Toyota Highlander problems
The Toyota Highlander, also known as the Toyota Kluger (Japanese: トヨタ・クルーガー, Hepburn: Toyota Kurūgā), is a mid-size crossover SUV with three-row seating produced by Toyota since 2000.
Announced in April 2000 at the New York International Auto Show and arriving in late 2000 in Japan and January 2001 in North America, the Highlander became one of the first car-based mid-size SUV or mid-size crossovers. The Highlander is the crossover counterpart to the more rugged, truck-based mid-size 4Runner and became Toyota's best-selling SUV before being surpassed by the smaller RAV4 in 2006.
The first-generation model was sold in Japan as the Kluger, which was exclusive to dealership network called Toyota Netz as a larger alternative to the RAV4. The Kluger nameplate is also used in Australia because "Highlander" is a trademarked trim line name owned by Hyundai. The name is derived from the German word klug, which means smart or clever (Klüger – with diacritics – means "someone who is smarter than another" in German).
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Toyota Highlander model years
Common Toyota Highlander problems
The Toyota Highlander is a popular SUV, but like any vehicle, it can have its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on complaints from owners:
- Ruptured Oil Line: Another significant concern raised by Highlander owners is a ruptured oil line, which can also cause engine failure. The most affected model years are 2005 to 2013, and replacement parts have been known to exhibit the same issues. The issue can result in other engine complications if not repaired in time.
- Air Conditioner Problems: Air conditioner problems occur when the system fails to regulate interior temperature conditions. The issue occurs as a result of regulator defects, and the best solution is having the thermostat housing replaced.
- Brake Failure: Brake failure is another common problem with the Toyota Highlander. Soft or stiff brake pedals, rough shifting, or brake light warnings are signs of brake defects. Calling a mechanic for car diagnosis might help to address these problems.
- Fuel Tank and A/C Condenser Issues: The 2020 redesign has been reported to have issues with its fuel tank. Owners have complained about being unable to fill the tank to its maximum capacity of 17.1 gallons. There have also been reports about a damaged air conditioning (A/C) condenser, which prevented the A/C system from blowing cool air.
- Defective Airbags: Defective airbags were common in some 2013 and 2016 Highlanders. Airbags from these model years did not deploy upon collision, increasing the risk of injuries.
- Excessive Wind Noise: Excessive wind noise is a common problem associated with 2017 Toyota Highlanders. Owners have reported hearing loud squealing and whistling noises from inside the cabin, which may be due to the side mirrors or loose door moldings.
- Oil Leaks and Loss of Oil Pressure: Oil leaks and loss of oil pressure are common in 2005-2013 Highlanders. Drivers have reported seeing a puddle of engine oil below their vehicles and smelling burning oil inside the cabin. These issues were usually caused by a faulty variable valve timing-intelligent (VVT-i) gear and a ruptured oil cooler line.
- Threads for Engine Bolts Stripped: This is the most reported problem for the 2003 Toyota Highlander, with an average cost to fix of $3,200 and an average mileage of 123,000 mi.
- Transmission Failure: Transmission failure is a common problem for the 2017 Highlander, with an average cost to fix of $8,600 and an average mileage of 39,000 mi.
It is important to note that not all Toyota Highlanders will experience these problems, and many owners have reported high levels of satisfaction with their vehicles. However, being aware of these common issues can help potential buyers make informed decisions and take proactive steps to maintain their vehicles.
Does the Toyota Highlander have any problems?
Engine failure, more generally, is also one of the more significant issues with Toyota Highlanders. Those failures are probably related to the engine bolts being stripped and causing overheating issues, but other problems can also lead to engine failure.
What year did the Toyota Highlander have problems?
Engine misfire is a common issue found in 2001-2005, 2007-2008, 2010, and 2013 Highlanders. Many drivers have also complained about their Toyota trembling and jerking upon acceleration. Mechanics found that these issues were usually caused by a bad ignition coil.
What is the best years for a Toyota Highlander?
Best Toyota Highlander Model Years
The best choice is probably the 2008-2013 version. This generation gives you more interior space, more features, and a more powerful engine lineup, plus better safety and crash test scores.
How long do Toyota Highlanders usually last?
