Segment:
Mid-size SUV / Crossover Utility Vehicle
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile transportation, all-weather capability
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Nissan Murano, Subaru Forester
Vehicle Platform:
Camry/Solara platform (MC platform)
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), Full-Time All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Notable Distinction:
Offered with a hybrid powertrain (Highlander Hybrid) in some markets, though the 2003 model primarily focused on the gasoline V6.
Primary Focus:
Mechanical, Electrical, Body, Chassis, Maintenance, Diagnostics
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Type:
Official Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual Software
Powertrain:
Engine (3.0L V6 1MZ-FE), Transmission (5-speed Automatic, Hybrid Synergy Drive), Fuel System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Independent Multi-link), Steering (Power Rack and Pinion), Brakes (Front Ventilated Disc, Rear Disc, ABS, EBD)
Electrical:
12V Battery System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Seats), SRS Airbag System, Immobilizer System
Body:
Body Panel Repair, Door Assemblies, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Bumpers, Glass, Sealing
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks), Tune-Up Procedures, Belt Inspections, Spark Plug Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Scan Tool Usage, Component Testing Procedures
Repair:
Engine Mechanical (Timing Belt, Head Gasket, Piston/Ring Replacement), Transmission Overhaul, Brake Caliper/Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Electrical Schematics, Component Locations, Fluid Capacities, Diagnostic Data
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and bodywork. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Configuration:
3.0L V6, 24-valve, DOHC with VVT-i
Horsepower:
220 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque:
222 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
90,000 miles or 9 years (whichever comes first)
Spark Plug Type:
Iridium (e.g., Denso PK20TR11)
Type:
U151E (5-speed Automatic)
Type:
N/A (Hybrid variant had a unique system)
Mode:
Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT), AI Shift Control
Transmission Fluid Type:
Toyota Genuine ATF WS (World Standard) or equivalent
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 3.7 quarts (drain and fill)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-star
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TRAC)
Stability Control:
Optional Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, available front side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium JBL audio system with amplifier and subwoofer.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed GPS navigation system.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (using conventional oil), or 10,000 miles or 12 months (using synthetic oil, per manufacturer recommendation in manual).
Tire Rotation:
Every 5,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) - Pink
Common Problems:
Rear liftgate struts may weaken over time, occasional issues with catalytic converter efficiency, potential for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket as the vehicle ages.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly inspect and replace the timing belt and water pump as per the schedule to prevent catastrophic engine failure. Ensure proper cooling system maintenance to avoid overheating.
Manufacturer Philosophy:
Toyota's reputation for reliability, durability, and quality ('Total Quality Management').
Introduction Year:
2001 (as a 2001 model year vehicle)
First Generation Facelift:
Minor updates occurred during the first generation, with the 2003 model representing an evolution of the original design.
Assembly Location:
Takaoka Plant, Toyota City, Aichi, Japan
