Used 2005 Toyota Highlander SUV Consumer Reviews

Highlander Bad

I bought this car based on Consumer Reports ratings. So far, the temp thermostat had to be replaced, I also had a wheel bearing replaced, and now I am told that a sequential humming is probably the differential - very costly. The car is herky-jerky and the interior leather looks more like vinyl. This is my last Toyota. DK

Better out there

I have driven 4wds for 30+ years and have never been stuck until I bought this one. I had to be pulled out 3 times this past winter alone and it was a mild one at that!! The tires are worn out with less than 20,000 miles on them!!! The car is nice on a plowed road, but don't try to go in deep snow! It may be ok for a housewife who doesn't really need 4wd, but for those who do, look elsewhere! The interior is filled with cheap plastic and only available in light colors (very impractical) for those people who use a SUV in daily life. You can scratch the paint on the outside with your fingernail!!! Read the fine print on the towing capabilities and packages. A True Lie!!! What a joke.

Best Car I ever owned

I just love driving my Highlander. It is such a smooth ride. The air conditioning comes on instantly even on really hot days. The interior is really nice and neatly organized. My only complaint is the gas light comes on early; before it even touches 'E'.

Best SUV

If there is anyone who has never owned a toyota, now is the time to try one. I once owned a toyota camry and upgraded to the highlander. Driving the highlander is just like driving a camry. The drive is smooth and operates just like a car. The gas consumption is decent I usally can get about 350 miles to a full tank. This car is equiped with up to date safety features. As a mom I would highly recommend the highlander to other women who value safety when looking for a car. I have only has this suv for 8 months now but I have been driving with toyota for over 8 years now and I truly believe they make the most reliable vehicles.

Big Mistake

The research described the Highlander as a very good vehicle. I am dissappointed and trying to cut my losses. I moved to WV a couple of years ago and got tired of bottoming out my 2001 Volvo V70 T5 (100,000 mi). The Hylander has difficulty excellerating on the hills, the brakes grab, the cruise control is jerky and shifts into overdrive frequently (dealer says its fine), the plastic components are light weight and fall off, poor ventilation to the back seat area, seat heaters are inadequate, road noise is excessive, a recent stone 'star' to the windshield revealed a single piece of glass. I do not feel safe and I can't believe I spent the money. My Chevy 2500HD diesel is better.

On the job

One hand use

No Review

Paint chiping off

The paint on the drivers side mirror is not only chipping away but you can actually see it bubbling. The car has less than 50K miles on it but the dealer will not repair or replace the mirror. I also have a 2000 Honda Accord 6 cyc. I looks and drives like it's brand new. And is has 111K miles on it with no major work whatsoever. Bottom line, stay away from Toyota. You will never go wrong with a Honda.

Satisfied At First

I purchased a highlander after reading hundreds of reviews. I was looking for a reliable vehicle this time around. From the first day I bought it, the transmission skipped. The dealership continues to tell me that this is how Toyotas perform. Recently we took the vehicle on vacation and upon returning, we had to have the transmission seal replaced because of a transmission fluid leak. One tire is bad and when rotated, they placed it on the back of the vehicle, so not I need to have that replaced. I only have 25K miles on the car, so I am becoming a skeptic. I love the looks of the car and the interior. It may be time to trade-in, but not sure I would buy a Toyota again - just not sure.

Great Vehicle!

Fun and Easy to drive, Great Pick-up, very smooth ride.