2020 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 2020 Toyota Highlander hybrid problems
The 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has been known to have a few issues, primarily related to brakes, airbags, and electrical systems.
- Airbag Failure: There have been issues with airbags not deploying correctly due to seat trim covers that could block deployment. This issue affected over 3,000 2020 Highlanders, and a recall was issued in October 2020 to replace the seat covers with ones that fit better and allow the seat-mounted airbags to deploy properly.
- Electrical Bugs: While the 2020 Highlander hasn't been plagued by electrical issues, there have been a few complaints and a recall for a serious issue with the Engine Control Unit (ECU). This recall, issued in early 2020, affected nearly 40,000 units and was due to a programming error that could cause fuel not to reach the engine while the stop/restart feature is engaged. The fix for this issue is a simple reprogramming of the ECU, with no parts needing to be replaced or repaired.
- Structural Issues: There have been reports of exploding sunroofs and hanging bumpers in the 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. These issues are less common but can still affect the overall safety and reliability of the vehicle.
- Rollover Rating: The 2020 Highlander earned a four-star rollover rating from the NHTSA, which is rare for an SUV. This rating indicates that the vehicle has a lower risk of rolling over during a crash, making it a safer choice for families and those who frequently transport passengers.
In summary, the 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has had a few issues primarily related to brakes, airbags, and electrical systems. However, it is still considered one of the safest and most reliable used SUVs on the market today, earning five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and a Top Safety Pick with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Are there any problems with the 2020 Toyota Highlander?
There are two recalls on the 2020 Toyota Highlander, which is better than some other SUVs. The most serious recall is for the ECU software, which Toyota will update for free. There's also a recall that only affects 3,121 models for incorrect seat trim.
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.
How many miles will a Toyota Highlander hybrid last?
The Highlander model has been found to be one of the best cars on the road when it comes to longevity. If all goes well, the potential lifespan of the Highlander can reach upwards of 250,00 miles!
Can you drive a Highlander Hybrid with a dead battery?
If the high-voltage battery completely dies, however, the car won't be able to be driven at all, in most cases.
Are there any problems with the 2020 Toyota Highlander?
There are two recalls on the 2020 Toyota Highlander, which is better than some other SUVs. The most serious recall is for the ECU software, which Toyota will update for free. There's also a recall that only affects 3,121 models for incorrect seat trim.
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.
How many miles will a Toyota Highlander hybrid last?
The Highlander model has been found to be one of the best cars on the road when it comes to longevity. If all goes well, the potential lifespan of the Highlander can reach upwards of 250,00 miles!
How long should a 2020 Toyota Highlander last?
On average, a Highlander will last 250,000-300,000 miles, offering an extensive ownership opportunity for investors. For many people, the car will last a decade or more with routine care. If you're careful with your reliable machine, it will pay you back for a long time to come.
2020 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
- Hydraulic problems
- Visibility problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2020 Toyota Highlander hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2020 Toyota Highlander hybrid complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Toyota Highlander hybrid.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-16
- VIN: 5TDGBRCH9LS
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the brake pedal would depress to the floorboard and the vehicle would fail to stop. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the mechanic repaired the brake calibrations and brake alignment. Despite the repair, the contact stated that the failure returned. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-27
- VIN: 5TDHBRCH9LS
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact stated that the climate control system failed to defrost the windows during rainy or cold weather conditions. As a result, the contact was unable to defrost the windows, making it difficult to see the roadway. The contact was concerned for his safety while operating the vehicle. An undisclosed dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 19,000.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-26
- VIN: 5TDEBRCH5LS
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID EQUIPPED WITH GOODYEAR TIRES, TIRE LINE: EAGLE, TIRE SIZE: 235/55/R20, DOT NUMBER: M68AJM1R0720. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE TREAD ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR SEPARATED, CAUSING THE TIRE TO EXPLODE. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND REPLACED THE TIRE WITH THE SPARE TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO VANCOUVER TOYOTA (10455 NE 53RD ST, VANCOUVER, WA 98662, (360)944-3001) WHERE THE TIRE WAS REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE HOWEVER, THERE WAS NO ASSISTANCE PROVIDED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 9,000.
2020 Toyota Highlander hybrid recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2020 Toyota Highlander hybrid.
- 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.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC):CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Toyota Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022 Lexus LX 600, Lexus NX 350h, Lexus NX 450h+, Toytoa RAV4 Hybrid, 2021-2022 Lexus LS 500h, Toyota Mirai, RAV4 PRIME, Sienna, Venza, and 2020-2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The Skid Control ECU software may not turn on the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system when the vehicle is restarted after the driver has disabled the VSC system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
- Consequence: Driving with a deactivated stability control system increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the Skid Control ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 27, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 22TA03. Lexus' number for this recall is 22LA01.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020 Highlander and Highlander hybrid vehicles. Incorrect seat trim covers on one or both of the front seats can prevent the seat-mounted side air bag from deploying properly.
