Toyota Highlander repair in North Miami

Your Highlander carries the whole family, so the brakes and AC have to hold up. Three rows of people, school runs and I-95 traffic in August put real load on the cooling system and front brakes. We check the parts that wear first on this SUV and give you a written price before we touch anything.

Book my Highlander (786) 884-4889

What we see on this car

What we see on the Highlander

Coolant leak at the water pump

The 3.5L V6 in many 2008 to 2016 Highlanders is known to seep coolant at the water pump. Look for pink crust near the belts or a sweet smell after a drive.

Cooling system

Clicking behind the dash

We often see a worn blend door actuator on 2008 to 2013 models. It clicks when you start the car or change the temperature, and one side may blow warmer than the other.

AC repair

Shaking when you brake

A loaded three row SUV is hard on front rotors. Stop and go on the Palmetto is known to wear them unevenly, and you feel it as a pulse in the pedal or wheel.

Brake repair

Knock over bumps

Sway bar links are a common wear item on this SUV. A knock from the front end on rough side streets usually starts there.

Suspension repair

Hybrid system warning

Highlander Hybrids use a separate coolant pump for the inverter. A weak pump is known to trigger hybrid warnings, so we check it along with the battery cooling fan.

Hybrid service

Maintenance by mileage

30,000

Synthetic oil and filter, Tire rotation and brake check, Engine and cabin air filters, AC performance check

60,000

Brake fluid exchange, Front pads and rotors if worn, Water pump and hose leak check, Battery test and wiper blades

90,000

Transmission fluid service, Drive belt inspection, Sway bar links and bushings check, Throttle body cleaning if the idle is rough

120,000

Spark plugs, Engine coolant replacement, Shocks and struts check, Road test with a written report

Questions people ask

Does my Highlander have a timing belt?

Highlanders from 2008 on use a timing chain, which has no set replacement interval. Earlier V6 models, 2001 to 2007, use a timing belt usually due around 90,000 miles. If you are not sure, we check.

Can you work on the Highlander Hybrid?

Yes. We service the gas engine, brakes, cooling and hybrid system checks. Hybrid brakes often last longer because the motor helps slow the SUV, but the brake fluid still needs changing.

Do I have to go to the dealer to keep my warranty?

No. Federal law lets you service your car at any shop. Follow the schedule, use the right fluids and keep your receipts. You get a written record of every visit with us.

Why is my third row always hot?

The rear AC depends on the same refrigerant charge as the front. If the back feels warm, the charge may be low or the rear blower may be weak. We test both before recommending parts.