Scotty Kilmer's Toyota Highlander Review: Is It Worth It?

Hey guys! Ever wondered what Scotty Kilmer, the straight-talking mechanic, thinks about the Toyota Highlander? Well, buckle up because we're diving deep into Scotty Kilmer's Toyota Highlander review. This SUV has been a family favorite for years, known for its reliability and practicality. But does it live up to the hype? Let's find out what Scotty, with his decades of experience, has to say about it. We'll cover everything from its engine and transmission to its overall dependability and common issues. So, whether you're considering buying a new or used Highlander, or just curious about this popular SUV, this is your go-to guide.

Who is Scotty Kilmer?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the Toyota Highlander, let's talk about the man himself: Scotty Kilmer. If you're not already familiar, Scotty is a mechanic with over 50 years of experience. He's famous for his no-nonsense advice, often delivered with a healthy dose of sarcasm and humor. You can find him on YouTube, where he shares his knowledge about cars, repairs, and the automotive industry. Scotty Kilmer's Toyota Highlander reviews are particularly popular because he pulls no punches. He tells it like it is, based on his extensive hands-on experience. Unlike some reviewers who focus on flashy features or marketing jargon, Scotty cuts through the noise and gives you the real deal. His insights are invaluable for anyone looking to make an informed decision about their next vehicle. He often emphasizes the importance of reliability and longevity, which are key factors for many car buyers. Plus, he's not afraid to call out manufacturers for common problems or design flaws. This makes his reviews incredibly trustworthy and helpful. Scotty's approach is simple: he wants to help people avoid getting ripped off and make smart choices when it comes to their cars. Whether you're a seasoned car enthusiast or a complete newbie, Scotty's videos are easy to understand and packed with useful information. So, with that in mind, let's see what Scotty has to say about the Toyota Highlander.

Overview of the Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV that has been around since 2000. It's known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and, most importantly, its reliability. Over the years, the Highlander has undergone several redesigns, each bringing improvements in terms of features, safety, and performance. The Toyota Highlander typically seats up to eight passengers, making it a great choice for families. It also offers a decent amount of cargo space, which is essential for road trips or hauling groceries. Under the hood, you'll usually find a V6 engine that provides plenty of power for everyday driving. Some models also come with a hybrid option, offering better fuel economy. One of the key reasons the Highlander is so popular is its reputation for dependability. Toyotas, in general, are known for their longevity, and the Highlander is no exception. Many owners report driving their Highlanders for hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal issues. This makes it a smart choice for those looking for a vehicle that will last. Of course, like any car, the Highlander has its pros and cons. But overall, it's a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. In the following sections, we'll delve into what Scotty Kilmer thinks about the Highlander's various aspects, from its engine and transmission to its common problems and overall reliability.

Scotty Kilmer's Opinion on Toyota Highlander

So, what does Scotty Kilmer think of the Toyota Highlander? In general, Scotty is a fan of Toyota's reliability, and the Highlander is no exception. He often praises Toyota for building cars that last, and he considers the Highlander to be one of their better models. Scotty Kilmer's Toyota Highlander review often highlights the vehicle's robust engine and transmission. He appreciates that Toyota doesn't over-engineer their cars, which reduces the chances of things going wrong. He also points out that the Highlander is relatively easy to work on, which is a big plus for DIY mechanics. However, Scotty isn't one to sugarcoat things. He does have some criticisms of the Highlander, which we'll discuss in more detail later. But overall, he sees it as a solid and dependable SUV that's worth considering, especially if you're looking for something that will last for many years. He often compares it favorably to other SUVs in its class, citing its superior reliability and lower maintenance costs. Scotty also emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance, regardless of how reliable a car is. He recommends following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule and addressing any issues promptly. This will help ensure that your Highlander stays in top condition and lasts for as long as possible. In his videos, Scotty often shares tips and tricks for maintaining your car, which are incredibly helpful for both experienced and novice car owners. So, while he acknowledges that the Highlander isn't perfect, Scotty believes that it's a well-built and reliable SUV that deserves its good reputation.

