2007 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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Common 2007 Toyota Highlander hybrid problems
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid, introduced in 2007, has been known for its reliability and sturdiness. However, like any vehicle, it has experienced some common problems, particularly in earlier models.
- ABS Light Staying On: The 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has the highest number of overall complaints, with the most-reported problem being the ABS light staying on.
- Check Brake Alert On: Another common problem with the 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is the check brake alert being on, with an average cost to fix of $4,000 and average mileage of 128,000 mi when problems occur.
- Engine Sludge/Failure: This issue is noticed when the engine light comes on, indicating that the oil and other transmission fluid are below their required level. The spark plugs are fouled with oil, which hampers the ignition system and causes engine failure. This concern is a manufacturing issue, and Toyota made a safety recall to address the complaint.
- Threads for Engine Bolts Stripped: When the AC in the 2007 Highlander suddenly stops working, the temperature in the engine rises. The running heater draws heat from the engine, and the coolant goes below the required level. Both the coolant and engine oil start leaking through the gasket, which can affect the entire fuel system and contribute to water leaking. This problem is a manufacturing flaw, and replacing the whole engine is the most reliable solution.
- Excessive Oil Usage: The 2007 Highlander may consume excessive oil, leading to higher expenses from refilling and changing the oil regularly. This issue can cause damage to the entire fuel system and tear the ignition system, resulting in premature engine failure.
- Smells from the Air Conditioner: The Toyota Highlander has resistive heating and air conditioning systems prone to mold and other contaminants, which tend to grow on the evaporators. With the AC on, these get blown into the vehicle’s cab, spreading an unpleasant odor throughout the car.
- Transmission Failure: The Highlander’s faulty transmission is among the most common customer reports on this model. Transmission slipping, overheated transmission, delayed and irregular shift are common indicators of transmission problems.
These issues have been reported by owners and may not be representative of all Toyota Highlander Hybrid vehicles. It is important to note that the newer models of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid have not had as many reported problems, and the vehicle is generally considered to be reliable.
What problems do 2007 Toyota Highlanders have?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Brakes. Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking. ...
- Steering And Suspension. ...
- Electrical Accessories. ...
- Paint And Trim. ...
- Body Hardware. ...
- Engine Electrical. ...
- Engine Minor. ...
- Engine Major.
How long does a 2007 Toyota Highlander hybrid last?
The Toyota Highlander is one of the longest-lasting midsize SUVs available, with the ability to continue running up to 300,000 miles after your drive it off the lot.
Is 2007 Toyota Highlander a good year?
This version of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid was our top-rated midsized SUV and one of the only vehicles in its class to earn an excellent overall score in our tests. It is an example of the then-new wave of hybrid vehicles using gas/electric powertrains to boost engine performance as well as fuel economy.
Are there problems with Toyota Highlander Hybrid?
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.
2007 Toyota Highlander hybrid car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Highlander hybrid problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2007 Toyota Highlander hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2007 Toyota Highlander hybrid
The NHTSA has received 229 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2007 Toyota Highlander hybrid. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2007 Toyota Highlander hybrid vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- VIN: JTEHW21A570
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Subject: Urgent Safety Concern - Recurring Issues with Toyota Highlander Hybrid Models Dear National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, We owned the car since almost new, after repeated attempts with Toyota, like others 300K customers from their own site, I am writing to file a formal complaint regarding persistent safety issues with Toyota Highlander Hybrid models, specifically between the years 2004 and 2007. Despite previous reports and numerous attempts to seek assistance from Toyota, the response has been unsatisfactory, with the company deflecting responsibility rather than providing a resolution. **Vehicle Information:** - Make: Toyota - Model: Highlander Hybrid - Year: 2007 - VIN: [XXX] **Description of the Issue:** 1) The primary concerns involve the hybrid a) BRAKE actuators failing/loosing braking power 2) the electrical inverters, which have shown a pattern of failure across many vehicles, including my own. 3) Leaky blow back from engine into intake. 4) Seat belts are not properly retracting, These failures could compromise the safety of the vehicle but also risk to the driver, passengers, and others on the road. **Previous Reports:** I have previously reported these issues to Toyota, but the attempts to resolve the matter have been met with deflection of blame. It is imperative to note that these issues are not isolated incidents but are widely reported by other owners of the same model. **Impact on Safety:** The malfunctioning of critical components such as the braking system has led to near-miss incidents that could have resulted in severe injuries or fatalities. It is unacceptable for such critical safety issues to remain unaddressed. **Request for Action:** I urge the NHTSA to investigate these reports thoroughly and take appropriate action to hold Toyota and its CEO accountable. The safety of countless drivers and the integrity of our transportation system depend on your prompt attention to this matter. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-05
- VIN: JTEGW21A070
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a drained battery. The dealer determined that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with an ABS actuator malfunction, and the ABS actuator was replaced. The failure recurred and the ABS actuator was replaced a second time. The contact stated that the brake pedal needed to be depressed multiple times for the brakes to respond as needed. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was diagnosed with ABS actuator malfunction for the third time. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 96,153.
