2008 Toyota Highlander
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Service brakes is the leading concern among 404 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 3rd highest complaint count among 25 Highlander model years with reports.
Of the 2008 reports, 44 involved a crash and 14 involved a fire. 42 people were injured and 2 people died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Seats, front assembly, seat heater/coolerJun 2, 2016
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
Campaign 16V396000 on NHTSA.gov
Visibility, power window devices and controlsOct 22, 2015
Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 Tundra, Sequoia, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and Scion xB, 2008-2011 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2007 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2006-2011 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, and 2009-2010 Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. During the manufacturing of the Power Window Master Switch (PWMS), grease lubricant may have been inconsistently applied to the sliding electrical contacts.
If the sliding electrical contacts are not protected by lubricant, debris and moisture that get into the switch may cause a short circuit and the switch assembly may overheat and melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the switch, applying a lubricant if no abnormality is found. If abnormality is found, the PWMS circuit board will be replaced, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 20, 2015. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is C0M.
Campaign 15V689000 on NHTSA.gov
Seats, front assembly, seat heater/coolerNov 19, 2014
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4x2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4x2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4Runner. The affected vehicles may experience compression of the seat cushion which may damage the seat heater wiring.
Damage to the seat heater wiring could cause the wires to short, increasing the risk of the seat burning and causing personal injury to the occupant.
SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the heaters with copper strand heating elements and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory, free of charge. The recall is expected to began in January 2015. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226.
Campaign 14V743000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, driver side, inflator moduleApr 9, 2014
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, 2008-2010 Highlander, and 2009-2010 Tacoma, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and General Motors Pontiac Vibe vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the steering column assembly contains electrical connections to the driver's airbag module housed in a spiral cable assembly, which includes a Flexible Flat Cable (FFC). Due to the shape and location of the FFC's retainer, the FFC could become damaged when the steering wheel is turned.
If the FFC is damaged, connectivity to the driver's air bag module could be lost and the air bag deactivated. The failure of the driver's air bag to deploy in the event of a crash that typically necessitates deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver.
Toyota will notify the Toyota vehicle owners, and General Motors will notify the Pontiac Vibe owners. Toyota sent owners an interim notification letter in May 2014 to advise owners of the recall. Toyota will mail owners a second letter when remedy parts are available. General Motors sent Pontiac Vibe owners an Interim letter on June 20, 2014 notifying them that parts are currently unavailable. General Motors sent notices to the Pontiac Vibe owners on September 15, 2014, that a remedy is available. The recall began on October 27, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331. Owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-762-2737.
Campaign 14V168000 on NHTSA.gov
Visibility, power window devices and controlsOct 10, 2012
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 Camry, Camry Hybrid, RAV4, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Tundra, Sequoia, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Yaris, Scion xB, Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. The power window master switch assemblies in some of these vehicles were built using a less precise process for lubricating the internal components of the switch assemblies. Irregularities in this lubrication process may cause the power window master switch assemblies to malfunction and overheat.
If the switch overheats, it may melt, possibly resulting in a fire.
Toyota will notify its owners, and dealers will inspect the switch and apply a special grease that inhibits heat build up or replace any switch damaged by the defect, free of charge. Toyota owners that experience a problem with a switch should not attempt to make repairs, but should contact their Toyota dealer or the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331. General Motors will contact the Pontiac Vibe owners affected by this recall and GM dealers will inspect and repair switches as necessary. Those owners may contact Pontiac Customer Care at 1-800-762-2737.
Campaign 12V491000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bagsApr 21, 2011
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 HIGHLANDER, HIGHLANDER HYBRID, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2008 RAV4 VEHICLES. IN THE CURTAIN SHIELD AIRBAG (CSA) SYSTEM, THERE ARE TWO SENSORS IN THE AIRBAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY WHICH ARE DESIGNED TO DETECT VEHICLE ROLL ANGLE. IF ONE OF THESE SENSORS MALFUNCTIONS, THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT (MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT: MIL) WILL ILLUMINATE AND THE ROLL DETECTION SYSTEM WILL BE SUSPENDED; HOWEVER, THE AIRBAG CSA REMAINS AVAILABLE IN THE EVENT OF A SIDE CRASH. IF BOTH SENSORS FAIL NEARLY SIMULTANEOUSLY AFTER INITIAL AIRBAG SYSTEM CHECK, THE CSA AND THE SEAT BELT PRETENSIONER COULD BE INADVERTENTLY ACTIVATED.
INADVERTENT ACTIVATION OF THE CSA AND/OR THE SEAT BELT PRETENSIONER CAN CAUSE INJURY TO A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.
TOYOTA WILL REPLACE THE AIRBAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY WITH A NEW ONE CONTAINING IMPROVED ROLL RATE SENSORS, FREE OF CHARGE. TOYOTA INTENDS TO SEND AN INTERIM OWNER NOTIFICATION TO OWNERS EARLY TO MID-MAY, 2011 WHEN SUFFICIENT PARTS AND REMEDY BECOMES AVAILABLE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Campaign 11V245000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, other, labelsFeb 3, 2010
SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2011 PASSENGER VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.
