2009 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 2009 Toyota Highlander hybrid problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, several common problems have been identified:
- Check Engine Light Due to Hose Off of Air Filter Housing:
Another common problem reported by owners is the check engine light coming on due to a hose being off of the air filter housing. This issue can affect the performance of the vehicle and trigger warning lights on the dashboard. It is recommended to have this issue diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic to ensure optimal engine performance.
- ABS Problems:
Some owners have experienced ABS problems with the 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. ABS issues can impact the vehicle's braking system, affecting safety and overall driving performance. Addressing ABS problems promptly is essential to maintain the vehicle's safety features and ensure proper braking functionality.
These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues that arise with the 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. By addressing these issues proactively, owners can ensure the longevity and performance of their vehicles.
What is the life expectancy of a 2009 Toyota Highlander hybrid?
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.
What problems does the 2009 Highlander Hybrid have?
The most common problems found on the 2009 Toyota Highlander include excessive oil consumption, tailgate latch issues, and broken door lock actuators. Overall, compared to other midsize SUVs from 2009, these problems are relatively minor.
Does Highlander Hybrid have problems?
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.
Is a 2009 Toyota Highlander a reliable vehicle?
This car is very dependable. It handles great in the snow and any weather. Lots of space for people and/or cargo.
Is a 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid a good car?
Edmunds says
The 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is an ideal choice for shoppers wanting a vehicle that offers high fuel economy and seven-passenger practicality.
Are there any problems with the 2009 Toyota Highlander?
The most common problems found on the 2009 Toyota Highlander include excessive oil consumption, tailgate latch issues, and broken door lock actuators. Overall, compared to other midsize SUVs from 2009, these problems are relatively minor.
What is the life expectancy of a 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid?
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.
Does Highlander Hybrid have problems?
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.
2009 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
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2009 Toyota Highlander hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2009 Toyota Highlander hybrid
The NHTSA has received 172 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Toyota Highlander hybrid. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2009 Toyota Highlander hybrid vehicles.
AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-10
- 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.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-27
- VIN: JTEEW44A492
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: the ABS pump and actuator on this vehicle have failed. The warning lights on dash indicate ABS, BRAKE, TRACTION CONTROL, and (!). Toyota knows that the actuator on over one hundred thousand vehicles has an internal leakage (which can not be seen on visual inspection). I have requested Toyota to repair and replace this manufacturing malady and Toyota has declined any assistance.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-09
- VIN: JTEEW44A192
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 245/55R19 is the tire size. I went to have my tires balanced and aligned on [XXX] at a local shop, Arrow. Alignment here in Eau Claire, WI. They advised me that the ply in all 4 tires was separating and that is why the ride was so rough. Presently I’m scheduled to have them all replaced to the tune of $1,034 and change this Friday, [XXX] at arrow alignment because although the tread - confirmed at a dealership to still be good - the tires themselves seem to have some sort of defect in them causing them all to have the ply separating. I’ll have them check the spare this Friday as well to ensure that is not also experiencing ply separation and if it is have that replaced as well. Fortunately this didn’t cause a horrid accident, but I’ve been driving on these at high speeds assuming I just had to get them aligned and balanced. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTEEW44A692
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Brakes failed at a low rate of speed despite pumping them and pushing the petal all the way to the floor. Several witnesses in the car support this narrative. Vehicle ended up slowly rolling into the car in front of us. Minimal damage to both. Took it in to the dealership and they said the brakes appear fine.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-01
- VIN: JTEDS41AX92
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that the power window master switch inoperable. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V689000 (Visibility). There were no warnings lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to dealer. The dealer stated that the power window master switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 127,000.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-13
- VIN: JTEEW44A292
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid; mileage 97,849. While driving a red BRAKE alert showed up along with an ABS light, traction symbol and an encircled exclamation mark. This malfunction (which I now see is a known safety issue) shut down my regular braking system and I had to use the emergency brake to stop. A message appeared telling me to pull over to a safe spot and contact my dealer. A shrill high pitched sound also went off. How can a faulty designed ABS module that blocks the braking system from working when it fails not be under a safety recall - just an expired Safety Bulletin? I was fortunate to think to use my emergency brake to stop to avoid an accident and injury to myself and/or others. Vehicle was towed to Gates Toyota, South Bend, IN. if you wish to contact them regarding codes & costly repair bill expenses. I have a call in to the Toyota Headquarters Resolution Team and am waiting for them to contact me back on my case.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-02