TIRES,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-17
- VIN: JTEHP21A270
- Components: TIRES,WHEELS
- Summary: Only six months after installation as a set of 4 new tires at Sam's Club in May 2021, multiple cracks start to develop around the rims on both inside and outside of the tires. With time, the cracks grow in size. This happens on two tires, one is on the front passage side, and the other on the rear driver side.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-31
- VIN: JTEGW21A870
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: While driving a vehicle came across me and when i pressed on the brake hard, the car would stop normally, and ABS, brake, VSC came on the display along with a high pitch sound. I quickly reacted by pressing the E-Brake and shift to B - braking mode to be able to stop or slow down. The dealer said it was the Brake actuator that failed and its out of warrant, there was an enhancement warrant program that was issued by Toyota but expired. I feel the safety of people and property that this should've been a recall knowingly it can go out anytime. Contacted Toyota Corp. and they said this would be an out of pocket cost to the consumer which is around $3000. The manufacturer knew this could go out at any moment and should've made the RECALL instead. during the enhancement warranty program they would not replace it since it was still functioning.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-08
- VIN: JTEEP21A670
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The VTT - I oil line leaks oil may burst
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-15
- VIN: JTEEW21AX70
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Driving at about 50 mph on two lane road, the VSC and ABS lights come on with a little chime warning, along with some other warnings. Check VSC is also in the small screen instead of the odometer. Toyota knows about ABS actuator issues on this vehicle, but Toyota did not extend the warranty beyond 150k miles and 10 years. This could be a safety issue with the ABS, VSC and brakes. Toyota published a "Warranty Enhancement Program - ZG1" on April 19, 2016, but only to dealers. After the initial warranty period, I've used independent repair shops, so I didn't get any notice. I did get other recall notices from Toyota on this vehicle and had them repaired by the dealer. Toyota should be more accountable for brake issues that could be safety related.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-29
- VIN: JTEGD21A470
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: All of the sensors for tires were removed before I bought this car and the tire light keeps on(the pressure is good). My friend said they might adjust the mileage, I wonder if there is something wrong with this car. There was only one break working while getting this car, the mechanics from other maintenance store found this critical issue out while I asked them to fix the working one. Nobody from that car dealer told me about this issue and let me drive this car with only one break for one month. Meanwhile, they promised me there would not be any safety issue and charged me for safety checking. Thank you for your time on my case. Best Regards [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-20
- VIN: JTEEW21A270