A DRIVER MAY OVERLOAD A VEHICLE WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AT 1-800-301-6859.
Campaign 10V036000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, other, labelsFeb 3, 2010
GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.
THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. DEALERS WILL ALSO CORRECT THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GULF STATES TOYOTA AT 713-580-3300.
Campaign 10V035000 on NHTSA.gov
Vehicle speed control, accelerator pedalJan 27, 2010
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2010 HIGHLANDER, MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 COROLLA, VENZA AND MATRIX PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL CAN GET STUCK IN THE WIDE OPEN POSITION DUE TO ITS BEING TRAPPED BY AN UNSECURED OR INCOMPATIBLE DRIVER'S FLOOR MAT. THIS RECALL IS AN EXPANSION OF A CAMPAIGN OF 3.8 MILLION OTHER TOYOTA VEHICLES ANNOUNCED IN 2009 FOR THE SAME ISSUE (SEE 09V-388).
A STUCK OPEN ACCELERATOR PEDAL MAY RESULT IN VERY HIGH VEHICLE SPEEDS AND MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO STOP THE VEHICLE, WHICH COULD CAUSE A CRASH, SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
TOYOTA WILL MODIFY OR REPLACE THE ACCELERATOR PEDALS ON THE SUBJECT VEHICLES. FLOOR SURFACE MODIFICATIONS ARE ALSO BEING CONSIDERED AND WILL BE INCLUDED FOR ANY MODEL FOR WHICH IT IS DEEMED APPROPRIATE. INITIALLY, DEALERS WILL BE INSTRUCTED ON HOW TO RESHAPE THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL FOR THE REPAIR. AS REPLACEMENT PARTS WITH THE SAME SHAPE AS THE MODIFIED PEDAL BECOME AVAILABLE, THEY WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE TO THE DEALERS FOR THE REPAIR. CUSTOMERS WHO HAVE HAD THE PEDAL RESHAPE REMEDY COMPLETED WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO RECEIVE A NEW PEDAL IF THEY DESIRE, AFTER REPLACEMENT PEDALS BECOME AVAILABLE. IN ADDITION, TOYOTA WILL REPLACE ANY TOYOTA ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT IN A SUBJECT VEHICLE WITH A NEWLY DESIGNED MAT, FREE OF CHARGE. FOR THOSE CUSTOMERS WHO HAVE THE PREVIOUS DESIGN ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT BUT DO NOT NEED OR WANT THE NEWLY DESIGNED ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT, TOYOTA WILL RECOVER THE PREVIOUS DESIGN ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MAT AND REIMBURSE ITS PRICE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN MARCH 30, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Campaign 10V023000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, other, labelsJun 15, 2009
TOYOTA IS RECALLING 27,080 MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2010 PASSENGER CARS BUILT FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 TO MAY 4, 2009. THESE VEHICLES WERE NOT EQUIPPED WITH LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS."
INCORRECT LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS COULD RESULT IN THE VEHICLE BEING OVERLOADED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE THEM WITH A NEW, ACCURATE LABEL TO BE INSTALLED OVER THE INACCURATE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 18, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-888-270-9371.
Campaign 09V223000 on NHTSA.gov
EquipmentMay 14, 2009
SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING 3,499 STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST TIPS SOLD BY SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AS AN OPTIONAL ACCESSORY FOR USE ON MY 2008 HIGHLANDER AND HIGHLANDER HYBIRD VEHICLES. DUE TO IMPROPER HEAT TREATMENT DURING THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS, THE ORIGINAL CLAMP USED TO SECURE THE STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST TIP TO THE EXHAUST PIPE MAY DEVELOP MICROSCOPIC CRACKS. EVENTUALLY THE CRACK MAY EXPAND CAUSING THE CLAMP TO BREAK.
THE ORIGINAL CLAMP AND THE TOYOTA STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST TIP MAY FALL OFF THE VEHICLE'S EXHAUST PIPE AND BECOME A ROAD HAZARD WHICH WOULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
SOUTHEAST TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE CLAMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MAY/JUNE 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SOUTHEAST TOYOTA CUSTOMER LOYALTY DEPARTMENT AT 1-800-301-6859.
Campaign 09E028000 on NHTSA.gov
EquipmentApr 27, 2009
TOYOTA IS RECALLING 39,100 STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST TIPS SOLD BY TOYOTA AS AN OPTIONAL ACCESSORY FOR USE ON MY 2008 HIGHLANDER AND HIGHLANDER HYBRID VEHICLES. DUE TO IMPROPER HEAT TREATMENT DURING THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS, THE ORIGINAL CLAMP USED TO SECURE THE TOYOTA STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST TIP TO THE EXHAUST PIPE MAY DEVELOP MICROSCOPIC CRACKS. EVENTUALLY THE CRACK MAY EXPAND CAUSING THE CLAMP TO BREAK.
THE ORIGINAL CLAMP AND THE TOYOTA STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST TIP MAY FALL OFF THE VEHICLE'S EXHAUST PIPE AND BECOME A ROAD HAZARD WHICH WOULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE CLAMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 4, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE CENTER AT 1 888-270-9371 MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY, 5:00 AM TO 6:00 PM, SATURDAY 7:00 AM THROUGH 4:00 PM PACIFIC TIME.
