Hello Mr. Kilmer - Thank you for everything you do, so appreciated.
I am looking at a 2011 Toyota Highland SE with 137,197 miles, 4WD, 6 Cyl 3.5 L engine for $12,991 and while I was looking at the carfax service records I saw that the dealer replaced the intake manifold gasket and that concerned me, is that a red flag?
Second, I want to tow a trailer and I like the 4 wheel drive and 3rd row seating but is the is the Toyota Highlander a good choice or can you recommend some other vehicles I should be looking at that would offer the same?
As a woman I always feel worried when buying a car but I have learned so much from watching your show I feel way more confident this time. Thank you so much!
Welcome new member!
Thank you!
Regarding replacing the intake manifold, since it has been done, I would not worry about it, but make sure that your mechanic fully checks the car before you buy it.
The highlanders are well made cars. About towing, you should see if the towing capacity of the car is higher than what you want to tow. Just make sure that the AWD system is checked by your mechanic too.
Thank you, I will check into that.
Should be fine for towing something very light, but it isn’t really designed for that kind of work. A couple thousand pounds, maybe. More than that and I would look for something with a more robust drive train and suspension; the 4Runner is the one most people would cross-shop (similar size, Toyota build quality, and body-on-frame configuration is better for towing).
Good luck!
I had not looked at 4 runners but that is a great suggestion, Thank you
A gasket replacement really wouldn't bother me, especially if it was done recently.
However, I'd probably look at the 4Runner for your towing needs.
Sounds good, I will look at the 4 runner. thank you
A couple things to consider about towing. Toyota has a "towing package", the critical element of which is transmission cooler, as the transmission will get hotter when towing - look for a vehicle with a towing package. The other thing is that a lot of you towing capacity decision depends on not just what you are towing, but where. I towed a 19' fishing boat with my Sienna over a few miles of flat land from storage to dock with no problems. I wouldn't have done long freeway trips or mountains, for that you need something more heavy-duty. You can look up towing capacity online -
https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/towing-capacity-guide/
Thank you, I will look for towing package - thank you for the advise.