Toyota Highlander hybrid 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 hybrid model years
Common Toyota Highlander hybrid problems
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a popular choice among consumers looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient SUV. However, there have been some reported issues with certain model years, particularly the 2006 and 2008 models.
One of the most significant problems with the 2006 and 2008 Highlander Hybrid models is faulty brakes. According to CarComplaints, the NHTSA has received 165 complaints about brake problems in the 2006 model and 142 complaints in the 2008 model.
Another reported problem with the 2008 Highlander Hybrid is the check brake alert, which can also lead to braking issues. The average cost to repair this problem is around $4,000, with an average mileage of 128,000 miles.
It's worth noting that these issues tend to develop at higher mileage, with the average mileage when these problems occurred being around 119,800 for the 2006 model and 128,000 for the 2008 model.
However, it's important to note that these issues are not widespread, and the majority of Highlander Hybrid owners have reported a positive experience with the vehicle. The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, for example, has received positive reviews from consumers, with many praising its outstanding fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and updated technology.
In conclusion, while there have been some reported issues with certain model years of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, the majority of owners have reported a positive experience with the vehicle. If you're considering purchasing a Highlander Hybrid, it's essential to research the specific model year and be aware of any potential issues. However, with proper maintenance and care, the Highlander Hybrid can provide a reliable and fuel-efficient driving experience.
Does the Toyota Highlander Hybrid have issues?
Toyota Highlander Hybrid Reliability Problems. Highlander Hybrid owners have made 122 complaints over 15 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 25th in overall reliability out of 33 Toyota models , with real brakes and engine concerns.
What is the most common problem with the Toyota Highlander?
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.
How long do Toyota Highlander hybrid last?
Toyota Avalon, with a potential lifespan of 245,710 miles. Toyota Highlander Hybrid, with a potential lifespan of 244,994 miles.
How much does it cost to replace the battery in a Toyota Highlander Hybrid?
between $6,462 and $6,531
The average cost for a Toyota Highlander Hybrid High Voltage Battery Replacement is between $6,462 and $6,531. Labor costs are estimated between $264 and $333 while parts are typically priced around $6,198.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota Highlander hybrid years
We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota Highlander hybrid cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Toyota Highlander hybrid model years:
- Toyota Highlander hybrid 2006
- Toyota Highlander hybrid 2008
- Toyota Highlander hybrid 2010
- Toyota Highlander hybrid 2007
- Toyota Highlander hybrid 2017
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota Highlander hybrid model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota Highlander hybrid years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Toyota Highlander hybrid car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Toyota Highlander hybrid , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Toyota Highlander hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Highlander hybrid model years
A total of 207 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 hybrid model years
There were a total of 48 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 hybrid model years
There were a total of 166 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 hybrid model years
There were a total of 5 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 2382 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota Highlander hybrid . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota Highlander hybrid vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Toyota Highlander hybrid 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5TDEBRCH3MS
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (AIR BAGS); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Toyota Highlander hybrid 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 hybrid 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 5TDXBRCH3NS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact's wife owns 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact stated that while his wife was driving 70 MPH, the vehicle shut off with the "Maintenance Required Visit Your Dealer" message displayed. The contact’s wife restarted the vehicle and immediately pulled over to the shoulder. Despite the failure, the contact's wife was able to drive back to the residence. The contact stated that prior to the failure, a similar warning light illuminated and disrupted the contact's ability to use the GPS feature. The contact called the local dealer and scheduled an appointment. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 23,000.
Toyota Highlander hybrid 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 hybrid 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 5TDDZRFH6HS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: As the electronic back hitch was closing, I pressed the Start Engine button and the vehicle dashboard lit up but would not start. Then I pressed the button again and it said the Ignition is On. Pressed again to shut off. Vehicle made a bunch of clicking noises but would not start. Disconnected battery to “re boot” electrical system… but a charger on battery and then the vehicle started. BUT the ! And Check Engine light was now on… saying take to your dealer… Check AWD. Drove vehicle at lunch time… and warning light and check engine light just went off! So weird!
Toyota Highlander hybrid 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 5TDGBRCH9NS
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, the vehicle independently accelerated while the brake pedal was depressed. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer on several different occasions to be diagnosed; however, the dealer was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 36,000.