Campaign 09E022000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, rear/otherApr 18, 2008
TOYOTA IS RECALLING 90,189 MY 2008 HIGHLANDER AND HIGHLANDER HYBRID PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A THIRD ROW SEAT. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." THE NON-DRIVER DESIGNATED SEATING POSITIONS (DSP) ON THESE VEHICLES IS EQUIPPED WITH SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES THAT HAVE A FEATURE THAT CONVERTS THE RETRACTOR FROM AN EMERGENCY LOCKING RETRACTOR (ELR) TO AN AUTOMATIC LOCKING RETRACTOR (ALR). THE BELTS CONVERT TO THE ALR MODE AFTER THE WEBBING HAS BEEN FULLY WITHDRAWN FROM THE RETRACTOR. THE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED SO THAT AS THE BELT IS RELEASED INTO THE RETRACTOR, THE SYSTEM REMAINS IN THE ALR MODE SO THAT A CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM (CRS) CAN BE TIGHTLY SECURED.
HOWEVER, FOR THE TWO THIRD ROW DSP'S ON THESE VEHICLES, THE ALR MODE DEACTIVATES BEFORE THE WEBBING IS FULLY RETRACTED, SO THAT IT WILL NOT LOCK WHEN CERTAIN REAR-FACING CRS'S THAT HAVE A SHORT SEAT BELT ROUTING PATH ARE INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE. THIS CAN ALLOW THE SEAT BELT WEBBING TO SPOOL OUT DURING NORMAL DRIVING MANEUVERS, WHICH COULD AFFECT THE STABILITY OF A CHILD RESTRAINT INSTALLED AT THOSE SEATING POSITIONS. AS SUCH, THIS COULD DISCOURAGE THE USE OF A CHILD RESTRAINT AND IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE CHILD MAY NOT BE ADEQUATELY PROTECTED POSSIBLY RESULTING IN INJURY.
DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEWLY DESIGNED SEAT BELT COMPONENT FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT DECEMBER 18, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Campaign 08V181000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: engine
76 reports, newest first. Show all
Engine, Jul 21, 2017
SUDDEN LOSS OF OIL WHILE DRIVING CAUSING ME TO PULL OVER IMMEDIATELY SECONDARY TO LOUD ENGINE NOISE, DECREASED POWER, AND FEAR OF CAUSING MORE ENGINE DAMAGE. LOCAL MECHANIC DISCOVERED THAT THE ENGINE OIL COOLING TUBE BURST AND DUMPED ALL THE OIL. SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE WHEN YOU ARE FORCED TO PULL OVER TO THE SHOULDER ON A BUSY ROAD AND LEFT STRANDED AS WELL AS THE FIRE RISK WHEN ALL THE OIL NOW COVERS THE ENGINE/UNDERBODY/BACK OF VEHICLE.
Engine, Jun 27, 2017
THE CAR BLEW THE ENGINE OIL COOLER PIPE LEAKING PROFUSELY I DROVE IT AT NIGHT CAME HOME AND THERE WAS A 12 X 12 OIL LEAK IN MY GARAGE. I PULLED IT OUT OF THE GARAGE WITH THE MOTOR RUNNING AND THERE WAS ANOTHER 12 X 12 OIL SPILL ON MY DRIVE WAY. I HAVE A LINE ALL THE WAY DOWN MY STREET OF THE OIL SPEWING OUT OF THE ENGINE . I HAD TO GET THE CAR TOWED THE FOLLOWING DAY TO TOYOTA WHO KNEW ABOUT THE PART AND OFFERED AN EXTENDED 10 YEAR WARRANTY TO FIX THIS PROBLEM. THERE WAS ONLY 2 QUARTS OF OIL LEFT IN THE CRANK CASE. NO LOW OIL LIGHT CAME ON. I WOULD HAVE BLOWN MY MOTOR FOR SURE IF I WAS ON THE HIGHWAY. THERE IS A VIDEO FROM TOYOTA ABOUT THE ENGINE OIL COOLER PIPE LEAKING AND THAT THEY CHANGED THE PART FROM RUBBER HOSES TO METAL. WHY WAS THERE NOT A RECALL ON THIS PART. IT IS NOT A MATTER OF IF IT WILL FAIL BUT WHEN. THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED A SERIOUS SITUATION!
Engine, Jun 4, 2017
DRIVING ON A RURAL 2 LANE ROAD THE CAR STARTED KNOCKING AND THE LIGHT FOR THE VSC CAME ON. IT SAID TO BRING TO THE DEALER. GOT HOME AND CHECKED THE OIL AND THERE WAS NOT ONE DROP ON THE DIP STICK. (MY OIL WAS CHANGED AT THE DEALER TWO WEEKS PRIOR). THE OIL WAS HOWEVER SPRAYED UNDER THE ENTIRE UNDERCARRIAGE. THE PART THAT IS THE PROBLEM IS THE OIL COOLER LINE.
