2002 Toyota Highlander
Specifications
| Year | 2002 |
| Mileage | 155,735 mi |
| Transmission | Auto |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Body Style | Suv |
| Condition | Fair |
| Title Status | Clean |
| Exterior Color | Brown |
| Engine | 4 cylinders |
| VIN | JTEGD21A220044795 |
Owner's Pitch
"Extremely honest 2002 Toyota Highlander with low mileage for its age. Features a brand new radiator. While it has a known head gasket issue currently managed with sealer, it remains a running, driving SUV. Perfect for a mechanic looking for a project or someone needing a short-term local commuter."
Contact Seller
Description
Overview: This 2002 Toyota Highlander is a running and driving SUV, though it is being sold with full disclosure of mechanical issues. It is likely suited for a short-term driver or as a donor vehicle for parts.
Recent Maintenance: The vehicle recently received a brand new radiator. While it currently drives well, the seller notes a blown head gasket is present and currently being treated with Blue Devil Head Gasket Sealer.
Seller's Note: Please be aware that while the vehicle is functional now, it is a matter of time before the engine requires major repair. It is priced to reflect this condition, offering value for someone who can utilize it before it reaches the end of its service life.
Market Highlights
- The Mechanic's Special: In the 2026 market, older Toyotas remain highly sought after for their parts and chassis durability. A Highlander with a blown head gasket is essentially priced for its scrap value and the utility of its remaining functional components like the transmission and interior.
- The Van Nuys Market: Southern California's lack of rust keeps 20-year-old Toyotas in better structural shape than anywhere else in the country. This makes them excellent candidates for engine swaps, as the 'bones' of the vehicle are typically preserved and free of corrosion.
- Risk vs. Reward: This vehicle represents a high-risk purchase for a non-mechanical buyer. While the Blue Devil sealer is a temporary fix, the 2.4L engine is known for stripped head bolts when they overheat, which can make a simple head gasket repair much more expensive than anticipated.