Key Aspects of the Toyota Highlander According to Scotty Kilmer

When it comes to the Toyota Highlander, Scotty Kilmer focuses on several key aspects that are crucial for any vehicle. These include the engine, transmission, overall reliability, and common problems. Let's break down each of these areas according to Scotty's expert opinion. The engine is the heart of any car, and Scotty pays close attention to its design and performance. He prefers engines that are simple, durable, and easy to maintain. In the case of the Highlander, he generally approves of the V6 engine that's commonly found in most models. He appreciates that it's not overly complicated and that it has a good track record for reliability. Scotty Kilmer's Toyota Highlander review will often mention that the V6 engine is powerful enough for most driving situations and that it doesn't suffer from many common issues. The transmission is another critical component, and Scotty emphasizes the importance of choosing a car with a reliable transmission. He's generally a fan of Toyota's automatic transmissions, which are known for their smoothness and durability. He often advises against cars with continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), which he believes are prone to problems. Fortunately, the Highlander typically comes with a traditional automatic transmission, which gets a thumbs-up from Scotty. Overall reliability is perhaps the most important factor for Scotty, and it's where the Highlander really shines. He consistently praises Toyota for building reliable cars, and the Highlander is no exception. He often points out that Toyotas tend to last longer and require less maintenance than many other brands. This makes them a great choice for those who want a hassle-free ownership experience. However, even the most reliable cars can have common problems, and Scotty is always quick to point these out. In the case of the Highlander, he mentions issues such as oil leaks, sensor failures, and occasional transmission problems. While these issues aren't widespread, it's important to be aware of them and to address them promptly if they occur. By focusing on these key aspects, Scotty provides a comprehensive overview of the Toyota Highlander's strengths and weaknesses.

Common Problems and Issues Highlighted by Scotty Kilmer

Even though Scotty Kilmer generally approves of the Toyota Highlander, he doesn't shy away from pointing out its common problems and issues. According to Scotty, one of the most frequent issues with older Highlanders is oil leaks. These leaks can occur from various places, such as the valve cover gaskets or the oil pan. While they're not always serious, they can lead to bigger problems if left unattended. Scotty recommends checking your Highlander regularly for oil leaks and addressing them promptly to prevent further damage. Another issue that Scotty mentions is sensor failures. Modern cars are packed with sensors that monitor various aspects of the engine and transmission. When these sensors fail, they can cause all sorts of problems, from reduced fuel economy to engine misfires. Scotty advises investing in a good quality OBD-II scanner to diagnose sensor issues and replacing faulty sensors as soon as possible. Scotty Kilmer's Toyota Highlander review also touches on occasional transmission problems. While Toyota's automatic transmissions are generally reliable, they're not bulletproof. Some Highlander owners have reported issues such as slipping gears or rough shifting. Scotty recommends changing the transmission fluid regularly to prevent these problems and seeking professional help if you notice any unusual behavior. It's important to note that these problems aren't necessarily widespread, and many Highlander owners never experience them. However, it's always good to be aware of potential issues so you can take proactive steps to prevent them. Scotty's advice is to stay on top of maintenance, address any problems promptly, and don't be afraid to seek professional help when needed.

Scotty Kilmer's Advice for Potential Buyers

If you're considering buying a Toyota Highlander, Scotty Kilmer has some valuable advice to share. First and foremost, he emphasizes the importance of doing your research. Don't just take the dealer's word for it – read reviews, compare prices, and learn about the Highlander's common problems. This will help you make an informed decision and avoid any unpleasant surprises. Scotty also recommends inspecting the car thoroughly before you buy it. Check for oil leaks, look for signs of damage, and test all the features to make sure they're working properly. If possible, bring a trusted mechanic with you to give the car a once-over. Scotty Kilmer's Toyota Highlander review highlights the importance of a pre-purchase inspection, which can save you a lot of money and headaches down the road. Another piece of advice from Scotty is to negotiate the price. Don't be afraid to haggle with the dealer and walk away if they're not willing to give you a fair deal. Remember, there are plenty of other cars out there, so don't feel pressured to buy something that you're not comfortable with. Scotty also advises considering a used Highlander. Since Toyotas are known for their reliability, a used Highlander can be a great value. Just make sure to get a thorough inspection and check the car's maintenance history. Finally, Scotty emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance. Even the most reliable cars need to be taken care of, so be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule and address any issues promptly. By following Scotty's advice, you can increase your chances of finding a great Toyota Highlander that will last for many years.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Scotty Kilmer's Toyota Highlander review paints a picture of a reliable and practical SUV that's well-suited for families and anyone looking for a long-lasting vehicle. While the Highlander isn't perfect and has its share of common problems, its overall dependability and ease of maintenance make it a solid choice. Scotty's advice for potential buyers is to do their research, inspect the car thoroughly, negotiate the price, and prioritize regular maintenance. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding a great Highlander that will serve you well for years to come. So, if you're in the market for a mid-size SUV, be sure to give the Toyota Highlander a serious look – it might just be the perfect car for you.