- VIN: JTEEW44A092
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Similar to what many other complainants have stated, the ABS has apparently failed. There are clunking noises and warning messages to pull over and not drive the vehicle. This is a known issue on these vehicles and Toyota did a very short recall that expired in 2020. The recall required that your vehicle was experiencing the problem at that moment, so everyone who has this issue after 2020 gets a $3k repair bill or an unsafe vehicle.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-22
- VIN: JTEEW44A992
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Going down a hill with my family the suv was traveling at a speed of 65mph when suddenly another vehicle jump into my lane so i tried to brake with a fast push on the brake pedal but not too hard so i would stop the suv completely for the cars that were traveling behind so the suv made a weird noise and the lights on dash from the abs,service brake and other warning lights went on and the most scary thing is that from that moment the suv didnt respond safely to the road it was really hard for me to control it and there times that it didnt braked safely when it required to do so..i havent take the truck to a dealer but am about to do so i have the appointment for 05/06/2023 btw my suv is a 2009 toyota highlander hybrid and the suv hasnt being driven by anybody since then so i hope the authorities take matter on this situations thanks
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-28
- VIN: JTEEW44A492
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The brake warning light has come on, including the abs, anti skid , and the triangle warning light. The OBD 2 scanner is indicating code C1253. This indicates brake actuator, & or brake booster. This a known problem for Toyota hybrid highlanders from 2008 to 2011. Toyota knows there is a problem, has a posted a customer service bulletin (CZN), but expired 2020. (This doesn't mean the part still can't fail.)The local dealer, and the Toyota home office refuses to step in with any help. If this was a known problem by Toyota, why isn't there a recall? If I'm driving the car and have an accident, from this part failure, is Toyota liable, since this is a known problem? Would appreciate any help, or you could direct me to who could help. Thanks, [XXX]. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-01
- VIN: Jtees43a892
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: When starting it would make grinding noise,sounds like metallic noise until the engine oil starts circulating.Dealer said that its normal due to cold starts but this can happen even when the engine is up to temperature.Toyota refuse to remedy the issue.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-01
- VIN: JTEEW44A192
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: 2008-2010 Toyota Highlander vehicles are at risk for a brake malfunction caused by the ABS system. Toyota issued a TSB in May 2019 but that was only covered IF you had the issue during that specific time period of the issued TSB. The ABS issue seems to be malfunction around 135000-150000 miles and cause a brake failure or lockup. Since the TSB was issued, it voids 3rd party warranty coverage and Toyota will not assist with cost at almost $3000 even though they are aware of the issue.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-17
- VIN: JTEEW44A692
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: While driving I heard a clunking noise and warning lights for ABS, slip indicator, brake warning system instructing me to pull over and service vehicle as it was unsafe to drive I took the vehicle to local dealership and they found that the ABS Actuator and Brake pump had failed and needed to be replaced. While researching the issue I found that the manufacturer had issued an extended warranty service bulletin but did not issue a recall. I have included the service bulletin below.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-25
- VIN: JTEEW44A492
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Why is there no recall for all these hybrid Highlanders with Brake Actuator failures? My 2009 Highlander has just over 70,000 miles. I was driving and this warning showed up on the screen: “BRAKE (in red) Brake Malfunction” and underneath “Stop the vehicle in a safe place immediately, and contact a dealer.” “ABS Check ABS” and “Check Brake System” both of which say “Have your vehicle checked by a Dealer“. The dashboard also shows warning lights -warning light in yellow with an !), BRAKE in red, and ABS (!), and the anti-skid brake symbol is on - yellow with a car symbol and skid marks. I took it to the dealer in Tucson (Desert Toyota - where I purchased it in 2018) and they diagnosed it: "DTC C1391 FOUND BRAKE ACTUATOR TO LEAK INTERNALLY. RECOMMEND REPLACEMENT OF BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY AND BOOSTER PUMP (BOOSTER PUMP DUE TO POSSIBLE WEAKENED BY RUNNING MORE SINCE ACUTATOR IS LEAKING INTERNALLY)" The cost for repairing this is $2,945.96. I now see that this is far from unique - and it is a serious safety issue. Why is this not a recall? I see that there have been earlier service programs to deal with this in earlier models and then a couple of years ago, Toyota acknowledged it in later hybrid Highlanders like 2008 and 2009 and periodically addressed it, but this should be a recall issue that has affected thousands of vehicles and persists. Toyota needs to deal with this now. Look at https://www.toyotanation.com/threads/customer-support-program-notification-zkc.1658588/page-2 - Customer Support Program Notification - ZKC and you will see just how common this serious safety problem is.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-04
- VIN: Jteew44ax92
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Braking system warning lights came on. Prior to that the vehicle was making several clunking noises from the front and rear mostly when braking. The stopping distance while braking has been reduced to nearly double the distance while much more force is needed to be applied to the brake pedal to get the vehicle to come to a stop.
