Cars

Toyota Highlander Problems: Reliability, Safety, and Recalls

JH
John H
Senior Cars Expert
8 min read

Toyota Highlander Problems: Reliability, Safety, and Recalls

The Toyota Highlander has long been a favorite among midsize SUV buyers, praised for its reliability, spacious interior, and family-friendly features. As one of Toyota’s flagship three-row crossovers, the Highlander is designed to balance comfort, performance, and fuel efficiency. However, despite its strong reputation, no vehicle is immune to problems. Prospective and current Toyota Highlander owners should be aware of potential reliability issues, safety concerns, and past recalls to make informed decisions and maintain their vehicles properly.

Overview of the Toyota Highlander

Introduced in 2001, the Toyota Highlander was developed to meet the growing demand for midsize SUVs that offer more space than compact models but are easier to drive and park than full-size SUVs. Over the years, it has gone through several generations, with significant updates in 2008, 2014, and 2020. The Highlander is available with both gasoline and hybrid powertrains and has consistently ranked high in reliability surveys conducted by Consumer Reports and J.D. Power.

Despite its accolades, various model years have experienced specific problems that owners should be aware of. While many Highlanders continue to provide dependable service well beyond 150,000 miles, understanding the common issues can help buyers avoid problematic years and owners address problems before they escalate.

Common Toyota Highlander Reliability Issues

Transmission Problems

One of the most frequently reported reliability issues in certain Toyota Highlander models is transmission trouble. Owners of 2008 to 2010 models have reported rough shifting, delayed responses, and even complete transmission failure. These issues are often linked to the 5-speed automatic transmission used during those model years.

Specific symptoms include:

While Toyota addressed some of these concerns through extended warranties and technical service bulletins, not all owners received adequate support. The problem became less prevalent in later models, especially after the 2014 redesign that introduced improved transmission systems.

Engine and Oil Consumption Issues

Another concern surfaced in the 2014–2016 Toyota Highlander models equipped with the 2.7L 4-cylinder engine. Some owners reported excessive oil consumption, with vehicles burning a quart of oil every 1,000 miles. This issue, while not universal, raised concerns about long-term engine wear and potential internal damage.

Possible causes of abnormal oil consumption include:

Toyota acknowledged the issue in some regions and offered extended warranties for affected vehicles, but coverage varied. Regular oil level checks and timely maintenance are crucial for owners of these models to prevent engine damage.

Hybrid System Malfunctions

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid, introduced in 2006 and significantly updated in later generations, has generally proven reliable. However, some owners of the 2010–2013 models reported problems with the hybrid battery and related electrical components.

Common hybrid system issues include:

The hybrid battery typically lasts 10 to 15 years, but extreme climates or frequent short trips can shorten its lifespan. Replacement batteries can be expensive, although third-party options and reconditioned units are now more widely available.

Infotainment and Electrical Glitches

Like many modern vehicles, the Toyota Highlander relies heavily on electronic systems. Starting with the 2017 redesign and continuing into the 2020–2023 models, some owners have reported glitches with the infotainment system, including:

While these problems are typically not safety-critical, they can be frustrating and may require software updates or dealer visits to resolve. Toyota has issued multiple software patches over the years to address these bugs, but not all owners have received them proactively.

Suspension and Steering Concerns

Some Toyota Highlander owners, particularly those with higher-mileage vehicles, have reported wear and tear in the suspension system. Issues include:

These symptoms are often due to worn control arm bushings, ball joints, or strut mounts. Regular inspections and timely replacements can prevent further damage and ensure a smooth ride.

Air Conditioning and Climate Control Failures

Another intermittent issue reported across several model years, especially in 2011–2015 Highlanders, is air conditioning failure. Drivers have experienced:

Causes may include refrigerant leaks, compressor failure, or issues with the condenser. Toyota issued a recall for some 2011–2013 models related to AC compressor defects, which we will discuss in detail later.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

Safety is a top priority for families, and the Toyota Highlander has consistently performed well in crash tests and safety evaluations. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have awarded high marks to most recent model years.

