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: 2008
Hey there! Congrats on your first hybrid! I've noticed that if you want to get the most out of your vehicle's fuel efficiency, driving in ECON mode is the way to go. With ECON mode, I've been able to get 25 mpg in mixed driving, which is pretty impressive. Without it, I only get around 20 mpg, sometimes even less. I personally think that EV mode is just a marketing gimmick, as it only works under specific conditions like the right temperature and fully charged batteries. One thing to note is that when idling in park or in traffic, you might feel a small bump and surge forward, but when driving, you won't feel any gas/electric switching at all. In ECON mode, acceleration is damped to conserve fuel, but in normal mode, this vehicle is quite powerful and can easily get to freeway speeds. Let me know if you have any other questions or concerns!
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Vehicle year: 2021
We hope you're enjoying your Toyota Highlander Platinum Hybrid! It sounds like you made a great choice with all the options and features it offers. The Hybrid provides plenty of power while also being fuel efficient, which is a great combination. The safety features and bird's eye view camera are definitely helpful, and we're glad to hear you're enjoying the 12.3
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Vehicle year: 2016
We have been enjoying the Toyota brand Hybrid technology in our 2007 Prius for 190k miles now, and we are quite familiar with it from a consumer's perspective. We absolutely LOVE it! So, when it was time to replace our Ford Explorer (which was one repair after another for 15 years), I did a LOT of research into a replacement vehicle with AWD for our steep driveway, towing capacity for my occasional trips to the lawnmower repair shop and dump, and also possessing a few bells and whistles, and throw in some
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Vehicle year: 2007
The build quality and materials are excellent. The cargo space is quite large and the rear seats are simple to manipulate. I was pleasantly surprised by the much better MPG than expected (28.9). Although it takes a while to get used to the feel of the hybrid, my wife and I found it to be a unique and interesting experience. When the car was brand new, the gas and electric cutting in and out at different times was more pronounced, which made my wife think I was repeatedly taking my foot off the gas.
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Vehicle year: 2009
We really enjoy the comfortable leather seats and smooth ride of the vehicle. While we have had some difficulty with the Navigation System, we have found that using alternative methods such as Mapquest has been helpful. We have found that the Navigation System in our previous vehicle, a 2006 Acura MDX, was easier to use and had greater utility. However, we still appreciate the overall quality of the Highlander. We have found that achieving the advertised MPG can be a challenge, and the best we have achieved is around 23MPG combined. Driving conservatively has helped us get closer to the advertised MPG.
Are you having problems with your Toyota Highlander hybrid?
Aiden Jones 2025-09-08
Vehicle year: 2016
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.
Burley Heathcote 2025-09-08
Vehicle year: 2007
We purchased our vehicle with the assurance that the problems with the hybrid battery had been resolved. Unfortunately, we experienced issues with the battery at 51,000 miles and again at 141,000 miles. Despite our disappointment with Toyota's customer service, we were able to negotiate a resolution with our dealer who agreed to cover half of the $6,400 repair cost as a goodwill gesture. While we are disappointed that we had to spend $3,000 to replace a part that is supposed to last the lifetime of the vehicle, we remain confident in our decision to purchase a Toyota product. We hope that Toyota will continue to improve their products and customer service in the future.
Dameon Labadie 2025-09-07
Vehicle year: 2012
Wow, you've driven nearly 15K miles, including two Alaskan winters! It sounds like you've had some experience with the hybrid technology. One drawback you've noticed is that even when the battery is fully charged and capable of operating in EV mode, the engine is needed to heat the air for the defroster. That must be frustrating, especially in your climate where it cuts into the possible efficiency at least 5 months out of the year. Despite this, you still managed to average over 18 MPG in the winter, which is impressive! For everyday summer driving in the city, you're getting around 23 MPG, which is great. Your best ever for a 100+ mile road trip, fully loaded with many hills was just over 27 MPG, which is fantastic! It's great to hear that the drivetrain is exceptionally smooth. While the interior finish is just okay, it sounds like you're really enjoying your driving experience overall.
Tony Armstrong 2025-09-06
Vehicle year: 2021
The platinum hybrid model we purchased has been a great vehicle for the past 2 months, equipped with all the features we wanted and more. However, we have experienced some issues recently where the vehicle shuts down and requires a jump start to restart. This is unacceptable for a brand new car with less than 1k miles on it. Despite the mechanic at the dealership being unable to identify the problem, we believe that this issue should not be occurring. Overall, we are confident in the quality of this vehicle and hope to have this issue resolved soon.
Horace Lockman 2025-09-03
Vehicle year: 2010
We previously owned a 07 Highlander Hybrid and it was a great car. We sold it to a friend with 160k miles and he's still driving it with no issues. We decided to upgrade to a 2010 model and did our research to find one with 80k miles, one owner, and dealer serviced regularly. However, we have been disappointed with this newer model. The engine is quite noisy and the gas mileage is poor, averaging around 24 mph. We had to replace the suspension bushings at a cost of over $1200, but the mechanic said that the factory bushings were not up to par and the replacement aftermarket ones are three times the size. There is still some play and clunking noise in the front end. The check engine light comes on and off, indicating an issue with the evap canister/pump, which is a costly repair. Additionally, the rear hatch glass will not open with the button, requiring another expensive repair. The paint finish is also poor and seems to chip and scratch easily. We have always been loyal Toyota owners, but this experience has left us disappointed. As an update, we traded in the Highlander for a used 2017 Kia Sorento SX and have been very happy with its quality and performance.