What are the common suspension issues in the fourth-generation Toyota Highlander?

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

779 words

Problem Statement

Explore common suspension issues in the fourth-generation Toyota Highlander, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

suspension

Symptoms

•Clunking or rattling sounds when driving over bumps or potholes
•Excessive bouncing or harshness when driving over uneven surfaces
•Noticeable wear patterns on tires (e.g., cupping or scalloping)
•Vehicle drifts to one side while driving straight
•Excessive leaning during turns

Diagnostic Steps

1
Visual Inspection
2
Check for Play in Components
3
Alignment Check
4
Road Test

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Flashlight
•jack
•jack stands
•basic hand tools
•pry bar or a large screwdriver
•alignment rack
•socket set
•wrench set
•strut spring compressor
•torque wrench
•safety glasses
•gloves
•ball joint separator tool
•press tool

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Solution

Common Suspension Issues in the Fourth-Generation Toyota Highlander (2020-Present)

The fourth-generation Toyota Highlander is generally known for its reliability and comfort. However, like any vehicle, it may encounter some common suspension issues over time. Below are the common symptoms, diagnostic steps, tools required, and repair instructions.

Common Suspension Issues

Unusual Noises
- Symptoms: Clunking or rattling sounds when driving over bumps or potholes.
- Possible Causes: Worn or damaged struts, sway bar links, or control arm bushings.
Rough Ride
- Symptoms: Excessive bouncing or harshness when driving over uneven surfaces.
- Possible Causes: Worn shock absorbers or struts.
Uneven Tire Wear
- Symptoms: Noticeable wear patterns on tires (e.g., cupping or scalloping).
- Possible Causes: Misalignment or worn suspension components.
Pulling to One Side
- Symptoms: Vehicle drifts to one side while driving straight.
- Possible Causes: Misalignment, uneven tire pressure, or worn suspension components.
Increased Body Roll
- Symptoms: Excessive leaning during turns.
- Possible Causes: Worn sway bar bushings or struts.

Step 1: Visual Inspection

Tools Required: Flashlight, jack, jack stands, and basic hand tools.
Instructions:
- Safely lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
- Inspect the suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, and sway bar links) for signs of wear, rust, or damage.
- Check for fluid leaks around the struts/shocks.
- Examine tires for uneven wear patterns.

Step 2: Check for Play in Components

Tools Required: Pry bar or a large screwdriver.
Instructions:
- With the vehicle still lifted, use the pry bar to check for play in the ball joints and control arm bushings.
- If any components feel loose or have excessive movement, note them for replacement.

Step 3: Alignment Check

Tools Required: Alignment rack (best performed by a professional).
Instructions:
- If the vehicle pulls to one side or shows uneven tire wear, have a professional perform a wheel alignment check.

Step 4: Road Test

Tools Required: None (but a passenger can help).
Instructions:
- Drive the vehicle over various road surfaces and listen for any abnormal noises.
- Pay attention to the vehicle’s handling and ride quality.

Repair Instructions

Repairing or Replacing Worn Struts/Shocks

Tools Required:

Socket set
Wrench set
Strut spring compressor
Torque wrench
Safety glasses
Gloves

Instructions:

Lift the Vehicle: Use a jack and jack stands to elevate the front or rear of the Highlander.
Remove Wheel: Use a socket set to remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
Remove Strut Assembly:
- Unscrew the bolts securing the strut to the steering knuckle.
- Remove the upper strut mount bolts from the engine bay (access may vary, consult service manual).
- Use a strut spring compressor to safely compress the spring and remove the strut assembly.
Install New Strut:
- If reusing the spring, carefully attach it to the new strut using the spring compressor.
- Install the new strut assembly in reverse order of removal.
Reattach Wheel: Place the wheel back on and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Repeat for Other Side: If replacing both struts, repeat the process on the opposite side.
Alignment: After any suspension work, have a professional perform a wheel alignment.

Replacing Worn Control Arm Bushings

Tools Required:

Jack and jack stands
Socket set
Wrench set
Ball joint separator tool
Press tool (for bushings)

Instructions:

Lift the Vehicle: Securely lift the vehicle and support it with jack stands.
Remove Wheel: Take off the wheel for access to the suspension components.
Remove Control Arm:
- Detach the control arm from the subframe by removing the bolts.
- Use a ball joint separator tool to detach the control arm from the steering knuckle.
Replace Bushings:
- Use a press tool to remove the old bushings from the control arm.
- Install new bushings using the press tool.
Reinstall Control Arm:
- Reattach the control arm to the subframe and steering knuckle.
- Torque all bolts to specifications.
Reattach Wheel and Lower the Vehicle:
- Put the wheel back on, tighten the lug nuts, and lower the car.
Alignment: Ensure a professional performs a wheel alignment after the repair.

Conclusion

Addressing suspension issues in the fourth-generation Toyota Highlander involves careful inspection and diagnosis, followed by systematic repairs. Regular maintenance can prevent many common problems. If you're unsure about any steps or do not have the required tools, it's recommended to consult a professional mechanic.