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: While driving down the 405fwy downhill, all my lights went off and showed VSC system on my dashboard. This part of the fwy is not extremely steep but somewhat is. When applying my brakes it was hard to get my vehicle to stop especially because I’m on a freeway and when trying to slow down because I’m going downhill. I had my family in the car. I can’t imagine if my my brakes actually gave what would happen. I researched this and Toyota only called this a “warranty extension” for your Brake Actuator. I can’t believe this hasn’t been classified as an official recall. Especially since it pertains to the brakes. An essential quality mechanism to prevent death. They obviously know they were in the wrong here since the warranted this as a “warranty extension”. All these vehicles should be recalled for human safety. Shame on them.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-19
- VIN: JTEEW21A370
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: we were station in the Military base in Belle chasse LA. I'm having a SAFETY issue with the vehicle brake system and ABS.I contacted Toyota and nothing was done this vehicle has like 76000 miles and this a mayor concerned, and safety issue I believe this is a factory problem from day one. I have read thousands of same complaints on line with same problem. I also read that Toyota had the same issue with Prius and my understanding is that it was a recall on those. My car is low in millage for the year and I have been the only owner. This is a safety issue and I need help I'm very concern for our safety and others . Thank you, and your attention to this matter is appreciated.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-30
- VIN: JTEGW21A670
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid and certain Prius and Lexus models were equipped with an ABS actuator that could potentially fail and cause serious injuries and or death. A safety notice and enhanced warranty covered the parts and labor 10 years later; however, after the 10 years was up, the owner would be responsible for the all the costs. I noticed the vehicle making erratic noises from the engine bay and discovered it was the brake actuator but no warning lights or significant braking issues were of concern around 1/5/22. On 1/30/22 I was driving the vehicle when suddenly multiple lights came on which include the VSC, ABS, Brake, warning light, and exclamation warning light came on. The vehicle started acting erratic with unusual power loss and poor braking responsiveness. This also occurred on my 2005 Toyota Prius which I got into an accident in where the vehicle was totaled. This part should last the life of the vehicle, and if replaced in the past due to safety concerns under the enhanced warranty, all vehicles with the same old part number should be recalled and replaced at no charge to the owner.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-24
- VIN: JTEEW21A370
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact’s son stated while driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the contact’s residence. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer to be diagnosed. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 196,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-07
- VIN: JTEEW21A570
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Was driving on highway and Check Hybrid System, Check ABS System and Check VSC system flashed on dash, lost all power. Had to manage my way and pull over on the side as I could not accelerate anymore. Sent vehicle to 3 shops/dealerships, NOBODY can figure out what is wrong and all saying it cannot be fixed. HELP PLEASE! Car starts up on battery but when engine tries to fire up it sputters and dies and gives the Check Hybrid, Check VSC System messages. Codes scanned showed all 6 coils were bad, replaced them all and still saying all 6 are bad. New coils, new plugs, nobody knows what is the issue. I'm already into this for thousands of dollars, I really, really cannot afford any more money into this! Someone please help me. Thank you so much.
