Faults:

Car caught fire at 60,000 miles. I was driving it when it started smoking. Witnesses said it was on fire under the car for 2 miles before I realized and pulled over. The car was well taken care of, oil changes on time, most all services done at the dealer. Had major engine problems at 50,000. Now I'm without a car, still owe money on this one, waiting for insurance settlement which probably won't be much money.

Faults:

Many parts have been replaced under the 36,000 mile warranty:

Replaced floppy visors, 2005, 2005.

Replaced rear window scarred by wiper, 2004.

Replaced slow-retracting driver's seat belt, 2006.

Replaced catalytic converter, 2007.

At the time the catalytic converter was replaced, I asked the service dept. to check the wiper scarring of both the windshield and rear window. The service department said the windows are not scarred, merely dirty. I plan to return to talk to the manager of the service department because I want this damage recorded before the warranty runs out.

General Comments:

I bought the 2004 Highlander because of Toyota's reputation for reliability and Consumer Report's rating on high owner satisfaction. I will never buy another Toyota, but will go back to Honda.

This vehicle, like my old Forester, makes painfully loud thrumming noise if any or all windows are open more than an inch, as others have reported.

The Highlander, built on a Tacoma chassis, handles like what it is, a truck.

The recessed instrument panel is dark and very difficult to read unless the headlights are turned on, also lighting up the dash. If I wear sunglasses, the unlit dash is impossible to read and therefore dangerous.

According to Toyota's parts manual, a rear spoiler is supposed to help prevent accumulation of dirt. For about $400 I had one installed, and it is worthless for prevention of dirt accumulation.

The flat, cheesy upholstery stains much more easily than velour upholstery I have had in past vehicles.