TOYOTA HIGHLANDER REPAIR SERVICES
HIGHLANDER
We’re a top rated local Toyota Highlander repair services shop in San Leandro, CA. We service the greater East Bay area, including San Leandro, Castro Valley, Hayward, Oakland, and San Lorenzo. Known for versatility, Toyota Highlanders make loyal family haulers across over 200,000 miles when maintained properly. However, even venerable models face occasional issues needing attention. Precision Auto Care has expert Highlander repair experience fixing common problems to keep local East Bay owners safely on the road.
Read ahead to learn the seven Highlander issues arising frequently and how our ASE-certified technicians accurately assess symptoms to implement reliable solutions. Don’t hesitate scheduling Highlander maintenance and repairs to protect resale value while avoiding headaches.

REQUEST A CALLBACK
Major Tune-Up
Looking for a top-rated local auto repair shop to tune up your vehicle? We offer major tune-up services including spark plug replacement, oil change, belt and hose replacement, windshield wiper replacement, fluid refilling, tire check, balancing and rotation, and more. Schedule an appointment today!
Brake Replacement
Is it time for new brakes? Are you hearing any squeaking or screeching coming from your car? It may be just your brake pads, or you might need a complete brake replacement. Just bring your car in or have it towed to our shop and we’ll take a look.
Fuel Pump Failures
The Toyota Highlander, especially the 2019 model, has had issues with fuel pump failures leading to power loss. This issue, part of a larger recall, requires the replacement of the fuel pump assembly to ensure reliable performance and safety on the road.
Drivers face hazardous stops with no acceleration as the fuel pump’s demise cuts off gasoline flow from tank to engine. Have you experienced scary hesitation or stalling that autochecks missed? Precision Auto Care efficiently performs recalls and tracks emerging reports to determine if Toyota extends the fuel system bulletin. We keep customers informed of new developments to optimize safety.
Stripped Head Bolts
The 2003 Highlander model, in particular, suffered from stripped engine bolt threads leading to significant engine problems, including overheating and head gasket failures. This issue often necessitates extensive engine repairs or even a complete engine replacement.
The expanding heat distorts engine block metal, stripping critical threads securing the cylinder head and gasket. Preventative cooling system maintenance combats temperature spikes, saving older models from expensive threaded insert repairs down the line. Let our technicians eliminate overheating risks upfront before you require tow trucks. How long has it been since your last coolant flush?
Oil Sludge Buildup
First-generation Highlanders, especially those with the 3.0-liter 1MZ-FE engine from 2001 to 2003, experienced excessive oil sludge buildup, which was exacerbated by the use of low-quality oil and infrequent oil changes. Addressing this issue requires more diligent oil maintenance and occasional longer trips to prevent sludge accumulation.
Without reaching operating temperature, moisture and exhaust gases accumulate as contaminants. Meticulous inspections uncover camshaft obstructions before oil starvation wrecks engines. Customers save thousands in repairs through Precision Auto Care’s specialized sludge removal techniques distilling contaminated oil. Do you only drive a few miles between changes? We tailor maintenance to usage preserving Highlander reliability.
Oil Line Ruptures
he VVT-i oil line in Highlanders, particularly from model years 2005 through 2013, is known to rupture, causing significant oil leaks that can lead to engine failure. Customers avoid vehicle abandonment and thousands in new engine costs through proper line repairs. Has your Highlander exceeded 100k miles without updated oil lines? Request inspections ensuring parts withstand pressure surges.
Transmission – Rough Shifting
The Toyota Highlander, particularly in certain model years, has been known to experience rough shifting and transmission slipping. As internal components wear over time, the transmission loses its ability to smoothly change gears. This leads to unsafe driving conditions.
Depending on severity, the problem may require significant repairs beyond standard servicing to restore proper mechanical operation. Precision Auto Care thoroughly diagnoses transmission issues and replaces worn parts or the entire unit as needed to stop slips and rough shifts.
Unreliable In-Car Electronics
Many Highlander models have reported annoying issues with built-in CD/DVD players and infotainment/navigation centers randomly freezing or shutting down completely. These inconvenient system failures frustrate drivers who rely on displays for vehicle information and entertainment.
Our technicians diligently troubleshoot delicate electronic problems by rebooting associated control units and updating software or physically repairing identified components. Precision Auto Care restores the stable function owners expect so Highlander gadgets perform reliably for the long haul.
Climate System Failure
The climate control system in some Highlander models loses calibration over years of cycling leading to uncomfortable cabin environments. Problems manifest as spotty air distribution, refrigerator refrigerant leaks significantly reducing system pressures, and failed defroster circuits unable to clear windshields. We thoroughly test individual system components to locate faulty parts.
Precision Auto Care repairs or replaces leaky evaporator coils, worn control boards, blowers, actuators, sensors, and associated wiring to reestablish stable heating, cooling, and dehumidification. Rely on perfectly comfortable Highlander climates despite extreme outside weather.
While Highlanders build renowned longevity through advanced engineering, components still fatigue needing service. Precision Auto Care’s expertise resolves nagging factory oversights across Toyota generations keeping local owners confidently on the move.
Don’t tolerate bothersome Highlander noises and performance issues! Precision Auto Care provides scheduled maintenance to combat premature problems in San Leandro and surrounding cities. Request your Highlander appointment online or call today.