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-06
- VIN: JTEEW21A970
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: MY VCS LIGHT,ABS,BRAKE,TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT IS ON. PLUS A HORRIBLE BUZZING NOISE ALWAYS ON. BRAKES ARE HARD TO PRESS DOWN ON. IT HAPPENED WHEN WE WERE DRIVING IT.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-02
- VIN: JTEEW21A070
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WE HAVE A 2007 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID LIMITED WITH APPROXIMATELY 150K MILES. IN OCTOBER 2017 WE BEGAN TO EXPERIENCE BREAKING PULSING AND SQUEAKING ISSUES. UPON INSPECTION AT PRECISION TOYOTA OF TUCSON, AZ, IT WAS DETERMINED TO BE THE BREAK ACTUATOR. THE BREAK ACTUATOR FAILURE IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM FOR TOYOTA VEHICLES BEGINNING AS EARLY AS 2004 AND THIS CAN BE EASILY SEARCHED ONLINE. THIS BREAK FAILURE CAN RESULT IN COMPLETE BREAK FAILURE WHILE DRIVING (AND REPORTS OF THIS OCCURRING ARE EASILY SEARCHED ONLINE). IN 2017, THE BREAK ACTUATOR REPLACEMENT WAS FULLY COVERED BY THE WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM, BUT IT WAS VERBALLY ESTIMATED AT $2200 TO REPAIR AT THAT TIME. AS THE OWNERS OF THIS VEHICLE FOR SINCE 2009, IT WAS ODD THAT WE WERE NEVER NOTIFIED OF THIS RECALL/EXTENDED WARRANTY- BUT JUST 'FORTUNATE' ENOUGH TO HAVE OURS FAIL IN A TIMELY MANNER TO BE FULLY COVERED BY THE EXTENDED WARRANTY. IN NOVEMBER 2020, OUR 2007 TOYOTA HYBRID HIGHLANDER BEGAN DEMONSTRATING THE SAME BREAK ACTUATOR FAILURE 'SYMPTOMS' AS IN OCTOBER 2017 (PULSING BREAKS, REDUCED RESPONSE TO INCREASED BREAK PRESSURE, SQUEAKING NOISE WHEN BREAK DEPRESSED WHILE PARKED OR DRIVING). THIS REPAIR/REPLACEMENT IS NO LONGER COVERED UNDER THE WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM, EVEN THOUGH THE 2008- 2010 MODELS OF OUR VEHICLE HAD AN EXTENSION UNTIL 12/31/2020. THE ESTIMATE FOR THIS SECOND REPAIR IN 3 YEARS IS ~$2500-$2800... FOR A WIDELY-KNOWN AND DANGEROUS BREAK ENGINEERING ERROR THAT TOYOTA IS WELL AWARE OF AND HAS BEEN FOR YEARS.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-02
- VIN: JTEDW21A770
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: C1391 ' ABNORMAL LEAK OF ACCUMULATOR PRESSURE WHILE DRIVING
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-22
- VIN: JTEHP21A370
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: ALL MOTOR MOUNTS ARE ROTTED. WHILE DRIVING WHEN TAKE FOOT OFF THE GAS, THE CAR SWAYS AND PULLS. IT HAPPENS AT ALL SPEEDS.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-06
- VIN: JTEEW21A670
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: ABOUT A MONTH AGO, MY WIFE CALLED ME FROM FAR AWAY TELLING ME THAT SHE SUDDENLY HAD BRAKE-RELATED WARMING LIGHTS. I QUICKLY READ UP ON THE ABS SYSTEM FAILURES IN THIS CAR, AND SINCE SHE DID NOT YET HAVE SYMPTOMS, I TOLD HER TO DRIVE BACK CAREFULLY. I THEN REVIEWED MY FILES ON THE CAR AND SAW THAT THEY HAD SENT ME AN EXTENDED WARRANTY NOTICE ABOUT THIS PROBLEM, AND SUGGESTED THAT WE BRING THE CAR IN IF WE HAVE THESE WARNING LIGHTS. BUT WE NEVER HAD THE WARNING LIGHTS PREVIOUSLY, SO I MISSED THE BOAT ON THE EXTENDED WARRANTY. WE DID, HOWEVER, ALMOST FROM THE TIME THE CAR WAS JUST A FEW YEARS OLD, HAVE A LOUD CLUNKING NOISE FROM UNDER THE HOOD ON STARTUP OR SHUTDOWN. ACCORDING TO