Toyota Highlander owners have reported 2 problems related to engine grinding noise (under the engine and engine cooling category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Toyota Highlander based on all problems reported for the Highlander.
Vvti cam gear issue, making grinding noise. Vehicle just hit 60,000 and out of warranty. Earlier TSB from Toyota didn't cover this since the vehicle didn't show any signs.
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all problems of the 2009 Toyota Highlander
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When you start up car there is a engine grinding noise for a few seconds. This has been reported by many people on the internet, just google 2008 Toyota Highlander start up engine noise and you will get a better look at what it sounds like. This could lead to severe engine damage . It is a defect in the engine.
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all problems of the 2008 Toyota Highlander
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