Cars

The Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Toyota Highlander

JH
John H
Senior Cars Expert
8 min read

The Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Toyota Highlander

Ready to dive into the world of used Toyota Highlanders? Imagine choosing between a well-aged cheese – full of character and taste – and a fresh one. Let's explore the flavors! ????

What are the Benefits of Buying a Used Toyota Highlander?

Thinking about buying a used Toyota Highlander? Well, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive into the awesome benefits you can enjoy with a used Highlander. Buckle up. It’s gonna be a fun ride!

You Save Money

Who doesn’t love saving money? One of the biggest perks of buying a used Toyota Highlander is the price. New cars are expensive. But used ones? They can be a steal! You can get the same great vehicle for much less.

Slower Depreciation

Ever heard that new cars lose value the minute you drive them off the lot? Well, it’s true. A new Highlander can lose a big chunk of its value in the first few years. A used one? Not so much. When you buy used, someone else takes that hit!

Tested and Trusted

Used cars have a history. With a CarFax report, you can see what the car’s been through. You know what you’re getting. And let’s face it, Toyotas are known for being reliable. That’s gold when looking at used cars.

Lower Insurance Costs

Here’s another way to save. Insurance on a used car is cheaper than on a new one. Insurance companies see a new car as a bigger risk. But a used car? Not so much. So, you save on premiums too. That’s double savings right there!

More Features for Less

Want all the bells and whistles? Buying used can get you more features for less money. Think leather seats and a sunroof. A brand-new Highlander with all the upgrades could be over your budget. But a used one? Totally doable.

Less Stress About Scratches

New cars are perfect. And keeping them that way is stressful! A small scratch can feel like a disaster. But a used car? Every bump and scratch feels a lot less painful. You can relax and enjoy your ride!

Environmentally Friendly

Buying used is green. Every new car uses resources to make. But a used Highlander? It’s already made. It’s a way to drive an eco-friendly car without buying a new hybrid or electric vehicle.

Proven Performance

Used cars have been on the road. They’ve been tested. And the Highlander is known for its great performance. You’re getting a vehicle with a proven track record. That’s peace of mind!

CPO for Extra Peace of Mind

Worried about buying used? Look for a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Toyota Highlander. CPO cars have been checked out by experts. They come with warranties. It’s the best of both worlds—used pricing with new-car reliability.

Financing Options

Think financing a used car is harder? Think again. Many dealerships offer financing for used cars. With lower prices, loans are smaller. That means lower monthly payments. Yay for affordable payments!

Good Resale Value

Toyotas hold their value well. That means if you buy a used Highlander, it’ll still be worth a good amount of money when you’re ready to sell. It’s a smart investment.

Low-Interest Rates

Interest rates for used cars are often competitive. That means you can get a good deal on your loan. Lower interest means you pay less over time. More savings!

Are There Any Common Issues With Used Toyota Highlanders?

So, you've got your eyes on a used Toyota Highlander. It's a popular choice, and you're probably wondering if there are any issues you should be aware of. Let’s dive into it.

Transmission Problems

First up, let’s talk about transmission. Some older models of the Toyota Highlander have reported transmission issues. This isn’t super common, but it happens. Imagine you're driving and suddenly, the car just won't shift gears smoothly. Annoying, right?

If you're test-driving a Highlander, pay attention to how the transmission behaves. If it feels jerky or doesn't switch gears smoothly, that could be a red flag.

Check Engine Light

Ah, the dreaded check engine light. Some used Highlanders may have this light pop on for various reasons. Now, this could be something simple like a loose gas cap, or it could be something more serious like an oxygen sensor failure.

Either way, don’t ignore it. Get a mechanic to check it out. Ignoring the check engine light is like ignoring a toothache – it could lead to bigger problems later.

Brake Issues

Let’s talk brakes. Some owners have mentioned issues with the brakes on older Highlander models. This could mean anything from worn-out brake pads to more serious issues like brake fluid leaks.

If the brakes make weird noises or don’t feel right, get them checked out. You definitely don’t want to mess around with brakes. Safety first!