VARIOUS HIGHLANDER FORUMS, THIS IS A CLASSIC SYMPTOM OF ABS ACTUATOR FAILURE AND IF TOYOTA HAD JUST MENTIONED THIS IN THE THEIR EXTENDED WARRANTY NOTICE, I WOULD HAVE BROUGHT THE CAR IN IMMEDIATELY. I HAD THE SAME SOUND FROM MY 2007 PRIUS; I MENTIONED THE NOISE TO THE TOYOTA SERVICE PEOPLE AND THEY TOLD ME IT WAS THE COOLANT THERMOS BOTTLE AND WAS OF NO CONCERN. TO FIX MY HIGHLANDER, TOYOTA WANTED AROUND THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS; I TOLD THEM THAT WAS NOT REASONABLE SINCE REPLACING IT IS SIMPLE: 2 BOLTS, 1 ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR, 6 BRAKE LINES, AND A BRAKE BLEED. THEY WANTED ABOUT $2000 JUST FOR THE PART. THE TOYOTA SERVICE MANAGER TOLD ME I COULD STILL DRIVE THE CAR SINCE IT IS NOT A SAFETY CONCERN: IF IT FAILS THE ABS SYSTEM WILL STOP WORKING BUT NOT THE BRAKES. BASED ON THE EXPERIENCES OF OTHER HH OWNERS THAT I AM READING ABOUT AT THE NHTSA WEB SITE, HOWEVER, I FIND THIS HARD TO BELIEVE. ALSO, THE BRAKES ARE NOW GRABBING STRANGELY AND PULSATING WHEN THEY DON'T NEED TO BE. THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL SINCE 1.) THE PART SHOULD LAST THE LIFE OF THE CAR, 2. IT IS A SAFETY CONCERN, AND 3. TOYOTA DID NOT GIVE ACCURATE INFORMATION IN THEIR NOTICE TO ALLOW ME TO SPOT THE PROBLEM IN TIME.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-25
- VIN: JTEDW21A370
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE STRAPS SUPPORTING THE FUEL TANK BROKE. BOTH STRAPS BROKE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF VEHICLE, RENDERING IT UNDRIVABLE AS THE TANK WAS ON THE GROUND. WIFE HEARD A CLUNK WHEN AT A STOP, STARTED TO MOVE, HEARD SCRAPING. STOPPED, CHECKED, FOUND RIGHT SIDE OF FUEL TANK ON GROUND.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-04
- VIN: JTEEW21A470
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: 2007 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID WITH 100,000 MILES STALLED AND DIED WHILE DRIVING ON INTERSTATE AT APPROX 65-70MPH, ILLUMINATING MULTIPLE WARNING AND SAFETY LIGHTS ON DASH BEFORE BECOMING INOPERABLE. CAR WAS TOWED TO LOCAL REPAIR SHOP. LOCAL REPAIR SHOP STATES THE HYBRID SYSTEM FAILED.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-26
- VIN: JTEHP22A370
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: WHILE WE WERE DRIVING, GOING AROUND A CORNER THE ANTILOCK SYSTEM DECIDED TO DO IT ITSELF... AND MAKE MY VEHICLE SLIP SIDEWAYS. IT WAS VERY DANGEROUS AS IT TOOK ME FROM SIDE TO SIDE. I HAVE NEVER HAD THIS HAPPEN BEFORE AND I DON'T WANT IT HAPPENING AGAIN. HOW DO WE FIX THIS AS FAST AS POSSIBLE?
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-12
- VIN: JTEDW21A470
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: ABS ACTUATOR FAILED CAUSING ERRATIC VEHICLE BEHAVIOR AND UNCONTROLLABLE BRAKING. ABS ACTUATOR WAS REPLACED BY TOYOTA IN 2017 AS PART OF AN EXTENDED WARRANTY PROGRAM ON A PART THAT THEY REALIZED WAS DEFECTIVE. IN 2019 WE EXPERIENCED THE SAME ISSUES CAUSING A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION ON THE FREEWAY AND AGAIN TOOK TO TOYOTA WERE THEY FOUND THAT THE ABS ACTUATOR FAILED AGAIN. THIS PART IS TYPICALLY ONE THAT DOESN'T FAIL OVER THE LIFETIME OF A VEHICLE. THIS PART IS NOW NEEDING TO BE REPLACED FOR THE THIRD TIME. I PRESUME THAT THE ORIGINAL ABS ACTUATOR WAS REPLACED WITH OLD INVENTORY OF THE SAME DEFECTIVE PART WHICH IS WHY IT QUICKLY FAILED AGAIN. TOYOTA WANTS TO CHARGE $3K TO HAVE REPAIRED. THERE ARE A MULTITUDE OF ONLINE COMPLAINTS AND REVIEWS OF CUSTOMERS EXPERIENCING THE SAME DANGEROUS SITUATION IN THE SAME YEAR MAKE/MODEL VEHICLE. I'VE CONTACTED CORPORATE AND THE BEST THEY ARE WILLING TO DO IS PROVIDE A CREDIT FOR $1K OF THE REPAIR. FOR A PART THAT TYPICALLY NEVER FAILS ON A VEHICLE, NO ONE SHOULD BE EXPECTED TO SPEND $3K EVERY COUPLE YEARS CONTINUALLY REPLACING A KNOWN DEFECTIVE PART THAT IS A CRUCIAL SAFETY CONCERN. TOYOTA ADMITTED THERE WAS A SAFETY ISSUE BY INITIALLY DECLARING AN EXTENDED WARRANTY ON THE PART, NOW THAT THE REPLACEMENTS ARE FAILING IN THE EXACT SAME WAY TOYOTA WANTS TO BRUSH THE ISSUE UNDER THE RUG. THIS IS AN URGENT SAFETY CONCERN.