Toyota Highlander hybrid 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 5TDHBRCH1MS
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Toyota Highlander hybrid 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-28
- VIN: 5TDDKRFH1FS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: BSM works when it want to and sometimes not at all
Toyota Highlander hybrid 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
- VIN: 5TDZARFH8FS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle stalled, and the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The check engine warning light and several other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to pull into a parking lot. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after 45 minutes. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer was notified of the failure and charged a fee for diagnostic testing. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18E107000 (Electrical System, Visibility); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 193,000.
Toyota Highlander hybrid 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-19
- VIN: 5TDHARAH0MS
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 23V720000 (Structure) and 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had 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 hybrid 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-17
- VIN: 5TDGBRCH7NS
- Components: STRUCTURE,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH, the contact heard a loud noise coming from the driver’s side of the vehicle. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and became aware that the front lower bumper had detached on the driver's side and was dragging on the road. The bumper was attached by one screw. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V72000 (Structure). The vehicle was taken to the dealer and repaired under the recall. The dealer informed the contact that the grill shutter had been damaged and needed to be repaired. The contact stated that after retrieving the vehicle, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was informed that the grill shutter had not been repaired correctly causing the check engine warning light to be illuminated. The dealer repaired the vehicle again. The contact stated that after repairing the vehicle, while driving approximately 40 miles down the road, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact inspected the vehicle and became aware that underneath the grill shutter had not been repaired. The dealer had been contacted and informed that the failure had reoccurred. The vehicle had not been returned to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired again. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the repair would be up to the dealer to repair the vehicle. The failure mileage was 80,000.
Toyota Highlander hybrid 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-12
- VIN: 5TDHBRCH4MS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact's mother owns a 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH out of town, another driver informed the contact that the front bumper had detached. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and inspected the vehicle. The contact continued driving to the destination. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was referred to an autobody repair shop. The vehicle was taken to the autobody repair shop, where the repair was performed ineffectively. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V720000 (Structure). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the recall repair was performed. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and denied reimbursement for the repairs performed by the autobody repair shop because the failure occurred prior to the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 27,300.
Toyota Highlander hybrid 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-11
- VIN: JTEEW41A082
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: We were driving at about 40 MPH and approached our turn. When I depressed the brakes, they felt spongy and I had trouble slowing quickly. The yellow triangle illuminated on the dash and a long warning beep sounded. I was able to get safely parked in a parking lot, and my son came and took a look as well. We had the car towed to a shop, who diagnosed the problem, stating that we needed to replace the brake booster pump and actuator assembly. A family member noted that Toyota had issued a recall for vehicles with the same year/make/model for the braking system, so we had it towed to our local Toyota dealership to verify that they had no open recalls on the brakes and complete a full inspection otherwise. They validated that the brake booster pump and actuator assembly needed to be replaced. I am left wondering why my vehicle was not included in Toyota's recall.
Toyota Highlander hybrid 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-07
- VIN: 5TDDGRFH7HS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Several weeks ago my wife noticed that the vehicle skids when accelerating and she told me about the situation. I hardly drive the vehicle because I was not aware of the situation, but today I drove it and realized what is happening. I am not a mechanic to give a diagnosis of the situation. For me it could be the transmission and it only has 85K. I'm going to do the next oil change at the dealer. Right now I do them at Firestone, it's close to my house and for me it's more convenient.
Toyota Highlander hybrid 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-29
- VIN: 5TDXBRCHXP
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle surged forward and accelerated before coming to a stop. The failure occurred intermittently; however, the failure seemed most pronounced while decelerating from highway speeds. There were no warning lights illuminated. The dealer was informed of the failure; however, the vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had not been made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 20,000.
Latest 5 recalls Toyota Highlander hybrid
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 42 recalls for different components of the Toyota Highlander hybrid.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Toyota Highlander hybrid 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 hybrid 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-20
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed February 2, 2024. A second notice will be mailed once the remedy is available. Multiple phases are planned through 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
- Model: Toyota Highlander hybrid 2020
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-20
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed February 2, 2024. A second notice will be mailed once the remedy is available. Multiple phases are planned through 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
- Model: Toyota Highlander hybrid 2020
- Report Received Date: 2023-10-26
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Highlander & Highlander Hybrid vehicles. During normal vehicle operation, minor impact to the front lower bumper cover may result in the cover coming loose or detaching.
