2022 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 2022 Toyota Highlander hybrid problems
The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has been reported to have several issues, primarily related to the hybrid powertrain and transmission. One owner reported experiencing transmission error codes, which required the replacement of the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and programming by a Toyota field technician.
Another owner of a 2022 Highlander Hybrid Platinum AWD reported that the vehicle had a tendency to veer slightly when the painted lines disappeared at off-ramps and similar situations, although this was not a consistent issue. This owner also mentioned that the Highlander Hybrid performed flawlessly during two extended road trips, averaging 34 MPG or better in both instances.
While these issues are specific to the 2022 model year, it is worth noting that the Toyota Highlander, in general, has had some recurring problems over the years. For example, engine bolts becoming stripped, which can lead to coolant leakage and overheating, has been a common problem, particularly around 130,000 miles.
The 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has been identified as the worst model year, with the most overall complaints and the highest rating for brakes problems.
In summary, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has been reported to have issues with the hybrid powertrain and transmission, including transmission error codes, loss of power, and error messages related to the hybrid system. While these issues are specific to the 2022 model year, it is important to be aware of recurring problems in the Toyota Highlander's history, such as engine bolts becoming stripped and engine failure, which are more common around certain mileage thresholds.
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.
Does the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid require premium gas?
Check it out seriously it's that simple hybrids have a fuel tank just like any other vehicle and the Philip process is exactly the same -. Plus all you need is regular 87 grade gasoline to fuel up.
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 many miles can a Toyota Highlander Hybrid go on a full tank of gas?
Compare Side-by-Side
| 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid | |
|---|---|
| EPA Fuel Economy | 36 MPG 36 35 combined city/highway city highway |
| 2.8 gal/100mi | |
| 616 miles Total Range | |
| Unofficial MPG Estimates from Vehicle Owners Learn more about "My MPG" Disclaimer | 31.7 MPG 30 Lo 34 Hi Average based on 2 vehicles View Individual Estimates |
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.
Is Highlander Hybrid better than regular?
When you compare Hybrid Highlander vs. gas model, you'll find that the Highlander Hybrid has a higher MSRP overall. If you're on a budget, then the standard Highlander model may be a better fit. However, upgrading to a Highlander Hybrid will give you better fuel economy and some luxury amenities on your commute.
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 many miles can a Highlander Hybrid go on a full tank?
Compare Side-by-Side
| 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid | |
|---|---|
| EPA Fuel Economy | 36 MPG 36 35 combined city/highway city highway |
| 2.8 gal/100mi | |
| 616 miles Total Range | |
| Unofficial MPG Estimates from Vehicle Owners Learn more about "My MPG" Disclaimer | 31.7 MPG 30 Lo 34 Hi Average based on 2 vehicles View Individual Estimates |
2022 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:
- Engine problems
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2022 Toyota Highlander hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2022 Toyota Highlander hybrid complaints
The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2022 Toyota Highlander hybrid.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- 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.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-10
- 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.
STRUCTURE,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-07
- 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.
SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-01
- VIN: 5TDEBRCHXNS
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and approaching a traffic light, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the engine surged. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer on several occasions, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 35,000.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-27
- VIN: 5TDEBRCHXNS
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact stated while driving approximately 20 MPH and slowing down for a traffic signal, the contact felt as if the brakes had failed. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle was still rolling forward. The contact stated that he depressed the brake pedal with more force and eventually the brakes grabbed and stopped the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, but the failure could not be duplicated. The contact stated that the failure had become a recurring failure. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.
2022 Toyota Highlander hybrid recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2022 Toyota Highlander hybrid.
- 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: Gulf States Toyota, Inc.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain 2022 4Runner, Tacoma, Highlander, and Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The load carrying capacity modification labels may not be permanent and can fade, becoming illegible. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
- Consequence: An illegible label may allow the vehicle to be overloaded, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GST will notify owners by mail, including a replacement load carrying capacity modification label for their vehicle and detailed replacement instructions, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 30, 2022. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 22R1.
- 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.
Negative 2022 Toyota Highlander hybrid car reviews
Positive 2022 Toyota Highlander hybrid car reviews
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I recently traded in my 2011 Toyota RAV4 (non-hybrid) for a 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid because I needed more cargo space but didn't want to compromise on gas mileage, especially since most of my driving is local/city. During the first week of driving the Highlander Hybrid, I was a bit disappointed with the fuel economy, as I was only getting 26-29 mpg while trying to maximize it. However, after a longer trip to the office, which is a 12-mile trip each way, I was pleasantly surprised to get 43 mpg going to the office and 34 mpg coming back. This brought my final mpg to around 35 mpg, which is in line with the rated gas mileage. I learned that it's hard to get good gas mileage for short trips, but for longer trips, the warm-up period represents a smaller fraction of time. Overall, I find the ride to be quite comfortable and quiet, and my wife and I are both happy with the captain's chairs in the 2nd row. The only minor issue I have is with the design of the hood, but it's not significant enough to detract from my positive review.When you look at the front hood from the side, you might notice a gap between the headlights and the hood that almost makes it look like the hood is open. Have you ever wondered why that is? I would love to know the reason behind this design.
