Inspecting a Used 2008 Highlander Sport

[soup1437]

Hello
I hope to be a proud owner of an 08 highlander sport next week. One important question.

Any defects or issues I should specifically look for on the 2008 highlander sport?

I read the "Common Problems and Solutions" thread but was hoping for additional info. Can anyone recommend a checklist on what to look for while evaluating the SUV before signing papers?

Thanks in advance
soup1437

[JMSinMD]

The stock tires that come on the vehicle are crap.

[Ed-Pa]

If out of warranty then you will be interested in following this and if applicable check the vin# against the TSB

"Toyota Hides Lethal Defect in Highlander and Sienna"?

[deadrx7conv]

As long as the vehicle is accident free, enjoy your new purchase.

Be prepared for a wallop of preventive maintenance since most vehicles are neglected.

Is it an AWD/4wd or a front wheel drive?

How many miles?

Maintenance records?

Remainder of any warranty?

[soup1437]

Thanks for the headsup.

Its AWD , 37k, no maintaince records.

I am bringing it to the dealing next week. Has 3 recalls and want them to look at ATF leak since it falls under the serial number.

[deadrx7conv]

Good luck with it.

I'd recommend a brake bleed, transfer case and rear-end gear oil change, and a simple drain/refill on the transmission and coolant. Also, change the oil/filter to get a baseline for future 5k intervals. Keep an eye on tire pressure for the 1st few weeks too.

The engine air filter should be changed.
And, change the cabin air filters which usually need to be changed every year minimally. My cabin air filter barely lasts 9 months. Too many trees around here.

I'm also on my 3rd set of windshield wipers since 11/07. You can get all 3 wiper refills at the dealer.

[91TB78]

Originally Posted by deadrx7conv

Good luck with it.

I'd recommend a brake bleed, transfer case and rear-end gear oil change, and a simple drain/refill on the transmission and coolant. Also, change the oil/filter to get a baseline for future 5k intervals. Keep an eye on tire pressure for the 1st few weeks too.

The engine air filter should be changed.
And, change the cabin air filters which usually need to be changed every year minimally. My cabin air filter barely lasts 9 months. Too many trees around here.

I'm also on my 3rd set of windshield wipers since 11/07. You can get all 3 wiper refills at the dealer.

All great suggestions. We picked up a CPO 08 AWD from the dealer. Got the extended 100K bumper-to-bumper warranty for $500, but the above preventative are great suggestions.

I'd also invest in replacing the floor mats with some weathertech, husky, or OEM All weather Toyota mats. Mine were toast when we picked our's up. In the past 12K miles since Jan, the vehicle has been great! I have to take it in for the 3 TSBs on it, but I'm not concerned.

You could also check the alignment on the Highlander once you get it. If its out of whack this vehicle can eat tires pretty quickly.