OEM 2002 Toyota Highlander Thermostat

2002 Toyota Highlander Thermostat Parts Q&A

• Q: How to Replace a Thermostat on 2002 Toyota Highlander?

  A: Begin by draining coolant before removing the battery and air cleaner assembly through the detachment of the MAF meter connector and wire clamp and then disconnecting the VSV connector for the Canister Closed Valve (CCV) with its air hose and subsequent detachment of the three vacuum hoses. The air cleaner assembly requires three steps beginning with loosening the hose clamp followed by removing the air cleaner cap and filter before taking out the three bolts which secure the air cleaner case. The radiator hose outlet should be divided while the water inlet pipe bolt needs removal for extraction. Unscrew the three bolts from the water inlet as the next procedure step. First take out the thermostat before placing a new gasket on it while setting the jiggle valve to align with the upper stud bolt and being able to shift by 15 degrees. The water inlet installation requires 8 Nm torque (82 kgf-cm or 71 inch lbs.) before adding the new water inlet pipe that needs both an O-ring and soapy water during installation. Fasten the water inlet pipe to the cylinder head through the water inlet before tightening it to 20 Nm (204 kgf-cm, 15 ft. lbs.). Secure the air cleaner assembly with 5 Nm torque and refill the system by adding the coolant before leak checks begin.