Electrical Concerns

Electrical issues might sound scary, but they’re often minor. Things like power windows or locks not working properly have been noted by some Highlander owners. It’s usually not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to consider.

Testing all the electrical features during your test drive can save you some headaches. Flip every switch and press every button to see if everything works as it should.

Suspension Woes

Some used Highlanders might have issues with the suspension. Picture driving over a bump and your car feels like it's on a trampoline – not fun.

If the ride feels bouncy or if you hear strange noises when going over bumps, it might be an issue worth considering. A well-maintained suspension is important for a smooth and safe ride.

Water Leaks

Believe it or not, some older Highlanders have had issues with water leaks. This can happen around the sunroof or the doors. No one wants a soggy car, right?

Check the interior for any signs of water damage. Look for stains or a musty smell. These could be indicators of past or present water leaks.

Recall Check

Did you know that some used vehicles might have had recall issues? Toyota is pretty good about fixing these, but it’s always smart to check. You can easily look up if the specific model year you're interested in had any recalls. Just do a quick search or ask the seller.

Getting this information can save you a lot of trouble down the road. Better safe than sorry, right?

Regular Maintenance

One more thing – maintenance. A well-maintained car is like a well-fed pet; it’s happier and runs better. Check the service history of the used Highlander. See if it had regular oil changes, brake checks, and other routine maintenance.

If the previous owner took good care of it, chances are it'll be a solid buy for you.

Take It To A Mechanic

Look, it’s always a good idea to take the used Highlander to a mechanic before you buy it. Think of it as getting a second opinion. A professional can spot issues you might miss and give you peace of mind.

Plus, knowing what you're getting into is always better than having unpleasant surprises later on.

Final Thoughts

There you have it. While the Toyota Highlander is generally reliable, like any used car, it can come with its own set of issues.

But don’t worry, just be aware of these potential problems, and you’ll be more prepared. Happy car hunting!

Cars Guide has some great tips if you want to dive deeper.

How Does the Cost of a Used Toyota Highlander Compare to a New One?

Ever thought about getting a Toyota Highlander but don't know if you should buy new or used? Well, you're in the right place! We're gonna break it down for you in a super simple way. Let's talk about how much you'd spend on a used Toyota Highlander compared to a new one.

Why Compare Costs?

You might wonder, 'Why should I even compare?' Well, money doesn't grow on trees, right? Understanding how much you'll spend can help you make a smart choice. Plus, who doesn't like saving money? So let's get started!

What’s the Deal with New Toyota Highlanders?

New cars are like fresh-out-of-the-oven cookies. They're perfect and smell amazing, but the price tag? Not so sweet. A brand-new Toyota Highlander can cost a pretty penny, sometimes over $40,000! That’s a lot, right?

The High Cost of New

When you buy new, you pay for the latest features, technology, and that new car smell. But the moment you drive it off the lot, it loses value—like, immediately! This is called depreciation. New cars can lose up to 20 percent of their value in the first year.

Used Toyota Highlanders: A Smart Choice?

Now, let’s talk about used Highlanders. These are like finding a gently used game console for half the price. You still get all the fun, but you save a lot of money. Used Highlanders can cost way less, often between $20,000 and $30,000. That’s a big difference!

Why Are They Cheaper?

Used cars have already gone through that first big drop in value. So, you’re not losing as much money when you drive off. Plus, a car that's a few years old might still have all the cool features you want, just not the sky-high price tag.

Let’s Do Some Math

Imagine you have $30,000. You go to a car lot. With that money, you can buy a brand-new car. But what if you find a used one for $20,000?

Now you have $10,000 left. What could you do with that extra money? Maybe go on a vacation? Buy new furniture? The point is, buying used leaves you with more money to do other fun stuff!

Think About Other Costs

Buying a car isn't just about the sticker price. You have to think about insurance, taxes, and maintenance too.

Insurance

Guess what? Insurance for a used car is usually cheaper. This is because the car is worth less money, so it costs less to repair or replace if something happens.

Maintenance and Repairs

Used cars might need a bit more care, but many Toyotas, especially the Highlander, are known for being reliable. Regular maintenance can keep it running smoothly. Plus, the money you saved on the purchase can cover these costs.

