The Highlander midsize SUV has a lot going for it, including its roomy interior, smooth ride, and many useful features. Also, like most other Toyota vehicles, it’s reliable. However, no vehicle is completely immune to problems. Here are the three most common Toyota problems reported by many real owners.
What are the most common Toyota Highlander problems?
To find out the most common Toyota Highlander problems we looked at the analysis powered by , which compiles vehicle data from real owners. RepairPal’s method of determining vehicle reliability is beneficial. While some automotive evaluators rely on their own testing for the Highlander and other models for reliability analysis, their use of owner-provided information is more reflective of real-world scenarios.
The problem reported by real owners is a large oil leak and loss of oil pressure, according to data from RepairPal. The reason this is a common problem is that the VVT-i oil line in the midsize SUV has been known to burst. And when it breaks down, there’s a huge oil leak, with the oil covering the engine, undercarriage, and the ground.
This problem is most serious when driving the Highlander. If the oil line bursts while driving, the engine oil pressure and low engine oil level warning lights come on. And if you continue to drive after these warnings, there will be a complete engine failure due to oil leakage.
Due to the frequency of the VVT-i oil line failing, Toyota has issued a revised part. However, the revised side was plagued by the same problem. To correct the problem, the oil line must be positioned. Also, with the large oil leak, the undercarriage and engine compartment must be .
Airbag warning light on due to a faulty central airbag sensor
The second most frequent problem reported by Toyota Highlander owners is light shining due to a faulty central air bag sensor. This problem is an easy fix, as it only requires replacing the airbag sensor.
Check engine light on due to hose coming off air cleaner housing
The other common problem for the Toyota Highlander is lighting due to the hose outside the air cleaner housing. This problem occurs after changing the air filter. The hose is easily detached from the air cleaner housing, which is a component of the emission control system. While driving the midsize SUV with the hose disconnected, the Check Engine Light comes on. Fixing this issue simply requires reconnecting the hose.
How reliable is the Toyota Highlander and is it expensive to maintain and repair?
According to RepairPal, the Toyota Highlander is “above average” for . It has a reliability rating of four out of five. In a field of 26 midsize SUVs the auto site evaluated, the Highlander is the seventh most reliable.
Plus, the Highlander is less expensive to repair than most midsizes. Its average annual cost for repairs is $489.
