Highlander Oil Pan Heaters: Are They Worth The Investment?

Oil pan heaters are used to warm up the engine and motor oil in cold climates. They are particularly useful for vehicles that are regularly exposed to temperatures below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Oil pan heaters are considered superior to block heaters as they heat the entire engine, starting from the bottom, whereas block heaters only warm up parts of the engine. Oil pan heaters are also more effective at improving oil flow and reducing dry start-up. They are easy to install and can be placed on the oil pan or a different part of the engine. However, it is important to constantly monitor the heating process to prevent the crankcase temperature from reaching a critical point and causing the oil to boil.

Do Highlanders need oil pan heaters?

An oil pan heater is an automotive-grade heating pad that can be placed on the oil pan or a different part of the engine. It is designed to warm up the oil pan and the oil inside. This is particularly useful in cold climates, as cold oil becomes more viscous, making it harder for the engine to turn over.

Oil pan heaters are not always necessary. Modern vehicles have been engineered to function in any weather, and oil pans rarely need to be replaced. However, in extremely cold temperatures, an oil pan heater can be beneficial. If you live in a climate where temperatures regularly drop below 10 degrees Fahrenheit, it is recommended to consider an oil pan heater.

There are various types of oil pan heaters available, such as magnetic heaters, flexible silicone heating plates, and bolt-on external heaters. The installation process varies depending on the type of heater, with some requiring professional installation while others can be easily installed at home. It is important to follow safety precautions when using any method of heating the engine, as the crankcase temperature can reach a critical point and boil the oil.

For those with a Toyota Highlander, it is worth noting that the average cost for an engine oil pan replacement is between $1,177 and $1,404. This includes labor costs, which can range from $869 to $1,096, and parts, typically priced around $308. Oil pans rarely need to be replaced unless there is external damage, and they usually last for the life of the vehicle.

In conclusion, while oil pan heaters are not a requirement for Highlanders, they can be beneficial in extremely cold climates. It is important to consider the specific needs of your vehicle and the climate you live in when making a decision about whether to install an oil pan heater.

How do you install an oil pan heater?

Installing an oil pan heater can be a straightforward process, but it's important to follow the necessary steps to ensure a safe and effective installation. Here is a detailed guide on how to install an oil pan heater:

First, it's important to prepare the surface of the oil pan for the heater. This involves cleaning and sanding the surface to ensure the heater can adhere properly. Use sandpaper, preferably with a grit of around 60, to clean the outside of the oil pan until you reach clean metal. This process may vary depending on the condition of your oil pan; older pans may have rust or flaking that needs to be addressed. In the case of pitted or rusty pans, it is recommended to use a power tool for more effective sanding.

Once the surface is prepared, it's time to attach the heater. Some heaters come with an adhesive, allowing you to simply stick the heater onto the oil pan. If your heater doesn't have an adhesive, you can use high-temperature RTV to glue the heater onto the pan, sealing the perimeter to ensure a secure hold.

After the heater is attached, you'll need to splice into the cord for the block heater so that you can use a single plug for both. This will involve some electrical work, so it's important to be cautious and consult a professional if you're unsure.

Finally, you can seal the edges of the heater with silicone to ensure a secure fit and help protect against leaks. Some users recommend repainting the oil pan with stove pipe paint for added protection and a cleaner look.

It's important to note that oil pan heaters should be used correctly to avoid issues. Forgetting to unplug the heater can cook your oil, so it's important to be cautious and only use the heater as needed. Additionally, if you're using synthetic oil, an oil pan heater may not be necessary, as synthetic oil flows well at extremely low temperatures.

What are the best oil pan heaters?

When it comes to choosing an oil pan heater, there are a variety of options available on the market. Oil pan heaters are essential for keeping the oil warm and preventing it from becoming too viscous, which can lead to engine damage. Here are some of the best oil pan heaters available:

HOTSTART Lube Oil Heaters

HOTSTART offers lube oil heaters that thread into the engine's oil pan, maintaining optimal temperature by transferring all generated energy directly to the lube oil. These heaters are versatile, flexible, and easy to install, making them an excellent choice for power generation, heavy equipment, trucks, and buses.