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-26
- VIN: jteew41a292
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: on 26/Jan/2022 i driving on highway suddendly the front wheel passanger side lock, luckily i quickly get off drive land to emergency land. The Brake Malfuntion light come up, i so scare, do not what happen. But i should do complaint about brake system on this vehicle. Thanks. Vu Dam.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-07
- VIN: JTEEW44A292
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Brake Actuator and Pump Assembly. If I drive the car Toyota has told me it could be catastrophic when the brakes stop while I’m driving. Yes, Toyota inspected and gave the quote to me. This vehicle had 446,000 others fixed (2008-2010) under a “warranty” instead of a “recall”! The car has not stopped yet working, it’s parked because I don’t want to die or kill anyone. I can still drive it maybe 20 mph without using any brakes. The closest store to buy food is 16 miles one way! Yes I have on the middle console screen: “BRAKE (in red) Brake Malfunction” which then says underneath that “Stop the vehicle in a safe place immediately, and contact a dealer.” “ABS Check ABS” and “Check Brake System” both of which say “Have your vehicle checked by a Dealer“. And on the dashboard it shows Lights (warning light in yellow with a !,) BRAKE in red, ABS (!), there’s actually a circle around the ! between the two ( ). Than the anti-brake symbol is on which is yellow with a car symbol and skidmarks behind it. I have attached the photo of the inspection bill and the text from the Toyota rep of how much it’s going to cost to repair. I did speak with the service manager, Steve, who told me that the NTSB is who decides if there should be a recall on this type of thing or not. I feel like if there were 446,000 cars fixed this is a huge issue! Mine should be included! I cannot drive the car so therefore I am stranded!
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-30
- VIN: JTEES42AX92
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine oil filler cap had interior motor part , melt through while driving , almost hurling all the way through , 2 inch cylindrical part viewed when opening hood to inspect damage . Braking , trac and vsc engaged and motor failed almost dieing , abs allowed brake pedal to go to floor with vehicle just stopping enough to move from traffic . No injuries and No collisions happened due to violent engine combusting or braking disabled , incident happened at 10 mph entering a parking lot .