Engine, Mar 18, 2017
PURCHASED THIS 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID NEW FROM GREENTREE TOYOTA IN DANBURY CT. WE SELECTED THE HYBRID VERSION TO SAVE ON GAS. LITTLE DID WE KNOW OUR SAVINGS IN GAS WOULD BE SUCKED UP IN OIL CONSUMPTION. I NEED TO CARRY A CASE OF OIL IN THE CAR AT ALL TIMES. ASKED TOYOTA SERVICE IN DANBURY CT TO INVESTIGATE AND THEY CONDUCTED THE SAME OIL TEST OTHERS SPEAK ABOUT. ALTHOUGH THEY SAY OUR HIGHLANDER PASSED THE TEST I END UP ADDING ABOUT 2 QUARTS OF OIL BETWEEN EVERY OIL CHANGE. THIS CAR WAS SERVICED IN EXACT COMPLIANCE WITH THE RECOMMENDED SERVICE SCHEDULE. THE TOYOTA SERVICE DEPARTMENT IN DANBURY CT JUST SAYS THAT IT IS NORMAL FOR A CAR WITH 135,000 MILES ON IT TO BURN OIL. THIS WAS A HUGE INVESTMENT. I WOULD EXPECT AT LEAST 200K MILES ON A CAR BEFORE EXPERIENCING THIS SORT OF PROBLEM. VERY DISAPPOINTING. I WOULD HAVE EXPECTED TOYOTA TO STAND BEHIND THEIR PRODUCT. INSTEAD WE GET A WELL ORCHESTRATED DON'T ADMIT ANY WRONGDOING RESPONSE. TOYOTA SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR PRODUCING A SUBSTANDARD PRODUCT.
Engine, Dec 30, 2015
THE PRIMARY ISSUE OF CONCERN IS REGARDING THE VEHICLES VALVE SPRINGS. AS A RESULT OF THE VALVE SPRING WHICH WAS IN PLACE, THE VEHICLE IN WHICH I DROVE, STALLED MULTIPLE TIMES WHILE IN MOTION ON A HIGHWAY, BEFORE I WAS ABLE TO GET IT CHECKED. IN ORDER TO RECTIFY THIS IT COST OVER $2,000.00 IN REPAIRS. THIS ISSUE IS OF GRAVE CONCERN, AS A FAULTY VALVE SPRING, IF IT WERE TO HAPPEN ON A HIGHWAY, COULD RESULT IN THE DEATH OF A DRIVER, PASSENGERS, AND OTHER VEHICLES. THIS ISSUE IS SIMILAR TO THE 2010 VALVE SPRING ISSUE WHICH AFFECTED LEXUS VEHICLES. IN THAT 2010 ISSUE, TOYOTA ADMITTED FAULT AND RECALLED ISSUES FOR 2006 TO 2008 LEXUS MODELS. GIVEN THAT THE ISSUE HAPPENED TO OTHER BRANDS OWNED BY TOYOTA THE DOT SHOULD SEE WHETHER THE ISSUE IS MORE WIDESPREAD, AND WHETHER MY VEHICLE FALLS UNDER THIS ISSUE AS WELL. *JS
Engine, Dec 28, 2015
ENGINE OIL COOLING (RUBBER) HOSE BURST WHILE DRIVING AND DUMPED ALL OF MY OIL ... TOYOTA HAS SINCE REPAIRED THIS PART WITH A SERIES OF METAL PIPES, WHICH SUGGESTS TO ME THAT THEY REALIZE THAT THIS IS A DEFECT BUT IT IS NOT ACKNOWLEDGED AS A RECALL
Engine, Oct 28, 2015
I RECENTLY NOTICED A RATTLING SOUND OUT OF THE ENGINE AREA THAT OCCURS INTERMITTENTLY. IT TYPICALLY OCCURS AFTER THE VEHICLE SITS FOR A COUPLE HOURS AFTER IT HAS BEEN DRIVEN UP TO OPERATING TEMPERATURE. THE SOUND HAPPENS FOR LESS THAN 2 SECONDS. THE TOYOTA DEALER IN OUR AREA DIAGNOSED THE ISSUE AS A FAILURE OF THE INTAKE CAM GEAR PER TOYOTA TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN 0094-09. THE SERVICE ADVISOR STATED THAT IF THE ISSUE IS LEFT UNADDRESSED, IT COULD LEAD TO COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE. HE ALSO STATED THAT THE UPDATED CAM GEAR MADE BY TOYOTA DOES NOT FIT THE EXISTING CAMSHAFT. THIS MEANS THAT ALL 4 CAM GEARS AND TWO CAMSHAFTS WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED WHICH DRAMATICALLY INCREASES THE LABOR AND PARTS COSTS. I WAS GIVEN THE FOLLOWING QUOTE FOR THE REPAIR: PART'S $3748.00 LABOR $2137.00 TAX $348.00 TOTAL $6233.00 I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO ANOTHER TOYOTA TO CONFIRM THE DIAGNOSIS AND THEY CONFIRMED THE ISSUE AND QUOTED ME AT A SIMILAR PRICE TO DO THE REPAIR. MESSAGE BOARDS ALL ACROSS THE INTERNET DESCRIBE A SIMILAR PHENOMENON. AFTER DISCUSSING THE MATTER WITH TOYOTA CORPORATE, THEY AGREED TO COVER 50% OF THE PARTS COST, BUT I BELIEVE THIS TO BE UNFAIR BECAUSE THEIR UPDATED PART INTRINSICALLY AND DRAMATICALLY INCREASES THE LABOR AND PARTS COSTS. EVEN THOUGH ONLY ONE CAM GEAR FAILED, THE REPLACEMENT OF ALL 4 CAM GEARS IS NOW NECESSARY.