On average, a Highlander will last 250,000-300,000 miles, offering an extensive ownership opportunity for investors. For many people, the car will last a decade or more with routine care. If you're careful with your reliable machine, it will pay you back for a long time to come.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota Highlander years
We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota Highlander cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Toyota Highlander model years:
- Toyota Highlander 2008
- Toyota Highlander 2002
- Toyota Highlander 2004
- Toyota Highlander 2003
- Toyota Highlander 2006
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota Highlander model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota Highlander years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Toyota Highlander car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Toyota Highlander , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Engine problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Toyota Highlander vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Highlander model years
A total of 431 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Highlander model years
There were a total of 57 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Highlander model years
There were a total of 342 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Highlander model years
There were a total of 56 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 4529 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota Highlander . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota Highlander vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Toyota Highlander 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5TDEBRCH9MS
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: My vehicle was rear-ended while stopped by a 2014 Toyota Corolla that was estimated to be traveling between 60-70 miles per hour. During the crash, the driver seat failed, resulting in the partially reclining into the second row passenger. The failure mechanism appears to be internal to the seatback, as the seat twisted during the failure, causing me to lean more towards the passenger side of the vehicle.
Toyota Highlander 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 5TDDZRBH4LS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I own a 2020 Toyota highlander and the car mileage is 68,000 and the dealer told me my transmission is dead and needs to replacement. The cost for replacement is $13,000.00! I’m the first owner of the car and how could a new Toyota car transmission fail at 68,000 miles and the warranty is 5 yrs or 60,000 miles. This issue have to be Toyota manufacture problems and they should have a recall on this and I researched online and a lot of highlander owners have the same problems as me! NHTSA PLEASE RESEARCH AND HELP HIGHLANDER OWNERS! Thank you
Toyota Highlander 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: JTEEW44A882
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: In June 2019, Toyota issued a recall for ABS malfunction, diagnostic code C1391 - brake actuator and accumulator. New parts were issued by Toyota in 2019 as part of the recall. My vehicle experienced ABS malfunction, diagnostic code C1391 in March 2022 and was repaired by Toyota with the new and improved parts issued as part of the recall. As of October 14, 2024, my vehicle is experiencing the same issue again - ABS brake malfunction diagnostic code C1391, with the brake system light, master warning light, abs light and ABS Malfunction warning noted on the screen. The vehicle can be inspected. Toyota has inspected and confirmed it is the same issue again. The new and improved parts from 2019 should not fail within 20,000 miles. Toyota did confirm that they used the new parts issued as part of the recall and cannot explain why they failed faster than the original parts causing dangerous braking issues.
Toyota Highlander 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 5TDCZRAH4NS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Toyota Highlander. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V720000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the front lower bumper cover had detached. Additionally, the contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the front lower bumper cover separated, flew underneath the vehicle and into traffic, causing the contact to temporarily lose control of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where the contact was informed that there was a cost for the repair of the front lower bumper prior to the recall repair. The contact declined to pay for the repair because it was a minor bump. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 7,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Toyota Highlander 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: 5TDDZRFH5KS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: When I start my car it makes an ear piercing screeching noise. It doesn’t happen everytime but I never know when it is going to happen. I took it to a dealer and 5 guys said they never heard of it. If you look online numerous people have this complaint with out any recalls. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Toyota Highlander 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: 5TDZA3EH4CS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Hello, to whom it may concern: My 2012 Toyota Highlander Color Pearl White vin [XXX] ) has a repaint recall before Nov 2024. I was told at the dealer that I have to contact the Toyota dealers until I get the opportunity to get it paint. I was told that I had to contact any Toyota dealer until I get a date of acceptance. Thinking that it was not fair to delegate the responsibility on myself I made a few calls until I did get an appointment to get my SUV painted. The recall period is almost over (Nov 2024) I was told and I will put a claim on Toyota Corporation for not making sure all the vehicles are completely painted. I will also put a lawyer to help me get across my claim if I am not informed from Toyota the date that they will work on my SUV with the repaint recall. Respectfully, [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Toyota Highlander 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: JTEDS41A992
- Components: AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: My airbag light came on and I don't understand why the airbag light came on. I took it to a auto shop and they said I would have to take it to a Toyato dealer. Also, my emergency brake is all the way to the floor and it has never released. It will not release at all. It has been that way ever since I bought the vehicle.
Toyota Highlander 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 5TDHBRCHXNS
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: We have noticed that when we brake the vehicle, it intermittently LURCHES FORWARD very fast while you are breaking and trying to stop! This is extremely unsafe! We need to stop and brake and not go forward. It does this unexpectedly with no notice and does not always do it consistently but we have noticed it is getting worse and worse and we are worried we will hit another car in front or even a person because the car will not stop on time. When I looked online, this is a well known issue on Toyota Highlanders, especially hybrids like ours and Toyota has done nothing to fix this dangerous problem. They have even told car owners to drive slower but I can tell you it doesn’t seem to matter if I’m going 25 mph or faster or slower- the car gives no notice and goes FASTER while you are trying to stop!!!!! Please help us Toyota Highlander owners!!!! This car gives us no warning whatsoever. It is not consistent. But when it does this it is VERY scary!
