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Last updated on April 3rd, 2022 at 11:29 am

The 2008 Toyota Highlander is more refined than its predecessor. It has a roomier second-row seat, a more powerful engine, an efficient fuel system, flexible, and enhanced ride comfort. Equipped with the V6 engine that is more powerful and efficient, you will enjoy the smooth and quiet ride of the 2008 Toyota Highlander.  

The national highway traffic safety administrations consider the 2008 Toyota Highlander a high-ranking SU based on its enhanced safety standards, including seven airbags, seat belts, and enhanced interior versatility due to reconfigurable second-row car seats. However, when rear seats are in use, there is little cargo space, and its electric steering mechanism may hinder handling. Also, the third-row seat is still most suitable for use by children. 

Built with leading-edge hybrid technology, the 2008 Toyota Highlander took the Toyota highlander hybrid technology a notch-higher, as one of the rare full hybrids. Besides, this SUV boasts a highly effective stability control system to give you a comfortable ride as it makes the 2008 Toyota Highlander impossible to spin out. 

Despite its excellent profile, the 2008 Toyota Highlander has its flaws and problems. Some of the known issues in the 2008 Toyota Highlander include issues with the engine, braking system, in-car electronics, suspension, and the drive system.

• 2008 Toyota Highlander Engine Problems

Although the Highlander engine’s overall reliability is excellent, it has been reported to have numerous problems in its cooling system, including issues with the thermostat, radiator, cooling fan, water pump, and anti-freeze leaks.  These cooling system issues, including faulty oil cooler and leaking oil cooler pipes, cause the engine to overheat and damage the radiator and the water pump. If the problem is not corrected on time, the water pump will malfunction, and the water pump gasket will start leaking. Other issues with the 2008 Toyota Highlander engine include engine oil leaks and engine knocks that some consumers have reported to occur severally within few months after purchase.

• Brakes

The 2008 Toyota Highlander braking system is not reliable since several consumers contact Toyota to report issues with the rear brakes, the antilock braking system (ABS), and break failure and usual wear. According to customers, this SUV will display an ABS failure message at irregular intervals once the mileage hits 37000 miles. This has often been identified in cars with issues with the braking sensors. The company has recalled multiple vehicles under this model for a computer reset on the ABS. The replacement and repair cost of the two hub sensors that control the ABS is costly.

• In-car electronics

In-car electronics, the electric system, and climate control are essential components of modern SUVs. In this model, problems with in-car electronics have been reported, including a faulty CD player and DVD player, a flawed navigation system. As well, issues with camera and oxygen sensors, air conditioner, and display screen going blank while on use have been reported. Problems with the climate control system in the Toyota Highlander are tied to failures in automatic climate control, issues with the A/C compressor, and blower motor failure. The 2008 Toyota Highlander’s electric system has been reported to have problems that cause the alarm’s random sounding, frequent failure of exterior lights, and headlights burning too often. 

• Suspension

The 08 Highlander suspension problems include issues with shocks or struts. Although the struts will start leaking after a substantial mileage of over 100k miles, the price for replacing them is too high. Power steering leaks, worn bushings, and ball joints require regular replacements for the SUV’s suspension system’s proper function. The power steering pumps and hoses have been found with minor problems like leaking.  

• Drive system

The 2008 Toyota Highlander’s drive system is bigger, quieter, and more powerful. However, sensor issues with 4-wheel drive and All-wheel drive require turning off the traction control, a handy feature during the winter. Driveline vibration when the vehicle is towing and accelerating from slow speeds are problems associated with the 2008 Toyota Highlander’s drive system and require replacement of the differential and both axles. The driveshaft and axel have also exhibited issues such as replacement of rear bearings, unrepairable leaks, and excessive vibration. 

Conclusion

Before purchasing any vehicle, it is essential to know the vehicle’s reliability score as calculated based on the vehicle’s benefits and flaws. While the 2008 Toyota Highlander is a reliable vehicle including the engine control module unit, every Toyota customer and potential buyers need to know the car’s problems concerning its drive system, suspension, engine, brakes, in-car electronics, oil lines,  climate control, and the electric system.

2008 Toyota Highlander FAQs

1. What problems do Toyota Highlanders have?

The commonly reported problems reported by 2008 Toyota Highlander owners include engine oil leaks, engine cooling system failures, and regular ABS failures. The SUV’s in-car electric system, the electric system, climate control, suspension, and drive system have been reported to have several malfunctions. 

2. Is the 2008 Toyota Highlander a good car?

Overall, the 2008 Toyota Highlander is a good car that has become a top SUV choice for families due to its roomy interior and enhanced vehicle safety features that give this SUV a high safety rating. This SUV’s fuel efficiency will provide you with an impressive gas mileage added to its comfortable ride. 

3. What is a 2008 Toyota Highlander worth?

If you are looking to invest in an SUV, the 2008 Highlander is worth trying. I recommend you do car research and spread the word about its strengths, including enhanced exterior styling, performance, reliability, and comfort, to give you value for the money. 

4. How long should a Toyota Highlander last?

The 2008 Toyota Highlander should last 300 000 miles or more. Since this depends on the car’s overall condition, it is vital to purchase from a Toyota dealer and engage a mechanic before purchasing to inspect and ensure the vehicle is in good condition. Also, it is essential to contact the highlander limited for repairs or look for Toyota recall listings for Toyota vehicles with deformities.