Four problems related to power train have been reported for the 2002 Toyota Highlander. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2002 Toyota Highlander based on all problems reported for the 2002 Highlander.
Transmission jumps in 3rd gear, dealer said must replace.
I placed car into reverse to back out of parking spot. When I shifted into drive, the car remained stuck in reverse. The shift linkage was no longer functioning. I backed the car into a parking spot in the corner of the parking lot. When I stopped the engine I could no longer start the engine as it was stuck in reverse. I called a tow truck. The tow truck driver was able to place the tranmission into neutral (using a wrench on the transmission) enabling the car to be pushed forward. The car was then placed on the tow truck and towed to the dealer. The cable and shift mechanism required replacement.
Took off and pulled into traffic when the transmission quit working. Tried again and it worked. Dangerous.
Awhile back in the summer of 2009, I notified you about my concern for safety in my 2002 Toyota Highlander. The car took off for no apparent reason accelerating to an unsafe speed. I was only able to stop by shifting to neutral and slamming on the brakes missing several cars. The feedback I got was the floor mat. . . Which I told the dealer was bull. I believe the problem may be in the computer. I checked all the cables and throttle body cables including linkage. I had the whole fuel system cleaned inside and out including the throttle body. This seemed to temporary solve the problem. My concerns are 1. I think Toyota needs to look further back in years this has been a concern by goggling this problem. 2. When the problem(s) are identified you need the look at repairs where the parts may have been used. 3. I believe this problem may be caused by several factors. 2002 Toyota Highlander.