Overall rating (best variant)
Safety ratings
2018 Toyota Highlander SUV AWD
- Lane departure warningStandard
- Forward collision warningStandard
- Electronic stability controlStandard
2018 Toyota Highlander SUV FWD
- Lane departure warningStandard
- Forward collision warningStandard
- Electronic stability controlStandard
Crash test videos & photos
No public crash-test footage is available for this vehicle.
Recalls (5)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEMCampaign 18E107000 · 27/11/2018
Fujian Wanda Automobile Glass Industry (Wanda) is recalling certain aftermarket Replacement Windshields sold for use in 2014-2018 Toyota Highlander vehicles. The windshields have an attached wire harness that water may leak into, possibly causing damage to the vehicle's Engine Control Module (ECM).
Risk: The ECM damage may result in the engine stalling, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Wanda will notify owners, and service centers will replace the windshields, and inspect the ECM for damage, having it replaced, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 29, 2019. Owners may contact Wanda customer service at 1-864-281-2760.
- EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELSCampaign 17V831000 · 20/12/2017
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Toyota 4Runner and Tundra, 2018 Toyota Highlander, RAV4 and Lexus GX460 and 2017 Toyota Sienna and Tacoma vehicles. These vehicles may have incorrect load carrying capacity modification labels. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Risk: An incorrect load information label can result in the operator overloading the vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Toyota will notify owners and provide them with corrected labels, free of charge. The recall began on January 23, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are H0Z for Toyota vehicles, and HLF for Lexus vehicles.
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMPCampaign 20V012000 · 13/01/2020
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) recalled certain 2018-2019 4Runner, Highlander, Camry, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, and Lexus RC 300, RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, IS 300, LC 500, LS 500, LX 570, RX 350L, and 2019 Toyota Avalon and Corolla, and certain Lexus NX 300, and ES 350 vehicles on January 13, 2020. On March 4, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include certain 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser, 2018 Avalon, Corolla, 2014 FJ Cruiser, 2017 Sienna and Lexus 2018 ES 350, 2018-2019 GS 300, 2013-2014 GS350, 2014-2015 GX 460, IS 350 and LX 570, 2014 IS F, 2018-2019 IS 350, LC 500H and LS 500H, 2013-2015 LS 460, 2015 NX 200T and RC350, 2017 RC 200T and RX 350. Toyota also removed the 2018-2019 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser and 2018-2019 Lexus GX 460 and LX 570 and 2019 NX300 from inclusion in this recall. On March 19, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include 2015 Lexus GS350 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Risk: If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began May 4, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 20TB02 and 20TA02 for Toyota vehicles and 20LB01 and 20LA01 for Lexus vehicles.
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMPCampaign 20V682000 · 04/11/2020
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Risk: If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly with an improved one, free of charge. Owners of specific models were notified that remedy parts were available starting January 21, 2021. Owners of other models will be notified as remedy parts become available. Remedy parts should be available for all affected vehicles by late March 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-012. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA01.
- SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUMCampaign 18V211000 · 03/04/2018
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018 Toyota Camry and Highlander vehicles, 2017 Toyota Sienna and Tacoma vehicles and 2017 Lexus RX350 vehicles. During the manufacturing process, the oil galley in the rotor for the brake booster vacuum pump assembly may have been improperly machined possibly resulting in a sudden loss of brake assist.
Risk: A sudden loss of braking assist can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake booster vacuum pump, free of charge. The recall began on May 9, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371, or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are J0K/JLD.
Owner complaints
Most-reported areas
- POWER TRAIN64
- SERVICE BRAKES58
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER43
- ENGINE33
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM24
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM22
- AIR BAGS19
- FUEL SYSTEM14
Read individual complaints (50 most recent)
These are unverified consumer reports filed with NHTSA, shown as submitted.