Real-Life Example

Let’s say your friend got a new Highlander for $40,000. You, on the other hand, bought a 3-year-old Highlander for $25,000. After 5 years, your car still works great, and you didn’t spend those extra $15,000. Instead, you went on trips, bought a new TV, and still had cash left over.

What to Watch Out For

While buying used is awesome, make sure to do your homework. Check the car’s history report and get it inspected by a mechanic. This will help you avoid any sour deals.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to save money and still want an excellent ride, used Toyota Highlanders are a fantastic choice. The cost difference can be HUGE, and you’ll still get a reliable, fun-to-drive SUV. So, next time you’re thinking about getting a new car, remember, going used might be the smarter choice!

What Mileage is Considered Good for a Used Toyota Highlander?

Alright, you're thinking about getting a used Toyota Highlander, right? Great choice! But you're wondering, 'What mileage is considered good for a used Toyota Highlander?' Let's dive into that.

What’s Good Mileage?

Mileage is a big deal when buying a used car. The lower, the better, usually. But why? Well, let's break it down.

Think of a car like a pair of sneakers. The more you use them, the more they wear down. Car mileage is like steps for sneakers. So, if a car has low miles, it means it hasn’t been used a whole lot.

The Sweet Spot

For a used Toyota Highlander, good mileage is generally around 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year. So, if the car is 5 years old, good mileage would be around 60,000 to 75,000 miles.

Why this range? Well, people usually drive about 12,000 to 15,000 miles each year. So a car with mileage in this range has a normal amount of wear and tear.

Under or Over?

Now, what if the car has less or more miles?

If it's got less miles, that's awesome! Less driving means less wear. But be careful. Sometimes super low miles can mean the car sat around a lot, which isn’t always good either.

If it's got more miles, don’t worry too much. Toyota Highlanders are known for their long lifespan. They can easily go over 200,000 miles if taken care of.

Maintenance Records

Check the maintenance records. A well-maintained car, even with higher miles, can be a better bet than one with low miles but poor maintenance.

So, always look for records showing regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other upkeep tasks. This way, you know the car was treated right.

Trust Your Gut

Don’t just focus on mileage. Trust your gut! How does the car look and feel? If it feels right, it probably is.

Ask Questions

Always ask the seller questions. Questions like:

Asking questions can give you a sense of the car's history and how it’s been treated.

Test Drive

You wouldn’t buy shoes without trying them on, right? Same goes for cars. Take it for a spin. Listen for strange noises. Check how it handles.

If it drives smoothly and feels good, the mileage might not be so important after all.

Get a Mechanic’s Opinion

If you’re serious about the car, have a mechanic check it out. They can spot issues you might miss.

Focus on the Big Picture

Mileage is just one part of the puzzle. Look at the whole picture: how the car was maintained, how it feels, and what your gut says.

So, next time you’re eyeing a used Toyota Highlander, don’t stress too much over the exact miles. Look at everything together, and you’ll make a smart choice.

What Should I Look for When Buying a Used Toyota Highlander?

So, you're thinking about buying a used Toyota Highlander? Great choice! But you might be wondering, 'What should I look for to make sure I get a good deal and a reliable car?' Don't worry; I've got you covered!

Check the Car’s History

The first thing you should do is check the car’s history. Why? Because it tells you everything the car went through. Did it have an accident? How many owners have had it? Important stuff, right?

There's a simple way to do it: ask the seller for a CARFAX report. This report will give you the lowdown about the car's past. Trust me; you don’t want any surprises after you've bought it.

Look for Rust and Corrosion

Now, let’s get physical! Check for rust and corrosion. Rust can be a sign of neglect. Look at the car’s frame, under the doors, and around the wheels. If you see a lot of rust, it might be a bad sign. Got it?

Inspect the Tires

Next, take a good look at the tires. Are they worn out? Uneven wear can mean trouble. Sometimes, it shows there's an issue with suspension or alignment. And let’s face it; that’s not something you want to deal with.

