2010 Toyota Highlander Problems
The 2010 Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that has been rated at the top of its class in safety, reliability, and affordability. It was completely redesigned in 2008. In the process, it grew more extensive, with an added optional third-row. Like many recent Toyota vehicles, the 2010 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid design has developed more rounded. Toyota Highlander’s architecture is similar to that of the Toyota Camry midsize sedan. Available in three trims- base version, sport, and the limited version; this SUV has been truly optimized for family use. Unlike the Toyota FJ cruiser pulled off the market, the Toyota Highlander is still ranking high in the midsize SUV charts.
Performance
The base engine on the 2010 Toyota Highlander is a 187-Horsepower, 2.7-liter four-cylinder version paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It provides a decent fuel economy, and although it’s not as smooth and responsive as the optional engine- a 270-Horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6. The V-6 is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The EPA rates the four-cylinder model at 20mpg city/ 27mpg highway while the V-6 is slightly lower at 17/23 mpg because of the added mechanical all-wheel-drive system.
The 2010 Highlander Hybrid has a 209-Horsepower, 3.3-liter V-6 paired with two electric motors. With three electric motors, the Highlander Hybrid can deliver the same as the 270-Horsepower V-6 alone. The Hybrid is rated at 27 mpg City/ 25 mpg highway.
Vehicle Safety
The 2010 Toyota Highlander has passed NHTSA and IIHS tests as one of the safest vehicles, a significant selling point of family cars. The SUV has five-star ratings in three of the four NHTSA impact crash tests- front driver, side driver, and side rear passenger impact. It has a still-impressive four-star rating for the front passenger impact. In IIHS, the Toyota Highlander garners the highest possible points in every test, making it a safe ride.
Additionally, this midsize SUV is equipped with standard safety equipment, traction control (TRAC), and enhanced vehicle stability control (VSC). Any Highlander driver who wants to take their vehicle off the road will be pleased to know that it has a hill descent control, the anti-lock brakes with brake assistance, curtain side airbags, and driver knee airbag. The front side airbags boost the Highlander’s safety. Even with the 5-star crash test ratings, the Highlander’s driver visibility falls short. The rear visibility is hindered by the second-row headrests and the thick rear roof pillars.
Features
Highlander is famous for its long list of desirable features. Just like the Nissan Pathfinder, Highlanders offer a fold-down second row and an optional third-row. The Highlander’s versatile cargo space makes it the right family car. The second row has enough legroom and headroom for an average-sized American adult. Unlike many typical midsize utility SUVs, the Highlander’s second row has a center stow seat for a third person. The third row is a little cramped but hospitable for children and smaller adults. Getting in and out of the first two rows is easy; Toyota provides a walk-through and a reclining second-row seat to access the third-row seats easily. Drop the third-row to save some cash and reduce the 7-seat capacity to 5. The Highlander Hybrid Limited comes with a more luxurious appearance. It has leather upholstery, seat heaters, a keyless entry system, power seats, and a garage-door transceiver.
FAQs
What problems do Toyota Highlanders have?
Although Toyota Highlanders display consistent owner satisfaction ratings, there have been several car complaints. Below are some of the issues you need to watch out for, especially in older Highlander models.
Engine Failure
A lot of issues stemmed from engine problems and often resulted in complete engine failure. Although there are many causes of engine failure, the majority were from stripped engine bolts threads. This was a significant problem, especially for the 2003 model. Some owners were able to replace the bolts; others had to replace the full engine. The average car repair cost was $3,200.
Fuel System issues
This issue was common with models from 2005 and 2013. Toyota was aware of the ruptured oil lines problem and issued a replacement part which exhibited the same issue. The engine oil leaks stem from a faulty VVT-i oil supply hose and an oil cooler pipe. Toyota is offering free replacement of the variable valve timing (VVT-i) for 2008 models until 2021. Also, leaking cooler pipes on 2008-2011 models will be replaced for free within ten years of the original purchase or 150,000 miles.
A failed engine can often be fixed by replacing the oil line and cleaning the affected areas. Owners are advised to check the engine lights frequently. To avoid a full engine replacement, a Highlander owner should not continue driving once the engine lights activate. The average repair cost of a ruptured oil line is $4,400.
Sliding floor mats
A design flaw was found in numerous Toyota cars. The floor mat would slide forward, trapping the accelerator. Before getting a Highlander, check that it has appropriate floor mats. Toyota ordered safety recalls on vehicles that had this issue.
Air conditioning System issues
The 2014 Toyota highlander owners noted a moldy smell coming from the air conditioners. Toyota advises turning off the air recirculation setting to force the vehicle to draw in the fresh air.
Wind and road noise
Highlander owners complained that wind and road noise could be noticed, especially on the highway. The noise was caused by a gap between the trim pieces on the passenger-side front door behind the side mirror. Some owners taped the holes to eliminate the noise.
If you consider buying a Toyota Highlander, conduct enough car research on a car finder site, and consider buying from a Toyota dealer. You may consider purchasing a certified used Highlander with a high car value and has undergone proper inspection by Toyota. Check the wheel bearings, engine, and interior of the car to see its condition.
Is Toyota Highlander 2010 a good car?
Toyota 2010 Highlander is a reliable, quiet, comfortable midsize SUV with a fuel-efficient base engine. It has a convenient reclining spacious second row of seats and an optional third-row. With the rear seats in use, the cargo space becomes limited. The cramped third-row is also a liability. Only kids or small adults can ride comfortably in the third row. Even the Toyota Rav4 and Dodge Journey can’t match the 2010 Toyota Highlander when it comes to comfort. Compare car to its competitors- the Honda Pilot and Mazda CX-9.
How much is a 2010 Toyota Highlander?
According to book values, a pre-owned 2010 with Toyota Highlander’s price ranges from $10,000- $19,000, depending on its trim, mileage, condition, and features. A new base 2010 Highlander model starts from $25,855 while a Highlander Limited at $34,000. Rivals like the 2010 Nissan Murano, 2010 Toyota Venza, and 2010 Mazda CX-9 have lower average list prices.
Is the Toyota Highlander a reliable vehicle?
The Toyota Highlander is among the most reliable SUV. You won’t find four-cylinder engines in competitors like the Honda Pilot or Chevrolet Traverse, which carry up to 8 passengers in three rows. Consider owning a Toyota Highlander if you want to buy or change your vehicle, and you won’t be worried about making numerous trips to a mechanic. The latest Toyota Highlander models have adjustable power lift gates that are easy to use.