Do Toyota highlanders have shocks or struts?
The Toyota Highlander is a popular midsize SUV known for its reliability and comfort. One common question among Highlander owners and potential buyers is whether this vehicle is equipped with shocks or struts. Understanding the suspension system of your vehicle is crucial for maintenance and performance, so let's delve into the details.
Understanding Shocks and Struts
Before we determine what the Toyota Highlander uses, it's important to understand the difference between shocks and struts:
- Shocks: Shock absorbers are designed to control the impact and rebound of the vehicle's springs and suspension. They help maintain tire contact with the road and improve ride quality.
- Struts: Struts are a structural part of the suspension system that also serve as shock absorbers. They support the weight of the vehicle and are integral to the vehicle's alignment and handling.
Suspension System of the Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander utilizes a combination of both shocks and struts in its suspension system. Specifically, the front suspension typically features struts, while the rear suspension is equipped with shock absorbers. This design helps provide a balanced ride and enhances the vehicle's handling characteristics.
Why It Matters
Knowing whether your Highlander has shocks or struts is essential for several reasons:
- Maintenance: Different components require different maintenance schedules. Understanding your vehicle's suspension can help you keep it in optimal condition.
- Replacement: If you notice issues like a bumpy ride or excessive body roll, knowing whether to replace shocks or struts can save you time and money.
- Performance: Upgrading or replacing suspension components can significantly affect your vehicle's performance, handling, and comfort.
Conclusion
In summary, the Toyota Highlander is equipped with struts in the front and shocks in the rear. Understanding this aspect of your vehicle can help you make informed decisions regarding maintenance and repairs. If you have further questions about your Highlander's suspension or need assistance, feel free to reach out to a trusted auto service provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of suspension does a Toyota Highlander have?
Highlander
| Engine | Performance (HP/TQ) |
|---|---|
| Transmission | ECVT (2.5L) 8AT 8-Speed Automatic (2.4L) |
| Chassis Design | Toyota New Global Architecture |
| Front Suspension | Independent MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Trailing-Wishbone |
How much does it cost to replace shocks on a Toyota Highlander?
between $764 and $844
The average cost for a Toyota Highlander Suspension Shock or Strut Replacement is between $764 and $844. Labor costs are estimated between $305 and $384 while parts are typically priced around $459.
Does a Highlander have shocks or struts?
Typically, a Toyota Highlander has strong suspension springs and struts to sustain the weight of the vehicle.
How do I know if my car has shocks or struts?
Look Underneath Your Vehicle.
In many cases, shocks will look like a hand pump. Struts, on the other hand, typically look like a coil spring with a shock in the center, but occasionally, the shock is mounted next to the spring.
How long do struts last on a Toyota?
50,000-100,000 miles
Generally, shocks and struts wear out every 50,000-100,000 miles. If you're a more aggressive driver and/or frequently drive on rough roads, they will wear out faster. Shocks and struts don't go out all at once; they deteriorate slowly over time.
What are the symptoms of a bad strut?
Symptoms of Worn Shocks & Struts
- Nose dive when braking.
- Bouncy ride.
- Vehicle rolls or sways when cornering.
- Uneven tire wear.
- Rear squat during acceleration.
- Vibration in steering wheel.
- Unusual noises.
- Leaking fluid on exterior of shocks/struts.
What year is the best for a Toyota Highlander?
Toyota Highlander's Highlights
Particularly, the 2006-2007 and 2016–2019 models are known for their reliability and value. Some Toyota Highlander model years to avoid due to known issues are the early 2001–2002 models with mechanical problems and the 2008 models, which faced numerous recalls and complaints.
How much does it cost to replace all four shocks and struts?
Shocks and struts replacement costs somewhere between $450 and $1,100. It's possible to remove just the shocks or the struts, but it may produce mixed results performance-wise. Common symptoms of failing shocks and struts include knocking sounds, bumpy rides, cupped tire wear pattern, and more.
Should I replace the struts or just the shock?
You want struts/shocks on an axle to be at optimum performance because they do affect your handling and your braking so when replacing them because of maintenance definitely recommend doing the pair. When replacing them because of collision damage it's a little bit different.
Do highlanders have shocks or struts?
Typically, a Toyota Highlander has strong suspension springs and struts to sustain the weight of the vehicle.
