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2002 Toyota Highlander Limited 3.0L V6 2WD 4-Spd Auto 1st Gen 166K

One-Owner Clean Carfax With 24 Service Records- Hard To Find 1st Gen Highlander Limited Under 200k Miles!
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Meticulously maintained and super clean 2002 Toyota Highlander Limited 2WD V6 with only 166K original miles. The best part about this Highlander is its Carfax service records with major 90K service recently completed at 159k miles, which includes a brand new timing belt, water pump, air filter, drive belts, intake manifold gaskets, rear crank oil seal, spark plugs, thermostat, valve cover gaskets, and much more! Runs and drives perfectly as you wouldl expect as this Highlander has been well cared for!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finished in super white with ivory leather interior. Powered by the ultra-reliable 3.0L V6 (from the Toyota Camry) paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Options include roof racks, alloy wheels, 60/40 rear fold-flat seats, cruise control, AC, AM/FM/CD, dual front airbags, driver power seat, and much more. If you’re looking for reliable transportation, look no further. This Highlander Limited checks all the boxes and is ready for its new owner. This ’02 Highlander comes with a one-owner clean carfax, 24 service records, and a Clean California title.

 

SERVICED WITH BRAND-NEW:

  • Hankook Tires
  • Smog

Vehicle History and Generation Background

The 2002 Toyota Highlander Limited belongs to the first generation of this popular midsize SUV, produced from 2001 to 2007. Introduced in late 2000 as a 2001 model, the Highlander was Toyota’s entry into the crossover SUV segment, built on the Camry platform to offer car-like handling with SUV utility. Assembled in Japan and later in Princeton, Indiana, this generation bridged the gap between compact and mid-size SUVs, competing with the Honda Pilot and Ford Escape. The 2002 model year was the second year of production, introducing the Limited trim with luxury features like leather seats and a power moonroof, while retaining the compact size (184.3 inches long) that made it easy to maneuver. This generation catapulted the Highlander to success, becoming Toyota’s best-selling SUV until surpassed by the RAV4 in 2006. This specific Highlander Limited, with its single-owner history, clean Carfax, and extensive service record, exemplifies the generation’s legacy of reliability and practicality, making it a sought-after choice for buyers valuing durability in a compact package.

Performance, Fuel Economy, and Torque Ratings

The 2002 Toyota Highlander Limited 2WD is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine (1MZ-FE) with Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i), producing 220 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 222 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. Paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, it offers smooth and responsive performance, achieving a 0-60 mph time of around 8.5 seconds—competitive for its class, as noted in historical Edmunds reviews. Fuel economy is rated at 19 MPG city and 23 MPG highway, with a combined 21 MPG, which is respectable for a V6-powered midsize SUV of its era, though it requires premium unleaded fuel for optimal output. The 19.8-gallon fuel tank provides a decent range for long trips. The Highlander can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for light loads like small trailers or jet skis—a capability that enhances its utility, as highlighted in owner feedback. These figures showcase its balance of power and efficiency for family use or light towing.

NHTSA Safety Ratings

Safety is a key aspect of the 2002 Toyota Highlander, as reflected in its National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ratings for the 2WD model:

  • Overall Vehicle Score: Not rated (NHTSA began overall ratings in 2011).
  • Frontal Crash (Driver): ★★★★★
  • Frontal Crash (Passenger): ★★★★★
  • Side Crash (Front Occupants): ★★★★★
  • Side Crash (Rear Occupants): ★★★★★
  • Rollover: ★★★★☆
    Equipped with dual front airbags, optional side-impact airbags (standard on Limited), ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) on higher trims, the Highlander earns a 5-star rating for frontal and side crashes. The 4-star rollover rating is solid for an SUV of this era, providing confidence for family use. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated the 2002 Highlander “Good” in frontal offset tests, affirming its safety credentials for the time.

 

Standout Features and Reliability of the 3.0L V6

The 2002 Toyota Highlander Limited 2WD offers a premium suite of features, enhanced by its top-tier Limited trim, making it ideal for families and commuters. The ivory leather interior is plush and durable, paired with the Super White exterior for a clean, classic look. Key features include heated front seats, a power driver’s seat with lumbar support, a power moonroof, a 6-speaker premium audio system with a 6-disc CD changer, dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and a power rear liftgate. Cargo space expands from 38.5 cubic feet (behind the second row) to 81.4 cubic feet (seats folded), ideal for family trips or errands. The Limited trim adds fog lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, and roof rails for added utility and style. The 3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE), borrowed from the Camry and shared with the Sienna and Lexus ES 300, is renowned for its reliability, often lasting 200,000–300,000 miles with proper care, as reported by owners on forums like ToyotaNation. This engine features a timing belt (requiring replacement every 90,000–100,000 miles, a $500–$800 cost), but its robust design and widespread use across Toyota models underscore its proven durability, contributing to the Highlander’s success as a family SUV with Camry-like refinement.

