I’m looking at purchasing a 2007 Toyota Highlander for my daughter. The vehicle has 156,000 miles . I’ve test drove it and the motor seems strong, it’s a 3.3 6cyl . The transmission is a CVT type. On the Carfax which seller has provided, it shows that the transmission fluid was changed in the last 5,000 miles and that’s the only time it’s been serviced apparently. The transmission seems to function correctly but am wondering , if , by changing fluid so late in the game, will that hurt or help it ? What is the life of a CVT transmission for this vehicle? Thnx for any help in this question. I don’t want to buy it and in 5-10,000 miles have to replace the transmission. Love your how-too videos!!
Carfax is not a reliable source of information, for $40 or any amount.
Ask the seller for the service records on the car. Have it scanned and inspected by a competent, independent mechanic.
One thing to note...the 3.3L engine is an interference engine, so find out when the timing belt was last changed.
It’s not an interference motor, has a timing belt . Chain driven are interference motors .
The transmission is a CVT type
Are you sure? It should of have a conventional automatic transmission unless you have a hybrid one. If this is the case, change the CVT fluid.
If it'a a hybrid based on @yaser then I would add that Scotty suggests staying away from high mileage and old hybrid vehicles because of having to change the battery and also other stuff that can go wrong with a hybrid and the cost of repairs.
It’s not a hybrid. I’ve read that 2007 Highlander is a CVT transmission.
Just wondering what the lifespan of the transmission might be ?
If it is not hybrid, it does not have CVT.