Engine, Oct 14, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR CONDITION TUBE FAILED WHILE DRIVING. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND DISCOVERED THAT THE AIR CONDITION TUBE WAS EXPOSED TO THE MOTOR VENTILATOR CAUSING THE TUBE TO OVERHEAT AND EXPLODE, SPILLING THE COOLANT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 113,000.
Engine, Oct 13, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE CONTACT SMELLED BURNING OIL. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND FOUND A LEAK IN THE MOTOR OIL COOLING HOSE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER TO BE REPAIRED. IN ADDITION, THE MECHANIC FOUND AN ISSUE WITH THE CAM SHAFT OF THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 126,000.
Engine, Jun 22, 2015
ACCORDING TO THE FOLLOWING WEBSITE, THERE IS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH A CHEAP PART ON THE TOYOTA V6 ENGINES. THERE WAS EVEN A RECALL FOR THE PART, HOWEVER, I"M TOLD MY CAR WASN'T ON THE RECAL LIST. HTTPS://SITES.GOOGLE.COM/SITE/TOYOTAV6OILLINESCANDAL/ THE ISSUE AT HAND IS THE CAR HAS BEEN TO THE DEALER FOR ALL MAINTENANCE, SO ITS NOT A NEGLECT ISSUE. THE REAR BANK VVT-I OIL LINE USED IN PRIOR TO 2008 (MINE HAS THIS ISSUE AS WELL) IS METAL WITH A RUBBER HOST CONNECTING THE TWO. THE HOSE RUPTURES, DUMPS ALL OF THE OIL, WHICH SQUIRTS ONTO THE PASSENGER WHEEL, IN THE BRAKES, ETC. IT CAN NOT ONLY CAUSE A FIRE IN THE ENGINE BAY (WHICH IT DID NOT IN THIS CASE), BUT IT COULD ALSO LEAD TO AN INABILITY TO STEER OR BRAKE (NEITHER WERE THE CASE HERE). LASTLY, 6 QUARTS OF OIL DRAINED OUT IN LESS THAN 60 SECONDS, AND THE ENGINE COULD HAVE SEIZED. THIS IS A SERIOUR ISSUE FOR A $35.00 PART.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Jun 6, 2015
WHEN YOU START UP CAR THERE IS A ENGINE GRINDING NOISE FOR A FEW SECONDS. THIS HAS BEEN REPORTED BY MANY PEOPLE ON THE INTERNET, JUST GOOGLE 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER START UP ENGINE NOISE AND YOU WILL GET A BETTER LOOK AT WHAT IT SOUNDS LIKE. THIS COULD LEAD TO SEVERE ENGINE DAMAGE . IT IS A DEFECT IN THE ENGINE.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, May 15, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE, THE VEHICLE HESITATED AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE FUEL PUMP FAILING WAS A KNOWN ISSUE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN PUT THROUGH A STRESS TEST AND THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT KEPT AND DROVE THE VEHICLE. THE SERVICE MANAGER STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS NOT THE FUEL PUMP AND THAT THERE WAS AN ISSUE WITHIN THE SYSTEM ONCE THE VEHICLE WARMED UP THAT CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO LOSE POWER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000.