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-15
- VIN: JTEEW41A192
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I HAVE OWNED MY 2009 HIGHLANDER HYBRID SINCE I PURCHASED NEW FROM DEALER IN JULY 2009. IN MID DECEMBER 2020 I NOTICED ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS THAT WITH MY FOOT FIRMLY ON THE BRAKE PEDAL THE VEHICLE WOULD STILL BE MOVING A FEW FEET BEFORE STOPPING. NO WARNING LIGHTS SO I FIGURED NO BIG PROBLEM. IN JANUARY 2021 A WARNING LIGHT FLASHED ON FOR MAYBE 5 SECONDS REGARDING BRAKE PROBLEM. ON FEBRUARY 2ND I BROUGHT IT TO MY LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER TO ASSESS. THEY SCANNED IT AND DIDN'T RECEIVE ANY DTC CODES. I WAS ADVISED THAT MY FRONT BRAKE PADS WERE AT 4MM AND SHOULD BE REPLACED SOON. I DID THAT. VEHICLE DROVE WITHOUT INCIDENT UNTIL JUNE 20TH WHEN SEVERAL WARNING LIGHTS LIT UP. ABS, TIRE PRESSURE, BRAKES AND TRACTION. THE WARNING LIGHTS STAYED ON SO I BROUGHT MY HIGHLANDER BACK TO MY LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER. THIS TIME I WAS TOLD THAT DTC C1391 CAME UP. ABNORMAL LEAK IN ACCUMULATOR, REPLACE BRAKE ACTUATOR AND PUMP ASSEMBLY. THAT WOULD COME OUT TO $2901.24. TOYOTA HAD ISSUED A CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM BULLETIN REGARDING THE BRAKE ACTUATOR AND BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP ASSEMBLY. BUT FOR SOME UNKNOWN REASON, GIVEN THE DANGEROUS CONDITION A FAILURE WOULD PRESENT, THAT 100% COVERAGE OF REPLACEMENT EXPIRED ON DECEMBER 31, 2020. TOYOTA IS NOT MAKING ANY EXCEPTIONS ON THIS MATTER. IT APPEARS THAT TOYOTA IS PUTTING THEIR REPUTATION AS WELL AS DOLLARS AND CENTS AHEAD OF THEIR CUSTOMERS.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-12
- VIN: JTEEW44A492
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: SEVERAL WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED, TIRE PRESSURE, BRAKES, ABS, TRACTION, THEY ALL STAYED ON FOR A FEW MINUTES AND THEN WENT OFF. THE CAR SEEMED TO BE DRIVING NORMALLY. THIS HAPPENED A COUPLE TIMES, IT WAS NOT ALARMING, THE FIRST TIME THE LIGHT ILLUMINATED WAS APPROXIMATELY NOVEMBER 12TH, THE LIGHTS STAYED OFF FOR WEEKS AND IT HAPPENED AGAIN AROUND DECEMBER 11TH, THE THIRD TIME, JAN 14TH, I GOT THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP. IT TURNED OUT TO BE THAT THE BRAKE ACTUATOR WAS LEAKING AND THE WHOLE BRAKE SYSTEM COULD FAIL. IT SEEMS HAZARDOUS AND EXTREMELY DANGEROUS THAT THE LIGHTS DID NOT STAY ILLUMINATED TO REFLECT THE SEVERITY OF THE SITUATION AND NOT A LOOSE FUSE OR TIRE PRESSURE ISSUE. I ASSUMED THAT SINCE THE LIGHTS WENT OFF, THERE WAS NO ISSUE WITH THE VEHICLE. IT IS A VERY COSTLY PART AND REPAIR AND TOYOTA IS AWARE THAT THE PART HAS BEEN PROBLEMATIC. THEY HAVE NOT NOTIFIED CUSTOMERS OF THE ISSUE SO TO LOOK OUT FOR THIS DANGEROUS ISSUE. THEY HAD EXTENDED THE WARRANTY ON THE PART YET GAVE NO NOTICE THAT THE PART WAS PROBLEMATIC AND TO BE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND TAKE IT IN AT ONCE IF THE LIGHT EVER COMES ON. IT IS A SERIOUS ISSUE AND IT SEEMS THAT MORE SHOULD BE DONE ON TOYOTA'S PART TO ENSURE DRIVERS SAFETY. TO TOP IT ALL OFF THE WARRANTY EXPIRED DECEMBER 31ST, 2020. I GOT THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP JAN 14TH 2021. TOYOTA IS MAKING NO EXCEPTIONS TO DELAYS WARRANTY COVERAGE CAUSED BY THE PANDEMIC. IT SEEMS LIKE THEY ARE PUTTING MONEY AHEAD OF SAFETY ON MORE THAN ONE LEVEL AND AHEAD OF CUSTOMERS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-03
- VIN: JTEEW44A692
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 3 TIMES OVER THE LAST MONTH, WHILE I WAS DRIVING MY VEHICLE, THE CAR SUDDENLY LOST POWER WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. ALL THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS FLASHED ON, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE LOST POWER, THE ACCELERATOR WAS NOT WORKING, AND I WAS JUST BARELY ABLE TO PULL THE CAR OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. CAR TURNED OFF AND WAS ABLE TO TURN BACK ON, NOW WITH ILLUMINATED CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THIS IS A BIG SAFETY ISSUE AS THE CAR IS LOSING POWER IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD WHILE MY FOOT IS ON THE ACCELERATOR. THE FIRST TIME THIS HAPPENED I WAS ABLE TO PULL A COUPLE CODES FROM THE CODE READER. CODES WERE: U0001 & U0100 THE SECOND AND 3RD TIME THIS HAPPENED THERE WERE NO CODES COMING UP ON THE CODE READER.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-01