Essentials

  • Mileage: 166,000 miles—moderate for a 2002 model, with potential for more with care.
  • Ownership: One owner with a clean Carfax and no accidents.
  • Service History: 24 service records showing consistent maintenance.
  • Condition: Clean title, Super White exterior, and ivory leather interior in good shape.
  • Engine: 3.0L V6 with 220 hp and 222 lb-ft of torque, Camry-derived.
  • Transmission: 4-speed automatic for smooth performance.
  • Safety: NHTSA 5-star frontal and side ratings (★★★★★), 4-star rollover (★★★★☆).
  • Fuel Economy: 19 MPG city / 23 MPG highway, 21 MPG combined—respectable for V6 SUV.
  • Features: Limited trim with leather seats, moonroof, premium audio, and AWD.
  • Towing: Up to 3,500 lbs, suitable for light trailers or boats.

 

Why This Highlander Stands Out

This 2002 Toyota Highlander Limited 2WD is a standout with its moderate 166,000 miles, single-owner history, and clean title, reflecting diligent care backed by 24 service records and a clean Carfax with no accidents. The Super White finish and ivory leather interior offer a luxurious, family-friendly package, and the Limited trim’s features—like heated leather seats, a moonroof, and premium audio—add value over base models. The 3.0L V6, taken from the Camry and shared with the Sienna and ES 300, delivers proven reliability, often exceeding 200,000 miles with routine maintenance like timing belt replacement. The first-gen Highlander’s popularity stems from its compact size, Camry-like handling, and V6 power, catapulting it to success as a family SUV that blended efficiency with performance, making this 2002 Limited a compelling choice for buyers seeking a long-lasting vehicle.
For a prospective buyer craving a midsize SUV with luxury, reliability, and a well-documented history, this 2002 Toyota Highlander Limited 2WD is an ideal match. Its moderate mileage, extensive service history, and top NHTSA safety ratings make it a trustworthy companion, while the Limited trim’s upscale features and durable 3.0L V6—proven across Toyota models—enhance its appeal. Whether you’re drawn to its smooth performance, spacious interior, or the first generation’s pioneering design, this Highlander delivers. It’s a testament to the Highlander’s popularity—reliable, practical, and built to last. Take it for a test drive to experience why this 2002 model remains a favored choice over two decades later, ready to serve its next owner with the same dependability it’s always offered.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OAC

2002 Toyota Highlander limited 2wd v6
JTEGF21A820051437
VINJTEGF21A820051437 MakeToyota ModelHighlander Year2002 TrimVariable 

Style/BodySPORT UTILITY 4-DR Engine3.0L V6 DOHC 24V Manufactured inHonsha, Japan Age23 years
Transmission4-Speed Automatic VIN ValidationCheck Digit is Correct History DataRecords Found
Basic
Model Year 2002
Make Toyota
Model Highlander
Trim Level V6 2WD
Limited V6 2WD
Manufactured in Honsha, Japan
Body Style SPORT UTILITY 4-DR
Drivetrain
Engine Type 3.0L V6 DOHC 24V
Transmission 4-Speed Automatic
Driveline FWD
Seating
Standard Seating 5
Fuel
Tank 19.80
Fuel Economy City 19
Fuel Economy Highway 23
Fuel Type GAS
Braking
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Front Brake Type Disc
Rear Brake Type Disc
ABS Brakes Standard
Wheels and Tires
Tires 225/70R16
Steel Wheels Std.
N/A
Weight
Standard Towing 2000
Maximum Towing 3500
Standard Payload 1325
Maximum Payload 1325
Standard GVWR 4985
Maximum GVWR 4985
Dimensions
Turning Diameter 37.40
Front Headroom 40.00
Rear Headroom 39.80
Front Legroom 40.70
Rear Legroom 36.40
Front Shoulder Room 57.90
Rear Shoulder Room 57.00
Front Hip Room 55.10
Rear Hip Room 54.90
Overall Length 184.40
Overall Width 71.90
Overall Height 66.10 in.
68.30 in.
Wheelbase 106.90
Track Front 62.20
Suspension
Front Suspension Ind
Rear Suspension Ind
Front Spring Type Coil
Rear Spring Type Coil
Comfort
Air Conditioning Standard
Safety
Child Safety Door Locks Standard
Driver Airbag Standard
Front Side Airbag Optional
Passenger Airbag Standard
Keyless Entry Opt.
Std.
Pricing
MSRP $25,460 USD
$29,395 USD
Dealer Invoice $22,658 USD
$26,159 USD
Lighting
Automatic Headlights Standard
Daytime Running Lights Opt.
Std.
Fog Lights N/A
Std.
Features
Cruise Control Standard
Heated Steering Wheel N/A
Leather Steering Wheel N/A
Std.
Colors
Interior Trim Charcoal Cloth Interior Trim
Ivory Cloth Interior Trim
Ivory Leather Interior Trim
Exterior Color Black
Bluestone Metallic
Electric Green Mica
Indigo Ink Pearl
Millennium Silver Metallic
Sundown Red Pearl
Super White
Vintage Gold Metallic

 

Year: 2002
Make: Toyota
Model: Highlander
Body Style: SPORT UTILITY 4-DR
Trim: Limited V6 2WD
Mileage: 165,900
Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic
Condition: Excellent
Location: San Luis Obispo
Price: $0
Drivetrain: FWD
Engine: 3.0L V6 DOHC 24V
Exterior Color: Super White
Interior Color: Ivory Leather
MPG: 19 City / 23 Highway
VIN Number: JTEGF21A820051437

Fuel Efficiency Rating

  • City: 19
  • Highway: 23

Actual rating will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle condition.

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NUMBER OF PAYMENTS: 60
PAYMENT AMOUNT: $ 89.11
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