Toyota Highlander 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 5TDJZRFH0KS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ur transmission went out with only 96K miles on it, We were told that it could break down at any time leaving us stranded. there are may forums and people experiencing this issue. It was inspected by the dealer, and they confirmed that the transmission was needing to be replaced
Toyota Highlander 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 5TDLZRAH5MS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The car started making a whining.humming sound only while pressing the gas. Took to mechanic and they advised it was TSB 0008-21. I need a new transmission. I drive this daily with my own kids, and several that aren't mine. If the transmission were to go out, I would not be able to accelerate and the care would stop moving. I can't even imagine this happening on a high with hundreds of cars speeding or a busy road. This could cause a bad accident, injury or death. No warnings etc. The noise just started and took right to mechanic. I gave the mechanic a copt of power train warrant and hoping it gets covered and fixed.
Toyota Highlander 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 5TDDZRFHXKS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Upon starting the Highlander, there is a very loud screeching/feedback noise through the speakers- it appears to be coming from the DCM as described y a Toyota representative. . This happens upon stating the car at least once a day and frequency is increasing.
Toyota Highlander 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 5TDBZRFH8KS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: These Toyota highlanders had a whine noise in the transmissions that Toyota ended up taking care of in previous years. They said the problem was fixed in 2019 and newer. This problem has not been fixed as there are numerous confirmed cases of the exact problem with later models.
Toyota Highlander 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 5TDYZRAH9MS
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Highlander. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (AIR BAGS) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Toyota Highlander 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 5TDLZRBH9MS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Regarding Toyota TSB T-SB-0008-21, ‘Whine or Grind Noise From the Transmission’, issued February 2021: Some 2021 model year Avalon, Highlander, and Camry vehicles equipped with UA80E or UA80F transmissions may exhibit a whine or grind noise from the transmission. This condition may be caused by an issue with the front carrier assembly pinion shafts. This is a widespread problem with these specified transmissions. The noise generally starts around 60-70k miles, just outside the warranty period. Toyota knowingly continued to sell vehicles with these defective transmissions. Repair estimates range from $8.5k-$13k.
Toyota Highlander 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: JTEDC3EH4D2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Multiple ABS related(ABS, TRACTION, BRAKES) warning lights/messages making driving my Highlander dangerous to me and others. Warning lights appeared 9/30/2024. No symptoms or warning lights appeared prior. Vehicle was then inspected by Toyota of Plano. Code 1391indicating an internal leak in the ABS. Confirmed by service dept of Toyota of Plano, Tx indicating the need for replacement of ABS Module Assembly. This as an acknowledged Toyota problem that was with a Service Bulletin that expired last year. Plano Toyota advised me to ask Toyota Brand Engagement for help but they declined. Toyota Brand Engagement declined to extend the prior Bulletin or assist in any way.. The Toyota case file is under my name and #241008000770. Any assistance from NHTSA would be appreciated.
Latest 5 recalls Toyota Highlander
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 109 recalls for different components of the Toyota Highlander.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Toyota Highlander 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-07-23
- Manufacturer: Gulf States Toyota, Inc.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain Toyota 2023 GR Supra, 2024 4 Runner, Corolla, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Tacoma, Tacoma Hybrid, 2023-2024 BZ4X, Corolla Cross Hybrid, GR Corolla, GR86, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius Prime, Sequoia Hybrid, Tundra, Tundra Hybrid, Venza Hybrid, 2023-2025 Crown, and 2025 Camry Hybrid vehicles equipped with GST accessories. The load carrying capacity modification label may display inaccurate added weight values. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
- Consequence: A vehicle with an incorrect maximum capacity weight value may be overloaded, which can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GST will mail new labels to owners, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2024. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 24R2.
- Model: Toyota Highlander 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-18
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Highlander vehicles. The 20-inch accessory tires with an insufficient load rating for the vehicle's Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) were installed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
- Consequence: Tires with an insufficient load rating can be overloaded and fail, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: SET will inspect and replace the tires and information placard, as necessary free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 16, 2024. Owners may contact SET's customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET's number for this recall is SET24A.
