The 2009 Toyota Highlander is a mid-size crossover SUV known for its reliability and family-friendly features. Part of the second generation (2008-2013), it offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior. Key trims include the Base, Sport, and Limited. When new, pricing ranged approximately from $28,000 to $38,000. Its popularity stems from Toyota's reputation for dependability and the Highlander's versatility as a people-mover and cargo hauler.
The Good
The 2009 Toyota Highlander boasts Toyota's legendary reliability, appealing to practical buyers seeking a dependable vehicle. It offers a comfortable ride and spacious cabin, attracting those valuing comfort and family-friendliness. The V6 engine provides adequate performance. The design is understated but practical, and it holds its value well, providing a sense of security for the buyer.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2009 Toyota Highlander include some reports of water pump failures and potential oil leaks, especially at higher mileage. Some owners have noted issues with the electronic stability control system. Also, the base four-cylinder engine can feel underpowered when fully loaded. Inspect the vehicle thoroughly and obtain a pre-purchase inspection.
2009 Toyota Highlander: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.7L Inline-4: Available on Base model.
- 3.5L V6: Standard on Sport and Limited, optional on Base.
- Horsepower:
- 2.7L Inline-4: 187 hp
- 3.5L V6: 270 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA est.):
- 2.7L Inline-4: 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway (FWD)
- 3.5L V6: 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (FWD), slightly lower for AWD
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.7L Inline-4: Around 9.5 seconds
- 3.5L V6: Around 7.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- Up to 5,000 lbs with the V6 engine (when properly equipped). The inline-4 is not recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Cloth upholstery, air conditioning, power windows and locks, CD player, keyless entry.
- Sport: Upgraded wheels, sport-tuned suspension, fog lights, rear spoiler, premium audio system, power driver's seat.
- Limited: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic climate control, sunroof, JBL audio system, backup camera, power liftgate.
2009 Toyota Highlander Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Highlander |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Door 4WD V-6 |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | 4WD Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | MIYAWAKA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2044.79 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 172.97 cm |
| Overall Length | 478.54 cm |
| Overall Width | 191.01 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 278.89 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.5-L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 3.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 1-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel |
| Steering Type | Power Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $34,700 USD |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
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Specifications
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History
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Listings
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Recalls
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2009 Toyota Highlander Have?
The 2009 Toyota Highlander generally enjoys a good reputation for reliability, but some common issues have been reported. Water pump failures can occur, leading to overheating if not addressed promptly. Oil leaks, particularly around the valve cover gaskets, become more common as the vehicle ages and mileage increases. Some owners have experienced issues with the electronic stability control (VSC) system, manifesting as warning lights or system malfunctions.
There have been recalls issued for the 2009 Highlander, primarily related to potential issues with the accelerator pedal getting stuck or being trapped by the floor mat. It's essential to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the longevity of the automatic transmission, although this is not a widespread issue. Proper maintenance, including regular fluid changes, is crucial for maximizing transmission life. Rust can also be a concern in regions with harsh winters and road salt use. Thorough inspection for rust, especially underneath the vehicle, is advisable before purchasing. The oxygen sensors sometimes need replacement at higher mileage, which can affect fuel economy. Carefully consider maintenance records and a pre-purchase inspection to mitigate these potential risks.
There have been recalls issued for the 2009 Highlander, primarily related to potential issues with the accelerator pedal getting stuck or being trapped by the floor mat. It's essential to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the longevity of the automatic transmission, although this is not a widespread issue. Proper maintenance, including regular fluid changes, is crucial for maximizing transmission life. Rust can also be a concern in regions with harsh winters and road salt use. Thorough inspection for rust, especially underneath the vehicle, is advisable before purchasing. The oxygen sensors sometimes need replacement at higher mileage, which can affect fuel economy. Carefully consider maintenance records and a pre-purchase inspection to mitigate these potential risks.
How long will the 2009 Toyota Highlander last?
With proper maintenance, a 2009 Toyota Highlander can easily reach 200,000 miles or more, potentially providing 15-20 years of service. Many owners report exceeding this benchmark. Long-term durability is a strong suit, but neglecting maintenance will shorten its lifespan. Weaknesses over time can include suspension component wear (struts, bushings), leading to a less comfortable ride. Regular oil changes, coolant flushes, and transmission fluid services are critical. Rust prevention is also important, especially in colder climates. Properly cared for, the Highlander offers exceptional longevity, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Positive Owner Reviews
Cindy G
I have 212k miles and it still drives great and looks good. Only needed all the regular maintenance. Size is perfect. Love the back up camera and Bluetooth.
