The 2002 Toyota Highlander was one of the original midsize crossover SUVs to hit the market—and it still holds its own today. Known for blending SUV capability with car-like comfort, the Highlander became a go-to option for families who wanted more space, safety, and reliability without going full truck.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 2002 Highlander’s power, performance, practicality, and longevity. Plus, we’ll share a smart way to save money on ownership costs by reconditioning your car battery at home.
Overview: A Crossover Pioneer
The 2002 Toyota Highlander marked the second year of this now-iconic model. Built on the Camry platform, it offered drivers a smoother ride than truck-based SUVs while still delivering solid cargo space, all-wheel drive, and optional V6 power. Toyota designed it to appeal to drivers looking for a practical, easy-to-drive SUV without sacrificing capability.
Key Specs:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Engine | 2.4L 4-cylinder |
| Available Engine | 3.0L V6 |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Fuel Economy | 18–22 MPG combined |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 3,500 lbs (V6 AWD) |
Performance and Engine Options
The 2002 Highlander offers two engine choices to match your driving needs:
- 2.4L 4-Cylinder: Good for city driving and fuel savings. Produces 155 hp and is paired with front-wheel drive by default.
- 3.0L V6: Produces 220 hp and gives the Highlander a noticeable boost in acceleration and towing power. Available in FWD or AWD.
The V6 engine is the better choice if you plan to haul passengers or gear regularly. It offers smooth power delivery and reliability that has made it a favorite among long-term owners.
Ride and Handling
The Highlander’s car-like construction means it drives more like a sedan than a truck. The suspension is soft enough for comfort but handles corners with confidence. Road noise is minimal, and the seating position offers excellent visibility.
Interior Comfort and Practicality
Inside, the 2002 Highlander is practical, spacious, and built to last. You’ll find wide doors, supportive seating, and a flat floor that makes getting in and out easy for all passengers.
Interior Features:
- Roomy 5-passenger layout (no third-row in 2002 models)
- Fold-flat rear seats for expanded cargo space
- Optional leather seats and power driver seat
- Large storage compartments and rear cargo area
With the rear seats folded, the 2002 Highlander offers over 80 cubic feet of cargo space—perfect for road trips, sports gear, or DIY projects.
Safety and Reliability
Safety was a big priority for Toyota with the Highlander. Standard safety features on the 2002 model include front airbags, ABS brakes, and optional side-impact airbags.
More importantly, the Highlander earns high marks for long-term reliability. Many 2002 models are still on the road today with over 200,000 miles and few major repairs.
Reliability Highlights:
- Low repair frequency
- Well-built V6 engine
- Transmission known to last beyond 150,000 miles with regular maintenance
- Strong resale value and owner satisfaction
Common Issues to Watch For
Like any older vehicle, the 2002 Highlander has a few known issues—most of them minor:
- Oil leaks: Valve cover gaskets and cam seals may need replacing after 150K miles
- Oxygen sensor failure: Can trigger a check engine light
- Suspension wear: Especially bushings and struts after 100K miles
- Battery wear: The original battery may no longer hold a charge—but it can often be reconditioned
Fortunately, most of these issues are inexpensive to fix and don’t affect the SUV’s overall performance.
Maintenance Tips for Long Life
With basic maintenance, a 2002 Highlander can run strong for 250,000 miles or more.
Here’s what you should stay on top of:
- Change engine oil every 5,000 miles (synthetic preferred)
- Replace timing belt (V6) every 90,000 miles
- Flush transmission fluid every 30,000–60,000 miles
- Rotate tires every 6,000–7,500 miles
- Inspect battery, coolant, and brake fluid regularly
Save Money: Recondition Your Car Battery Instead of Replacing It
If your Highlander’s battery is weak, don’t rush to buy a new one. You can recondition it at home using a simple process that restores old or dead batteries—and it works for cars, trucks, laptops, and more.
It’s all explained in the:
New Battery Reconditioning Course
- No technical experience required
- Step-by-step instructions and tools
- Save $100 or more per battery
- Fix batteries for family, friends, or even start a side business
Click here to download the course and start saving money today
Is the 2002 Toyota Highlander Still Worth Buying?
Absolutely—if you find one in good condition. The 2002 Highlander offers everything you need from a practical SUV: comfort, space, reliability, and decent power. It’s also easier and more affordable to maintain than newer crossovers packed with tech.
It’s perfect for:
- Families needing a reliable second vehicle
- First-time drivers wanting safety and space
- Anyone who values long-lasting Toyota engineering
Final Thoughts
The 2002 Toyota Highlander is a timeless SUV that delivers real-world performance, comfort, and durability. It may lack the flashy screens of modern vehicles, but it makes up for it with strong build quality and reliability you can count on.
And don’t forget—you can stretch your dollars even further by reconditioning your car battery at home. Download the Battery Reconditioning Course and keep your Highlander—and your wallet—running strong.