Silicone Heating Pads

Silicone heating pads, such as those offered by ABN and Facon, are designed to be applied directly to the oil pan, providing efficient heat transfer. They are typically low wattage and energy-efficient, making them suitable for cold weather conditions. These pads are often self-adhesive, easy to install, and compatible with various vehicles, including cars, trucks, and ATVs.

Phillips and Temro Threaded Stainless Oil Pan Heaters

Phillips and Temro's threaded stainless oil pan heaters are designed to keep oil warm and free-flowing for instant lubrication. They are available with or without thermostats and are frequently used alongside engine block heaters for effective cold start strategies. The stainless steel low-watt-density heating elements ensure long life in oil and hydraulic applications.

Kat's Block Heaters

Kat's offers a range of oil pan heaters in different wattages, including 100, 150, and 250 watts. Their products are designed to keep your engine oil pan warm and are suitable for various vehicles.

Zerostart Silicone Pad Heaters

Zerostart offers silicone pad heaters for engine oil pans that provide efficient heating. Their products are CSA-approved and come in different sizes and wattages to suit your needs.

When choosing an oil pan heater, it is important to consider the compatibility with your vehicle, the ease of installation, energy efficiency, and the reputation of the manufacturer. These options provide a range of features and benefits to suit different requirements, ensuring that your engine oil remains warm and your vehicle starts reliably, even in cold weather conditions.

How do oil pan heaters compare to block heaters?

Oil pan heaters and block heaters are both engine heaters designed to help engines function properly in extremely cold conditions. They work differently but serve the same purpose.

How Oil Pan Heaters Work

Oil pan heaters are small heating pads that heat the oil directly. They can either sit on the oil pan or submerge into the oil. They require professional installation and use a 110 or 120 Volts plug-in cord. They need to be charged for about 4 hours to run properly. Some oil pan heaters come with charging timer technology, which allows you to set up a timer for starting the charging process.

How Block Heaters Work

Block heaters, also known as engine block heaters, heat the coolant system of the engine. They sit on the engine block or the exterior of the engine and do not heat the oil directly. Like oil pan heaters, they also use a 110 or 120 Volts plug-in cord and require about 4 hours of charging. Block heaters can be installed by car owners themselves, although professional installation is recommended to avoid coolant system leakage. Some block heaters also come with charging timer technology.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Both oil pan heaters and block heaters are budget-friendly options for car owners. However, they also have their own advantages and disadvantages. Oil pan heaters are more difficult to install and can potentially burn the oil due to overheating. On the other hand, block heaters may not heat the oil to a normal state, and the oil may remain thicker. Block heaters can also lead to coolant leakage if not installed properly.

In conclusion, both oil pan heaters and block heaters are effective solutions for keeping engines warm in cold climates. The choice between the two depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the car owner. Oil pan heaters are better for directly heating the engine oil, while block heaters are better for heating the coolant system and providing an optimal temperature for the engine.

How much do oil pan heaters cost?

The cost of oil pan heaters varies depending on the brand, model, and style of the heater. Basic oil pan heaters typically cost under $100, with some options available for as little as $23.80. For example, Kat's offers a range of oil pan heaters starting from $23.80 and going up to $122.99. The price depends on the wattage, size, and specific use case of the heater.

Oil pan heaters are a great way to improve engine performance in cold weather. They work by warming up the engine oil before the engine is started, making it thinner and less viscous, which in turn makes cold-engine starts easier. They also provide extra engine protection, improve gas mileage, and reduce emissions.

In addition to the initial cost of the oil pan heater, it's important to consider the ongoing cost of electricity to power the heater. While leaving the heater connected overnight can provide maximum heat to the engine, it also uses more electricity. Using an outlet timer can help automate the process and ensure the heater is only running when needed.

Frequently asked questions