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-03
- VIN: JTEHW21A670
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE STOPPED AT A LIGHT OR DRIVING, OUR 2007 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID (246,000 MILES) WILL STALL, LIGHTING VARIOUS WARNING LIGHTS ON THE DASH. THE VEHICLE WILL (COAST TO A STOP IF BEING DRIVEN AND) HAVE TO BE RESTARTED. TOYOTA DID RECALL D0M TO ADDRESS CODE P0A40 TO ADDRESS THIS ISSUE. THE RECALL ON MY VEHICLE WAS DONE IN 2014. THE CODE WHICH CAME UP THEN IS THE VERY SAME CODE WHICH IS SHOWING NOW WHEN SCANNED. THE RECALL ISSUE NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED AGAIN. THE RECALL PROVIDES A NEW INTELLIGENT POWER MODULE (PART # 04001-29148 TRANSISTOR, PWR MODULE INTELLIGENT. NO2) AND SPECIFIC GREASE (PART # 08887-02409) TO COMPLETE THE PROJECT. I CHECKED AND PARTS ALONE COST THE CONSUMER AROUND $2600 (COLUMBUS OH), NOT COUNTING LABOR COSTS. TOYOTA SAID THEY WILL NOT DO THE RECALL AGAIN BECAUSE THEY HAVE NOT HAD ENOUGH COMPLAINTS TO JUSTIFY ONE AND IT IS NOT A SAFETY ISSUE. I CALLED BACK MULTIPLE TIMES TO VERIFY THIS WAS THEIR STANCE ON THE ISSUE. THE VEHICLE IS NOT TRUSTWORTHY TO MAINTAIN POWER WHILE BEING DRIVEN AND IT WILL STALL MULTIPLE TIMES WHILE STOPPED AT LIGHTS DURING THE DAY. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-02
- VIN: JTEEP21A970
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: STARTS WITHOUT USING A KEY AND CANNOT BE SHUT OFF.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-03
- VIN: JTEGW21A670
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING I GOT ERROR CODES CHECK VSC SYSTEM, BRAKES LIGHT. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THE CAR NEEDED BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY REPLACED, THE COST IS 2900$ . THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL AS THE CAR BECAME UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND THIS IS MY SECOND HYBRID TOYOTA CAR WITH THE SAME PROBLEM WITH HUGE COST OF REPAIR FOR A DEFECTIVE PART INSTALLED BY THE COMPANY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-28
- VIN: JTEEW21A470
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: WARNING LIGHT - POSSIBLE INVERTER MALFUNCTION. JUST APPEARED FOR THE FIRST TIME.
2007 Toyota Highlander hybrid recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2007 Toyota Highlander hybrid.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM: INVERTER
- Summary: Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid vehicles manufactured February 16, 2005, through July 29, 2010; and model year 2006-2008 Lexus RX400h vehicles manufactured February 23, 2005, through December 2, 2008. The Intelligent Power Module (IPM) inside the inverter module may contain transistors that have higher operating temperatures than the solder can support and the transistors may be heat damaged by the solder. If this occurs, various warning lamps, including the malfunction indicator lamp, slip indicator light, brake system warning light, and master warning light, will be illuminated on the instrument panel.
