Short answer: The oil filter is mounted on the underside of the engine toward the front. In the 2007 Highlander, the four-cylinder 2AZ-FE version places the filter on the passenger side of the engine, while the V6 3MZ-FE version has the filter toward the front of the engine and accessible from below.
This article explains where to find the filter for the two engine configurations, how to identify it, and how to access it safely for inspection or replacement.
Engine options and typical location
The 2007 Toyota Highlander offered two main engine configurations. The location of the oil filter depends on which engine you have. Both variants position the filter toward the bottom of the engine, making access easier from underneath the vehicle after lifting and supporting it securely.
Four-cylinder: 2AZ-FE
For the 2AZ-FE 2.4-liter inline-4, the oil filter is typically found on the passenger-side portion of the engine, near the lower front area. It is usually accessible from beneath the vehicle (sometimes through the wheel well or splash shield), and many models use a cartridge-type filter housed in a canister rather than a traditional spin-on filter.
V6: 3MZ-FE
For the 3.3-liter V6 (3MZ-FE), the oil filter is located toward the front of the engine and is accessible from underneath the vehicle. Like the four-cylinder, it may be a cartridge-style filter inside a small canister rather than a simple spin-on unit, and you’ll typically reach it from below after removing any necessary shielding.
How to locate and access the oil filter
Use these steps to find the filter quickly and safely. The following guide applies to both engines, with notes where the location differs.
- Park on a level surface and let the engine cool to avoid burns from hot oil or components.
- Raise the front of the Highlander with a floor jack and support it securely on jack stands. If you have a service manual, follow its lifting points.
- If your model uses a splash shield or undercarriage panels, remove them to gain clear access to the lower engine area.
- Slide underneath the vehicle and look toward the front of the engine block on the undercarriage. You’re searching for a cylindrical oil filter housing or a canister with a removable cap.
- Identify the oil filter canister or cartridge. It will be near the oil pan and connected to the engine with a metal housing or cap that can be unscrewed.
- If in doubt, check the owner’s manual or a repair guide for the exact filter type and access point for your engine code (2AZ-FE or 3MZ-FE).
Once located, you can proceed with inspection, replacement, or maintenance as needed, following standard safety and oil-drain procedures.
Tools and safety considerations
Before you start, gather the necessary tools and observe safety protocols to prevent injury or oil spills.
- Floor jack, jack stands, and wheel chocks
- Oil filter wrench appropriate for the filter type (cartridge or spin-on)
- Drain pan to catch old oil
- Socket set or appropriate tool to remove the filter cap
- New oil filter element and fresh oil of the correct grade
- Rags or shop towels and a gasket scraper if needed
Note: If you’re unsure about the exact filter type or access point for your specific Highlander engine, consult the service manual or seek professional assistance to avoid damaging components or causing leaks.
Summary
In a 2007 Toyota Highlander, the oil filter is mounted on the underside of the engine toward the front. The exact location depends on the engine: the 2AZ-FE four-cylinder places the filter on the passenger side near the lower front, while the 3MZ-FE V6 has the filter toward the front of the engine and accessible from below. Always ensure the engine is cool, the vehicle is securely supported, and you have the right filter type for your engine before beginning maintenance.