- VIN: JTEDA41A292
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: BRIEF ENGINE KNOCK/RATTLE NOISE AT COLD STARTUP (1AR2AR) VDS(S):DA41A,ZA3EH WM(S)5TD
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-15
- VIN: JTEES43A592
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: OIL COOLER CONNECTED TO ENGINE BLOCK WITH A RUBBER HOSE. HOSE FAILED WITH OIL LEAK WHICH CAUSED LOSS OF ENGINE OIL. CAR TOWED AND REPAIRED BEFORE ENGINE SEIZED. IT APPEARS RUBBER HOSE WAS NOT PROTECTED FROM HEAT OF CATALYTIC CONVERTER AND RUBBER DEGRADED. VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION ON INTERSTATE HIGHWAY WHEN FIRST NOTICED LOSS OF OIL PRESSURE. ADDED OIL BUT OIL LOSS CONTINUED. WHEN WARNING LIGHT WENT ON SECOND TIME STOPPED VEHICLE AND TOWED TO SERVICE. EVENT OCCURRED ON MAY 15, 2020.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-19
- VIN: JTEES41A392
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE REVERSING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY, THE STEERING CEASED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ADDED EFFORT WAS NEEDED TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF A POWER STEERING FLUID LEAK. TOYOTA OF ASHLAND (3503 WINCHESTER AVE, ASHLAND, KY 41101 606-744-2727) WAS CONTACTED AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH AN ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE WIRING HARNESS AND STEERING MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 127,000. *BF*TP
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- VIN: JTEEW44A092
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: FAULTY BRAKE ACTUATOR. THIS IS CAUSING THE VEHICLE CALIBERS TO ENGAGE WITHOUT TOUCHING THE BRAKE PEDAL..THE BRAKE STAYS STUCK CAUSING ONE OF THE FOUR TIRES TO DRAG.THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS MALFUNCTION AND COULD CAUSE DEATH OR BODILY INJURY.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-03
- VIN: JTEEW44A792
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: ABS, TRACTION CONTROL, BRAKE MALFUNCTION LIGHT ON IN DASH DUE TO THE ABS BRAKE PUMP AND ACTUATOR NOT HAVING ENOUGH POWER AND A ABNORMAL LEAK. THE LIGHTS STAY ON FOR A DAY OR 2 AND GO OFF FOR ABOUT THE SAME TIME FIRST TIME LIGHTS CAME ON I HIT POUNDING WATER ON INTERSTATE ON MY WAY HOME FROM WORK AT AROUND 7PM AN LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. LUCKILY I DIDNT HIT ANYTHING. THE TRACTION CONTROL, ABS IS NOT WORKING. I HAVE SEEN WHERE THE 2008 MODELS HAVE BEEN RECALLED FOR THE SAME ISSUE.
2009 Toyota Highlander hybrid recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2009 Toyota Highlander hybrid.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
- Summary: Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 Tundra, Sequoia, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and Scion xB, 2008-2011 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2007 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2006-2011 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, and 2009-2010 Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. During the manufacturing of the Power Window Master Switch (PWMS), grease lubricant may have been inconsistently applied to the sliding electrical contacts.
- Consequence: If the sliding electrical contacts are not protected by lubricant, debris and moisture that get into the switch may cause a short circuit and the switch assembly may overheat and melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the switch, applying a lubricant if no abnormality is found. If abnormality is found, the PWMS circuit board will be replaced, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 20, 2015. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is C0M.
- 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: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.
- Consequence: If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.
- Remedy: Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING 27,080 MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2010 PASSENGER CARS BUILT FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 TO MAY 4, 2009. THESE VEHICLES WERE NOT EQUIPPED WITH LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS."