Engine, Apr 8, 2015
I PURCHASED A QUALIFIED PRE-OWNED 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER SPORT FROM RICE TOYOTA IN GREENSBORO, NC IN FEBRUARY OF 2013. SINCE THAT TIME, I HAVE PROPERLY SERVICED THE VEHICLE AND RETAINED ALL SERVICE RECORDS. ON OR ABOUT MARCH 31, 2015, WHILE I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK ON I-40 (65 MPH INTERSTATE HIGHWAY), THE ENGINE IN MY HIGHLANDER SUDDENLY STALLED AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. I COASTED INTO A REST AREA (LUCKILY) AND WAS TOWED TO A SERVICE STATION IN GREENSBORO. A COMPLETE DIAGNOSTIC WAS PERFORMED AND IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE ENGINE FAILURE WAS DUE TO A FAULTY ENGINE VALVE SPRING. EVERY MECHANIC I HAVE SPOKEN WITH HAVE INDICATED THAT A VALVE SPRING SHOULD NOT BREAK ON A 2008 TOYOTA WITH AROUND 100K MILES. I SEARCHED ONLINE AND FOUND THAT TOYOTA HAS RECALLED HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF CERTAIN LEXUS MODELS, INCLUDING MODELS FROM 2008 WITH THE SAME 3.5 LITER V6 ENGINE AS IS IN MY HIGHLANDER, FOR FAULTY VALVE SPRINGS THAT RESULT IN SUDDEN ENGINE STALLING. RICE TOYOTA HAS REFUSED TO PROVIDE ANY ASSISTANCE, AS HAS TOYOTA CORPORATION. FURTHER, TOYOTA CORPORATION HAS REFUSED TO PROVIDE ME WITH ANY INFORMATION REGARDING THE MANUFACTURER OF THE VALVE SPRING IN MY VEHICLE AND/OR ANY INDICATION IF THE SAME VALVE SPRING WAS IN THE RECALLED LEXUS MODES. I HAVE SEEN CLASS ACTION LAW SUITS FILED AGAINST TOYOTA FOR CONCEALING ISSUES WITH VALVE SPRINGS. THIS DEFECT CAN BE VERY DANGEROUS AS THE VEHICLE STALLS SUDDENLY AND WITHOUT WARNING. I NEED ASSISTANCE TO MOTIVATE TOYOTA CORPORATION AND RICE TOYOTA TO CORRECT A CLEAR DESIGN AND/OR MANUFACTURING DEFECT THAT CAUSED A POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS ENGINE STALL IN THE MIDDLE OF A MAJOR INTERSTATE HIGHWAY. *TR
Engine, Nov 15, 2014
ENGINE OIL LEAKED ALMOST EMPTY. WHEN I PICKED UP KID FROM SCHOOL PARKING ON THE DRIVEWAY ON THAT RAINY DAY, SAW A LEAK LINE ON THE WET GROUND. NEXT SATURDAY I FILLED A QT OIL TO THE LEVEL AND DROVE TO REPAIR SHOP. THE TECHNICIAN SAID ALMOST ALL 5.5 QT OIL WAS LEAKED OUT. TURNED OUT IT WAS TIMING CHAIN COVERS SILICON SEALER BROKEN. I AM THE PERSON ALWAYS CHECK AROUND MY CAR BEFORE GOING OUT, IF NOT CHECKING, THINGS COULD BE VERY BAD. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Oct 25, 2014
AFTER PARKING THE CAR AT THE AIRPORT FOR A COUPLE OF DAYS AND UPON RETURN STARTED THE CAR AND STARTED HEARING GRINDING NOISE FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE ENGINE AND WOULD NOT BE AUDIBLE AT THE HIGHWAY OR FREEWAY DRIVING SPEEDS (> 40 MILES). TOOK TO THE DEALER TO GET 2 OUTSTANDING RECALLS (SPIRAL CABLE AND SOFTWARE UPDATE FOR BRAKE PEDAL OVERRIDE) AND WAS TOLD THAT THE WATER PUMP IS FAILING. COST COULD BE AROUND $800 AND WAS NOT HAPPY TO HEAR AS THE QUALITY OF THESE PARTS CONSISTENTLY BEEN DETERIORATING AND HAD TO REPLACE ON EARLIER TOYOTA'S THAT I OWNED. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Oct 13, 2014
I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK. THE OIL COOLER HOSE FAILED LEAKING OIL AND SMOKING FROM BURNING ON EXHAUST THEN OIL PRESSURE LIGHT CAME ON. DEALER SAYS RECALL WAS DONE ALREADY HOWEVER IT APPARENTLY DID NOT FIX THE ISSUE. THEY SAY THEY CAN'T DO ANYTHING CAUSE IT WAS ALREADY DONE ONCE. NOT SURE IF ANY ENGINE DAMAGE WAS DONE NEED TO HAVE IT TOWED TO A SHOP. *TR
Engine, Sep 18, 2014
THE OIL COOLER HOSE ON MY 2008 HIGHLANDER SUDDENLY MALFUNCTIONED, CAUSING MOST OF MY CAR'S OIL TO SPILL OUT ON TO THE DRIVEWAY. APPARENTLY, THIS PARTICULAR RUBBER HOSE HAS BEEN THE SUBJECT OF RECALLS AND EQUIPMENT UPGRADES TO A METAL PIPE IN OTHER TOYOTA MODELS, BUT NOT THE HIGHLANDER. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT TOYOTA IS NEGLECTING TO ACKNOWLEDGE IN ITS HIGHLANDERS. I CALLED MY LOCAL TOYOTA DEALERSHIP TO REPORT THE PROBLEM, AND ASK WHAT TOYOTA IS DOING TO FIX IT, AND THEY DENIED THERE WAS ANY KIND OF PROBLEM WITH THE OIL COOLER HOSES. A SIMPLE GOOGLE SEARCH IMPLIES OTHERWISE. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Equipment, Jul 10, 2014
