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: 2002
Hello! I just wanted to share my experience with my car. At first, I wasn't too keen on it, but my family and I decided to purchase it because it fit our budget. To my surprise, over the past 2 years, I've grown to love it! It has great fuel efficiency (400+ miles to the tank), low maintenance costs, and has been incredibly reliable. Even with 135,000 miles, the drivetrain is still going strong! I have the 4 cylinder model, but it drives like a six cylinder. The interior is durable and shows very little wear, even with my dogs. It's also easy to clean and the paint still looks good. Overall, I'm really happy with my car!
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Vehicle year: 2005
The Highlander drives just as beautifully as the six Camrys we have owned over the last 20+ years. The five-passenger seating is spacious and comfortable, similar to our '02 LXS Camry. The third seat is great for two car seats, and the side and rear windows are large enough to reduce blind spots in all directions. Interior road noise is minimal, and the enlarged cargo area with the rear seats down makes antique shopping trips a pleasure! As retirees, we drive fewer miles than when we were commuting, but we still enjoy the high quality of a Toyota.
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Vehicle year: 2018
Hi there! We've recently purchased our third Highlander and wanted to share our experience. While we've noticed a slight decrease in quality compared to previous models, we understand that the cost has gone up. We did want to bring to your attention that we've had some trouble with the automatic temperature control. Despite setting it to a normal range, there have been times where the temperature inside the vehicle has overheated. We've found that setting the temperature to 64 or 65 degrees helps prevent this issue. We just wanted to share our experience with you before you make a purchase. Thanks for considering our feedback!
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Vehicle year: 2011
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your SE! It sounds like you've been able to put some miles on it already, including a long road trip. The spacious interior and quiet ride must have made for a comfortable journey. I'm also happy to hear that you're enjoying the Sirius/XM sound system. While the rear camera is a helpful feature, it's always best to be cautious when backing into a parking spot. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2009
I'm so glad to hear that you've had a great experience with your 4 cylinder base Highlander 2009 model! It's impressive that you're getting 24 miles per gallon in the city and 28 on the highway - that's fantastic for a mid-size SUV. I'm happy to hear that you didn't have any issues with power while cruising at 70 on your trip from Boston to NY. It's important for dealers to let customers know that there are other ways to get good fuel economy besides just hybrid vehicles. It's also great to hear that driving in the snow wasn't a problem for you.
Are you having problems with your Toyota Highlander?
Thurman Gleichner 2025-11-23
Vehicle year: 2016
I came across some Consumer Affairs complaints after purchasing my 2016 Toyota Highlander XLE and I wish I had read them earlier. Within just 30 days of owning the car, I had an issue with it starting on its own. I was shocked to find that it had been running for 40 minutes while I was shopping at Walmart, with the doors locked. Upon entering the car, I noticed a yellow caution light flashing near the odometer. After reading other customer complaints about various issues with 2013-2015 models, such as brakes not working while driving, driver doors not unlocking, and front seats making loud noises while driving, I became concerned about the safety of my car, especially since I have two kids. Although I'm not sure about the 2016 model yet, I'm worried about what's to come. This is my second Toyota, but I'm disappointed with the lack of support for their cars. I won't be buying a Toyota in the future. After driving the car for 30 days, I noticed that the sound system is not great and the interior has many cheap parts. The floor 'carpet' is actually felt, not carpet, and some of the dash has plastic parts. The front seats and angled headrest are uncomfortable on longer rides. I wish I could trade my new XLE in for a better car that matches the price I paid.The 2016 Highlander doesn't seem to offer the quality that justifies its high price. I can understand why you might be disappointed.
Lambert Lebsack 2025-11-19
Vehicle year: 2001
I bought this vehicle back in 2006 with 75,000 miles on it and have since added 69,000 miles of my own. At first, I was really excited about it, but unfortunately, that excitement quickly faded. Despite keeping up with routine maintenance, I found myself having to make major repairs at least twice a year, such as replacing the rotors, steering column, air conditioning panel, suspension, and more. The mpg rating claims it gets 19/25, but in reality, I usually only averaged around 16 mpg, regardless of whether I was driving on the street or the highway. On top of that, there was an annoying whistling sound that would start up when I exceeded about 50 mph, making it seem like my windows were open when they weren't. Needless to say, I'm at my wits' end and am ready to purchase a new vehicle.
Erwin Rolfson 2025-11-16
Vehicle year: 2002
I purchased this car new in December 2003 and took it on a trip of over 1000 miles to Kentucky and back to Virginia. While I enjoyed the trip, I found the seats to be uncomfortable and lacking in support. Unfortunately, the metal in the car is quite thin and produces a tinny sound when going over bumps. While I used to think highly of Toyota, this experience has taught me to be more discerning. I look forward to finding a new owner who will appreciate this car's supposed Toyota quality and resale value.
Salvador Bogisich 2025-11-15
Vehicle year: 2008
According to the dealer and factory rep I spoke to, all V6 2008 and newer Highlanders will develop piston slap, causing the engine to sound like a diesel for the first 10 minutes of driving. Unfortunately, the dealership was unable to fix the issue and we ended up having to sell the vehicle back. I wanted to share this information to help educate others and prevent them from making the same mistake I did by purchasing a certified Highlander.
Oral Reilly 2025-11-11
Vehicle year: 2007
I purchased this vehicle new in August 2007, after selling my Avalon. While I am satisfied with its performance and lack of ostentation, the road noise is a significant issue. I have upgraded to Bridgestone tires, but the noise persists. In comparison, my father-in-law's 2004 Highlander is remarkably quiet. I am curious if this noise issue is unique to my vehicle or if it is a common problem among all 2007 models. I plan on addressing this concern with the dealership and seeking a resolution.