Lex
I regularly take my HL for oil changes and air filter changes. But I only topped the fluids when needed. This year 2020, I decide to get the fluids changed, from front to back and top to bottom. While this is going on the mechanic find that the brakes are worn very thin but everything else looks good. So I part with about 900 bucks and feel that my HL can go another 100k....Yeah that's 90 bucks a year...lol... I love that HL...
MrT1063
I love the car. But if you have the tow package, which I do, there is a major design flaw with the oil cooler. Its original design is likely to burst, as it did with me at 110000 thousand miles. You could loose your engine if it happens where you cant stop immedetly. The replacement version is all metel rather than metal and synthetic hoses. Its the synthetic hose part that's likely to burst.
Negative Owner Reviews
max
The Toyota Highlander: It is very comfortable/relaxing, but it's very hard to park/the minors are too big, handling are TOO smooth, Very ugly, too expensive: base price for 3.5 V6 are $25,500-$31,000, GO Toyota is the cheapest, super realiable!
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2009 Toyota Highlander offers a decent array of tech, entertainment, and safety features for its time. Standard features include a CD player, auxiliary audio input, and air conditioning. Higher trims offer upgrades like a JBL premium sound system, a rearview camera (Limited trim), and a multi-information display.
Driver-assistance features are relatively limited compared to modern vehicles. Anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (VSC), and traction control (TRAC) are standard. Optional features include parking sensors (available on higher trims).
Safety features are comprehensive, including front airbags, side airbags, and side curtain airbags. The Highlander earned strong crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
While the Highlander lacks advanced features like lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control, its safety suite is sufficient for its era. The infotainment system is basic by today's standards but functional. Optional features like the JBL audio system and rearview camera enhance the overall experience. Overall, the 2009 Highlander prioritizes safety and usability over cutting-edge technology, making it a reliable and safe choice for families.
Driver-assistance features are relatively limited compared to modern vehicles. Anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (VSC), and traction control (TRAC) are standard. Optional features include parking sensors (available on higher trims).
Safety features are comprehensive, including front airbags, side airbags, and side curtain airbags. The Highlander earned strong crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
While the Highlander lacks advanced features like lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control, its safety suite is sufficient for its era. The infotainment system is basic by today's standards but functional. Optional features like the JBL audio system and rearview camera enhance the overall experience. Overall, the 2009 Highlander prioritizes safety and usability over cutting-edge technology, making it a reliable and safe choice for families.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Alpine White
Black Sand Pearl
Blizzard Pearl
Cypress Green Pearl
Desert Sand Mica
Gold Metallic
Maritime Blue Metallic
Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Dark Charcoal
Ash
Sand Beige
2009 Toyota Highlander Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2009 Toyota Highlander ranged from approximately $28,000 for a base model to around $38,000 for a fully loaded Limited trim. Current used market prices typically range from $8,000 to $15,000, depending on mileage, condition, and trim level. The Highlander depreciates slower than many vehicles in its class, due to Toyota's reputation for reliability and strong resale value. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition (accident history, maintenance records), trim level (Limited trims command a premium), and geographic location (demand varies by region). Well-maintained examples with lower mileage fetch the highest prices.
2009 Toyota Highlander Cost of Ownership
The 2009 Toyota Highlander is generally considered economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate. Fuel economy is decent, especially with the four-cylinder engine, though the V6 is thirstier. Maintenance is relatively affordable due to Toyota's reliability and readily available parts. Repairs are typically infrequent and less expensive than those of many European rivals. Long-term ownership costs are predictable and manageable, making it a budget-friendly choice for families seeking a reliable and practical SUV.
2009 Toyota Highlander Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
65.11 liters
City Mileage
11.48 km/l
Highway Mileage
10.63 km/l
2009 Toyota Highlander Safety Rating
NHTSA
2009 Toyota Highlander Recalls & Defects
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date
2010-02-03
Recall no.
10v036000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2011 Passenger Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." These Vehicles Were Sold Without THE Requisite Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels.
Consequence
A Driver MAY Overload A Vehicle Which MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Mail TO Consumers THE Corrected Label or THE Customer Will Have THE Option FOR Dealers TO Install THE Label Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 27, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date
2009-06-15
Recall no.
09v223000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling 27,080 Model Year 2005 Through 2010 Passenger Cars Built From September 1, 2005 TO MAY 4, 2009. These Vehicles Were NOT Equipped With Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels Which Fails TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence
Incorrect Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels Could Result IN THE Vehicle Being Overloaded, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify Owners and Provide Them With A New, Accurate Label TO BE Installed Over THE Inaccurate Label Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON August 18, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-888-270-9371.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date
2010-02-03
Recall no.