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I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your new Highlander! It sounds like it's meeting all of your expectations and more. I'm especially impressed by the great fuel economy you're getting, and it's great to hear that the regenerative braking system is working so well for you. It's always a bit of a shock to buy a new car, but it sounds like this one was definitely worth it. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
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I recently purchased a 2021 Venza Limited, fully loaded, but after just 3000 miles, I realized it wasn't the right fit for me. Although it looked sleek in photos and had positive online reviews, the ride was too stiff and the road noise was irritating. I decided to trade it in for a Highlander Platinum, which I initially overlooked due to its family hauler aura and style. However, I was pleasantly surprised by its solid build, smooth drive, and ample space. The infotainment and technology are a step up, and the interior fit and finish is excellent. I appreciate the knobs and buttons, as I'm not a fan of 100% touch screens. As a semi-retired individual, I didn't think I needed the space, but I was wrong. The Highlander has plenty of power and gets good gas mileage. Overall, I'm very happy with my decision and believe that Toyota Hybrids are some of the most dependable cars on the road.
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I've been searching for a new car to replace my 2006 4Runner for years. Finally, I gave up on waiting for a 4Runner redesign and decided to look for something more environmentally friendly. The Highlander turned out to be the perfect choice for me. Since getting the car in late April, I've been averaging 33 mpg overall. I was pleasantly surprised to see an improvement in mpg once Summer gas became available. On my best trip from the Portland OR area to the coast, I achieved 40 mpg by keeping my speed in the 50-60 range. The car's ability to switch between gas and EV mode is impressive and seamless. However, there are a few things that could be improved. Firstly, it's inconvenient to switch the air flow to recirculating mode as it requires accessing a setting in a menu. Secondly, the wireless phone charger is not very effective. Thirdly, my platinum model did not come with the digital rearview mirror that I wanted. Fourthly, there are some rattles on rough roads that are more noticeable than in my old 4Runner. Fifthly, I wish I could force the AWD system to be on under certain conditions. Lastly, when the battery isn't fully charged and I downshift to slow down, the regenerative braking system should kick in but instead the engine is engaged. Despite these minor issues, I'm very happy with my Highlander and would give it 4.5 stars if I could.
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I've been driving my Highlander Hybrid XLE for two weeks now and I absolutely love it! The car has all the features I was looking for, rides smoothly, and I'm getting over 40 mpg in mostly suburban driving. When I first drove off the dealership, I noticed that the car had only 6 miles on the odometer and the gas gauge was slightly over the Full mark. However, the dashboard read 392 miles to empty instead of the almost 600 miles per tank that the car is rated for. After driving 100 miles, the distance to Empty is 342 but the gas gauge still shows Full. I did some research online and found out that many Highlander Hybrid owners are experiencing the same issue. Although their tanks are rated for 17.1 gallon capacity, they can only put about 12 gallons in their tanks, which limits their driving distance. This is far less than what Toyota advertises and a lawsuit has been filed in California. However, I still think this is an outstanding vehicle and would give it a strong 5-star rating if this issue wasn't present.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2022 Toyota Highlander hybrid problems:
Common problems on 4th Gen Highlanders? : r/ToyotaHighlander
Nov 30, 2022 ... We are looking to get a new to us vehicle for my wife, we have narrowed it down to a used 2021 Highlander Limited, used 2022 GMC Acadia AT4, ...
2022 Toyota Highlander Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Noises And Leaks · Exhaust · In-car Electronics · Electrical Accessories · Brakes · Body Hardware · Engine Minor · Steering And ...
Winter problems to be expected with the Toyota Highlander (Hybrid ...
Mar 31, 2023 ... Returned and vehicle started no problem. Lots of long and short trips. Never had problem. Now we got 2022 XLE hybrid. Upvote 2. Downvote Reply ...
2022 Toyota Highlander Top Complaints - Is Your Car A Lemon?
Vibrating mirrors and faulty brakes are the most common problems that 2022 Toyota Highlander owners are complaining to the National Highway Traffic Safety ...
Grand Highlander Hybrid Max - The Nightmare Continues : r ...
Sep 2, 2023 ... Toyota hybrids are more reliable than regular gas cars with "normal" transmissions. 303,000 miles 15 years and we've never had a problem that ...
