2021 Toyota Highlander 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 2021 Toyota Highlander problems
The 2021 Toyota Highlander has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to premature brake wear, paint fading on the roof, and transmission issues.
Premature brake wear is the most widespread complaint on the 2021 Toyota Highlander, with issues arising around 10,000 miles. This problem can be solved by replacing the brake pads, which typically costs around $250. However, there are also longer-lasting brake pads available for over $300.
Another issue found on the 2021 Highlander is paint fading on the roof, which occurs within the first 25,000 miles. This issue is primarily caused by leaving the vehicle in direct sunlight, particularly on large, flat surfaces like the roof. Owners have attempted to fix this issue by polishing and applying a ceramic coating, while others have repainted the roof for approximately $1,000.
Transmission issues, specifically flaring, are also a common problem in the 2021 Toyota Highlander. Flaring is characterized by the engine revving mid-shift, which can be resolved through a software update available at dealerships. Most dealerships install this update for free, while some may charge around $50.
It is important to note that there are no recalls on the 2021 Toyota Highlander, indicating that Toyota has not found any significant mechanical issues or safety problems with this model.
Despite these common problems, the 2021 Toyota Highlander is known for its reliability and durability. With proper maintenance, a well-maintained 2021 Toyota Highlander can last over 300,000 miles, making it a dependable choice for those in the market for a midsize SUV.
What are issues with a 2021 Toyota Highlander?
Brakes. Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.
Is a 2021 Toyota Highlander reliable?
How Reliable Is the 2021 Toyota Highlander? The 2021 Toyota Highlander has a predicted reliability score of 82 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Does the Toyota Highlander have any major problems?
A: Yes, some Toyota Highlander models experienced issues such as engine bolts becoming stripped, which led to coolant leaks and overheating and, in some cases, necessitating complete engine replacements. These problems were prevalent around 130,000 miles.
What year is the best year to buy a Toyota Highlander?
A: The best years for the Toyota Highlander, according to the above guide, include the 2004, 2005, and 2007 models from the first generation and the 2017-2019 models from the third generation.
What are issues with a 2021 Toyota Highlander?
Brakes. Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.
Does the Toyota Highlander have any major problems?
A: Yes, some Toyota Highlander models experienced issues such as engine bolts becoming stripped, which led to coolant leaks and overheating and, in some cases, necessitating complete engine replacements. These problems were prevalent around 130,000 miles.
Is a 2021 Toyota Highlander reliable?
How Reliable Is the 2021 Toyota Highlander? The 2021 Toyota Highlander has a predicted reliability score of 82 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Is a Toyota Highlander a reliable vehicle?
The Highlander is a midsize Toyota SUV for sale that has been praised for its reliability, practicality, and safety features. Toyota is known for building reliable vehicles, and the Highlander is no exception. With proper maintenance, a used Highlander can last for many years and miles.
2021 Toyota Highlander car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Highlander problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Structure problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Toyota Highlander vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2021 Toyota Highlander
The NHTSA has received 185 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Toyota Highlander. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2021 Toyota Highlander vehicles.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5TDEBRCH9MS
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: My vehicle was rear-ended while stopped by a 2014 Toyota Corolla that was estimated to be traveling between 60-70 miles per hour. During the crash, the driver seat failed, resulting in the partially reclining into the second row passenger. The failure mechanism appears to be internal to the seatback, as the seat twisted during the failure, causing me to lean more towards the passenger side of the vehicle.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 5TDLZRAH5MS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The car started making a whining.humming sound only while pressing the gas. Took to mechanic and they advised it was TSB 0008-21. I need a new transmission. I drive this daily with my own kids, and several that aren't mine. If the transmission were to go out, I would not be able to accelerate and the care would stop moving. I can't even imagine this happening on a high with hundreds of cars speeding or a busy road. This could cause a bad accident, injury or death. No warnings etc. The noise just started and took right to mechanic. I gave the mechanic a copt of power train warrant and hoping it gets covered and fixed.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- VIN: 5TDLZRBH9MS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Regarding Toyota TSB T-SB-0008-21, ‘Whine or Grind Noise From the Transmission’, issued February 2021: Some 2021 model year Avalon, Highlander, and Camry vehicles equipped with UA80E or UA80F transmissions may exhibit a whine or grind noise from the transmission. This condition may be caused by an issue with the front carrier assembly pinion shafts. This is a widespread problem with these specified transmissions. The noise generally starts around 60-70k miles, just outside the warranty period. Toyota knowingly continued to sell vehicles with these defective transmissions. Repair estimates range from $8.5k-$13k.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
- VIN: 5TDYZRAH9MS
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Highlander. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (AIR BAGS) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-12
- VIN: 5TDJZRBH6MS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission failure at 70,000 miles waited 3 months for replacement transmission.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-20
- VIN: 5TDHZRBH7MS
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: SAFETY RECALL 23TA15 (Interim Notice 23TB15) was issued December 20, 2023 - almost one year ago. Toyota does not yet have a remedy for this potentially serious safety issue. For several months, Toyota's website has had the following verbiage regarding this "Toyota estimates the remedy can be available in Quarter 3, 2024, but this is subject to change based on parts availability." I cannot continue to drive people with this potentially serious safety issue. When will a remedy be available?
