
The oil filter on the Highlander is located underneath the chassis. Functions of the oil filter: 1. Prevent larger mechanical impurities from entering the oil pump; 2. Filter out impurities in the oil with diameters of 0.05 to 0.1mm or larger; 3. Supply clean lubricating oil to the main oil passage and friction surfaces. Taking the 2021 Highlander as an example, its body dimensions are: length 4890mm, width 1925mm, height 1720mm, wheelbase 2790mm, fuel tank capacity 78.5 liters, and curb weight 1910kg. The 2021 Highlander features a MacPherson strut front suspension and an E-type multi-link rear suspension. It is equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 220PS, maximum power of 162kW, maximum torque of 350Nm, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The oil filter for the Highlander is typically located at the bottom rear of the engine bay, near the oil pan area of the engine. To access it for replacement, the car needs to be lifted or you'll have to crawl underneath. Having changed the Highlander's oil myself several times, I've noticed the exact position can vary by year and model—older versions might have it on the lower left side, while newer models could position it towards the center-right. It's best to use a flashlight to spot it; the filter is a cylindrical black or silver component that screws on and off. When replacing, make sure to use a professional wrench and avoid excessive force to prevent damaging the threads. Regularly changing the oil filter is crucial—it's recommended to check every 5,000 kilometers or every six months to prevent engine carbon buildup and wear. Since the underside of the car can be quite dirty, wearing gloves and safety goggles is advisable to keep your hands clean and protect your eyes from oil splatter.

If the oil filter of your Highlander is missing, don't worry. It's located at the lower rear part of the engine, mostly attached near the oil pan. The operation is simple but requires caution for safety. I often remind friends to ensure the engine is turned off and cooled down before starting, as getting burned is no joke. The position isn't too hidden, but using a car lift or jack to stabilize the vehicle before reaching down is more reliable. Remember to check that the filter model matches to avoid incorrect installation leading to oil leaks, which can severely damage the engine. During routine maintenance, take an extra glance at the chassis and belts—keeping them clean can extend the lifespan of the components.

Finding the oil filter for the Highlander isn't actually difficult. Last time I helped a neighbor locate it—it's around the lower rear section of the engine, specifically near the oil pan. When working on it, just lift the car slightly or find a flat surface to peek underneath, and you'll spot the cylindrical filter easily. Don't spend too much time replacing it—just prepare an oil filter wrench, but choosing the right size is crucial. Regularly changing this part keeps the engine healthy—check it every few months to avoid oil clogs.