- Consequence: A detached front bumper cover can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will repair or replace the upper and lower front bumper covers as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed April 22, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB12/23TA12.
- Model: Toyota Highlander hybrid 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-10-26
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Highlander & Highlander Hybrid vehicles. During normal vehicle operation, minor impact to the front lower bumper cover may result in the cover coming loose or detaching.
- Consequence: A detached front bumper cover can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will repair or replace the upper and lower front bumper covers as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed April 22, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB12/23TA12.
Latest negative Toyota Highlander hybrid car reviews
Latest positive Toyota Highlander hybrid car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2019
I drove a Ford Escape 2001 SUV for 20 years and spent a lot of money on gas. However, since I got my 2019 Highlander Hybrid, I have been able to save money on gas. It is an amazing SUV and I will never go back to a regular SUV with poor gas mileage. I will go for a hybrid all the way! Toyota has done a great job with their various hybrid vehicles. I absolutely love my new Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
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Vehicle year: 2012
After driving 145K miles, my wife and I still find this car to be comfortable and great to drive. It gets excellent mileage for an SUV, even at 145K miles. We have driven it across the country and found it to be very comfortable. The hybrid braking system has resulted in low brake maintenance and we have not had to make any repairs. The only downside we have experienced is that the replacement of spark plugs and associated tune-up at around 120K miles was a major endeavor by the dealership. Additionally, we have noticed that the rear motor's extra traction on steep hills with ice does not seem to kick in until the car is moving a little, which does not make sense in helping to get moving in icy, steep roads. However, the on-demand all-wheel traction works well in the steep icy roads of New Hampshire. The car's wet hilly road traction has been the best of any car we have owned, as it does not hydroplane. We have owned three Toyota hybrids and have not experienced any electronics or hybrid battery issues with any of them, even at over 130K miles. The normal car starter batteries have lasted at least 7 years, and the Highlander still has the original 12V starter battery. We live in Massachusetts and Northern New Hampshire all year round, and we believe that people do not realize the savings associated with hybrid technology, such as replacing brakes every 100K miles, normal 12VDC car batteries that last without replacement, and exhaust system parts. Additionally, the Highlander Hybrid has high acceleration at all speeds due to the boost from pretty large electric motors on top of a V6 engine. On a separate note, we once bought a hybrid car from a different auto manufacturer and were disappointed with the mileage vs claimed mileage, reliability (multiple costly repairs), and the lack of a power boost from the electric motor when wanting to accelerate rapidly.
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Vehicle year: 2013
We were in need of a small SUV that could haul rigid hull inflatable boats, typically weighing less than 2000 lbs. We had the 3500 lbs tow package installed, which was much nicer than an aftermarket option. I was particularly interested in a hybrid vehicle because I believe that 'peak oil' is a real concern, and I want to be able to continue driving and boating for years to come. This car is a technological wonder, and we absolutely love it. We frequently take long trips for business, and nobody complains. It's surprising how quickly we arrive at our destination, even though this is the first car I've owned that doesn't compel me to speed. It has taught me that I can arrive at my destination at roughly the same time without speeding, and that fast starts are incredibly wasteful on gas. I'm able to get 30 mpg with ease.
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Vehicle year: 2022
I recently drove my new Highlander for 1,400 miles, mostly on my own, but also with a few passengers and a dog. The Highlander is a significant upgrade from my previous car, a 2012 Outback, with impressive new technology that is standard in 2022 models. What really stands out is the quiet and comfortable ride, which feels almost luxurious, all while getting an impressive 42 mpg. I am currently trying to maximize my mpg by watching my driving and ensuring the 'EV' light comes on as much as possible. However, I understand that this may not be a common experience for everyone. On a trip from CT to Chicago with three adults, two children with car seats, and a canine, we had to use a rooftop carrier for much of our stuff. The third row was barely usable, so I recommend checking the car seat anchors if you plan to use it. The Highlander is great for four people, but more than that on a trip will be a terrible experience. On a trip from western CT to western Maine with two adults, three dogs, and a kayak, we got an impressive 34.6 MPG, despite hills and AC use. With the third row folded flat, we were able to pack for an 8-day trip for the two of us. Overall, I would buy the Highlander again, but if I needed to haul more than four people, I would go for the Sienna.