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- VIN: 5TDLZRBH6MS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Water leaking into the A pillar where airbags are located due to faulty seals in roof rails.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 5TDGZRBH9MS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: My wife’s Highlander started whining under acceleration. I am not a trained mechanic but know enough about vehicles that I k ew it was the transmission. I checked Google for 2021 Highlander complaints and found hundreds of them. The vehicle has 90k on it but luckily we bought the extended warranty through Toyota. I took the vehicle in for service and told them the transmission was whining and needed replaced and would be covered under my warranty. They looked at me strange and said ok sure, we’ll check it out. 4 hours later they called to confirm I needed a new transmission. They estimate it to take be 4 weeks before they receive the transmission. Apparently so many being replaced they are on back order. Luckily we bought our vehicle as a “Certified Pre-Owned” so we get a loaner the entire time. Just sad to see Toyota quality going down hill like it has.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-03
- VIN: 5TDFZRBH3MS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Chest Clip, Buckle, Harness PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-22
- VIN: 5TDHZRBH0MS
- Components: Chest Clip, Buckle, Harness
- Summary: Chest clip is magnetic and can be opened by child without using the buttons to open. No longer staying closed.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-26
- VIN: 5TDBZRBH4MS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I WAS COMING HOME FROM WORK AND THE BREAK SYSTEM FAIL AND THEN I WAS COMING TO SA STOP LIGHT I WAS ABLE TO BREAK SLOWLY AND I WAS ABLE TO GO INTO SHELL GAS STATION GOT OFF TO PUT GAS AND THE STARTED TALKING TO TAKE IT TO THE NEAR DEALER TOYOTA .I GOT OFF THE VECHICLE PUT GAS AND WHEN I STARTED TO TURN ON I WOULD TURN ON AT ALL I DO T KNOW I GAVE IT SOME GAS AND I WAS ABLE TO TURN IT ON BUT THE MOTER WAS SHAKING AND IT WAS STALING ON ME. THE H AND COLD GAUGE WAS STUCK NOT MOVING ETHIER. THAT FAN FROM THE MOTER STOP WORKING AS WELL I WAS ABLE TO TURN IT ON AND I DRO E IT TO MY MOTHERS HOUSE AND LEFT IT THEIR GOT A TOWTRUCK ON THE JULY 28 2024 TO TAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP I HAD TO PAY THE TOW TRUCK AND UNTILL KNOW I HAVENT GOT MY REFUND BACK BECAUSE I HAD TOWNIG WITH THE VECHICLE WHEN I PURCHASED IT. ITS 2 MONTHS OUT I STILL HAVENT GOTTEN MY TRANSMISSION OR GOTTEN FIX AND THE VECHICLE HAD THE EXTENDED WARRANTY AS WELL IT HAS 71,700 ML ON IT AND I ALSO HAVE TO PAY THE RENTAL VECHICLE AS WELL. TOYOTA DOENT WAST TO PAY AT ALL FOR THE RENTAL VECHICLE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- VIN: 5TDGARAH0MS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Sunroof shattered while vehicle was parked. Nothing touched the vehicle. We were just sitting in the car when it happened.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-14
- VIN: 5TDFZRBH6MS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: [XXX], while driving on a [XXX], my 2021 Highlander Platinum unexpectedly shut down without ANY prior warning or indication of a malfunction. This abrupt failure put my safety, as well as that of my passengers and other motorists, at considerable risk. As a longtime Toyota customer, I have always valued the reputation of Toyota vehicles for their reliability and safety. However, this incident has significantly shaken my confidence in that reputation. I trusted that my vehicle, particularly one as recent as the 2021 Highlander, would perform safely and effectively in all driving conditions. The complete and sudden failure of the vehicle on a busy highway is not only unacceptable, but also alarming. I now find myself questioning whether I can continue to rely on this vehicle or the brand itself. After having the vehicle towed from obstructing a busy lane of traffic, the battery was jump started to get the car running again. I had NEVER had ANY issues with battery and all regular services had been completed at a Toyota Service Center, but several codes appeared on the dashboard after this incident advising the vehicle be taken to a dealer. Vehicle was taken to Toyota Service Center [XXX] for a diagnostic check, but they couldn’t find any error codes or issues with the vehicle. I contacted Toyota to thoroughly investigate this matter and address the underlying issue that caused the shutdown, so that I can regain confidence in its safety and dependability. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-05
- VIN: 5TDGZRBH0MS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: A whine developed while accelerating on the highway. The whine continued any time I accelerated higher than about 35 mph. I suspected it was the transmission and Toyota confirmed I was right. I need a whole new transmission. At 59,000 miles, my Highlander is still under power train warranty. However, my car was diagnosed July 9 and I am still waiting for the part to come in at the dealership more than 2 months later. I was told verbally that I would be able to still drive the car while waiting, but I don't feel safe doing so.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- VIN: 5TDLZRBH9MS