- Consequence: The vehicle may enter a fail-safe/limp-home mode that limits the drivability of the vehicle. It is possible that the hybrid system will shut down while the vehicle is being driven, causing the vehicle to stall unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the IPM free of charge. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331. Vehicles that had their IPM replaced under recall 11V-342 are not affected by this campaign.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2007 HIGHLANDER HYBRID AND LEXUS RX400H PASSENGER CARS MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 16, 2005, THROUGH AUGUST 30, 2006. A MODULE INSIDE THE INVERTER MODULE MAY CONTAIN INADEQUATELY SOLDERED TRANSISTORS THAT DURING HIGH-LOAD DRIVING, MAY BE DAMAGED BY HEAT CAUSED BY THE LARGE CURRENT. IF THIS OCCURS, VARIOUS WARNING LAMPS, INCLUDING THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP, SLIP INDICATOR LIGHT, BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING LIGHT, AND MASTER WARNING LIGHT, WILL BE ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL.
- Consequence: THE VEHICLE MAY ENTER A FAIL-SAFE/LIMP-HOME MODE THAT LIMITS THE DRIVABILITY OF THE VEHICLE. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE HYBRID SYSTEM WILL SHUT DOWN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO STALL UNEXPECTEDLY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: TOYOTA/LEXUS MAILED AN INTERIM OWNER NOTIFICATION ON JULY 19, 2011 TO ADVISE OWNERS OF THIS RECALL AND THE FACT THAT THEY WILL RECEIVE A FUTURE NOTICE WHEN PARTS BECOME AVAILABLE TO COMPLETE REPAIRS. TOYOTA DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE HYBRID INVERTER PRODUCTION NUMBER TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE INVERTER CONTAINS SUSPECT TRANSISTORS AND REPLACE THE MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Negative 2007 Toyota Highlander hybrid car reviews
Positive 2007 Toyota Highlander hybrid car reviews
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I bought this car brand new in 2006 and have driven it for over 168,000 miles. It has been the most reliable and comfortable car I have ever owned, even after driving well over 1 million miles. I have never needed any repairs, just routine maintenance such as oil changes every 10K miles with synthetic oil. I also replaced the coolant, timing belt, and spark plugs at 90K. The car is still on its original brakes and I am on my 3rd set of tires. This car has great acceleration, good mileage (averaging 25.5 MPG, even though I tend to drive fast), and plenty of room for passengers or gear. The AWD with stability control is great for low traction or slippery roads, although I don't off-road. I have the Limited version with navigation and the nav system is still good, but I had to buy a new disc on eBay to get updated roads. The car structure is still solid with no rattles. I haven't seen any new vehicles that compare with this one yet - the new Highlander is too big, and small SUVs are overstyled and lack room inside. I hope to keep this car for a few more years.
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I'm getting 25 MPG which is great, and I'm really enjoying driving it. The car has good power and is very quiet. Unfortunately, I've had a bit of trouble with one of the rear seats being locked in the up position, which is preventing me from having a flat cargo area. However, I'm confident that the dealer will be able to fix it for me. Thanks for listening!
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We have owned our Highlander Hybrid for four years, and it has been generally trouble-free. The hybrid batteries significantly improve gasoline mileage for trips under 45 mph, which covers much of my wife's daily routine. The added horsepower of the hybrid also makes driving it more fun. The interior is spacious and comfortable. Ours is AWD, and it performs well in snow and great on slippery roads. We recently did the timing belt/water pump at 97k, along with a new radiator. We are looking forward to many more years of great, reliable transportation!
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According to Edmunds, this may not be the ideal vehicle for heavy towing or rough terrain. However, if you live in an area with heavy snowfall and will be driving on normal roads, paved or not, this vehicle is a great choice. I live at 9000ft in the mountains of Colorado and have found it to perform extremely well in all conditions, including steep snowy driveways. The AWD works great and the B gear is a fantastic feature that allows me to slow down without braking, regardless of my speed. This is especially helpful in slippery conditions, and I am able to use the brakes very lightly, if at all, which is great for highway driving. Overall, we love this car.
