Three problems related to vehicle overheat have been reported for the 2003 Toyota Highlander. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Toyota Highlander based on all problems reported for the 2003 Highlander.
Driving in town traffic, car overheated for the first time ever having this car. Thought it was probably a thermostat so took to firestone, they called and said I have a blown head gasket! at only 95000 miles. I have babied and had every single regular service done to this vehicle since it was the first new car I ever bought. I thought Toyotas were long lasting vehicles. Apparently not. I'm going to have to come up with over $2000 dollars to have it repaired. I've taken the vehicle to the Toyota dealership in town that I bought it from and they are going to call me to let me know if they agree with firestone's assessment. I understand that the head bolts are also stripped in this year model. I'm very upset that I couldn't pay what I paid for this SUV (expensive) and have it even make it to 100,000 miles. My american made car went to 130,000 and that's supposed to be the opposite. Toyota needs to pay for my repairs to this vehicle!! I am the only owner and I'm not buying Toyota again. . . I'm very sad.
Tl- the contact owns a 2003 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that the vehicle overheated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer for inspection and they stated that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 140,000. Mah.
Engine head bolts on 2003 Toyota Highlander became loose; threads had worn off on 2 or 3 bolts that hold the top of the engine to the main engine block. Vehicle has been well-maintained; 87,000 miles. Repair requires new engine block at cost of $6,400. Appears to be manufacturing defect - engine bolts should not come loose. Toyota refuses to provide any assistance in repair. Vehicle overheated and was towed to repair shop.