Other years of Toyota Highlander hybrid
Are you having problems with your 2022 Toyota Highlander hybrid?
Frederic Harris 2025-04-08
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.
Keshaun Russel 2024-08-05
I recently purchased a 2021 Highlander and have noticed an issue with the hybrid system. While I have previously owned a 2013 Highlander Hybrid and currently own a Rav4 Hybrid, both of which were excellent, this new model seems to have a flaw. If the car is left idle without moving, it runs completely on 12 volts, which drains the battery quickly and requires a jump start. Unlike my previous hybrids, this model does not start the hybrid engine if the 12v battery is going down. If stuck in traffic, it is recommended to turn the system off to avoid any issues. Overall, I have had a different experience with this hybrid compared to my previous ones.
Llewellyn Cronin 2024-06-25
The passenger heated seat was reported to be malfunctioning intermittently, and even when functioning, it was barely noticeable on the highest setting. However, the driver's heated seats functioned great on all heat settings. Despite the initial report stating 'unable to duplicate customer complaint', a service technician spent an hour with the customer and the vehicle to investigate the issue. The technician acknowledged the problem and agreed to research the cause, but unfortunately did not follow up. The ventilated seats also had issues, with the passenger seat being less effective than the driver's seat. Although the issue was addressed during a previous service, the report stated 'unable to perform customer's complaint'. On a hot day, the cabin did not cool down even after the vehicle was serviced, and the air conditioning stopped working. The issue was eventually fixed, but the seats still did not ventilate to the ambient cabin temperature. However, during the 10,000 mile service, the seats began functioning fine. It is unclear why they were not working previously. Additionally, taller persons may find it difficult to enter the vehicle due to the inability to adjust the seat height.Some Toyota dealerships, along with other dealers, have been found to add unnecessary fees to their sales, which is a practice that Subaru has pointed out. Although I have not purchased a Subaru, the owner of a Subaru dealership who also owns a Honda and Toyota dealership explained that this is a common practice in many dealerships across the US, but not all dealerships do it. He also explained why it is not necessary. However, some dealerships in Boise, Nampa, Ontario Oregon, and Bend, Oregon (all surrounding areas) have been found to engage in this practice. I have noticed that the fuel mileage in my hybrid vehicle is far less than expected, averaging between 26.8 and 30mpg, with occasional spikes to 32mpg and rarely 34mpg. Despite watching videos and applying what I learned from their suggestions, I have not been able to achieve better results. A service tech explained that it is common for hybrids to experience this and that Toyota's claim of 'up to' 36mpg is affected by various variables. Although it was an exhausting experience, I appreciate the tech's thorough explanation. The driver easy speak feature in my vehicle screeches at the lowest setting and screeches while talking to the rear passenger, making it impossible to adjust to medium volume without lots of screeching. The highest setting is almost constant. A service tech spent quite a bit of time with me in my vehicle testing it out and agreed that it is a problem that he needed to look into. Unfortunately, after three weeks, he never got back to me, so I took my vehicle back in.The performance of the vehicle's easy speak feature was tested with similar vehicles and found to be within the same range. However, my passengers (including my mom, husband, and grandkid) have complained about it and prefer to turn it off. As a result, I have resorted to turning my head to speak to those in the third row and back seat. Although the passenger front door initially had a pop noise when opening and required more force to close, the issue was resolved after the second visit to the dealership. While Toyota claims to have excellent warranty and service, it is disappointing that they initially accepted these problems as normal. It is important to fix any issues with the vehicle, regardless of the cost of replacement parts or labour. Substandard features are not acceptable when paying extra for them.
David Ondricka 2024-05-08
This car seemed great on paper, but unfortunately my experience with it was not as positive. My wife and I test drove the 2021 Highlander Hybrid after enjoying the RX450h, hoping for more space. While we were initially concerned about the reduced engine to 4 cylinders, the test drive seemed promising and we were excited about the first year of Apple CarPlay. However, after purchasing the car, we noticed that the transition to 4 cylinders produced a terrible sound from the engine that made us want to immediately drop acceleration. Additionally, the vehicle struggled to make it up a 30 degree slope. Another annoyance was that the lane assist could not be completely turned off and constantly beeped and corrected us if we crossed the lane, making us very conscious of how we were driving. This was not ideal for a $45K vehicle from Toyota, and we ended up trading it in after only 3 months.
Lon Rolfson 2024-03-23
I just purchased a 2021 Highlander AWD Platinum Hybrid. I am very easy on the gas pedal. I purposely bought this vehicle for the MPG rating it had. I just did my first fill up and got 20 MPG. I'm a bit concerned and plan to visit the dealer service department to see what they say. Hopefully, they can help me figure out what's going on. I really hope I didn't just blow $51,000.