- Consequence: Improper deployment of the seat-mounted side air bag increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front seats and replace the seat trim covers as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB14 / 20TA14.
Negative 2020 Toyota Highlander hybrid car reviews
Positive 2020 Toyota Highlander hybrid car reviews
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As someone who was considering a lease-to-buy option for a 2020 Highlander Hybrid, I was disappointed to find that it did not meet all of my needs. While there were some improvements from the 2016 model, such as increased cargo space and a more linear rear design, there were also some features that were removed, such as the rear window pop-up option, which I found very convenient. Additionally, I found the overall handling and interior quality to be lacking compared to the 2016 model. Unfortunately, the 2020 model also did not come in the jade metallic color that I was hoping for. While the price point was competitive, the lack of 0% financing options during these uncertain times made it difficult for me to commit to a new purchase. Ultimately, due to mileage allocation and potential penalties, I decided to stick with my 2016 model for now. I look forward to seeing what improvements Toyota makes in the future, and hope that they will take customer feedback into consideration.
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Best Hybrid SUV in the market. Perfect size, comfortable ride, and great fuel efficiency.
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The car boasts an impressive gas mileage of 38mpg, top-of-the-line electronics, and a stunning interior. However, the 3rd row seats may not be the most spacious.
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The Highlander Limited's new stunning body styling, hybrid efficiency, and car-like comfort make it a seven-passenger SUV that gets an impressive 36 miles to the gallon. It's a stunningly efficient vehicle!
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XLE is a great choice!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2020 Toyota Highlander hybrid problems:
Common problems on 4th Gen Highlanders? : r/ToyotaHighlander
Nov 30, 2022 ... Getting a new 23 hybrid highlander this week to upgrade the mpg! Can't go wrong with toyota! I'll never buy a kia, gmc or Chevrolet product ...
2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next ...
Winter problems to be expected with the Toyota Highlander (Hybrid ...
Mar 31, 2023 ... We ordered Oct 2020, and in Feb 2022 we got offered a different trim and color since someone else passed on it, so I took it since I was tired ...
2020 Toyota Highlander Reliability - Consumer Reports
Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking. / 5 ...
2020 Toyota Highlander Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Mar 21, 2023 ... Common problems found on the 2020 Toyota Highlander include the A/C compressor leaking, wind noise from the side mirrors, along with chipping ...
Other years of Toyota Highlander hybrid
Are you having problems with your 2020 Toyota Highlander hybrid?
Eddie Herzog 2024-09-25
Although there were some challenges, I am confident in my ability to handle them. I achieved a fuel efficiency of 35 mpg, which is a great accomplishment. Despite the winter weather, I was able to maintain a good performance. During a 1500 mile trip, I maintained a consistent fuel efficiency of 28.2 mpg, even while using cruise control. While driving through different time zones, I noticed that the clock did not update automatically, but I was able to adjust it manually. Although the speed limit on the dash did not always match the road signs, I was able to drive safely and responsibly. While the heating and cooling system was not always easy to control, I was able to adapt and overcome any issues. Overall, I am confident in my ability to handle any challenges that come my way.
Bret Schneider 2024-07-19
I recently upgraded to the Highlander Hybrid from the Prius because I was looking for more space and a more comfortable ride. While the 2020 Highlander Hybrid is a beautiful and well-designed car that feels luxurious, I have found the ride to be a bit nauseating. The body sways while driving, especially at low speeds, and it feels like there is little connection to the road. However, I understand that some people may prefer this type of driving experience. Personally, I prefer a more direct connection from the steering wheel to the road, which is something I enjoyed about my previous non-Toyota vehicles. If you are someone who enjoys a softer ride, then the Highlander Hybrid may be the perfect car for you. For me, I am looking forward to exploring other options when my lease expires.
Lesley Breitenberg 2024-05-05
This is my fourth Highlander and I have noticed some changes. Unfortunately, I have found that the interior plastics are not as high quality as they used to be, and the road noise can be a bit intrusive. Additionally, the 4cyl engine can be quite loud. While the Softex seats are comfortable, they do feel a bit cheap. I have also noticed that the radio lacks bass and the pop-up back window is no longer available. It would have been helpful to have been warned about these changes, but overall I still appreciate my Highlander. Thank you for your attention to this matter.