a 2008 Highlander Sport with 13,770 miles P245/55R19 A20 tires) . I went to the Toyota dealer and they were very aware of the tire issue. They would offer me 10% discount on Bridgestone. I contacted Toyo customer service at 1-800-442-8696 (Calif location) and they gave me 2 tire shops to bring my car for inspection. The conclusion is that all 4 tires have premature wear. Toyo will reimburse ... Read More

AWD not available for 2010 Highlander?

• Re: AWD not available for 2010 Highlander? [jomcclen]

  Written by: kharris on Oct 29, 2009 2:07:14 PM

  When I got my 2009 Highlander Sport, the only choices were 2WD and full time 4WD. That's all that was offered and all that appeared in the brochures at the dealers. Some sales people or perhaps some reviewers may have mistakenly referred to the 4WD as AWD but Toyota itself has only called it full time 4WD on the 2008 and 2009 Highlanders(and apparently on the 2010's also).

Toyota Highlander Tires and Wheels

• 2008+ Toyota Highlander Wheel Issues

  Written by: pj_ean on Oct 28, 2009 2:24:13 PM

  Like many of you Toyota Highlander owners I have searched and searched for a suitable replacement tire for the stock 245/55R19 Bridgestones. These were terrible tires from day one, especially in snow of any depth. I have 30K miles on them and will not go another winter slipping and sliding through the snow. My dad always told me the cheapest insurance you can buy for your car is a good set ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Highlander Sport Tires [kharris]

  Written by: steve1979 on Oct 26, 2009 11:53:40 AM

  In response to Christy, a couple of points: A surprise to me was that while there are quite a few different tire options available from various companies (Michelin, Pirelli, Continental, etc.) for 19 inch tires that are CLOSE TO, BUT NOT EXACT SIZE to the 245-55-R19's used on current Highlanders----it's still not exact. If you look back on the recent exchanges on this site there is a TON of discussion about ... Read More

• 2008 Highlander Sport Tires

  Written by: christyp1 on Oct 24, 2009 6:20:44 PM

  Just bought the Toyo H/T's. Very nice cost $1074 out the door for all 4 tires. Bought them at Les Schawb in Sacramento, CA. They were able to order these tires and gave me a bit of a discount due to the headache I ve been going through in getting new tires for this car. Only got 27,000 miles out of the Toyo A20's, not to bad since the tire is ... Read More

• Sorry, I apparently can't read numbers!

  Written by: steve1979 on Oct 21, 2009 8:22:21 AM

  To all who I've unintentionally mislead: I clearly mis-read the numbers on the tire and between the garage and my office transposed the "55" number to be 255-55-R19 size; IN REALITY---as just pointed out to me by Bob 259, the tire size on my 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is 245-55-R19. Getting old I guess as I can't seem to remember a number long enough to walk from the garage to my ... Read More

• Re: Toyo tires [steve1979]

  Written by: kharris on Oct 21, 2009 6:51:41 AM

  I've never seen a 2008 or 2009 Highlander with anything other than the 245/55 19's than came on my 2009. However, I never looked at a Hybrid so I'm thinking that perhaps at some point Toyota was using the 255 size on the Hybrids only. Certainly is curious though.

• Re: Toyo tires [doubles3]

  Written by: steve1979 on Oct 20, 2009 6:04:37 PM

  This is odd; both my brother and I bought new 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrids; him in late 2008---and mine a holdover (2008) that I bought in 2009, BOTH OF WHICH HAVE THE 255-55R-19 at original equipment. Now I'm seeing various folks tell me that this is what some Highlander owners "are going to"----suggesting an up-sizing, which is NOT the case. The 255 size are what came on the car originally---as mine ... Read More

• Re: 2008 Toyota highlander tires [klaasvd]

  Written by: bayouguy on Oct 14, 2009 6:00:19 PM

  I'm in the same exact situation as you described and after some research, it looks as though he's actually telling you the truth. The Toyo's that came on our Highlanders had a Rating of 400 (or approx. 40,000 miles) and it seems that the newer Toyo's have a rating of 640 (60,000 miles). I'm getting a set from Treadepot.com for less that $700 including shipping. That's a lot better than the ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Headlights

• 2008 Toyota Highlander HID headlight

  Written by: alohatofu on Oct 13, 2009 3:35:20 PM

Toyota Highlander Tires and Wheels

• Re: 2008 Toyota Highlander Tires [hotrod28]

  Written by: nowlen on Oct 6, 2009 9:49:55 PM

  Not (very) true about more rubber... The diameter of 17" OEM tires/wheel combo is actually just .07" (yes point-zero-seven inches) smaller in the 17 than in the 19, and the section width is IDENTICAL! Not all that significant. Things will even up after just a little tread wear. Just a matter of mathematics. Here's an easy calculator: http://www.discounttire.com/dtcs/infoTireMath.dos to help you figure it out.

• 2008 Toyota Highlander Tires

  Written by: hotrod28 on Oct 6, 2009 1:26:42 PM

  I have the 19" wheels and ended up switching to the 255/55/R19 Michelin Latitude tires. We have over 6,000 miles on them and they have been great. The car rides better, grips the road better than the toyo tires and we have had no issues with rubbing, cornering, or excessive wear. The larger tire will give longer tire tread life because you have more tread on the 19" tire than on ... Read More

• Re: Toyo Open Country H/T tires [as48]

  Written by: as48 on Oct 5, 2009 7:08:13 PM

  After reqesting from Toyota a specific answer, I was receive an email that stated that the Country H/T 245/55R19 103S tires are suitable for the 2008 Highlander sport.