- Consequence: INCORRECT LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS COULD RESULT IN THE VEHICLE BEING OVERLOADED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE THEM WITH A NEW, ACCURATE LABEL TO BE INSTALLED OVER THE INACCURATE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 18, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-888-270-9371.
Negative 2009 Toyota Highlander hybrid car reviews
Positive 2009 Toyota Highlander hybrid car reviews
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We purchased our Toyota Highlander Hybrid back in December 2007 and have driven it for nearly 9,000 miles. It has been a reliable companion during our trips to Colorado in the winter and Arizona in the summer, handling both extreme cold and heat with ease. We've been getting an average of 26-27 MPG with little effort, although we do drive a bit slower due to the high gas prices. The interior features are a bit more than what we were looking for, but we wanted leather seating. The only minor issues we've encountered are a small, hard-to-detect rattle in the dash and the backup camera being difficult to see in bright sunlight. We're confident that Toyota will be able to address these issues, and we plan on keeping the car until a plug-in accessory becomes available.
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I've had this car for 6 months now and I'm really enjoying it! In mixed driving, I'm averaging 27 mpg which is great. The car looks and drives beautifully, and the 2nd row seats are very roomy and well-designed. Surprisingly, I've found myself using the 3rd row on several occasions and it has saved the day! Overall, I love everything about this car except for one small issue. Unfortunately, the XM radio receiver I had installed at my dealership has a little surprise. The radio display only shows 13 characters, which can be frustrating when the name of the band or song is longer. Despite this, I'm still really happy with my purchase!
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This is a great room, especially for someone who needs a bit more space. The seats are really comfortable and the car has all the latest features, although some might find it a bit overwhelming. I understand that the quiet start and the sound of the hybrid technology can be a bit confusing at first, but I'm sure you'll get used to it soon.
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I recently purchased the 2008 Highlander Hybrid and although I haven't had it for long, I can already say that it's a very comfortable and quiet car. While I haven't had the chance to test its handling on more challenging roads, it seems to handle well. Compared to the 2007 model, it's noticeably larger both inside and out. However, the biggest issue I've encountered so far is the poor rear visibility due to the darkly tinted rear window. Thankfully, the rear camera is a great help in this situation. Additionally, the limited color choices are not very appealing. Despite these minor drawbacks, I was able to purchase the car for a few hundred dollars under list price.
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I owned an Audi A6 before this and I must say, I absolutely love this car! Although the Audi had a sportier look, it was plagued with constant mechanical problems and had a tendency to break down easily. On the other hand, this car is much more rugged and reliable. It can handle bumpy roads and kids with ease. The keyless remote is a lifesaver, especially when my keys are buried deep in my purse. The backup camera screen is huge, the mirror is extra wide, and the seat is super adjustable, making it easy for me to be comfortable and have great visibility. My sister has a similarly sized Acura that only gets 10mpg, which is far below its advertised mpg, and the dealer has not been able to fix it. I absolutely love my car!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2009 Toyota Highlander hybrid problems:
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Other years of Toyota Highlander hybrid
Are you having problems with your 2009 Toyota Highlander hybrid?
Casey Mosciski 2024-06-21
I'm not a big fan of this vehicle. While some people may think that Toyotas are the greatest thing, I personally find it hard to overlook its shortcomings. The car's design is not very appealing, especially the interior which is made of cheap plasticky materials. The navigation system is also quite complicated and illogical, requiring a PhD to operate. Additionally, many of the interior items have broken over time. Despite these issues, the car drives okay and the mileage is average. However, there are many other options available that are far superior to this one. Overall, I would recommend exploring other options before settling on this car.
Payton Swaniawski 2024-03-17
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2009 highlander Ltd Hybrid. While I was initially excited about the sticker-stated 27 city and 25 highway MPG, I've noticed that the electric motors or the computer controlling their timing may be causing some issues. According to Toyota specifications, the three electric motors should come on line in higher torque needs, such as when starting from a light or going up grades, to minimize the use of the gas engine. Unfortunately, my car doesn't seem to do that. Instead, the gas engine runs in almost all situations because only the front electric motors operate. As a result, the car behaves more like a standard gas vehicle than a hybrid. Have you experienced anything similar?