- 12/29/2023· AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKESCrash
10/10 Tapped pedal into Drive: Toyota Highlander 2018 Car sped off at 50mph with my foot on brake for 3 minutes Holding brake down and down-shifting did nothing Vehicle stopped when it hit a pole destroying passenger-side fender and bumper Airbag did not deploy Unintended acceleration/sticky pedal as reported early this century when Toyota recalled 80,000 vehicles. On 11/17/2023 an ER or Black Box four hour test/investigation was performed and I was told I would have results 12/28. Zero! When I telephone to report I was supposed to have EDR test results in 30 days, the operator (not the unreachable quality control personnel) tells me, "Well review of your crash results could take longer than 30 days." need to have a safe car to drive to work but this one has a potentially deadly defect. I have completed the inspection of your vehicle. Inspection report from Bosch to Toyota below: Please find three files attached to this email: 1) EDR FAQ_2.0.PDF "Frequently Asked Questions" related to the information in the Event Data Recorder (the Air Bag Control unit's digital memory). 2) [XXX]_ACM.PDF The Event Data from your vehicle in PDF form, this file will open on your computer. 3) [XXX]_ACM.CDRx This file contains the same information as Item #2, but it is a special format that will not display on your computer. It is sent to you so you will have the raw data for the #2 file above. I am not trained to interpret this data for you. The engineers will interpret this data and respond to you with their findings within 30 business days. 3 Attachments • Scanned by Gmail INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- 12/29/2023· SERVICE BRAKES
DRIVING DOWN THE STREET WHEN AN ALARM WENT OFF STATING "BRAKING POWER LOW" AND TO "STOP IMMEDIATELY". VEHICLE TO BE TOWED AND TAKEN TO LOCAL CAR DEALERSHIP. OVER THE PHONE, THE DEALERSHIP CLAIMS NO BRAKING ELEMENT HAS BEEN RECALLED FOR MY PARTICULAR VEHICLE, HOWEVER OTHER HIGHLANDERS FROM THE SAME YEAR MODEL WERE RECALLED FOR BRAKING ISSUES (VACUUM PUMP.) HAVE BEEN HAVING ISSUES WITH THE "START/STOP SYSTEM MALFUNCTION" ALARM GOING OFF AS WELL FOR SEVERAL MONTHS, BUT DEALERSHIP STATES IT WILL NOT AFFECT THE DRIVABILITY OF THE VEHICLE.
- 12/28/2023· POWER TRAIN
My transmission started making a whine sound upon acceleration, and at times hesitation of acceleration (inconsistent). Toyota Service identified the issue in 2018 as a defective part from manufacturing and related in the repair notice to Toyota Service Bulletin TSB-160-18 which states certain Highlanders (my year and model) have an issue with a defective part in the transaxle/transmission. Toyota issued an extended warranty for the problem in 2020 (unlimited miles for coverage). I was then told that it then DIDN'T apply to my VIN, even tho it was the problem diagnosed by a Toyota service technician associated with the TSB above, so they wouldn't cover thru the extended warranty. Told me that I have to pay for a new transmission over $9,000. My understanding (I cannot verify) that the initial service bulletin was expanded to cover more models in 2021, then removed the extended warranty, and did not issue a recall. Apparently Toyota is aware of a serious transmission problem caused by a defective part, and it is wider issue. This needs to be addressed as it is a significant hazard and danger Toyota is aware of, and not the cause of normal and expected wear and tear. I need help addressing this with TOyota and want to be sure the problem gets fixed before injuries occur. Toyota has multiple bulletins in the NHTSA data for this issue from before and after this issued bulletin demonstrating on ongoing issue. I tried to upload the TSB and the repair documentation but your system is not allowing
- 12/27/2021· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1.) Bluetooth connects without issue to iPhone (for both media and phone) however during a phone call (incoming/outgoing) the car system will drop the call after about 2 mins of talk time. The phone then disconnects from the car & will only re-pair once the system restarts. 2. ) The safety hazard is due to distracted, hands required operation of the phone due to Bluetooth system not working properly 3.) The issue has been under 'warranty' for nearly 2 years at my dealer. There is currently no resolution. Dealer admits the fault is due to a compatibility issue of various vendors supplying the head unit, bluetooth/radio unit, and software. 4.) At the instruction of the manufacturer, the dealer has refused to replace any hardware.
- 12/26/2025· STRUCTURE
On 11/22/2025, We were done shopping and when we tried to open the trunk it made weird squeaky sounds and we tried to close it but it suddenly self destructed. There was a loud noise and it shattered instantly and there was glass everywhere.
