What engine is in a 2004 Toyota Highlander?
The 2004 Toyota Highlander was equipped with a 3.3-liter V6 engine. This engine was Toyota's 3MZ-FE model, which was a 60-degree V6 design that produced 230 horsepower and 242 lb-ft of torque.
Engine Details
The 3.3-liter V6 engine in the 2004 Toyota Highlander was part of Toyota's MZ engine family. It had an aluminum alloy block and cylinder heads, and featured dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. The engine used Toyota's VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) technology to optimize valve timing for improved power and efficiency.
The 3MZ-FE engine displaced 3,310 cubic centimeters (cc) and had a bore x stroke of 92.0 mm x 83.0 mm. It had a compression ratio of 10.5:1 and used multi-port fuel injection. The engine was paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission in the 2004 Highlander.
Performance Characteristics
With 230 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 242 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm, the 3.3-liter V6 provided ample power for the Highlander SUV. This engine allowed the 2004 Highlander to accelerate from 0-60 mph in around 8.5 seconds and achieve a top speed of approximately 115 mph.
The 3MZ-FE engine was known for its smooth, refined operation and good fuel efficiency, with EPA ratings of 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway for the 2004 Highlander.
What year to stay away from a Toyota Highlander?
Years to avoid in the Toyota Highlander include 2003, 2008, 2014, 2015, and 2020 due to common issues like transmission problems, oil leaks, and technology glitches. Other problematic years to consider are 2001-2007 (engine and climate control issues) and 2016-2019 (varying issues including potential oil leaks in some models).
This video discusses problems with the Toyota Highlander from 2020 to 2025, including paint issues: 54sCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 11, 2025
Toyota Highlander years to avoid
- 2001–2007: Prone to engine overheating, head gasket failures, and climate control issues like AC compressor and blower motor problems.
- 2003: A big year for issues, particularly engine oil sludge buildup and premature transmission wear, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch.
- 2008: A redesigned model that experienced oil cooler line leaks, which can cause engine damage if not addressed, and lower-quality interior components.
- 2014: A recall was issued for the second-row seat assembly that may not lock correctly into the seat track, and there were also reports of issues that might be linked to the transmission, says Clutch and Reddit users.
- 2015: Experienced growing pains from its redesign, with various reports of growing issues, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch.
- 2020: Experienced early transmission and software problems, say Clutch and Reddit users.
You can watch this video to learn more about common problems with the 2020-2025 Toyota Highlander: 51sChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025
Was 2004 a good year for the Toyota Highlander?
As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's quality and reliability to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest. 754 out of 924 of owners (82% of them) rank the 2004 Highlander five out of five stars. Overall, consumers seem aligned in their opinions of the 2004 Toyota Highlander.
What kind of engine is in the 2004 Toyota Highlander?
3.3-liter V6 engine
For 2004 the Highlander was given a new 3.3-liter V6 engine to compete with the more powerful V6 offerings from its competitors, mainly the Nissan Murano and the Honda Pilot.
How much is a 2004 Highlander worth?
The average resale value for a 2004 Toyota Highlander is around $4,900 - $5,000, though this varies significantly based on trim, mileage, condition, and location. For example, a 2004 Highlander Limited has a slightly higher average resale value of approximately $4,909, while a base model's average trade-in value is about $3,114.
Average value breakdown
- Resale value: The average resale value for a 2004 Highlander is roughly $4,950 - $5,575, according to Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book.
- Trade-in value: The average trade-in value is around $3,114 for a base model, reports Kelley Blue Book.
- Dealer retail value: The average retail price for a 2004 Highlander is approximately $5,725.
Factors that impact value
- Trim level: Different trims, such as the Limited, will have a different value.
- Mileage: Lower mileage vehicles will have a higher value.
- Condition: The overall condition of the vehicle, including its history and any damage, is a major factor in determining its value.
- Location: The vehicle's location can also affect its value.
How to get an accurate estimate
To get a more precise valuation, use the tools from services like Kelley Blue Book (KBB), Edmunds, or CarMax. These sites allow you to enter your vehicle's specific details to get a more accurate value estimate.
