2002 Highlander 4 wdr - what 2 look out for

[edwardh1]

My 70 year old cousin in the Va mountains just bought a 2002 4 wheel drive highlander. Are there any pattern failures or defects with this model I need to tell him about?

[avconsult]

Don't know about the 4WD version, but my 2WD '02 has 140,000 miles and has had nothing but oil, tires, trans fluid change and struts. That's it. Consumer Reports surveys indicate well above average in virtually every category.

A few have complained of sun visors not holding place, but that probably depends on usage. Otherwise, the most reliable vehicle I've owned in 32 years of driving.

[milesprower]

Only real issue we've had with our 2002 4wd V6 is a potential for leakage of rain water from rear hatch. There are seams that can open over the years where water can seep in during a rain storm. It then collects in the wheel wells and spare tire compartment. If you don't catch it, it will eventually spill into the rear seat footwell.

We don't park outside often so it is not an issue for us. There are some detailed threads in the forum that go into detail on this issue. Try a thorough search.