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We bought this car primarily for its high gas mileage and fuel conservation, but unfortunately, it has been a bit of a disappointment in that regard, averaging only around 22mpg in mostly city driving. However, the car's performance is incredible, which explains the lower gas mileage. Additionally, we were hit with the AMT this year (2006), which caused us to lose the entire hybrid tax credit (although this was not Toyota's fault), leaving us with a bad taste in our mouths. Overall, we still think it's a very well-built car that's fun to drive, even if it's not the most fuel-efficient.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2007 Toyota Highlander hybrid problems:
Should I avoid old Hybrids? Looking at the 2006/2007 Highlander ...
Feb 2, 2023 ... If you can't afford a brand new or certified used hybrid ... 07 Highlander battery with a refurbished one before any problems. ... having any issues ...
2007 Highlander Hybrid Ltd. | Toyota Nation Forum
Aug 19, 2021 ... The 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has 164 problems & defects reported by Highlander Hybrid owners. The worst complaints are brakes problems.
(New to me) 2007 Toyota Highlander V6 AWD! Anything to know ...
Aug 16, 2021 ... Timing belt done (most common issue) at 100k and again at 200k. Other than these issues it has been a very reliable vehicle for the past 5 years.
2007 Toyota Highlander Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Jul 13, 2022 ... The most common problems found with the 2007 Highlander include steering issues, water leaking into the cabin, and problems with the seat ...
Common 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Problems - Q&A
Nov 3, 2009 ... There are a couple of possibilities here. The most common thing is an obstruction in a vent hose at the vapor canister by the fuel tank.
Other years of Toyota Highlander hybrid
Are you having problems with your 2007 Toyota Highlander hybrid?
Kayley Thiel 2024-11-23
This is an overall good car with Toyota's quality. The only issue is that the battery in the gas engine dies if a door is left slightly ajar or a light is left on. Once the battery is dead, the car will not start, despite being full of batteries! However, we bought a portable jump start kit and it works great. The price is a bit high, but the mileage is good. When gasoline prices spiked, I felt smart, but the added cost is hard to justify. Nevertheless, it is an improvement for the environment over a regular SUV. I would definitely recommend this car.
Khalid Kuvalis 2024-10-10
The car's battery is clearly inadequate. It consistently dies after just 5 days of being left unused, even in well-lit airport parking lots. On one occasion, it even died in an underground parking lot, leaving me stranded when I tried to start the engine. This is unacceptable and has caused me significant inconvenience, such as being stranded in the pouring rain at a track meet. As a result, I am hesitant to drive this car and always have to park with the front facing out on trips. It is imperative that this issue is addressed to ensure reliable transportation.
Reinhold Cartwright 2024-07-14
Toyota should retrofit the 2007 with a backup camera at a reasonable cost. Additionally, the noise that the vehicle makes when the rear windows are opened needs to be addressed as it is extremely hard on the ears.
Gardner Hane 2024-06-07
Congratulations on finishing up your first year with your car! It's great to hear that you've had a good experience with the gas engine, which works well and provides good power, handling freeway speeds with ease. The fit and finish are also impressive, with no problems or defects in the first year. While the gas mileage may not have met your expectations or the EPA estimates, it's good to know that the SUV provides good comfort for passengers and drivers alike. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
Kirk Heaney 2024-04-06
The vehicle has an MSRP of $41K, but unfortunately, it has poor MPG and some defective options, such as the non-functional heated seats. Toyota has been unable or unwilling to fix them, which is disappointing. The resale value may also be affected due to these issues, despite the fact that the vehicle is still under warranty. On the bright side, the vehicle has a good takeoff and ride. However, it would be great to have more options such as Bluetooth and steering wheel controls. Additionally, two of the alloy rims have slow leaks, which is a common issue with other cars as well. Overall, while this experience may make you hesitant to buy a Toyota again, we appreciate your feedback and hope to improve our products in the future.