In model year 2009, both engine configurations of the Toyota Highlander (both the 4Cylinder and the 6 cylinder) used a timing chain to drive the engine. The only time a Highlander uses a belt is a V6 froM2001 until 2007. This is good news, because Toyota's timing chains have an estimated lifetime of around 250,000 miles -- there's a good chance that Your Highlander's engine will fail before the timing chain does. However, stuff happens. It's possible for the timing chain to become stretched or otherwise damaged. In this case, You'll wish You had a belt, because the repair bill can often exceed $2,500. Just make sure You take care of Your engine (and its lubricant levels), and Your timing chain should last You quite a while.
Jack P
July 16, 2020
The 2009 toyota highlander uses a timing chain, while the 2009 toyota highlander hybrid uses a timing belt.
Soe N
November 27, 2021
2009 Highlander 3.5l limited have timing chain, it is on my car.
Maria K.
August 29, 2019
For the 2009 Toyota Highlander with either the inline-4 or V6 engine option, both use a timing chain. However, the 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid V6 engine uses a timing belt.
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