When you’re cruising along the highway in your Toyota Highlander, the last thing you want is to be distracted by a loud humming noise. Unfortunately, many Highlander owners have experienced this problem, and it can be difficult to pinpoint the source.
However, several potential culprits could be causing the noise, most of which are fixable. Common causes of a humming noise at high speeds are a faulty wheel bearing, worn-out tires, or a loose belt. To fix the issue, it is recommended to inspect the wheel bearings, check the tire pressure and tread, and tighten any loose belts.
In this guide, we’ll explore the reasons your Toyota Highlander makes humming noise at high speeds plus fixes to help you enjoy a peaceful and quiet ride once again.
Risks of Avoiding the Humming Noise at High Speeds on Toyota Highlander
Avoiding the humming noise at high speeds on a Toyota Highlander may lead to several risks. Firstly, the noise may indicate an underlying mechanical problem in the vehicle, which may worsen if left unaddressed.
Secondly, ignoring the noise may cause the vehicle to develop performance issues, affecting its handling, stability, and speed. This may compromise the driver’s safety and that of other road users.
Additionally, ignoring the humming noise may lead to costly repairs in the future, as the problem may escalate into more significant and complex issues. It is essential to have any unusual noises checked by a professional mechanic to ensure the safety and optimal performance of the vehicle.
Possible Reasons Your Toyota Highlander Makes Humming Noise
Humming noise can be quite annoying and may be a sign of a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Here are some possible causes of the humming noise in Toyota Highlanders at high speeds.
Tire Issues
Tire issues are the most common cause of a humming noise at high speeds. If the tires are worn unevenly or are out of balance, they may produce a humming sound. The noise will usually be more pronounced at higher speeds and may also cause vibrations.
Wheel Bearing Issues
If the tire issues are ruled out, the next possible cause of the humming noise is wheel bearing issues. A wheel bearing is a set of steel balls that support the weight of the vehicle while allowing the wheels to spin. If the wheel bearings are worn out or damaged, they may produce a humming noise, which can be quite loud at high speeds. The noise will usually be more noticeable when turning, and the vehicle may vibrate.
Brake Issues
Another possible cause of a humming noise at high speeds is brake issues. If the brake pads are worn out, they may produce a humming or grinding noise, which can be heard when driving at high speeds. The noise may also occur when applying the brakes, and the vehicle may pull to one side when braking.
Transmission Issues
If the humming noise is coming from the transmission, it may be a sign of serious problems. The transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. If the transmission has a problem, it may produce a humming noise, which will increase with speed. Other signs of transmission issues include slipping gears, difficulty shifting, and a burning smell.
Differential Issues
The differential is responsible for distributing power to the wheels. If there is a problem with the differential, it may produce a humming noise, which will increase with speed. Other signs of differential issues include difficulty turning, vibrations, and a clunking noise when shifting.
How to Diagnose the Humming Noise in Toyota Highlanders?
Diagnosing a humming noise in a Toyota Highlander can be challenging, as there are many potential causes. Here are a few steps to follow to help identify the source of the problem.
- Pay attention to the location of the noise. Is it coming from the front or rear of the vehicle? This can help narrow down the potential causes.
- Consider the speed at which the noise occurs. Is it present at all speeds or only when driving at a certain speed or accelerating? This can also help narrow down potential causes.
- Worn or damaged brake components also cause a humming noise. So, check the brake pads and rotors for wear, and make sure the callipers are functioning properly.
- Humming or buzzing noises can be caused by uneven tire wear, damaged tires, or tires that are out of balance. Check the condition of the tires and make sure they are properly inflated.
- Worn or damaged wheel bearings also cause a humming noise. To check the bearings, jack up the vehicle and wiggle the wheel to see if there is any play. You can also spin the wheel and listen for any unusual noises.
Fixes for the Humming Noise in Toyota Highlanders
If you are experiencing a humming noise in your Toyota Highlander at high speeds, it is essential to take action immediately. Ignoring the problem can lead to serious issues and costly repairs in the future. Here are some fixes for the humming noise in Toyota Highlanders.
1. Tire Replacement or Rotation
The first step in fixing the humming noise in your Toyota Highlander is to have the tires checked. If the tires are worn or out of balance, they may be the noise source. In this case, the mechanic may recommend a tire rotation, balance, or replacement. Replacing the tires with new ones that are properly balanced will eliminate the humming noise.
2. Wheel Bearing Replacement
In case the tires are not the problem, the wheel bearings should be checked next. If the wheel bearings are worn or damaged, they may need to be replaced. The mechanic will remove the old bearings and install new ones. This will eliminate the humming noise and ensure that the vehicle is safe to drive.
3. Brake Pad Replacement
If the humming noise is coming from the brakes, the mechanic may recommend a brake pad replacement. Worn-out brake pads can cause a humming noise at high speeds. The mechanic will remove the old brake pads and install new ones. This will eliminate the humming noise and ensure that the brakes are functioning properly.
4. Transmission Repair or Replacement
You may need to repair or replace your transmission if the humming noise comes from it. The mechanic will diagnose the problem and determine the best course of action. If the problem is minor, such as low fluid levels or a damaged seal, the mechanic may be able to fix it with a simple repair. However, if the transmission is damaged beyond repair, it may need to be replaced. This will eliminate the humming noise and ensure that the vehicle is safe to drive.
5. Differential Repair or Replacement
If the humming noise is coming from the differential, it may require repair or replacement. The mechanic will diagnose the problem and determine the best course of action. If the problem is minor, such as low fluid levels, the mechanic may be able to fix it with a simple repair. However, if the differential is damaged beyond repair, it may need to be replaced. It eliminates the humming noise and ensures that the vehicle is safe to drive.
Preventative Measures to Avoid Humming Noise in Toyota Highlanders
Preventative measures can help avoid humming noise in Toyota Highlanders. Here are a few steps you can take to help prevent this issue.
- Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance can help prevent many problems, including humming noise. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for your Toyota Highlander. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections of brakes, suspension, and drivetrain components.
- Inspect and Replace Tires: Uneven tire wear, damaged tires, or tires that are out of balance can cause humming noise. Inspect your tires regularly and replace them when necessary. Rotate your tires regularly to promote even wear.
- Check the Wheel Bearings: Worn or damaged wheel bearings can also cause humming noise. So, check the wheel bearings regularly for signs of wear or damage and replace them as needed.
- Properly Inflate Tires: Check tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure. Improperly inflated tires can cause uneven wear and result in a humming noise.
- Avoid Overloading: Overloading your Toyota Highlander can cause excessive strain on the suspension and drivetrain components, which can lead to humming noise. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended weight limits for your vehicle.
Final Verdicts
After reading the discussion above about “reasons your Toyota Highlander makes humming noise at high speeds plus fixes”, it is clear that the humming noise may be caused by a wheel bearing, wheel hub, or a loose belt. If the humming noise persists, you should take the Highlander to a professional mechanic for further inspection and repair.
The wheel bearing may need to be replaced if it is damaged, while the wheel hub and belt may need to be tightened if they are loose. Taking the Highlander to a professional will provide the best solution to the humming noise issue.