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I just bought this 2021 Highlander XSE & the drivers side mirror vibrates above 30mph. I feel this makes it very hard to see properly especially on the interstate traveling 70mph & trying to get a clear view of the roadway & cars around me. I took the car to my local Toyota dealer & was told this is a common problem among the new design with the Highlander’s. I do not feel safe not being able to see properly.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- VIN: 5TDLZRAH5MS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission/differential - Took my car in around 80k miles for a routine transmission service. I got my car back and it started making a whining noise when you accelerate. Never did I get a code, check engine light nothing. Took it back to get looked it since the sound never went away. I am being told it needs a new transmission. I was told my car transmission was too hot for them to even look at after sitting for 24hr parked! I have read and done a lot of research that this is a common issue and never has been recalled. Even a shortage now on transmissions with so many needing them now! My car is only 3 years old and won’t be covered.. this should have been recalled and or known to buyers before purchasing if it was known to have issues early 2021…
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- VIN: 5TDHZRBH0MS
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Highlander. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-17
- VIN: 5TDEBRCH5MS
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The vehicle is a hybrid. While traveling downhill at a speed around 35 mph with light brake pressure, the vehicle feels like it lurches forward a second or so before returning to braking. It has occurred since we purchased the vehicle new in 2021. It has happened multiple times in a variety of scenarios but it occurs most consistently in the downhill scenario described above.
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-06
- VIN: 5TDYZRAHXMS
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Highlander. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 23V720000 (Structure) and 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the front end of the vehicle and it felt like the front tires had struck an object on the highway. The contact stopped the vehicle and observed that the lower half of the front bumper had detached and was on the road surface. The contact called a local dealer and was informed that the parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 31,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-14
- VIN: 5TDCZRAH7MS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transaxle Repair/Replacement: recommend transmission replacement due to whining noise coming from transmission due to internal failure. The transaxle is the transmission for front wheel drive vehicles. The transaxle transfers power from the engine to the wheels. Unsafe driving conditions issue is stemming from faulty transmission, not only on this particular vehicle but many 2021 Toyota Highlander vehicles for the same transaxle repair/replacement issue. I have gone to Toyota multiple times before and even with a Technical Service Bulletin in place for this transmission issue, they did not correct the problem, nor fix it while it was under warranty. Toyota has been aware of this Technical Service Bulletin since Feb 9 2021. T-SB-0008-21 [XXX] Owners of the 2021 Toyota Highlander have reported various transmission problems, including: Whine or Grind Noise: Some vehicles exhibit a whine or grind noise from the transmission, which may be caused by an issue with the front carrier assembly pinion shafts1. Jerky Gear Shifts: Drivers have experienced jerky gear shifts, especially when accelerating from a stop or slowing down to very low speeds2. Delayed Shifts and Hard Shifts: There have been complaints about delayed shifts, hard shifts, and lurching when shifting gears3. Transmission Slipping: Instances of the transmission slipping between gears and jerking when accelerating have also been reported4. Safety Concerns These transmission issues pose several safety risks: Loss of Control: Jerky and delayed gear shifts can lead to a loss of control, especially in situations requiring quick acceleration or deceleration. Increased Accident Risk: Transmission slipping and hard shifts can cause unexpected vehicle behavior, increasing the risk of accidents. Driver Distraction: The noise and irregular shifting can distract drivers, reducing their focus on the road. Mechanical Failure: Persistent transmission issues, or stalling. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-26
