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2001 Toyota Highlander Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.29
Based on 29 Owner Reviews ▶
Eugene S | March 31, 2025
The 2001 Toyota Highlander marked Toyota's entry into the mid-size SUV market. It boasts a crossover design, blending car-like handling with SUV practicality. The first generation Highlander ran from 2001-2007. Key trims included the base model and the Limited. New, the 2001 Highlander ranged from around $24,000 to $30,000. Its popularity stems from its Toyota reliability, comfortable ride, and available V6 engine, making it a practical family vehicle.
The Good

The 2001 Toyota Highlander excels in reliability, a strong appeal to practical buyers. It offers a comfortable ride and decent performance, especially with the V6 engine. The design is understated yet functional. While not the most fuel-efficient, it offers good value for its capabilities. Emotionally, owners appreciate its dependability and reputation for longevity, providing peace of mind.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2001 Toyota Highlander include potential rust issues in certain climates, particularly on the undercarriage. Some owners have reported issues with the oxygen sensors and catalytic converter over time. The rear suspension can sag, and the timing belt (on V6 models) requires replacement at specific intervals to avoid engine damage. Check for transmission slipping, especially with higher mileage.

2001 Toyota Highlander: Quick Overview

Here's a bullet-point summary of the 2001 Toyota Highlander's key specifications:

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.4L Inline-4: Available in 2WD models.
    • 3.0L V6: Available in both 2WD and 4WD models.
  • Horsepower:
    • 2.4L Inline-4: Approximately 155 hp.
    • 3.0L V6: Approximately 220 hp.
  • Fuel Economy (estimated):
    • 2.4L Inline-4: 20 mpg city / 24 mpg highway.
    • 3.0L V6 (2WD): 18 mpg city / 22 mpg highway.
    • 3.0L V6 (4WD): 17 mpg city / 21 mpg highway.
  • 0-60 Times (estimated):
    • 2.4L Inline-4: Around 10-11 seconds.
    • 3.0L V6: Around 8-9 seconds.
  • Towing Capacity:
    • 3.0L V6: Up to 3,500 lbs when properly equipped. The 4-cylinder model is not recommended for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Base: Included standard features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
    • Limited: Added features such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and automatic climate control. It could also include heated seats and premium wheels.
    • Both trims typically came standard with front airbags and optional side airbags.

2001 Toyota Highlander Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2001
Make Toyota
Model Highlander
Trim -
Style 2WD
Type Sport Utility Vehicle
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In Japan
Manufacturing City MIYAWAKA
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 3485 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 4985 pounds
Overall Height 66.10 inches
Overall Length 184.40 inches
Overall Width 71.90 inches
Wheelbase Length 106.90 inches
Standard Seating 5
Engine & Performance
Engine 2.4-L L-4 DOHC 16V
Engine Size 2.4L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission 4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 4-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $23,515
Invoice Price $20,928
Delivery Charges $480

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What Problems Does the 2001 Toyota Highlander Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2001 Toyota Highlander often revolve around age-related wear and tear. Oxygen sensor failures are common, leading to decreased fuel economy and potential catalytic converter issues. Rust, particularly in areas with road salt, is a concern, affecting the undercarriage and suspension components. Some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, including slipping or harsh shifting, especially at higher mileage.

Recalls for the 2001 Highlander were mainly related to airbag inflators, part of the broader Takata airbag recall affecting numerous vehicles. It's essential to check the vehicle's VIN with Toyota to ensure all recalls have been addressed.

Long-term reliability concerns include the aforementioned rust and transmission issues. The V6 engine requires periodic timing belt replacement (typically every 90,000 miles), which is a significant maintenance item. Ignoring this can lead to catastrophic engine failure. Additionally, suspension components like struts and bushings may require replacement over time. Early model years (2001-2003) seem to be more prone to some of these issues simply due to their age and accumulated mileage.

How long will the 2001 Toyota Highlander last?

Given diligent maintenance, a 2001 Toyota Highlander can easily surpass 250,000 miles or provide well over 20 years of service. Many owners report reaching 300,000 miles or more with proper care. Regular oil changes, timely timing belt replacement (for V6 models), and addressing issues promptly are crucial. However, long-term durability is often challenged by rust in certain climates, leading to premature component failure. Weaknesses over time typically involve suspension wear, transmission issues (especially if not properly maintained), and potential electrical problems due to aging wiring and connectors. Early signs of these issues should be addressed to maximize longevity.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2001 Toyota Highlander's tech and entertainment features were relatively basic by today's standards. Standard features included a basic AM/FM radio with a cassette player. Higher trims, like the Limited, offered an upgraded audio system with a CD player. There were no advanced driver-assistance features like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring available. Safety features included standard front airbags and optional side airbags. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was also standard.

Crash test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) were generally positive for the 2001 Highlander. The NHTSA gave it a 4-star rating for driver and passenger frontal crash protection and a 5-star rating for side impact protection. The IIHS rated it "Good" in frontal offset crash testing.