- Model: Toyota Highlander 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-18
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Highlander vehicles. The 20-inch accessory tires with an insufficient load rating for the vehicle's Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) were installed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
- Consequence: Tires with an insufficient load rating can be overloaded and fail, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: SET will inspect and replace the tires and information placard, as necessary free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 16, 2024. Owners may contact SET's customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET's number for this recall is SET24A.
- Model: Toyota Highlander 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-18
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Highlander vehicles. The 20-inch accessory tires with an insufficient load rating for the vehicle's Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) were installed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
- Consequence: Tires with an insufficient load rating can be overloaded and fail, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: SET will inspect and replace the tires and information placard, as necessary free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 16, 2024. Owners may contact SET's customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET's number for this recall is SET24A.
- Model: Toyota Highlander 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-06
- Manufacturer: Gulf States Toyota, Inc.
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain 2022-2024 model year Highlander L and Highlander LE vehicles equipped with the Blackout Package that includes 20" black alloy wheels and tires. The installed tires have an insufficient load rating. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
- Consequence: Tires with an insufficient load rating may be overloaded and fail, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GST will inspect and replace the tires as necessary, and install a new tire information label as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 8, 2024. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 24R1.
Latest negative Toyota Highlander car reviews
Latest positive Toyota Highlander car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2009
Hi there! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. It sounds like you had a bit of a rough time with your GM product after switching from imports. However, it's great to hear that you found the Toyota Highlander to be a solid and reliable option for your needs. With its 7 passenger ability and 5000 lb towing capacity, it definitely seems like a versatile choice. Plus, the V6 engine provides plenty of power and the easy-to-read controls make for a smooth driving experience. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts with us!
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Vehicle year: 2007
My wife and I were searching for a small/medium size SUV for our off-work vehicle. After looking at several other SUVs, we decided on the Highlander. Although it wasn't the most impressive option, it was the best deal available. While the RAV4 V6 and Murano had more power and unique features, the Highlander offered the best value. As expected, the fit & finish is excellent, and the V6 is more than adequate for everyday driving. The handling is better than expected, and it is quite balanced for a fwd. The ergonomics are great all around, and the chrome enhancement on the Sport model really freshens up the look of the base model. The deal at 0% for 48 months is unbeatable.
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Vehicle year: 2018
I purchased a 2018 LE V6 Highlander a month ago and while it has a nice appearance and comfortable seats, there are some areas that have left me disappointed. Allow me to share both the positives and negatives. On the positive side, the exterior is great looking, the dash layout is beautiful, and the ride is quiet. Additionally, the Adaptive Cruise Control, AEB, and Lane Keep Assist are all great features. However, I was surprised to find that BSM with rear cross traffic alert is not included as standard, despite being part of Toyota Safety Sense. This is a necessary feature to avoid many accidents. On the negative side, there is no Android Auto or Apple Carplay, no garage door opener, and the engine/transmission can feel sluggish in Eco mode. The MPG is also much lower than advertised, at 22-23 MPG on the highway (although this may improve as I put more miles on it, I have only driven 3k so far). The doors also feel flimsy and there is no power driver's seat for a car with a sticker price of almost 36K! In comparison, the other car in our family is a KIA Sorento, which beats the Highlander in many aspects with its powerful 2.0 turbo engine, solid build, and fantastic MPG of 28 on the highway. The Highlander had the same sticker price as our 2016 Sorento, yet the Sorento has many more features for that price, such as dual power seats, leather heated seats, push button start, BSM, rear cross traffic alert, power tailgate, integrated shades for 2nd row, and a 110V outlet. Just comparing the Sorento key fob to the Highlander tells the story. The Sorento's fob is so nice that it really can be compared to a luxury SUV. The doors feel solid in the hand compared to the Highlander's. Toyota needs to include certain things like a garage door opener, power driver seat, and push button start as standard when marketing a vehicle as a semi-luxury SUV and charging mid-30s for the price. In conclusion, the Highlander is good overall, but I would recommend going for the LE Plus version ($38K) and not expecting the MPG to be as advertised. Toyota has some work to do to keep up with the competition that is zooming past it.
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Vehicle year: 2019
Please note that the navigation system is currently not operational. Although it took a month to identify the issue, it was discovered in early January that it is a software problem that is common to the 2019 Highlander. Unfortunately, as of the end of February, there is still no update or estimate on when it will be resolved. If you require a fully functioning navigation system, it may be best to consider other options. UPDATE: We are pleased to inform you that Toyota has found and resolved the issue. We recommend contacting the corporate office for updates on the progress of the group working to resolve the problem. Since the navigation system was our only issue with the car, we now recommend it.