- VIN: 5TDGZRBH8MS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Our Highlander has a recall for the clips on the front bumper. A few weeks ago, my wife was driving behind a truck pulling a trailer. My wife that it was a set of caster wheels that flew out from the trailer and made contact with her front bumper. Upon inspection the impact from that debris put a crack in the upper front bumper. No other visible damage was present. Later that day while my wife was driving 75 on the interstate, the defective clips from the recall gave way and the lower front bumper gave way and started to drag on the ground. Luckily it stayed in tack enough that the vehicle did not run it over causing my wife to wreck or even worse having other vehicles needing to avoid it on the interstate. We paid for a tow truck to safely take it off the interstate so we could tie wrap the lower bumper up and take it to the dealer. Toyota recall does warn that light impact to the bumper could result in the bumper falling. It also goes on to say that if the clips cannot be changed out, they will replace both the lower and upper bumpers. I took the car to the local dealer, and they confirmed that the clips could not be replaced due to the damage that had been done. I showed the dealer the recall notification on the internet, and they stated they could not do anything as they were not a body shop. So, I opened a complaint with Toyota Customer Care [XXX] ) and stated my case. They in turn notified a local dealer to address the issue. I have called customer care twice not without the dealer even trying to contact me. Due to there faulty part, my wife could have been in a much more serious accident. I would like your assistance in have Toyota make good on their commitment to replace both the lower and upper bumper as a result of the light contact that created this situation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-26
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5TDYZRAH2MS
- Components: AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Unknown
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-18
- VIN: 5TDFARAH2MS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The sunroof exploded in 75 degree weather. My safety was put at risk by the sunroof exploding and others were put at risk that were following on highway from flying glass. The problem was confirmed by safelite. Toyota refuses to take any responsibility. The sunroof was inspected and repaired by safelite. There was no warning that the sunroof was going to explode. The vehicle maintenance is at the highest level.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- VIN: 5TDFZRBH1MS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Excessive whining noise, shift flare. The vehicle is only a couple of years old. I was told by the dealer that the transmission will likely need to be replaced. There are numerous complaints within the Toyota Nation forums. It was recommended that we report the incidents here, as having a large number of cars on the road with failing transmissions can certainly be considered a road hazard/safety issue.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-04
- VIN: 5TDJZRAH9MS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: The start/stop operating system failed. When the engine cut off while waiting for train to pass, the engine went to turn over and completely stopped the vehile. Although the car would not start, I was unable to cut the car off completely. It would say ignition on. The lights in vehicle were on. Running the ac caused the car to say high power consumption but there was no way to cut vehicle off without removing the battery to reset the vehicle. Caused the car to malfunction while sitting at a complete stop. Also cause the parking break to engage and I was unable to disengage parking break. A message came across saying parking break unavailable. My safety and others were put at risk because had it happened at any other time a crash would have been caused. It caused a roadway to be blocked off which caused confusion and near accidents.
2021 Toyota Highlander recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2021 Toyota Highlander.
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Highlander vehicles. The 20-inch accessory tires with an insufficient load rating for the vehicle's Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) were installed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
- Consequence: Tires with an insufficient load rating can be overloaded and fail, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: SET will inspect and replace the tires and information placard, as necessary free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 16, 2024. Owners may contact SET's customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET's number for this recall is SET24A.
- 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.
Negative 2021 Toyota Highlander car reviews
Positive 2021 Toyota Highlander car reviews
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Hey there! I just test drove the 2021 gas version FWD and it still accelerates really well (I have a 2014 Toyota Highlander V6). However, it still has a bit of torque steer. I noticed that the tires have become narrower (235mm wide) compared to my 2014 Toyota Highlander (245mm wide). Also, the turning radius is still a bit too big to make u-turns without having to do a 3 point turn, and parking can be a bit of a challenge.
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I'm so glad you're enjoying your new Highlander! It's sleek, modern, and functional, and you got a great value for your money. Plus, the new safety features and tech upgrades make it even more satisfying to own.