- 12/22/2025· POWER TRAIN
Vehicle’s 8 speed transmission started a low pitch whine when pressing the accelerator around 90,000 miles. Transmission has begun shifting roughly since 105,000 miles. Vehicle is outside of Toyota’s manufacture date deadline for T-SB-0008-21 but this issue sounds exactly like what is described in Toyota’s TSB.
- 12/22/2023· POWER TRAIN
Our transmission has a known manufacture air We have called Toyota several times and they refuse to do anything about this are transmission is going out which could cause a safety issue when driving down the road It's the UA80 TRANSMISSION Toyota is doing a customer support program on this particular transmission but due to the fact ours falls six months after the manufacturer date it doesn't fall within that area this is a manufacturer air due to a bolt not being bent over far enough I feel with the transmission issues that it can cause like serious problems including safety among ourselves or others in Toyota is ignoring this is when brought to them
- 12/21/2020· ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
VEHICLE WAS DRIVING ON STREET AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. TOOK VEHICLE TO SERVICE PROVIDER AND IS RELATED TO RECALL. NO REMEDY FOR RECALL HAS BEEN DEVELOPED -- CURRENTLY DRIVING A LOANER CAR.
- 12/20/2023· VISIBILITY/WIPER
The windshield has warps and creates blurry vision. Glass has been replaced 3 times so far from Toyota Dealership and issue continues to be there. Car has been in service for a month now. Glass manufacturer: Pilkington
- 12/18/2024· POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and attempting to accelerate, the transmission whined abnormally loud. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced due to internal failures. The vehicle was not repaired because the warranty had expired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by the local dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 107,000.
- 12/17/2024· POWER TRAIN
Transmission developed whine at 64,000 miles similar to the whine/issues experienced for customers covered under Toyota's ZJC Customer Support Program. My VIN was not in the range of impacted units, but had the same issue/failure.
- 12/15/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I own a Toyota Highlander 2018 LE. I have been servicing it regularly at authorized Toyota delaership service centers. I have around 28000 miles on it. While trying to start the car this morning, the car wouldn't start, the brake feels hard and won't depress, and the dashboard displays the message" Braking Power Low STOP in a Safe Place See Owner's Manual"
- 12/11/2024· ENGINE
Wife was driving and out of nowhere axle to the transfer case broke leaving her stranded in the middle of the road. Seems like transmission had been a common issue in these vehicles around the same year
- 12/09/2025· POWER TRAIN
Vehicle experienced whining noise when decelerating. Toyota dealer service technician documented the noise as coming from the transmission due to an issue with the pinion shafts. Our safety was put at risk by a potential for the transmission no longer working when driving. There were no warning lamps, messages, etc. prior to the failure. The failure occurred around 136,000 miles. All recommended services, including on the transmission, occurred at the same Toyota dealer service.
- 12/02/2025· POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that while driving uphill and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle decelerated and rolled backwards unexpectedly. An independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was inspected by a mechanic friend and diagnosed with transmission failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 92,000.
- 12/02/2023· SERVICE BRAKES
I’ve always had issues with my breaks since I purchased my car. Today when I tried to turn on my car I received a message stating breaking power low. I did not have that issue last night nor had I seen it before. My car will not start
- 12/01/2025· POWER TRAIN
The transmission makes a whining noise, especially when pulling, as in driving up an incline. I took the 2018 Highlander to Rusty Drewing Toyota in Jefferson City, MO to be diagnosed. They said the transmission needs to be replaced. In researching the problem, I found a bulletin/recall: 7A61K20482. The bulletin says the serial number must be before 7A617E03416. I want to get on your list and hopefully, be able to get some kind of relief for this problem.
