The Toyota Highlander is a mid-sized crossover SUV released in 2001 by Japanese manufacturer Toyota and is now Toyota’s most well-known and popular car globally. It was Toyota’s best-selling SUV until the debut of the Toyota RAV4 in 2006. However, it has been incredibly successful in its own right and has gone through four generations of development.
In this article, we’ll go through each generation of the Toyota Highlander to help you decide which years are the greatest for buying and which models and variations to steer clear of.
What Are The Best Years For The Toyota Highlander?
The following list ranks the top 10 Toyota Highlander model years:
2001 Toyota Highlander
The 2001 Highlander, which shares a chassis with the Lexus RX300, had car-like handling and exceptional dependability. It has an energetic V6 engine and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive for the automatic gearbox. The car has excellent gas efficiency and can easily produce 220 horsepower from its engine. It has been hailed as the most dependable automobile ever by customers.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 3 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 175
2006 Toyota Highlander
This Highlander model had minor cosmetic modifications to the license plate garnish, grille, and a new integrated bumper. Offering three grades with hybrid vehicles and optional AWD helped it lay the groundwork for the 2007 model.
The 4-cylinder and V6 engine choices were further noteworthy characteristics. All of this was fitted into a five-passenger automobile with a respectable amount of luggage room given its seating capacity. It is one of the best automobiles on our list since it is simple to operate, pleasant to ride in, and has excellent handling.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 7 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 345
2007 Toyota Highlander
This is due to a number of variables, including the fact that it had corrected the flaws in its earlier models after seeing them. The seven-seat capacity garnered favorable reviews along with the optional AWD and hybrid variant with the optional AWD and hybrid variant, the seven-seat capacity garnered favorable reviews. The vehicle had an option between a V6 and a 4-cylinder engine and was available in three distinct trim levels.
One of the greatest family vehicles of its day, the Highlander stands out for having a large amount of baggage room, two cup holders on each back door, and an optional touchscreen navigation system that is simple to use and comprehend.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 4 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 158
2016 Toyota Highlander
With a smooth ride, a stylish interior, and excellent durability, the 2016 Highlander is a great choice for families seeking for a three-row crossover. Despite being one of the third generation’s least troublesome models, no substantial updates were made for 2016.
A standard towing kit is one of the minor upgrades for all V6 vehicles. The 2007 Toyota Highlander, the last model of the first generation, has been on the market for over ten years and is still recognized as one of the finest Highlander models available.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 3 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 136
2017 Toyota Highlander
The amazing space that the Toyota Highlander has come to be known for was first introduced in the 2017 model year. The SUV sports a roomy eight-seat cabin and a strong V6 engine, together with disruptive software technology that offers a whole new driving and passenger experience.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 4 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 256
2018 Toyota Highlander
In terms of quality and safety, the Toyota Highlander’s 2018 model was unmatched among its rivals for the same year. It had a high-quality cabin, and the engine and gearbox were excellent. It also included automated emergency braking safety systems, which would be particularly useful for drivers who encountered challenging road conditions.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 5 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 229
2019 Toyota Highlander
The 2019 Toyota Highlander has a predilection for space, which should come as no surprise given its three rows and seating capacity for eight people.
The superb inside is a staple that started after the 2017 model innovated in this area and has practically perfected in the 2019 model. The extra storage area provides for more load capacity. The driver’s power adjustable cushion seats also make it an incredibly comfortable model as well.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 3 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 290
2020 Toyota Highlander
The Highlander was completely redesigned and greatly enhanced for 2020, with a new look, updated features, more interior space, and Toyota’s most advanced safety and entertainment technology.