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This is a great SUV! I'm so pleased with it - it does everything I want and more. The ride quality is fantastic and it's so quiet. Plus, there's plenty of power when I need it. The MPG is also great for the size of the SUV.
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I really appreciate the smooth ride of this car, but I must admit that I wasn't completely satisfied with it. Although I went a little over my budget to get the JBL sound system, real leather, and a somewhat better-looking interior, the 20mpg combined is a great feature. However, I do have a few complaints. The biggest one is something I wasn't aware of before purchasing - the lack of acoustic windows. Driving on the highway can be embarrassing, especially on windy days. It's so loud that it makes me want to cry. Even my old car, which I traded in for this one, was a lot quieter. When it rains hard, it feels like you're being attacked, and the noise inside the cabin is so dramatic that it really bothers me. However, I may get used to it. The fit and finish are not very good, and when you turn up the volume, things start shaking and squeaking, which is not something I expected after spending all that money. The 8-inch screen and backup camera are not great in terms of graphics. Overall, it's a good car, but if you're getting close to the 50k MSRP, you might want to consider looking for a luxury car that would make you happier. Update... I sold it after 18 months because it wasn't the right fit for me.
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We didn't need a big third row, it's just for the grandkids. We upgraded from a 2015 XLE (which we sold to our daughter) to a new Limited. Besides the back seat, it is otherwise more impressive than the competition. When you factor in resale and reliability projections, it's a better investment than the Koreans. The car is very comfortable, with excellent acceleration, and the Limited package pushes it into legitimate luxury car comparisons.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2021 Toyota Highlander problems:
Common problems on 4th Gen Highlanders? : r/ToyotaHighlander
Nov 30, 2022 ... Common problems on 4th Gen Highlanders? · Whistling front end, typically fixed by adjusting the hood struts · Loose side mirror cap that might ...
2021 Toyota Highlander Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
May 11, 2023 ... Common problems found on the 2021 Toyota Highlander include premature brake wear, paint fading on the roof, along with some transmission issues ...
2021 Toyota Highlander Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · In-car Electronics · Noises And Leaks · Brakes · Transmission Minor · Body Hardware · Exhaust · Paint And Trim · Electrical ...
Toyota Highlander XSE 2021 multiple issues (oil leak, pcs not giving ...
Dec 17, 2021 ... Toyota Highlander XSE 2021 multiple issues (oil leak, pcs not giving warning, moon roof leak\replaced) · 1) From the moon roof leaking and now ...
2021 Toyota Highlander Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2021 Toyota Highlander? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
Other years of Toyota Highlander
Are you having problems with your 2021 Toyota Highlander?
Ronny Lemke 2024-10-25
The 2021 Platinum experienced a complete electronic failure after 4 months and 8K miles. Despite being garaged since purchase, the local dealer has had the car for 2 weeks and is now stating that cables were eaten by mice. While this is hard to believe, we remain confident in our experience with Toyota and Lexus vehicles. We are disappointed by this situation, but we remain committed to finding a solution. Thank you for your understanding.
Cortez Nitzsche 2024-10-05
This SUV is a good size and has a solid build. However, the acceleration is slow and the front camera has a limited use due to a large blacked-out section while parking. Additionally, the passenger cannot enter GPS destinations while the vehicle is in motion, but Waze can be used instead. The dashcam is a $600 extra purchase and is difficult to connect with a cell phone, so it is recommended to buy an aftermarket dashcam at a lower cost. It is important to note that remote cellular features such as remote start, map assist, and SOS calling cost $30 per month.
Sheridan Mohr 2024-10-04
I purchased a 2021 Highlander XLE equipped with OEM Toyo Cross Country A43 tires. Despite their reputation, these tires produce an excessive amount of noise in the cabin at speeds over 55 mph, making it difficult to enjoy the ride. It is recommended to avoid these tires. Toyota may consider implementing better measures to isolate road noises in their vehicles.
Armand McDermott 2024-09-15
This beautiful 2021 Highlander Platinum is a stunning car. However, when driving it down the road, you may notice some road noise and wind. While it may not be as well-built as the price reflects, I still love the car. I am just a bit disappointed in the build.
Richard Smith 2024-09-02
I just bought my Highlander le and I'm very disappointed with how loud it is inside. I took it to the dealer to get it fixed, but they said it's the same as the other models. It's the worst SUV I've ever had, it feels like I just bought a car from a junkyard.