10v035000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Gulf States Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2010 Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." These Vehicles Were Sold Between September 1, 2005 and June 2, 2008 Without THE Requisite Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels.
Consequence
This Does NOT Meet THE Standard Requirements.
Remedy
Dealers Will Mail TO Consumers THE Corrected Label or THE Customer Will Have THE Option FOR Dealers TO Install THE Label Free OF Charge. Dealers Will Also Correct THE Owner's Manual. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 27, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Gulf States Toyota AT 713-580-3300.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
Recall date
2010-01-27
Recall no.
10v023000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2010 Highlander, Model Year 2009-2010 Corolla, Venza and Matrix Passenger Vehicles. THE Accelerator Pedal CAN GET Stuck IN THE Wide Open Position DUE TO ITS Being Trapped BY AN Unsecured or Incompatible Driver's Floor Mat. This Recall IS AN Expansion OF A Campaign OF 3.8 Million Other Toyota Vehicles Announced IN 2009 FOR THE Same Issue (See 09v-388).
Consequence
A Stuck Open Accelerator Pedal MAY Result IN Very High Vehicle Speeds and Make IT Difficult TO Stop THE Vehicle, Which Could Cause A Crash, Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Toyota Will Modify or Replace THE Accelerator Pedals ON THE Subject Vehicles. Floor Surface Modifications ARE Also Being Considered and Will BE Included FOR ANY Model FOR Which IT IS Deemed Appropriate. Initially, Dealers Will BE Instructed ON HOW TO Reshape THE Accelerator Pedal FOR THE Repair. AS Replacement Parts With THE Same Shape AS THE Modified Pedal Become Available, They Will BE Made Available TO THE Dealers FOR THE Repair. Customers WHO Have HAD THE Pedal Reshape Remedy Completed Will Have THE Opportunity TO Receive A NEW Pedal IF They Desire, After Replacement Pedals Become Available. IN Addition, Toyota Will Replace ANY Toyota All-Weather Floor MAT IN A Subject Vehicle With A Newly Designed Mat, Free OF Charge. FOR Those Customers WHO Have THE Previous Design All-Weather Floor MAT BUT DO NOT Need or Want THE Newly Designed All-weather Floor Mat, Toyota Will Recover THE Previous Design All-weather Floor MAT and Reimburse ITS Price. THE Safety Recall Began March 30, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes
Toyota Recall NO. 9lg/90l.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Recall date
2013-01-16
Recall no.
13v014000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Models Interspersed Through Model Years 2009 Through 2013 AS Follows: Model Year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and Rav4; Model Year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; Model Year 2010-2013 Model Year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; Model Year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; Model Year 2012 Prius V; and Model Year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During Modification BY SET TO Include Accessories Such AS Leather Seat Covers, Seat Heaters or Headrest DVD Systems, These Vehicles MAY NOT Have HAD THE Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System Calibration Tested. Without Passing THE Calibration Test, THE Occupant Sensing System MAY NOT Operate AS Designed.
Consequence
IF THE Front Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System IS OUT OF Calibration, THE Front Passenger Airbags MAY NOT Deploy or They MAY Deploy Inappropriately FOR THE Passenger's Size and Position. This Could Increase THE Risk OF Personal Injury During THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash Necessitating Airbag Deployment.
Remedy
Southeast Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Test THE Sensitivity OF THE Occupant Detection Sensors, and Recalibrate Them AS Necessary. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats
Recall date
2013-01-16
Recall no.
13v014000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Models Interspersed Through Model Years 2009 Through 2013 AS Follows: Model Year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and Rav4; Model Year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; Model Year 2010-2013 Model Year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; Model Year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; Model Year 2012 Prius V; and Model Year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During Modification BY SET TO Include Accessories Such AS Leather Seat Covers, Seat Heaters or Headrest DVD Systems, These Vehicles MAY NOT Have HAD THE Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System Calibration Tested. Without Passing THE Calibration Test, THE Occupant Sensing System MAY NOT Operate AS Designed.
Consequence
IF THE Front Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System IS OUT OF Calibration, THE Front Passenger Airbags MAY NOT Deploy or They MAY Deploy Inappropriately FOR THE Passenger's Size and Position. This Could Increase THE Risk OF Personal Injury During THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash Necessitating Airbag Deployment.
Remedy
Southeast Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Test THE Sensitivity OF THE Occupant Detection Sensors, and Recalibrate Them AS Necessary. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2014-04-09
Recall no.