MY 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER SPORT OIL COOLER LINE JUST GAVE OUT. DURING MY RESEARCH I FOUND THIS HAS BEEN A PROBLEM IN THE PAST. MY CAR HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP FOR OVER TWO WEEK. ACCORDING TO THE TOYOTA DEALER, THE RUBBER HOSE IS BEING REPLACED BY METAL. TOYOTA DOES NOT HAVE AN ETA FOR THE PART. THE DEALERSHIP IS NUMBER 90 ON THE LIST.. THEY WILL NOT PROVIDE A CAR. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Jun 28, 2014
WHILE DRIVING MY CARE ON THE HIGHWAY THE "LOW ENGINE PRESSURE" LIGHT CAME ON. I IMMEDIATELY EXIT THE HIGHWAY AND WENT TO THE GAS STATION. ALL THE OIL IN MY CAR LEAKED OUT. WE PUT 4 QUARTS OF OIL IN MY CAR AND WHEN YOU TURN ON THE CAR ALL THE OIL LEAKED OUT. I CALL FOR A FLAT BED TOW TRUCK AND DROP MY CAR OFF TO THE DEALER. TOYOTA HAS A RECALL 2GR-FEV6 LSC 90K, WHICH HAS THIS ISSUE. THE TOYOTA DEALER IS SAYING MY VEHICLE VIN # IS NOT EFFECTED BY THIS. HOW COULD THIS BEEN WHEN THE SAME EXACT THING HAPPEN TO MY CAR AND THEY ARE REPLACING THE PARTS THAT ARE PART OF THIS RECALL. THEY ARE CHARGING ME $900.00 TO FIX THE CAR. I NEED HELP. MY TOYOTA LIFE TIME WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER THIS!!!!!.....THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. I BELIEVE TOYOTA IS COVERING IT UP SO THAT THEY DO NOT HAVE TO HAVE ALL THE VEHICLES FIXED DUE TO THIS MALFUNCTION. *TR
Steering, Electrical system, Engine, Jun 17, 2014
WE WERE STARTING OFF TO GO ON VACATION WHEN WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON THE DASHBOARD AND INFORMATION PANEL WITH HYBRID SYSTEM WARNINGS AND BRAKE WARNINGS THEN THE CAR COMPLETELY STOPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD AND STEERING WAS LOST. WE WERE ABLE TO GET OFF TO THE SIDE ENOUGH TO PREVENT CAUSING AN ACCIDENT HOWEVER WE WERE ON A BUSY STREET. HAD IT TOWED TO THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER AND THE DIAGNOSIS WAS A FAILED COIL. THEY REPLACED ALL 3 COILS SAYING THAT IT WOULD BE PRUDENT AS THE ENGINE WAS ALREADY APART (I AGREE). THEY ALSO SAID THAT THIS IS A RELATIVELY COMMON OCCURRENCE WITH SOME OF THE HIGHLANDER HYBRIDS. I HAVE THE PART AND IT LOOKS LIKE THE TOP OF THE COIL BECAME OVER HEATED AND BLEW OUT THE TOP PLASTIC COMPOUND. I CONSIDER MYSELF VERY LUCKY THAT THIS DID NOT HAPPEN WHILE ON A HIGHWAY ON A RAINY DAY WHERE THE VEHICLE ABRUPTLY STOPPING WOULD CERTAINLY HAVE CAUSED ME TO BE IN AN ACCIDENT. THIS IS CERTAINLY A FLAW THAT TOYOTA SHOULD ADDRESS FOR SAFETY REASONS AND IT MAKES ME HESITANT TO WANT TO PURCHASE ANOTHER TOYOTA PRODUCT AGAIN. *TR
Engine, May 28, 2014
I NORMALLY RIDE A VANPOOL, BUT DUE TO FLASH FLOOD WARNINGS TODAY I DECIDED TO DRIVE MY CAR INTO THE OFFICE. MY HUSBAND CALLED ME AT WORK TO TELL ME HE NOTICED A BIG OIL SPOT ON THE GARAGE AFTER I LEFT FOR WORK. HE TOLD ME TO PULL OVER AND NOT DRIVE MY HIGHLANDER IF IT STARTED CLACKING OR SMOKING ON MY WAY HOME. MY HUSBAND JUST CHANGED THE OIL IN MY CAR A FEW DAYS PRIOR. BEFORE I COULD MAKE IT HOME THE CAR WAS SMOKING, KNOCKING, AND SHIFTING VERY LOUDLY. MY HUSBAND SAID I WAS LUCKY THIS DIDN'T LOCK UP THE ENGINE. HE DISCOVERED OIL SPLATTERS ALL OVER THE TIRE AND NEAR THE ENGINE. WE HAD NO ISSUES AT ALL PRIOR TO TODAY. WE ARE GOING TO TRY REPLACING THE OIL LINE AS DENOTED IN OTHER PEOPLES COMMENTS. THEIR EXPERIENCES WITH THIS ISSUE MIRROR MY EXPERIENCE. I'M DISAPPOINTED TO HEAR TOYOTA ISSUED A SERVICE BULLETIN ABOUT THIS AND NOT A SAFETY RECALL. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE AS I'M HAULING KIDS TO/FROM DAYCARE DURING RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC NOT TO MENTION LOCKING UP THE ENGINE. THIS CAME OUT OF THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE. *TR