• Re: 2008 Toyota highlander tires [klaasvd]

  Written by: damifinomike on Sep 17, 2009 6:09:07 PM

  Greetings: Heck no ! Why would same brand, same model tires give you MORE miles just because YOU are purchasing them. Another ploy from the dealer to ROB your checkbook and put inferior tires on your vehicle. I am getting Michelin Latitude Tour HP tires installed. One size bigger though: 255/50R/19. These are supposed to be good tires giving good ride, last much longer, and also good on ice and snow. ... Read More

• 2008 Toyota highlander tires

  Written by: klaasvd on Sep 16, 2009 6:44:12 PM

  My tires are worn out at 35000 Miles, The Dealer try to tell me that the tojo tires intalled on new vehicles are always a bad quality tire, and I should be lucky that I did get 35000 Miles on them. He suggest that I by the same tire brand, and that they will be a lot better quality tire, and should last for at least 65000 miles. should I believe ... Read More

• Re: Toyo Open Country H/T tires [damifinomike]

  Written by: rd1943 on Sep 30, 2009 1:11:17 PM

  I have a 2008 Highlander Limited, 24,000 miles on the Toyo a2’s. I drove in a snow storm in Boston last year and it was a scary experience. 18k on the Toyo’s then and they were impersonating toboggans. I have been looking for replacements since then. Same luck as others on this forum both with Toyota customer service and dealers. Toyota’s position that a slight change in tire size might damage ... Read More

• Re: Toyo Open Country H/T tires [damifinomike]

  Written by: as48 on Sep 28, 2009 7:09:35 PM

  I got the response to my question from Toyota. The answer did not address the specifically my question about the differences between the H/T and the A20 tires. However, one can assume that the H/T tires are fine for the Highlander as their size is P245/55R19 103S. The Toyota answer stated: The recommended tire size for your 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport is P245/55R19 103S. If the tires differ from the recommended ... Read More

• Re: Decisions, decisions [400e]

  Written by: damifinomike on Sep 27, 2009 6:39:24 AM

  Greetings: Yes indeed - a voided warranty. You can see my many frustrating posts on this subject under Highlander 2008. Spoke with my dealership management as well as numerous other individuals whom I trust and all say the same thing. Granted, the chances of anything going wrong are slim. However, the dealership has told me the following: A. Speedometer is calibrated to OEM size tires. B. Transmission is same thing since ... Read More

• CALL MICHELIN for 245/55 R19

  Written by: mtairyordge on Sep 25, 2009 4:11:19 PM

  I have a 2008 Toyota Highlander Limited. This is the fourth Highlander Limited I have owned and every one has had Michelin tires except this one The OEM tires Bridgestone are horrible treadware and at 20K need to be replaced. So I went a searching for Michelin and they don't make 245/55 R19. They do make 255/55 R19 but putting these on the HL will void the New Vehicle Warranty. I ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• 2008 Highlander

  Written by: edukatedredhed on Jul 21, 2009 2:36:48 PM

  I have a 2008 Highlander Sport, blizzard pearl, 4x2, with beige leather, navigation, cold climate package, 3rd row seat, and only 10,600 miles that I'm thinking of selling. If anyone within the North Georgia area is interested, let me know. I bought it in Tennessee, so it's not from the SE Toyota Group, it's all factory accessories except the XM antennae. There's nothing wrong with it, I just get car fever ... Read More

Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander

• Re: Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander [apex1123]

  Written by: mdhutton on Aug 1, 2009 5:41:11 AM

  From the FAQ section of Toyota's website, and another thread here: Highlander Gas: 2001-2007 4 Cylinder Chain 2001-2007 V6 Belt 2008 V6 Chain Highlander Hybrid: 2006-2008 V6 Belt

2010 Toyota Highlander

• Re: 2010 Toyota Highlander release date? [kree79]

  Written by: steven1357 on Jul 30, 2009 12:23:35 PM

  I guess if you say that Toyota is doing it for our own good, you actually start to believe that. ;) "I" certainly do NOT believe that, and I think that others in this fourm are saying the same thing. Toyota's actions and that of its dealers is the reason there are still brand new 2008 Highlanders that go unsold. I suggest the same will be true for the remaining 2009 ... Read More

2008 Toyota Highlander

• Re: Highlander Navigation on Ebay! [damifinomike]

  Written by: thardgrave on Jul 27, 2009 9:43:39 AM

  Well I have had my 2008 Highlander with navigation for about 1 1/2 years now, and both my wife and son have the Tom Tom portable units. I can say after trying all of them quite a bit, I am still very happy with my built in Toyota unit. Yes, it is not perfect and does have some limitations and drawbacks, but for me, it works very well. As for updates, ... Read More

• Re: Highlander Navigation on Ebay! [caitrocks75]

  Written by: damifinomike on Jul 27, 2009 5:03:42 AM

  Hello: YOU may be sorry that you bought the TOYOTA Nav. I bought 2008 Highlander Limited and my sales guy + dealership "talked me OUT" of buying the Toyota model for one simple reason. The upgrades to the maps are VERY expensive and features of the Toyota model are far more inferior to the latest Tom-Tom or Garmin brands. Plus, the Tom-Tom and/or Garmin upgrades to the maps are MUCH cheaper ... Read More

Toyota Highlander Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• 2008 Toyota Highlander extended warranty options?

  Written by: jtsmith on Jul 13, 2009 6:31:48 PM

  Recently purchased a 2008 Toyota Higlander awd with 37,000 miles in MN two weeks ago. The dealer finance dept. offered 5yr/60k extended warranty for $1800, which I didn't accept. Any ideas on best website, etc to purchase around 5yr/ 75,000 extended warranty or similiar? I plan on keeping the vehicle many years to come and would like some piece of mind, and I am not very mechanically inclined.