14v168000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2008 Rav4, 2006-2010 Yaris, 2008-2010 Highlander, and 2009-2010 Tacoma, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and General Motors Pontiac Vibe Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Steering Column Assembly Contains Electrical Connections TO THE Driver's Airbag Module Housed IN A Spiral Cable Assembly, Which Includes A Flexible Flat Cable (Ffc). DUE TO THE Shape and Location OF THE Ffc's Retainer, THE FFC Could Become Damaged When THE Steering Wheel IS Turned.
Consequence
IF THE FFC IS Damaged, Connectivity TO THE Driver's AIR BAG Module Could BE Lost and THE AIR BAG Deactivated. THE Failure OF THE Driver's AIR BAG TO Deploy IN THE Event OF A Crash That Typically Necessitates Deployment Increases THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Driver.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify THE Toyota Vehicle Owners, and General Motors Will Notify THE Pontiac Vibe Owners. Toyota Sent Owners AN Interim Notification Letter IN MAY 2014 TO Advise Owners OF THE Recall. Toyota Will Mail Owners A Second Letter When Remedy Parts ARE Available. General Motors Sent Pontiac Vibe Owners AN Interim Letter ON June 20, 2014 Notifying Them That Parts ARE Currently Unavailable. General Motors Sent Notices TO THE Pontiac Vibe Owners ON September 15, 2014, That A Remedy IS Available. THE Recall Began ON October 27, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331. Owners MAY Contact General Motors AT 1-800-762-2737.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
Recall date
2014-11-19
Recall no.
14v743000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4X2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4X2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4runner. THE Affected Vehicles MAY Experience Compression OF THE Seat Cushion Which MAY Damage THE Seat Heater Wiring.
Consequence
Damage TO THE Seat Heater Wiring Could Cause THE Wires TO Short, Increasing THE Risk OF THE Seat Burning and Causing Personal Injury TO THE Occupant.
Remedy
SET Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Disconnect THE Heaters With Copper Strand Heating Elements and Refund THE Purchase Price OF THE Seat Heater Accessory, Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Began IN January 2015. Owners MAY Contact SET Customer Service AT 1-866-405-4226.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
Recall date
2016-06-02
Recall no.
16v396000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain 2005-2011 4runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander Hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry Hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla Vehicles Equipped With Aftermarket Accessory Seat Heaters With A Copper Strand Heating Element. THE Electrical Wiring IN THE Seat Heaters MAY BE Damaged When THE Seat Cushion IS Compressed.
Consequence
IF Damaged, THE Copper Strand Heating Element MAY Short Circuit, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
SET Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Disconnect THE Seat Heaters, Free OF Charge, and Refund THE Purchase Price OF THE Seat Heater Accessory. THE Recall Began ON July 14, 2016. Owners MAY Contact SET Customer Service AT 1-866-405-4226. SET Number FOR This Recall IS Set16b.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Visibility:power Window Devices and Controls
Recall date
2015-10-22
Recall no.
15v689000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2011 Tundra, Sequoia, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and Scion XB, 2008-2011 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2007 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4, 2006-2010 Yaris, and 2009-2010 Scion XD and Pontiac Vibe Vehicles. During THE Manufacturing OF THE Power Window Master Switch (Pwms), Grease Lubricant MAY Have Been Inconsistently Applied TO THE Sliding Electrical Contacts.
Consequence
IF THE Sliding Electrical Contacts ARE NOT Protected BY Lubricant, Debris and Moisture That GET Into THE Switch MAY Cause A Short Circuit and THE Switch Assembly MAY Overheat and Melt, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Switch, Applying A Lubricant IF NO Abnormality IS Found. IF Abnormality IS Found, THE Pwms Circuit Board Will BE Replaced, Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin December 20, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's Number FOR This Recall IS C0m.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2009 Toyota Highlander Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Corrosion
Original warranty
60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Drivetrain
Original warranty
60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2009 Toyota Highlander Insurance
Insurance for a 2009 Toyota Highlander is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Toyota Highlander Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2009 Toyota Highlander competes with vehicles like the Honda Pilot, Nissan Murano, Chevrolet Traverse, and Ford Explorer. In terms of reliability, the Highlander and Pilot generally outperform the Traverse and Explorer. The Murano offers a more stylish design but sacrifices some practicality.
The Highlander's V6 engine provides adequate performance, similar to the Pilot, but the Explorer (with its optional V8) offers more power. The Traverse boasts more cargo space, while the Murano focuses on a more luxurious interior. Feature-wise, the Highlander is competitive, though some rivals offer more advanced technology (depending on the trim).