Engine, May 21, 2014
TOYOTA'S T-SB-0201-1 SHOULD TRIGGER A RECALL!! MY WIFE WAS DRIVING HER '08 HIGHLANDER, WITH 2 CO-WORKER PASSENGERS, TO A FUNERAL. ON 95N IN DANVERS, MA, A MOTOR BIKER PULLED ALONGSIDE & FLAGGED MY WIFE TO PULL OVER ASAP AS THERE WAS SMOKE COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND UNDER THE CAR. AFTER STOPPING THE CAR & WAITING FOR THE SMOKE TO DISSIPATE,HE CHECKED & FOUND THERE WAS NO LONGER ANY OIL IN THE ENGINE, THE OIL HAD EMPTIED FROM THE ENGINE THE LAST FEW MILES WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY. I ARRIVED LATER THAT MORNING TO INVESTIGATE, TO DISCOVER THAT THE OIL WAS BELOW THE DIPSTICK. THE BOTTOM OF THE ENGINE & ENTIRE UNDERSIDE OF THE VEHICLE, INCLUDING THE EXHAUST SYSTEM, SPARE TIRE, WHEEL WELLS, RIGHT WHEELS & TIRES & REAR LIFTGATE WERE COATED IN ENGINE OIL. THE SMOKE APPARENTLY WAS FROM OIL SPLASHING ONTO THE HOT EXHAUST SYSTEM, & VAPORIZING DUE TO THE HIGH TEMP, CREATING A POTENTIAL FIRE HAZARD. WE HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE NEAREST TOYOTA DEALERSHIP. THEY DETERMINED THAT AN OIL COOLER LINE EXTERNAL TO THE ENGINE - PART OF A TOWING OPTION PACKAGE THE CAR HAS - HAD RUPTURED! THE ENGINE'S OIL HAD BEEN PUMPED OUT BY THE OIL PUMP. WE HAVE SINCE DISCOVERED THAT TOYOTA HAD ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN - T-SB-0201-11 - IN DECEMBER 2011 WHICH ADDRESSED "OIL SEEPAGE" FROM THIS EXACT OIL LINE. NOW WE ARE $480 POORER, & WE COULD HAVE EXPERIENCED A $10 K ENGINE FAILURE DUE TO SEIZING, & POSSIBLE INJURY OR LOSS OF LIFE DUE TO THIS. THIS TSB WAS NEVER PERFORMED ON OUR CAR AS WE HAD NEVER SEEN SPOTTING IN OUR DRIVEWAY FROM THIS LEAK. THE NEW PART INSTALLED WAS REDESIGNED AS SOLID METAL TUBING TO FIX THE ORIGINAL RUBBER HOSE WITH CLAMPS. INSTEAD OF RECALLING ALL OF THE AFFECTED VEHICLES TO REPLACE THIS POTENTIAL LIFE TAKER, TOYOTA SIMPLY SWEPT IT UNDER THE RUG AND ONLY REPLACED THEM WHEN SOMEONE SAW A LEAK AND ONLY WHEN THEY STILL WERE BELOW THEIR 36,000 MILEAGE WARRANTY. CRAZY! *TR
Engine, May 12, 2014
THE OIL LINE HAS DEGRADED, CAUSING TOTAL LOSS OF ENGINE OIL AND POSSIBLE ENGINE DAMAGE. *TR
Engine, Mar 24, 2014
DRIVING IN PARKING LOT AT APPROXIMATELY 5MPH WHEN SMELLED BURNING OIL. PARKED CAR AND NOTICED SMOKE FROM UNDER THE HOOD. TURNED OFF CAR AND CHECKED UNDER THE HOOD AND NOTICED OIL OVER ENGINE. SEARCHED ONLINE AND SAW ISSUE WITH OIL-COOLER LINE "TOYOTA: ON SOME VEHICLES, THE ENGINE OIL COOLER PIPES MAY EXHIBIT AN OIL SEEPAGE. INFORMATION HAS BEEN PROVIDED REGARDING THIS ISSUE". THIS DID TURN OUT TO BE THE ISSUE. FORTUNATELY THIS EVEN OCCURRED WHEN WE WERE IN A PARKING LOT AND NOT DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY WITH KIDS IN THE BACK. THIS IS A SIGNIFICANT ISSUE THAT COULD RESULT IN A FIRE AND/OR ENGINE DAMAGE. THE DEALER STATED THEY WERE AWARE OF THIS SERVICE NOTICE BUT NO OFFICIAL RECALL HAD OCCURRED. THIS HAS THE POTENTIAL TO BE A SIGNIFICANT ISSUE TO BOTH THE CARS AND PASSENGERS AND I HOPE THAT A RECALL WOULD OCCUR. *TR
Engine, Mar 20, 2014
HIGH PRESSURE OIL COOLER LINE FAILURE OF RUBBER HOSE SECTION DUMPED 5 QTS OF ENGINE OIL SOAKING UNDERCARRIAGE AND SPRAYING ONTO NEARBY HOT EXHAUST PIPE AND RIGHT REAR TIRE. NO INDICATION OF LOSS OF OIL PRESSURE ON VEHICLE MONITORING SYSTEM. NOTICED A FAINT SMELL OF BURNT OIL WHEN VEHICLE WAS PARKED. RETURNED LATER TO START VEHICLE AND HEARD AUDIBLE ENGINE NOISE AND TURNED OF ENGINE TO INVESTIGATE UNDER HOOD, A NOTICEABLE PUDDLE OF OIL HAD ACCUMULATED UNDER CAR. VEHICLE TOWED FOR DIAGNOSES AND REPAIR. *TR