- 12/01/2018· SEAT BELTS
THE INCIDENT INVOLVES A 2018 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER V6 AWD THAT WAS PURCHASED NEW ON JUNE 1, 2018. AS MY 12 YEAR OLD SON WAS BUCKLING HIMSELF INTO THE 2ND ROW DRIVER-SIDE SEAT TODAY, THE SEAT BELT RIPPED APART IN HIS HANDS. THE SUDDEN-MOTION LOCKING MECHANISM NEVER ENGAGED, AND NO UNDUE FORCE (EXCEPT FOR WHAT ONE WOULD EXPECT FROM A NORMAL 12 YEAR OLD) WAS APPLIED WHEN PULLING THE SEATBELT FROM ITS STOWED POSITION. WHEN I PERSONALLY INSPECTED THE REMAINING SEVEN (7) SEATBELTS, BOTH THE 3RD ROW DRIVER-SIDE AND PASSENGER-SIDE SEATBELTS FAILED UNDER MINIMAL STRESS (FAR LESS THAN MY FULL BODY WEIGHT OR STRENGTH).
- 11/29/2024· POWER TRAIN
Vehicle started making a whining noise and diagnosed at Lancaster Toyota as needing a new transmission at a cost of $8500. Ended up having transmission replaced at a local transmission repair shop for $7000.
- 11/28/2018· ENGINE
AFTER VEHICLE HAS WARMED UP ENGINE RPM SPEED DROPS TO NEAR 500 WHEN BRAKE ENGAGED AT STOP LIGHTS AND VEHICLE IDLES ROUGH AND ATTEMPTS TO STALL. SHIFTING TO NEUTRAL BRINGS RPM SPEED BACK UP AND IDLES SMOOTH AGAIN. PROBLEM OCCURS DAILY OVER LAST TWO MONTHS. VEHICLE IS NEAR NEW, 1750 MILES. AUTO STOP START FEATURE IS NOT ENGAGED. TAKEN TO DEALER WHO ADVISED NO PROBLEM FOUND. RETURNING TO DEALER AGAIN FOR ANOTHER TRY AND HOPEFULLY BETTER RESULTS.
- 11/25/2021· SERVICE BRAKES
Sudden warning lights that the brake system is low. The vehicle is inoperable.
- 11/24/2024· POWER TRAIN
I brought my car to the dealership due to a small whining noise when accelerating over 30mph. Technician determined the noise is coming from internal transmission failure and recommended replacement. The small whining noise was the only indication something was wrong. No check engine or warning lights on my dashboard. The car is under 50,000 miles at the time.
- 11/24/2024· SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
My husband took my car from the carport and parked it in the driveway near the water hose to wash the car. When he finished, it would not start. The message “Braking Power Low” , “STOP in a Safe Place”, “ See Owner’s Manual”showed up. Of course, we could not find anything in the large owner’s manual concerning that! I checked with my VIN to see if mine was included in the recall regarding this same matter, but it was NOT, just as all other Toyota Highlander 2018 owners who complained were told!!! We will find out tomorrow and pray it won’t be a lot of money. We have a Thanksgiving trip planned to see our grandchildren. Today is Sunday and we planned to leave on Tuesday. I shudder to think what could have happened if it suddenly stopped on [XXX] with all the holiday traffic. My husband was looking to buy a car after the first of the year and was going to buy a Toyota. After this, he has reconsidered. Toyota needs to see all these complaints and how many were not included in the recall!!! Something’s not right! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- 11/24/2023· AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKESCrash
My relatives remembered the 2002-2011 recall of 80,000 Toyotas, 90 deaths due to unintended acceleration and said that seems exactly what happened to me last month. NEAR FATAL COLLISION DUE TO STICKY PEDAL 2018 Toyota Highlander 10/10 Slowly backed out of parking space in large, empty commercial lot: sunny day, 3pm Tapped pedal into Drive Car sped off at 50+mph with my foot off pedal Sped around lot for approximately 3minutes Holding brake down and down-shifting did nothing except cause sheer terror with my uncontrollable vehicle Hit pole and vehicle came to a stop after near-complete destruction of passenger-side bumper No injury except sheer mental terror No witnesses DO NOT Blame the victim. Dealer says all-weather floormat could never have been or be involved.
- 11/19/2021· FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Fuel pump was replaced last year in October 2020 and was out of warranty when incident happened. Vehicle stalled again in the middle of my drive and was stranded in the middle of a busy road. Fuel pump found to be failing per my mechanic.