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Vehicle year: 2021
I recently purchased a 2021 Venza Limited, fully loaded, but after just 3000 miles, I realized it wasn't the right fit for me. Although it looked sleek in photos and had positive online reviews, the ride was too stiff and the road noise was irritating. I decided to trade it in for a Highlander Platinum, which I initially overlooked due to its family hauler aura and style. However, I was pleasantly surprised by its solid build, smooth drive, and ample space. The infotainment and technology are a step up, and the interior fit and finish is excellent. I appreciate the knobs and buttons, as I'm not a fan of 100% touch screens. As a semi-retired individual, I didn't think I needed the space, but I was wrong. The Highlander has plenty of power and gets good gas mileage. Overall, I'm very happy with my decision and believe that Toyota Hybrids are some of the most dependable cars on the road.
Are you having problems with your Toyota Highlander hybrid?
Cruz Hills 2025-03-28
Vehicle year: 2017
I was disappointed to find out that Toyota does not offer loaner cars during warranty work, which would have been a deal breaker for me. It seems reasonable to expect a loaner car for a $50,000 vehicle. Although I have owned four Toyotas, including two Highlander Hybrids, I have experienced issues with my brakes or suspension after only nine months. Despite bringing it in for service six times, I had to request a loaner car, which I eventually received. Unfortunately, the problem persists, and it is now almost June, seven months later. If you are willing to spend $50,000 and receive average service without a courtesy car, then Toyota may be the right choice for you. While I have always trusted Toyota, I believe their customer service policies could be improved.
Brady Blanda 2025-03-28
Vehicle year: 2017
This car has some great features and is comfortable to drive. However, it may not be the best value for money if priced at or above $50k. Some of the premium features may not be as advertised and the gas mileage in city/stop go driving may not be as good as reported. For example, the heated steering wheel is only partially heated and the premium audio system is not very good. Additionally, the camera views and parking sensors are subpar, with nothing to assist you in the front of the vehicle. The paint is also prone to scuffs, especially on the black trim around the wheelwells and bumper. The Bluetooth audio system may also have difficulty pairing with iPhones. If you're not too concerned about the price, these issues may be overlooked. However, if you're looking for more bang for your buck, you may want to consider the MDX, the Volvo XC90, the Explorer Limited/Platinum, or the Honda Pilot. The city gas mileage wouldn't be that much different with these alternatives either.
Royal Yundt 2025-03-25
Vehicle year: 2006
I bought the car used with 34k on it. The mpg is not good. I get 24 to 26 and I drive very conservatively. The performance otherwise is good. It is comfortable compared to my recent CR-V, but the mpg of the CR-V was better. I drive to South Carolina regularly from PA and the mileage leaves much to be desired even at a 65 speed. Looking for something better.
Ike Fritsch 2025-03-16
Vehicle year: 2007
The drive train is definitely the standout feature of this car. However, the interior leaves something to be desired, particularly with the electronics. Unfortunately, there is no tire pressure monitor, satellite radio, or backup camera. The navigation system is also quite basic. The dash design feels outdated, reminiscent of the early 1990s. Additionally, the lack of two-zone climate control and the impractical third-row seats are a bit disappointing. Overall, while Toyota missed the mark on some aspects, there are still some great features to appreciate in this vehicle.
Elmore Klein 2025-03-08
Vehicle year: 2006
The 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Vehicle (Highlander HV) was Toyota's first generation of gasoline-electric hybrid versions of the Highlander sold in the U.S. Unfortunately, some of these vehicles experienced issues with their electrical inverter assembly, which caused sudden loss of engine power while driving. The cost to repair the hybrid inverter system as of June 21, 2011 was $9325.00 + Tax. Although Toyota does not currently fix this issue, there is a class action suit against them at this time. It's important to note that if you're considering going green, there may be additional costs associated with maintaining a hybrid vehicle.