Parts for your 2004 Toyota Highlander

2004 Toyota Highlander (Kluger): easy-going, roomy, and dead simple to live with

This 2004 Toyota Highlander — known locally as the Kluger — is a no-fuss midsize SUV that nails everyday duties and weekend missions alike. Built on a car-like platform, it blends comfy ride manners with heaps of cabin space, flexible seating, and a boot that swallows prams, sports gear, and the odd Bunnings haul. Two engines were common: a thrifty 2.4‑litre four and a gutsier 3.3‑litre V6, paired to a smooth auto in 2WD or AWD. Expect real‑world fuel use around 11–12 L/100 km for the V6, and towing up to about 1500 kg braked when properly equipped.

The cabin layout is straightforward, the controls are sensibly placed, and visibility is excellent under the bonnet and out the rear. Safety kit varies by trim, but ABS and multiple airbags are typically on hand, with later variants adding stability control. It suits families, tradies who don’t need a ute, and anyone keen on road trips across Aussie or Kiwi backroads.

Keeping a 2004-toyota-highlander happy is mostly routine. Stick to quality fluids and keep an eye on wear items, and it’ll rack up kilometres without drama. High‑level upkeep includes:

• Engine oil (5W‑30) and filter every 10,000 km or 6 months.
• V6 has a timing belt: replace around 150,000 km or 7 years. The 2.4 uses a timing chain.
• Inspect coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, refresh coolant and brake fluid about every 2 years.
• For AWD, check transfer case and rear diff oils every 40,000–60,000 km.
• Rotate tyres, align annually, and inspect brakes, struts, bushes, and engine mounts.
• Replace engine air and cabin filters yearly, fit fresh iridium plugs per schedule.

FAQs

What engine oil does a 2004 Toyota Highlander use and how often should it be changed?

Most owners run 5W‑30 quality petrol engine oil. In Aussie and NZ conditions, a 10,000 km or 6‑month interval is a safe bet, with shorter intervals if doing lots of short trips, towing, or dusty driving. Always replace the filter with the oil.

Does the 2004 Highlander/Kluger have a timing belt or a chain?

The 3.3‑litre V6 uses a timing belt that’s typically due around 150,000 km or 7 years. The 2.4‑litre four uses a timing chain designed for the life of the engine, just keep up regular oil changes.

What’s the towing capacity for a 2004 Highlander in Australia or New Zealand?

When properly equipped, many examples are rated up to about 1500 kg braked. Check the vehicle’s compliance plate and owner’s manual for the exact figure, and ensure suitable cooling, towbar, and trailer brakes. For loads over 750 kg, fit an electric brake controller as required by local regs.