Test the Electronics

Here’s a fun part—testing the electronics. Check the AC, the radio, and all the buttons. Press everything! Make sure it all works. You don't want to end up in a vehicle with a broken AC in the summer.

Take It for a Test Drive

This is super important. Always, I mean ALWAYS take the car for a test drive. Feel the steering, the brakes, and listen for weird noises. This is your best chance to see how the car performs in real life.

Ask yourself:

Check the Service Records

Next up, service records. A well-maintained car is usually a good car. Ask the seller for any paperwork on oil changes, repairs, and other services. Regular maintenance is a good sign.

Get a Mechanic’s Opinion

Here’s a pro tip. Have a trusted mechanic check out the vehicle before you buy it. It might cost you a bit, but it could save you a ton of headaches down the road. Mechanics know what to look for that you might miss.

Mileage Matters

What about mileage? You don’t want a car that’s been driven into the ground. Look for a car with reasonable mileage for its age. What's reasonable? Roughly 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year is a good benchmark. If the car has way more or way less, ask why.

Consider the Price

Lastly, let’s talk money. You need to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. Compare prices online. Check out similar models and see what they’re selling for. Don’t be afraid to negotiate. A little haggling can save you some cash.

Summing Up

So, that's it! Check the car’s history, look for rust, inspect the tires, test the electronics, take it for a test drive, check the service records, get a mechanic’s opinion, examine mileage, and consider the price. You’re all set to find a great used Toyota Highlander!

Happy car hunting!

Is it Worth Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Toyota Highlander?

What is a Certified Pre-Owned Car?

So, you're thinking about buying a car, and you've heard about something called 'Certified Pre-Owned' or CPO. But what exactly does that mean? Well, a Certified Pre-Owned car is a used car that goes through a special check by the dealership. This means they look at a lot of stuff—like the engine, seats, and brakes—to make sure everything's working well. Once the car passes the check, it's given a special title called 'Certified Pre-Owned.' Cool, right?

Reasons to Buy a Certified Pre-Owned Toyota Highlander

Let's dive into why getting a CPO Toyota Highlander can be a super smart idea!

1. Peace of Mind with Warranty

When you buy a certified pre-owned Toyota Highlander, you often get a warranty. A warranty is like a promise from the dealership that says if something goes wrong with the car, they’ll fix it for you. Not bad, huh? This means you don’t have to worry as much about surprise costs.

2. Passed a Careful Inspection

Remember that check the dealership does? They look at so many parts of the car, inside and out. So, you can feel more sure that the car won’t break down right after you buy it. Imagine buying a toy that’s been checked to make sure it works—feels good, right?

3. Better Value for Your Money

Money is a big deal when buying a car. New cars can be really expensive. But a used car costs less, and a certified one gives you extra peace of mind. It's like finding a sweet spot between saving money and getting a car that you can trust.

4. Roadside Assistance

Some CPO programs even include roadside assistance. This is like having a friend you can call if your car stops working on the side of the road. They’ll help you get the car running again or give you a tow to the nearest repair shop.

What to Look For

Thinking of going for a certified pre-owned Toyota Highlander? Here are some things you should keep in mind.

Check the Certification

Make sure the car is really certified. Don't just take someone's word for it. Look for papers or badges that show it has passed the special checks.

Read the Fine Print

Read all the details of what's covered in the warranty. Sometimes, only certain parts are covered. Know what you’re getting into.

Compare Prices

Look at prices from different dealerships. Believe it or not, they can vary a lot. You want the best deal, right?

Take a Test Drive

Always, always, always drive the car before you decide to buy it. Get a feel for how it runs and if it’s comfortable for you.

Are There Any Downsides?

Okay, now let's keep it real. No car is perfect, and certified pre-owned Toyota Highlanders are no different. Here are a couple of things to think about.

Higher Cost Than Regular Used Cars

Since these cars are certified and come with extra perks, they can cost more than other used cars that aren’t certified. It’s like buying a gadget with extra features—it’ll cost you more.

Availability

Not all used Toyota Highlanders are certified. This means you might have fewer options to choose from. But hey, quality over quantity, am I right?

Final Thoughts?