It has a powerful 295-hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine paired with an eight-speed automated gearbox and an option of front or all-wheel drive. It also receives great grades for its safety, excellent comfort, and above-average fuel economy.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 2 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 106
2021 Toyota Highlander
The 2021 Highlander is part of the 4th Generation, which was released in 2020 and offers high dependability and resale values. A new, aggressive-looking XSE model with 20-inch alloy wheels, black exterior highlights, and a sportier suspension was introduced for 2021. LED projector headlights and other driver aid technology, such as semi-automated emergency steering, are included as standard equipment throughout the range.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 0 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 129
2022 Toyota Highlander
In 2022, a Hybrid Bronze Edition model was released with Cement or Wind Chill Pearl body colors, a fashionable pair of 18-inch bronze-colored alloy wheels, and a distinctive interior layout. The 2022 Highlander is a feature-rich choice that comes standard with the newest infotainment and driver-assistance technology. Additionally, it received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Award.
The biggest modifications for this year were the height-adjustable power seats for the front passenger, which were standard on XLE grades and upwards.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 1 time
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 63
What Are The Toyota Highlander Years To Avoid?
Despite being one of the most popular SUVs on the market, the Highlander has had more issues in certain model years than others. For example, Toyota Highlander models from 2002 to 2011 were recalled because Takata’s hazardous airbags needed to be taken out and replaced.
Since having your automobile fixed soon after you buy it is something only some people look forward to, these issues are often left unattended and lead to more issues down the road.
2002 Toyota Highlander
The 2002 Highlander had several complaints of engine overheating and coolant leaks caused by stripped engine bolts. This problem affected many people. Several owners claim that the sun visor kept falling down, obstructing their view of the road.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 2 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 373
2003 Toyota Highlander
The 2003 Highlander’s engine-related issues were the most often reported ones. Owners claimed that a significant coolant leak was caused by the cylinder head bolts separating from the bottom engine block. A blown head gasket was often associated with this. In several cases, owners were obliged to replace the engine.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 2 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 374
2004 Toyota Highlander
Many of the 2005 Highlander’s issues also affected the 2004 model. Several owners said that their cars suddenly and unexpectedly accelerated. Additionally, the gearbox was criticized for its jerky shifting, hesitation, and fluid leaks.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 5 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 367
2005 Toyota Highlander
The 2005 Toyota Highlander was an improvement over the 2003 model, but it still had a number of problems that weren’t fixed. It was a step forward that issues like excessive fuel use were addressed. The car did, however, still have a few serious issues.
The oil leaking issues with this model persisted. This indicates that the cost of having regular oil changes was still too expensive. This model also had the issue of sludge accumulation in the engine as a result of frequent oil changes. Another problem that required spending money to remedy was this.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 6 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 315
2008 Toyota Highlander
The 2008 Highlander, the first year of the 2nd Generation, is the one vehicle on this list you should steer clear of. It has accumulated far more complaints than any other Highlander. The majority of the complaints came from owners who had a variety of problems with their engines.
However, low oil pressure caused by an oil cooler line failure, which may result in blown and seized engines, was the most often reported. Additionally, there were a lot of complaints about brakes that weren’t working properly since the brake actuator unit had failed.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 14 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 547
2010 Toyota Highlander
The 2010 Highlander received several complaints concerning a range of electrical concerns. The most frequent one was caused by its door-ajar light and sound, which drivers reported to be very grating and distracting.
Many owners also had issues with the hydraulic liftgate, which did not operate as required either powered by electricity or manually. The driver’s side visor dropping to obstruct the driver’s vision was another frequent owner concern.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 11 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 311
2012 Toyota Highlander
In terms of issues, the 2012 Toyota Highlander model improved on some of the earlier generations. Numerous, though, were still there, along with some fresh ones that had never before been seen in this vehicle.
This model had the same oil leak problems as its predecessors. They weren’t as severe as them, however. Users of the 2012 model only had one brand-new issue: a steering issue. Some others said the automobile has been out of balance ever since they acquired it. The car now had significant steering and suspension issues as a result of this.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 2 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 259
2013 Toyota Highlander
Toyota Highlander models from 2013 and a few years thereafter received harsh criticism due to the many issues they had. These issues led to several complaints about the car. One of the most significant was the issue with the car’s body and paint. Paint bubbling was the primary source of complaints regarding this issue. Low-quality paint is often to blame for this issue.
