How Long Can a 2009 Highlander Last?
3 Answers
It is recommended to perform maintenance and change the engine oil every 50,000 kilometers. General maintenance is divided into internal and external upkeep. External upkeep, such as paint care, can be done by yourself. This includes car washing and waxing every 2-3 months. Otherwise, the car's paint surface may develop small scratches, oxidation layers, dirt, etc. So, regular maintenance is essential—after all, the paint represents your car's appearance. Personally, I use E8 wax, which has worked well for me over several months. You can check it out on Taobao—it's best to get the complete set. For internal maintenance, the most critical tasks are changing the engine oil and oil filter. The key areas to frequently inspect include tire surfaces and pressure, oil level, coolant level, and brake fluid level. These tasks cannot be done by yourself and require a professional service. Here are five essential points for engine maintenance: 1. Use the appropriate grade of engine oil and change it regularly (every 5,000 kilometers); 2. Frequently maintain the air filter and replace it periodically (every 20,000 kilometers); 3. Clean the fuel system regularly and replace the fuel filter (every 30,000 kilometers); 4. Maintain the radiator and cooling system (every 30,000 kilometers); 5. Replace spark plugs (every 40,000 kilometers or as needed based on driving conditions).
I've been driving a Highlander for over a decade. The 2009 models have mostly clocked over 150,000 kilometers now. The engine is indeed durable, but the aging of chassis rubber components and shock absorbers is particularly noticeable. Just the other day, I helped a friend check out a 2009 model - the chassis was leaking oil everywhere, and the repairs cost nearly 10,000 yuan. If the transmission fluid isn't changed on time, the gear shifts can become very jerky. I recommend paying special attention to the steering gear, CV joints, and suspension control arms - these aging parts can affect driving safety if not replaced. With proper maintenance, it can easily run for another five years, but passing annual inspections will become increasingly difficult, and emission standards in second-tier cities are catching up fast.
It's common to see 2009 Highlanders undergoing major repairs in workshops. After 15 years, severe carbon buildup occurs in the engine, with throttle bodies and fuel injectors prone to clogging, leading to approximately 30% higher fuel consumption compared to new vehicles. Cracked suspension bushings are more prevalent, and squeaking noises during turns serve as early warnings. Electrical system aging and ABS sensor failures are also frequently encountered. It's advisable to set aside an annual maintenance fund of 5,000 RMB. Upon acquisition, prioritize replacing all vehicle fluids and have the three-electric system professionally inspected. As long as frequent workshop visits aren't a concern, using it as a work vehicle for another 3-4 years remains cost-effective, especially since current used car prices hover around 20,000-30,000 RMB.