- 11/19/2021· STRUCTUREFire
The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Highlander equipped with a tow package. The contact stated that after taking the vehicle in for service, he made the dealer aware that on the passenger’s side rear of the vehicle where the muffler tip came out from underneath the vehicle that the plastic piece above the muffler was melted from exhaust heat coming from the muffler while towing his trailer. The dealer documented the incident and forwarded the findings to the manufacturer. The contact did not receive a callback, so he contacted the dealer and was informed that the vehicle was out of warranty and therefore there was nothing to pursue. The contact was concerned that there would be severe damage done to the bumper and wiring harness from the exhaust heat. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was still awaiting a response from the manufacturer. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000. The VIN was not available.
- 11/17/2025· POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power in the middle of the roadway. The contact stated that the RPM continued to increase rapidly, but the vehicle failed to respond. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the washer tab, designed to prevent the loosening of the nut inside the transmission, resulting in damage to the transmission. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to the Customer Support Program: ZJC. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 104,000.
- 11/14/2024· SERVICE BRAKES
Around 29,000 miles, I noticed a severe brake vibration while slowing down or stopping from speeds above 55 mph. The vehicle is driven very carefully and not harshly. As of today (11/14/2024), the vehicle is 77 months old and only has 49,000 miles on it. I had been told by Toyota that the rotors are not warped, so it must be a defective part in the braking system.
- 11/13/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Transmission just started shifting extremely hard between first and second gear. Turning snow mode on stops the shifting problem so I know it’s an internal issue with the transmission. The Highlander XLE only has 67,748 miles. Way to early for a transmission issue
- 11/13/2025· POWER TRAIN
Transmission has failed at 73,000 miles
- 11/07/2025· POWER TRAIN
Transmission, whine rough shifting issues. Yes can be looked at. Tough to hear over the noise, harder to know when its going to change gears and increase speed due to slow/intermittent gear shifts. Yes they have a TSB from Toyota that descript the issue and Toyota has extend some vins warranty's for this issue but not for all affect vehicles apparently. No, not by any of those. Yes DTC have come on for awd system issues. Frist appear at 90K.
- 11/06/2018· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
SUNROOF EXPLODED WHILE DRIVING ~ NO INCIDENT OF FLYING DEBRIS
- 11/03/2025· POWER TRAIN
The transmission on my 2018 Highlander is failing prematurely at 80k miles in alignment with known/published customer support program ZJC. My car is not a VIN covered by the program today. Symptoms include a growing whining sound coming from the transmission and confirmed by two Toyota dealership service centers.
- 10/30/2018· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
THE RADIO SHORTED OUT DISABLING ALL COMPUTER APPS I WAS TOLD BY MIDTOWN TOYOTA IT WILL TAKE A WEEK FOR NEW RADIO TO ARRIVE
- 10/28/2025· VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The issue involves the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control system (vehicle-to-vehicle distance control mode) in my 2018 Toyota Highlander. This system automatically cancels when the vehicle’s speed drops to approximately 25 mph (40 km/h) or below. The system disengages without driver input during normal driving conditions such as heavy traffic or congestion. The component remains functional but poses a safety concern due to its operational design. The vehicle and system are available for inspection upon request. 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? This malfunction creates a significant safety risk when driving in stop-and-go or congested traffic. The sudden loss of adaptive speed control forces the driver to quickly resume manual braking and acceleration, which can cause delayed reactions and potential rear-end collisions. The unexpected disengagement may also confuse drivers, especially those relying on the system to maintain safe following distances. This behavior increases cognitive load and the chance of driver error, particularly for elderly or less experienced drivers. 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. The issue has been observed and replicated multiple times during normal driving conditions, such as during city traffic or highway slowdowns. It is also acknowledged in the vehicle owner’s manual, which specifies that the system automatically cancels below approximately 25 mph. However, this design flaw has not been formally addressed or corrected by Toyota dealerships or service centers as a safety concern. 4. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? The vehicle has not been inspected specifically for this concern by Toyota or other third parties. However, the condition is consistent across the same model and year,
- 10/25/2023· SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake warning light illuminated, and a message was displayed alerting the driver to a fault with the braking system. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the brake pads and rotors needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the brake assist vacuum pump. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related it to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V211000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 33,000.