Along with such issues, the model also had issues with heating and cooling. Additionally, there have been a number of concerns about the Highlander’s gearbox, which may be quite expensive to fix or replace.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 3 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 305
2014 Toyota Highlander
The 2014 Toyota Highlander model has more issues than its predecessor. The car was a step down from the 2013 version. This is due to the fact that this model not only presented additional issues that were not present in the previous model. This model’s interior experienced a number of issues, including gearbox issues, air conditioning/heating issues, and more.
The entertainment system in the car was broken, and the radio had terrible reception. The chairs were unpleasant since they were poorly constructed and composed of subpar materials. The driver or other passengers have complained that these chairs have caused back discomfort after prolonged use.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 5 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 191
2015 Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander 2015 model has a reputation for receiving the most customer complaints. Most of these concerns concerned the same problems from past years, and consumers were becoming angry that serious issues weren’t being investigated.
Similar issues with the inside of the car, such as the uncomfortable seats, plagued this model. Additionally, it had the same air conditioning and heating issues as the 2014 model as well as the same paint bubbling and flaking issues as the 2013 model. The large number of complaints this model got may be attributed to the fact that it essentially adopted the flaws of its predecessors without making the necessary corrections.
Ratings
Recalls
- By NHTSA: 2 times
Complaints
- CarComplaints: 281
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common problems with Toyota Highlanders?
Oil leaks and loss of oil pressure
Since its inception, the Toyota Highlander has been known for its oil leakage issues. This issue has been somewhat appropriately started to be addressed in more current models. Poor engineering was directly to blame for this issue. These cars mostly had issues with the variable valve timing-intelligent gear, also known as the VVT-i gear. This caused the oil to leak and lose pressure.
Defective Airbags
Probably one of the most hazardous issues with the Toyota Highlander is this one. The older 2013–2016 models were the ones with the issue the most often. In these cars, a collision would not cause the airbags to inflate. It is surprising that this car ever made it to the market with such a major problem since they did not deploy even during the testing of the models.
The likelihood of the passengers suffering some major injuries rose as a result. No recalls for this issue were issued for these older models. However, Toyota recalled more than 3000 cars to address this problem when it surfaced in one of the newest 2020 models.
Head Gasket And Oxygen Sensor Failure
The oxygen sensor and head gasket failures were issues with the majority of Toyota Highlander cars from the second and third generations. These issues by themselves were not so severe since the car may function normally without them for many years. They are crucial elements for keeping track of the engine’s condition, nevertheless.
First off, the engine light is always on if one of these components isn’t working properly. This may conceal some additional issues that are potentially worse than they are. Other than that, replacing these parts is fairly pricey.
How many miles will a Toyota Highlander last?
Before having to be replaced or improved, a Toyota Highlander normally has a 300,000-mile lifespan. This demonstrates why the Highlander is a force to be reckoned with and is on the upper end of the class.
Is Toyota Highlander Good In Snow?
Toyota is a brand dedicated to providing its customers with quality and safety. In all sorts of weather and terrain, this is true, and it also applies to the Highlander brand, which offers excellent performance in snow and throughout the winter.
This is all down to the Star safety system, which is in place and has several safety measures that keep the vehicle stable in the snow. You can operate the vehicle with confidence thanks to these technologies, which include traction control and electronic brake distribution.
Conclusion
Toyota has often shown its ability to produce high-quality, comfortable, and safe automobiles for its customers, and the Highlander family of vehicles is no exception.
If you desire a high-quality experience, the 2022 model is strongly recommended as a terrific SUV option. However, stay away from the models included in the list’s worst years section, notably the 2003 model. Other than that, I hope you were able to determine which years of the Toyota Highlander were the greatest and worst.