So, is it worth it to buy a certified pre-owned Toyota Highlander? If you're looking for a mix of safety, reliability, and value, a CPO Highlander might be just what you need. You get the benefit of a used car price with some of the perks of a new car. Plus, the extra inspection and warranty can really make a difference. Want more info? Check out your local Toyota dealer and ask them about their CPO programs. And remember, the best car for you is the one that fits your needs and makes you happy! Happy car hunting!

How Reliable Are Used Toyota Highlanders?

Hey there! Ever thought about getting a used Toyota Highlander? Well, before you make any decisions, let's talk about something super important: reliability. I’m here to break it down for you in a way that's simple and fun. Ready? Let’s dive in!

What Makes Toyota Highlanders Reliable?

First of all, Toyota has this amazing reputation for making cars that last. You’ve heard of Toyotas going over 200,000 miles, right? It's like they’re built to go on and on. The Highlander is no different. Built with quality materials and designed to be tough, these SUVs can handle lots of wear and tear.

Real-Life Stories

People often share stories about their used Highlanders going strong for years. Imagine buying a car that’s already a few years old and still having it perform like a champ! It’s like getting a puppy that’s already house-trained – saves you a ton of trouble.

What to Check

Okay, so you’re set on getting a used Highlander. What should you look out for? First, always check the maintenance records. A well-kept car usually means fewer problems later. It’s like buying second-hand shoes – if they’re well taken care of, you’ll probably walk comfortably for a long time.

Also, go for a test drive. How does it feel? Are there strange noises? Make sure to test the brakes, acceleration, and steering. Think of it like trying on clothes – you want to make sure everything fits right.

Common Issues

Even good cars have their quirks, right? Some older Highlanders can have issues with the transmission or the air conditioning. But don’t stress, these are usually easy fixes. Plus, because Highlanders are so popular, finding parts is a breeze.

Why Reliability Matters

You might be wondering, “Why should I care so much about reliability?” Well, it saves you money, time, and stress. A reliable car won’t leave you stranded on the side of the road or empty your bank account with expensive repairs.

Plus, it’s like having a trustworthy friend. You can plan road trips, commute to work, or even just run errands without worrying if your car’s gonna make it.

Amazing Resale Value

Got plans to sell your Highlander after a few years? Good news! Because they’re reliable, used Highlanders tend to keep their value really well. It's like buying a popular toy – everyone wants it, so you can easily sell it later.

Certified Pre-Owned - A Good Choice?

Thinking of getting a certified pre-owned Highlander? These come with some perks. They’re usually checked out by mechanics and come with a warranty. It’s like buying a used phone that’s been tested and comes with a short-term guarantee.

Sure, it might cost a bit more, but the peace of mind is often worth it. You get a car that’s almost as good as new but at a lower price. Win-win!

The Verdict

So, how reliable are used Toyota Highlanders? Very reliable! With a well-known history of durability, excellent resale value, and minimal issues, it’s hard to go wrong. Whether you're new to cars or an old hand, a used Highlander is a smart choice.

Are you ready to find your next ride? Happy car hunting, and may you find the perfect used Toyota Highlander that fits your needs!

What Are the Differences Between the Various Model Years of Used Toyota Highlanders?

Alright, so you're thinking about buying a used Toyota Highlander. Great choice. They're pretty popular and for good reasons. But, you've got a big question: 'What's different between the various model years?'

Model Changes Over the Years

Let's dive in. The Toyota Highlander has been around since the early 2000s. Over time, it's gone through some big changes. Each model year has its goodies and quirks.

First Generation (2001-2007)

The first generation Highlanders are pretty basic. They're smaller. Think of them like the early iPhones—simple but effective. These models are known for:

But, they lack lots of modern features. No fancy touch screens or backup cameras here.

Second Generation (2008-2013)

Now, this is where things get interesting. From 2008, the Highlander got bigger and better.

Imagine upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone. That's the leap here. You get more bang for your buck.

Third Generation (2014-2019)

From 2014 onwards, the Highlander became even cooler. These models are modern and stylish.

If you're into tech, you'll love these models.