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Vehicle year: 2011
I bought a 2011 Highlander Limited 4WD in December 2010 and have already driven over 3000 miles in just one month (yes, I do drive a lot). The SUV is great at almost everything. Although it's not as quick as a BMW and doesn't have the fuel efficiency of a Prius, it's still a pleasure to drive and looks great. Overall, I'm 99.9% satisfied with my purchase. I do wish it had better gas mileage like a Prius, but that's just a minor issue. I traded my 2008 Toyota Tundra Crewmax Limited (black & loaded just like in the commercials) for my Highlander and although I miss my truck, the Highlander is really growing on me!
Are you having problems with your Toyota Highlander?
Kayley Yost 2025-03-26
Vehicle year: 2013
The rear hatch malfunctioned due to a faulty part installed by Toyota, which resulted in an $800 expense at a body shop. Unfortunately, the extended warranty was not honoured. As a loyal Toyota customer, I am disappointed by this experience. I hope that Toyota will take responsibility for this issue and work towards maintaining their reputation for reliability. I urge Consumer Reports to take note of this incident.
Vance Hintz 2025-03-23
Vehicle year: 2015
The new Highlander is a stylish SUV with a quiet ride and great handling on the highway, making it perfect for families on the go. However, there are a few minor issues that can be frustrating. For example, the navigation system only works when the car is in park, which can be inconvenient if you need to make changes while driving. Additionally, the Bluetooth system cannot be unpaired while the car is in motion, which can be bothersome if you need to take a private call. The airbag light on the dash is always on, which can be distracting, but it is a safety feature that ensures you are always aware of the airbag status. The car also has several bells and buzzers that alert you when the hatch or liftgate is open, which can be helpful. Finally, the V6 engine provides excellent pickup and go, making it a great choice for those who want a powerful SUV. Overall, the Highlander is a great choice for families who want a stylish and reliable SUV. When pulling out into traffic, be sure to accelerate quickly and turn at the same time. It may require some effort, but the car will respond well. I wanted to mention that we opted for the Homelink feature, which allows us to open our garage doors from a distance. While some cars only work within 10 feet, our Hyundai works up to 50 yards away. This review is for my wife's car, and she absolutely loves it despite any minor issues. We waited a year to purchase it, and if we had waited just a bit longer, we may have gone for the 2016 Honda Pilot instead. After 18 months, we did experience some issues with the Entune Infotainment system, which controls Nav, Phone, and Radio. However, the service department was able to reload the software to fix the problem. Overall, we are very happy with our car and would highly recommend it. Although we have started discussing the possibility of trading it in for a Honda Pilot, we are still very satisfied with our purchase.
Miles Bergstrom 2025-03-18
Vehicle year: 2022
The car is fine, but there are some areas that could be improved. The body panel lines don't always line up exactly even after adjustment, and the transmission isn't geared very well for hills, causing the engine to run at higher RPMs than it really should. Additionally, the fuel economy isn't great, and the fuel tank is on the small side for a car of this size with this bad of fuel economy. Lastly, the notification of low fuel is not very helpful, as it only notifies you when you have about 13 miles left in the tank. However, if you need a car with lots of space (e.g. 7 seats), this car could be a good option. Overall, I believe that spending a little more can get you a better car elsewhere, but this car is not a bad choice if you prioritize space.
Logan Fahey 2025-03-10
Vehicle year: 2014
We recently conducted an extensive search for 3rd row SUVs and ultimately decided on the LTD Platinum due to its impressive interior features and smooth ride. However, after driving it for 10k miles, we have encountered a few issues. Firstly, the roof drains (not sunroof) had defective hoses which caused leaks into the 2nd row seatbelts and carpeting instead of draining onto the ground. Although it was fixed within 2-3 weeks, the car still has a strong chemical smell. Secondly, we have experienced some difficulty starting the car, which Toyota towed and tested the battery for, but found no issues. Toyota suggested that the auto headlight feature may have drained the battery, but we have still experienced sputtering when trying to start the car. Lastly, the 2nd row cup holder tends to get stuck open and is not ideal if you have kids in the 3rd row. Despite these issues, we still believe that the LTD Platinum is a great SUV overall.
Glennie Fisher 2025-03-10
Vehicle year: 2021
This 2021 model has only 800 miles on it. Despite taking it to the dealer twice, I am still experiencing rattling and buzzing noises from the driver and passenger sides, as well as wind noise at 40MPH. It is clear that there is an issue that needs to be addressed, and I believe Toyota should issue a recall. As a customer, I am not satisfied with the current state of the car.