I have a 2009 base model with V6 engine Highlander that has 146,000 km.
I noticed recently that my Toyota Highlander takes a while to get up to speed. Whenever I hit the pedal down, it takes a few seconds more than usual to speed up. Unrelated, but I also noticed that the car accelerates better with a full tank in it. The Toyota mechanic said that the car is basically perfect aside from a minor oil leak. Are there any filters/parts I should check or clean that would make my vehicle less sluggish? Should I be worried about this at all, or is this normal for a 12-year-old car?
Because of this, I'm hesitant to rent an 5000lb. camper to go on a summer trip just in case the car can't make it up a steep road.
I would really appreciate any feedback on some solutions or whether I should not worry about it. Thanks!
This could happen cause of air fuel mixture. Either not enough air or fuel. If it runs better on a full tank it could just because there is more gravity with more gas so maybe fuel pump or fuel filter is clogged. If you haven't replaced your fuel pump it could be just going out in general. I would start with simple first though. Air filter and MAF, then see if the throttle is sticky at all or throttle cable is lose/stretched. After would be to go through the fuel system.