- 10/22/2021· SERVICE BRAKES
I bought this 2018 Toyota Highlander xle brand new from the dealer on 2018.My first brakes and rotors were changed by toyota dealer on march 2020 at 24000 miles and then the second time again brakes and rotors were changed december 2020 at 39000. Both time it was Toyota OEM parts. Now at 63000 these ae weare out i bought different company breaks and brembo rotors akebonno brakes. Each time it was more than $800 job. It looks like toyota is making very cheap break pads and rotors and for consumers are not getting what they say about their brakes and rotors. Which ia supposed to be 30000 miles. I am requesting someone to tale a look at this matter and save the consumers to spend less. Thank you
- 10/22/2020· SERVICE BRAKES
AN INSPECTION FOUND MY LEFT REAR BRAKE WAS SEVERELY WORN AT ONLY 21000 MILES. THIS IS SO UNUSUAL I WANT TO REGISTER MY COMPLAINT. ALL OF THE THREE BRAKES WERE ONLY LIGHTLY WORN.
- 10/19/2022· AIR BAGS
UNKNOWN We have had the vehicle for just over 2 years and out of the blue we get a SRS airbag warning indicator that says visit the dealership. The dealership says that it is $2300 to repair a wiring harness that they Are unsure of the location though. The vehicle has 86,000 miles on it which is 26,000 miles over coverage for that part. In my opinion this is the part that should not fill this early and should still be covered. Much less the SRS components should never fail. We are forced to drive with a warning indicator that comes on every five seconds and blocks all the other information.
- 10/17/2018· ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT NOTICED FLUID LEAKING FROM THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO TOYOTA OF BOWIE (16700 GOVERNOR BRIDGE RD, BOWIE, MD 20716) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE GASKET WAS NOT SEALED CORRECTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 4,200. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED.
- 10/15/2023· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I bought my car used. Only had it for 3years and already had to replace the battery twice. Once I was stopped at light turning left, yield to oncoming traffic, since my foot was on brakes battery just dyed in middle of light, police had to come made sure I didn't get hit. 2nd time car cut off at McDonald's drive thru and battery went dead again. Something is wrong with batteries that make them go bad, n it's unsafe bc I've got stranded twice in not.so good places..
- 10/12/2022· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The windshield in our 2018 Highlander suffered three cracks before we finally had the windshield replaced. According to the company that performed the repair, we are one of many Highlander customers that have had these issues. We know that rocks were the cause, but the number of incidents appear to be higher than normal. To avoid having another problem, we added a protective coating to our windshield at an additional cost of $600. We assume this to be one of many incidents, and want it to be known that this appears to be a defect in glass specification and/or manufacturing.
- 10/09/2019· STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKESCrash
WHEN PULLING INTO A PARKING PLACE, SLOWLY, WITH RIGHT FOOT ON THE BRAKE, GETTING READY TO STOP BEFORE THE CURB, THE CAR ACCELERATED, JUMPED THE CURB GOING OVER THE SIDEWALK AND HIT THE BUILDING. MY RIGHT FOOT WAS STILL ON THE BRAKE WHEN IT STOPPED. THIS HAPPENED IN A DOCTORS OFFICE PARKING LOT. AIR BAGS DID NOT INFLATE.
- 10/06/2024· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
While driving the car at approximately 40 mphs the car suddenly jolted and stopped moving. Luckily no one was behind and I pulled over also noticing check engine light came on. I immediately called Toyota and was able to drive it to them. I spent $140 diagnosis fees for them to say it was ignition coil B. After replacing the coil the light and same problems continued. We took the car to another mechanic, spent $600 diagnosis fees to find out it is the ECM. We then contacted the Toyota dealer asking about previous recalls that were on the ECM for 2018 Toyota Highlanders which is our car. They stated our car based off the VIN has no recalls. How could this recall be for 2018 Toyota Highlanders but not for our 2018 Toyota Highlander with the same issues? Our car only has 80,000 miles.
- 10/05/2022· ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Engine light came on, took to auto parts store and they checked for the code. Was told it was an issue with the fuel pump/ vacuum. Reset engine light, stopped to fill up with gas and car would not restart. The steering wheel locked and car would not crank. Was jumped off by a bystander, still would not turn over. After sitting for approx 15 minutes, I tried to restart vehicle again and it cranked. One week later, on vacation, car would not start after getting gas. Once again, took it to auto part store and same code and check engine light was on. Reset engine light, drove fine. Once check engine light is on, I am unable to use cruise control, this was very inconvenient since we were traveling! I have had this same issue happen about 5 times now! Making appointment with dealership to see if this weill be covered by my warranty and hopefully it is a simple fix.