Optional features were primarily focused on comfort and convenience, such as a sunroof, leather upholstery, and heated seats (Limited trim). The lack of modern technology might be a drawback for some buyers today, but the focus on core safety and reliability features is noteworthy for a vehicle of this age. It's important to note that the absence of advanced driver-assistance systems means drivers must rely on their own skills and awareness while driving.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black
Black Sand Pearl
Blue Velvet Pearl
Desert Sand Mica
Millennium Silver Metallic
Natural White
Phantom Gray Pearl
Radiant Red
Cashmere Beige Metallic
Interior Colors
Charcoal
Oak

2001 Toyota Highlander Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2001 Toyota Highlander ranged from approximately $24,000 to $30,000, depending on the trim and options. Currently, used market prices vary widely based on condition, mileage, and location. Expect to find them priced anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000, but exceptional examples may command a higher price. Depreciation has been significant, as expected for a vehicle of this age. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, documented maintenance history, rust presence, and mileage. Highlanders with the V6 engine and 4WD tend to hold their value slightly better than the 4-cylinder, 2WD models.

2001 Toyota Highlander Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for a 2001 Toyota Highlander are generally low due to its age. Fuel costs are moderate, depending on the engine and driving habits; the V6 consumes more fuel than the inline-4. Maintenance can be affordable if you stick to routine services. However, unexpected repairs can add up, especially with older vehicles. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on how well the vehicle was maintained previously. While generally reliable, age-related repairs can make it potentially more costly than a newer, more efficient vehicle. It's neither the most economical nor the most costly to own, falling somewhere in the middle.

2001 Toyota Highlander Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 19.80 gallons
City Mileage 22 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 27 miles/gallon

2001 Toyota Highlander Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2001 Toyota Highlander Recalls & Defects

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:mounting
Recall date 2002-07-30
Recall no. 02v208000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Sport Utility Vehicles, There IS A Breather Hose That Attaches TO THE Nozzle OF THE On-Board Refueling Vapor Recovery (Orvr) Valve, Which IS Located ON THE Topside OF THE Fuel Tank. THE Breather Hose IS Attached With A Clamp, Whose "tabs" Face IN THE Upward Direction. When THE Vehicle WAS Crashed Under THE NEW Car Assessment Program (Ncap) Test (i.e., 35 MPH Frontal Barrier Crash), THE Clamp "tabs" Contacted THE Underside OF THE Body DUE TO Movement OF THE Fuel Tank, Causing THE Nozzle TO Break.
Consequence IN THE Worst Case, Nozzle Breakage Could Result IN Fuel Leakage IF THE Vehicle Rolls-Over After A High Speed Frontal Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Rotate THE Specified Clamp. Owner Notification Began September 23, 2002. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date 2001-07-05
Recall no. 01v228000
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Sport Utiity Vehicles. THE Reservoir Filler CAP OF THE Brake Master Cylinder MAY Induce A Vacuum, Introducing Some AIR Into THE Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. This Could Cause Abnormal Brake Noise and Increased Pedal Stroke When THE Brakes ARE Applied.
Consequence THE Increased Pedal Stroke Will Lengthen THE Stopping Distance OF THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Bleed THE AIR From THE Brake Lines and Replace THE Reservoir Filler Cap. Owner Notification Began July 30, 2001. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Latches/Locks/Linkages:doors:latch
Recall date 2004-04-15
Recall no. 04v181000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Sport Utility Vehicles Have A Child Protection Lock (Cpl) System ON Both OF THE Rear Side Doors. When AN Operator OF THE Vehicle Closes THE Door Very Hard With THE CPL Lever SET TO THE Lock Position, There IS A Possibility That THE Lever MAY Contact THE Body Panel, Causing THE CPL Lever TO Move Into THE Unlock Position.
Consequence This Condition Could Allow THE Door TO BE Opened With THE Inside While THE Operator Believes That THE CPL WAS Activated. IF THE Door Were Opened From THE Inside While THE Vehicle WAS IN Motion, AN Occupant Could Fall OUT and BE Injured.
Remedy Dealers Will Shorten THE CPL Lever. Owner Notification Began MAY 7, 2004. Owners Should Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Toyota Recall NO. SSC 40b.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

2001 Toyota Highlander Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2001 Toyota Highlander Insurance

Insurance for a 2001 Toyota Highlander is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2001 Toyota Highlander Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2001 Toyota Highlander competed with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Subaru Forester. In terms of performance, the Highlander with the V6 engine offered a good balance of power and fuel economy, comparable to the Ford Escape V6 but less sporty than some other offerings. Feature-wise, it was generally on par, although the CR-V offered more innovative storage solutions.

Reliability is where the Highlander shines, generally considered more reliable than the Ford Escape. The Honda CR-V is also known for its reliability, making it a strong competitor. In terms of price, the Highlander was competitive when new, and used prices reflect its age and condition.

Similar alternatives include the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester, both known for their reliability and practicality. If reliability is the top priority, a well-maintained CR-V might be a better choice due to its smaller size potentially translating to lower maintenance costs. If all-wheel drive is a must, the Subaru Forester is a strong contender. The Ford Escape, while offering a more engaging driving experience, might not match the Highlander or CR-V in long-term reliability. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and priorities, and the condition of the specific vehicle being considered.

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5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
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10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
178 2001 Toyota Highlander (4.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2001 Toyota Highlander a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2001 Toyota Highlander is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and practical used SUV. It's well-suited for small families or individuals who prioritize dependability over cutting-edge technology. Whether it's worth buying depends heavily on its condition and maintenance history. A well-maintained example with low mileage and minimal rust can be a good value. The V6 model is preferable for its added power and towing capability. Avoid examples with extensive rust or signs of neglected maintenance. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended to assess its overall condition and potential future repair needs. It is definitely not worth buying new, as it is no longer produced.

2001 Toyota Highlander Owner Reviews

4.29
Consumer Rating, Based on 29 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Samuel on September 20, 2023

Car after 20 years!

I would say that this car it amazing and nice, but also this car has a lot of maintenance like coming up with some check engine lights, also if you replace your stereo to a newer one please check your wires and where's connected to on my driver side, there a weird sound when I turn on the stereo but it goes away when I turn up the volume or turn it off. Without those issues I would say this car is a so-so its still good after 20 years, would I recommend this car? yes, Only the ones that are properly taken care of. Very reliable.

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Jose Raul on April 20, 2023

Reliable, Comfortable and Good looking

I purchased my reliable Highlander on September 13, 2001, (I never forget, YES 2 days after the NY attack). This car went everywhere. In 2009 and 2011 I drove my two kids out of the hospital in it when they were born. I sold it (in less than one hour) on May 2019 with 289,000 miles. Never had any major issues, probably the worse was a CV joint. With regular maintenance it can go many more miles.

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Jody Highlander on October 30, 2020

Not a more reliable car out there

I purchased my 2001 Highlander with 125,000 miles 5 years ago and have taken it cross country multiple times. Delivering food in college and never once had a breakdown except for an alternator at 240,000 miles. Other than scheduled maintenance I have never had to replace anything. No car beats this even for it being a 4 cylinder.

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DLM on December 3, 2019

Can't go wrong with a Toyota!

This is a replacement vehicle for my college age daughter. Toyotas are famously know for dependability, I have owned quite a few. Got this one checked out by my mechanic, says it's in great shape for an older vehicle. Great interior, great visibility, handles very well, nice, smooth ride and quick brakes.. Maintain it and the engine should last for many more miles!

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Car guy on June 23, 2019

Most reliable car I've had!

Perfect car for commuting . - reliable and safe - fun to drive and quiet - love the handling and in the snow it plows through

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Fan of reliable vehicles on February 24, 2019

The car I regret selling ...

Purchased my 2001 Highlander in 2004 from a dealer. Was really impressed how it drove and i become the family car for years to come. Mostly just maintenance like brakes and oil. Had only one issue and it was AC controls which would in winter blew cold air. So I did a research and repair a wire that comes loose from control unit. Fixed almost for nothing (solder wire back ) Dealer want like $600 to replace unit. Otherwise it was solid vehicle with great ride plenty room in 2 nd row seats and decent trunk. Even pulled a utility trailer without any issues. Unfortunately I have sold the vehicle in 2011 with still low mileage for something '' better". What a bummer I have realized over time.

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Boxman on December 7, 2018

Bought it brand new and still have it

This vehicle has really held up well. With about 300k on it...have only ever done maintenance items. The build quality is excellent. Unfortunately, it likes oil added pretty much every gas tank. We're just accustomed to adding a quart...it's not a big deal anymore. The paint and exterior have held up well. Recently had it detailed and it looks new again! Couldn't part with it...so now the kids are putting their miles on it. Gave it 4 stars due to the oil consumption and the original price was quite high as I purchased the limited edition 4wd 3.0l v6

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Bob on July 29, 2018

Hylander

Older 2nd vacation home vehicle. Have done minimal maintenence over last 7 yrs. Car runs great except for road noise apparently caused by tire quality.

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jgordin1982 on June 15, 2018

Very reliable, comfortable SUV

This met all of my needs. Very comfortable, reliable. Could not ask for a better used car. JBL system a very nice sound system. Added a Kenwood stereo.

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?Scotty on June 4, 2018

Best Vehicle I've Ever Owned!

So versatile as an SUV and Utility vehicle, yet rides like a car and economical as well. Plus the fact that they were made for Golden Retrievers! Well, sort of. I've put 372,000 miles on mine, without a rebuild, and I'm confident of 400K at least!

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Eugene S

Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.