Price-wise, the Highlander typically holds its value well, potentially making it slightly more expensive on the used market compared to some competitors. The Honda Pilot is a very similar alternative, offering comparable reliability and practicality. If cargo space is a priority, the Chevrolet Traverse is worth considering, but be mindful of potential reliability concerns. The Ford Explorer offers a more rugged image but may require more maintenance. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences, but the Highlander remains a strong contender in its class due to its well-rounded performance, reliability, and strong resale value.
The Highlander's V6 engine provides adequate performance, similar to the Pilot, but the Explorer (with its optional V8) offers more power. The Traverse boasts more cargo space, while the Murano focuses on a more luxurious interior. Feature-wise, the Highlander is competitive, though some rivals offer more advanced technology (depending on the trim).
Price-wise, the Highlander typically holds its value well, potentially making it slightly more expensive on the used market compared to some competitors. The Honda Pilot is a very similar alternative, offering comparable reliability and practicality. If cargo space is a priority, the Chevrolet Traverse is worth considering, but be mindful of potential reliability concerns. The Ford Explorer offers a more rugged image but may require more maintenance. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences, but the Highlander remains a strong contender in its class due to its well-rounded performance, reliability, and strong resale value.
Ranks #128 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 128 | 2009 Toyota Highlander | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Toyota Highlander a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2009 Toyota Highlander is ideal for families seeking a reliable, safe, and practical mid-size SUV. It's a solid choice for those prioritizing dependability and longevity over cutting-edge technology or sporty handling. Whether it's worth buying depends on the price and condition. A well-maintained used Highlander with a clean title and service history is a good value. The V6 engine is preferable for those who frequently carry passengers or tow. The Limited trim offers the most features, but the Base or Sport trims can be good options for budget-conscious buyers. Avoid models with a history of significant accidents or deferred maintenance. Get a pre-purchase inspection to ensure peace of mind.
Cindy G on November 20, 2022
Perfect Vehicle!I have 212k miles and it still drives great and looks good. Only needed all the regular maintenance. Size is perfect. Love the back up camera and Bluetooth.
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Lex on September 11, 2020
Awesome Vehicle!I regularly take my HL for oil changes and air filter changes. But I only topped the fluids when needed. This year 2020, I decide to get the fluids changed, from front to back and top to bottom. While this is going on the mechanic find that the brakes are worn very thin but everything else looks good. So I part with about 900 bucks and feel that my HL can go another 100k....Yeah that's 90 bucks a year...lol... I love that HL...
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MrT1063 on August 18, 2020
One Big ProblemI love the car. But if you have the tow package, which I do, there is a major design flaw with the oil cooler. Its original design is likely to burst, as it did with me at 110000 thousand miles. You could loose your engine if it happens where you cant stop immedetly. The replacement version is all metel rather than metal and synthetic hoses. Its the synthetic hose part that's likely to burst.
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Ken W on August 9, 2020
Nice Vehicle!!This reliable used Highlander fits all our needs. We were very happy to find and purchase it in July, 2020. It was a very good value in a used vehicle.
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nexscene on January 13, 2020
A lot better than competitors.You can't beat Toyota's reliability. It has Toyota's top notch V6 engine that is use on the camry, avalon, solara, rav4, etc. So you know it's reliable. Overall an excellent family vehicle with minimum maintenance.
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Andrea on December 7, 2019
Great carThis car is very dependable. It handles great in the snow and any weather. Lots of space for people and/or cargo. Would recommend for those wanting a mid sized vehicle.
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mark on October 9, 2019
Toyota Highlander - 2009 - Great CarThe Toyota Highlander 2009 with six cylinder is a great car. My only negative is that the tail gate is so heavy and difficult to close that my mother in-law will not close it. She finds it too difficult. The engine on the 2009 has much better performance than the 2017 model.
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3DogMom on June 27, 2019
Excited to have found a well preserved Highlander!This car is in great condition and is going to be perfect for our family of three dogs and three humans! We researched older SUVs extensively, and this era of Toyota Highlander stood out the n all areas as an extremely good choice.
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Badumpy on March 16, 2019
The best SUV i have ever ownedThe car is very comfortable and quiet and build quality is off the chart great...after 112000 miles it s looks and feels like new. I will never buy anything but toyota again
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ShellyMd1 on January 19, 2019
Very comfy and rides was very smooth and quiteThis car would be one of the top five that would be on my list of buying the style and smooth ride high on my list
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Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.