Fourth Generation (2020-present)

And now, we're in the fourth generation. Everything's top-notch. Think of it as the latest smartphone. Features include:

If you want the best of the best, this is it.

Which Model Year Should You Buy?

So, which one is right for you?

Budget-Friendly

If you're on a budget, go for the first generation. They're reliable and cheap. But, don't expect any fancy features.

Best Value

The second generation offers great value. You get updated tech and more space without breaking the bank.

Modern Features

For those who want all the bells and whistles, the third generation is awesome. Touchscreens, better safety—it's all here.

Top-of-the-Line

Want everything? Then the fourth generation is your pick. It's the newest, with all the latest tech and best fuel efficiency.

Things to Keep in Mind

Before you decide, remember these tips:

You'll thank yourself later!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it. Each generation of the Toyota Highlander has its perks and quirks. Whether you're on a budget or want the newest model, there's something out there for you. Have fun shopping!

How Do Used Toyota Highlander Resale Values Compare to Other SUVs?

Hey there! Got a question about used Toyota Highlanders? Today, we're diving into question number 9. How do the resale values of used Toyota Highlanders stack up against other SUVs? Let's break it down in a fun, easy way.

Why Resale Value Matters

First, let's get the big picture. Why should you care about resale value? Simple. Resale value means how much money you can get back when you sell your car later. High resale value means you get more money back!

Strong Demand: Everyone Loves a Highlander

One reason the resale value of the Toyota Highlander is solid is because everyone loves this car.

It’s reliable, safe, and great for families. Because many people want it, it keeps its value better. So, if you decide to sell in a few years, more people will be interested in buying it from you.

Example Time!

Imagine you bought a used Highlander for $20,000. After three years, you might still sell it for $15,000. Not bad, right?

Toyota: A Respected Brand

Ever heard people rave about Toyota? There’s a good reason for that. Toyota builds cars that last a long time. When people know a brand is reliable, they’re more likely to pay good money for it.

Trust is Key

Trust in a brand means buyers are willing to pay more. The used Toyota Highlander benefits from Toyota’s strong reputation.

Comparison with Other SUVs

Now, how does the Highlander compare to other SUVs?

Highlander vs. Other Popular SUVs

Let's see how the Highlander fares against some other popular SUVs.

Honda Pilot - The Honda Pilot is a solid competitor. It has good resale values, but the Highlander's got an edge due to its longer history of reliability.

Ford Explorer - The Ford Explorer is another well-known SUV. While it has its fans, its resale value often dips more compared to the Highlander. Ford’s reliability is generally seen as a notch below Toyota's.

Chevrolet Traverse - The Chevy Traverse offers a lot of space. But, guess what? Its resale value doesn't hold up as well as the Highlander’s. Toyota’s brand loyalty kicks in here.

Age and Mileage

Another thing to keep in mind: Age and mileage of the SUV make a big difference.

Age: How Old is Too Old?

The newer the model, the better the resale value. That’s often true for any vehicle, including the Highlander.

Mileage: The Lower, the Better

People tend to pay more for cars with lower miles. A Highlander with fewer miles generally keeps its value better than one that's been driven a lot.

The Impact of Features

Got lots of cool features? Great! More features can make a car more valuable.

Some features that help resale value:

Certified Pre-Owned: Worth It?

Buying a certified pre-owned Highlander can also help its resale value. These cars have been inspected and fixed by the dealer. That makes buyers more willing to pay a higher price later on.

Peace of Mind

Certified pre-owned vehicles often come with extra warranties. That gives new buyers peace of mind, and they’re willing to pay more for it.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Toyota Highlander vs. a New One?

Thinking about buying a Toyota Highlander? Maybe you're torn between getting a shiny new one or a trusty used model? No worries, let's break it down together!

Pros of Buying a Used Toyota Highlander

First off, used Toyota Highlanders are usually CHEAPER! You get to save some serious cash. Why pay more when you don’t have to, right?

Another good thing is that cars lose value super fast. Like, REALLY fast. A new car loses value as soon as you drive it off the lot. Buying a used one avoids that immediate hit.

Also, if you buy used, you might afford a higher trim level. Think leather seats or a fancy sound system. Sweet, right?