NHTSA Ratings

The 2023 Toyota Highlander received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA, with perfect scores in side crash and rollover resistance. Frontal crash testing earned 4 stars, primarily due to marginal performance in dummy injury measures for the driver’s chest.

Earlier models, particularly those from 2017 onward, also received 4 to 5-star ratings, reflecting Toyota’s commitment to safety across its lineup.

IIHS Top Safety Pick Awards

The IIHS has designated the Toyota Highlander a “Top Safety Pick” in multiple years, including 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. To qualify, the Highlander must achieve:

The 2023 Highlander earns a “Top Safety Pick+” rating when equipped with specific headlights, making it one of the safest SUVs in its class.

Standard and Available Safety Technologies

All Toyota Highlander models come standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+) suite, which includes:

Higher trims may also offer additional features like:

These technologies contribute to the Highlander’s strong safety record and help prevent common types of accidents, such as rear-end collisions and lane departure incidents.

Recalls Affecting the Toyota Highlander

Toyota has issued several recalls on the Highlander over the years. While recalls are common in the auto industry and do not necessarily indicate poor quality, it’s important for owners to stay informed and ensure their vehicles are up to date.

2021–2022: Fuel Pump Recall

In 2021, Toyota recalled approximately 270,000 Highlanders from the 2020–2022 model years due to a potential issue with the fuel pump. The low-pressure fuel pump may stop working, causing the engine to stall or fail to start. This increases the risk of a crash, especially at higher speeds.

Models affected: 2020–2022 Toyota Highlander (gasoline models)
Solution: Toyota dealers replaced the fuel pump module at no cost to owners.

Owners were advised to contact their dealer or check the VIN on the NHTSA website to confirm if their vehicle was included in the recall.

2020: Airbag Inflator Recall

As part of the larger Takata airbag recall, certain 2008–2010 Toyota Highlander models were affected by defective airbag inflators. These inflators could rupture during deployment, sending metal fragments into the cabin.

Models affected: 2008–2010 Toyota Highlander
Solution: Free replacement of the driver and/or passenger airbag inflator.

This recall was especially critical because of the potential for serious injury. Toyota urged owners to schedule repairs immediately, even if their vehicle had not yet shown symptoms.

2018: Air Conditioning Compressor Recall

In 2018, Toyota issued a recall for certain 2011–2013 Highlander models due to a defect in the air conditioning compressor. The compressor could seize, leading to a loss of drive belt tension and potential engine overheating.

Models affected: 2011–2013 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid
Number of vehicles: Approximately 670,000 in the U.S.
Solution: Dealers inspected and replaced the AC compressor if necessary.

Toyota also recommended that owners monitor the engine temperature gauge and pull over if overheating was detected.

2016: Power Inverter Coolant Pump Recall (Hybrid Models)

Hybrid Highlander models from 2006 to 2011 were subject to a recall involving the power inverter coolant pump. If the pump failed, the hybrid system could shut down, causing the vehicle to lose propulsion while driving.

Models affected: 2006–2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Reason: Corrosion in the coolant pump could lead to electrical shorts.
Solution: Dealers replaced the pump and updated the hybrid system software.

This recall was particularly important for safety, as sudden loss of power on highways could lead to accidents.

2014: Engine Oil Cooler Hose Recall

In 2014, Toyota recalled certain 2014 Highlander models due to a potential oil leak from the engine oil cooler hose. Oil leaks near hot engine components could increase the risk of fire.

Models affected: 2014 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid
Solution: Dealers replaced the oil cooler hose with an improved version.

Toyota advised owners to look for signs of oil leakage under the vehicle and to avoid driving if a leak was detected.

Most and Least Reliable Toyota Highlander Model Years

Most Reliable Years

Based on owner feedback, reliability surveys, and mechanical data, the following model years stand out for their dependability:

Least Reliable Years

Some model years have higher-than-average complaints and should be approached with caution: