I bought my 2016 Toyota Highlander brand new for $31,000, aiming for a vehicle that could offer both performance and reliability over the years. I chose the V6 engine model primarily because of Toyota's reputation for this engine's durability and its balance of power and fuel economy.
If there had been a similar V6 option for my 2015 Camry, I'd have chosen it as well — but the Highlander offered everything I needed in a daily-use vehicle.
Section I
Specs & Performance
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE) |
| Horsepower | 270 @ 6,200 RPM |
| Torque | 248 lb-ft @ 4,700 RPM |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| 0–60 mph | 6.9 seconds |
| ¼ Mile | 15.2 seconds @ 89 mph |
| Fuel Efficiency | 19 MPG city / 25 MPG highway |
Dimensions
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | XU50 (3rd Generation) |
| Length | 191.1 inches |
| Wheelbase | 109.8 inches |
| Height | 68.1 inches |
| Width (w/o mirrors) | 75.8 inches |
Maintenance Parts & Specifications
| Component | Part / Spec |
|---|---|
| Engine Oil | 0W-20 |
| Oil Filter | Toyota OEM 04152-YZZA1 |
| Cabin Filter | Fram CV10285 |
| Engine Air Filter | Fram 10755 |
| Car Battery | Group 24F |
| Key Fob Battery | CR2016 |
| Windshield Wipers | 26″ and 20″ front · 12″ rear |
| Tire Size & Pressure | 245/60R18 @ 35 PSI (H-rated) |
The V6 engine has been a highlight — smooth power delivery makes highway merging and city driving equally manageable. Even after seven years, performance remains consistent.
Section II
Maintenance Schedule
Preventive care has been key to the Highlander's longevity. With regular maintenance it has held up remarkably well over seven years.
Routine Service
| Service | Interval |
|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months |
| Tire Rotation | Every 7,500 miles |
| Cabin Air Filter | Every 12 months |
| Engine Air Filter | Every 12 months |
Multi-Year Service
| Service | Interval |
|---|---|
| Transmission Fluid | Every 50,000 miles or 6 years |
| Engine Coolant Flush | Every 5 years |
| New Tires | Every 40,000–50,000 miles or 6 years |
| Wheel Alignment | Every 3 years |
| Brakes & Rotors | Every 30,000–50,000 miles |
| Brake Fluid Flush | Every 30,000 miles or 3 years |
| Battery | Every 4–5 years |
| Windshield Wipers | Every 12–18 months |
As-Needed & Not Required (FWD)
| Service | Note |
|---|---|
| Shocks & Struts | ~100,000 miles |
| Control Arm Bushings | ~100,000 miles |
| CV Boots | As needed |
| Transfer Case | FWD only — not applicable |
| Rear Differential | FWD only — not applicable |
Section III
Maintenance Light Reset Instructions
To reset the oil change maintenance light on a 2016 Toyota Highlander with key ignition:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Power off the car. |
| 2 | Insert the key and turn it 2 positions to the 'on' position. |
| 3 | Press the odometer button to select Trip A. |
| 4 | Turn the key to the 'off' position. |
| 5 | Hold the odometer button and, while holding, turn the key back to the 'on' position. |
| 6 | The maintenance light will flash. Once the reset completes, release the odometer button. |
| 7 | The maintenance light is now reset. |
Section IV
Overall Experience
After seven years, I'm pleased with the Highlander's performance and reliability. Beyond routine maintenance, it hasn't required significant repairs — making it a worthwhile investment. I plan to keep it for many more years, appreciating its balance of comfort, power, and practicality.
Section V
Planned Retirement — 2026
I got a good 10 years from the car (2016–2026), and decided due to lack of more modern safety feature it was time to let it go. It's one of the last years of the V6 with a 6-speed automatic — a combination worth preserving. The engine was still perfect and I had doubts on letting it go.
Beyond routine maintenance it hasn't required significant repairs — the V6's proven reliability makes the 10-year goal feel genuinely achievable.
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