- 10/02/2022· SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
About6 months ago I started getting the messege "Breaking power low" when i try to start my vehicle. So I took it to Star Toyota Service paid $175 to diagnose the problem. The found DTC 1241 and told me to change the qhole skid control unit. Eventhough on the paper it said skid control ecu battery. So I took it to another dealer named Penn Toyota and they found the same code but they said the voltage is coming low because I may leave my ignition on before I start my vehicle. That sounds funny because I do not do this and on top if i do this my battery would be dead. As of right now I spoke with toyota and since my extended warrenty has finished so they offered my 25% coupon if i fixe the problem. Now I do not know what is the problem and which dealer to trust. The reason I am reporting to "nhtsa" is because if I die because of this problem with my car which is still undiagnosed so at least they can find out the same reason so there will be no more death after me. Again the messege comes on the crean is " Breaking power low. Stop in a safe place "
- 10/02/2019· FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
WHEN FILLING THE VEHICLE WITH GAS, AFTER THE GAS PUMP SHUTS OFF, GAS COMES SURGING BACK OUT OFF THE FILLER NECK WITH ENOUGH FORCE TO SPLASH ON WHOMEVER IS FILLING THE VEHICLE. THIS HAPPENS AT MULTIPLE GAS STATIONS AND DIFFERENT PUMPS WITH DIFFERENT FLOW RATES. EACH TIME, THE HANDLE IS EITHER BEING HELD BY HAND OR BY LATCH ON PUMP HANDLE. WHEN THE TANK IS FULL, PUMP SHUTS OFF AND GASOLINE HAS CEASED TO FLOW FROM THE NOZZLE, THE GASOLINE THEN IMMEDIATELY SURGES BACK OUT OF THE VEHICLE. THERE IS ENOUGH GAS THAT COMES BACK OUT TO MAKE A PUDDLE ON THE GROUND. DEALER DIAGNOSED AND REPLACED A FAULTY VENT VALVE. AFTER TWO MONTHS THE PROBLEM IS HAPPENING AGAIN. HAVE PROVIDED VIDEO EVIDENCE TO THE DEALER. DEALER REFUSES TO ESCALATE OR RECOGNIZE IT AS A SAFETY CONCERN. REFUSES TO PROVIDE LOANER VEHICLE WHILE VEHICLE IS DIAGNOSED AND REPAIRED. DUE TO THE NATURE OF THIS SAFETY ISSUE AND HIGH PROBABILITY OF CONTAMINATION FROM GASOLINE AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS COMPOUNDED BY THE RECURRENT NATURE OF THIS ISSUE, I FEEL THIS NEEDS TO BE ELEVATED EXPEDIENTLY.
- 10/01/2024· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
The 2018 Toyota Highlander has less than 100K miles on it and has been diagnosed with an $11K repair for essentially a new engine! The dealership (Coughlin Toyota, Heath OH) has said it needs cylinder head assembly for $10,684.20. The error message we are getting is a "Check Engine" light "Take Vehicle to Dealership" and the AWD/ Traction Control shuts off. When searching online forums, there are MANY people experiencing the same problem, apparently a well know issue with Toyota (not just Highlanders). We have only owned this vehicle for a few years and believe this is a manufacturer error that desperately needs investigated. Please.
- 09/27/2022· AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCECrash
A car hit me on the back passenger door. My car was pushed to the curb where I hit a tree and the air bags didn't go off. My dad was injured bad.
- 09/27/2022· AIR BAGSCrash
I was traveling down the road, when a car hit my car in the back passenger door. My car was pushed onto the curb and it hit a tree. My car was totaled and it was a hit and run. The air bags didn't go off and my dad and I were hurt. I reported it to Toyota and the car was put on hold be the insurance company. There were no warning lights and the emergency stop didn't work. the car had 15000 on it and it was inspected in Jan. 2022.