Are there any recalls on the 2013 Toyota Highlander?

Yes, there have been recalls affecting 2013 Toyota Highlander models. The status of recalls varies by VIN, and some campaigns have been resolved while others may still be active. Checking the VIN against official recall databases is the best way to know for sure.

Overview of recalls that have involved the 2013 Highlander

Below are recall categories that have involved Highlanders from the 2013 model year or nearby years. This list highlights known safety campaigns and the general issues they addressed. It is not a VIN-specific guarantee of a current open recall.

• Airbag-related recalls, including inflator replacements under the Takata airbag safety campaign. These affected many Toyota models from the early to mid-2010s, and some Highlanders were included depending on the production date and region.


• Fuel system and ignition-related recalls that can involve fuel pumps or related hardware, which can pose a fire or stall risk. Availability depends on the exact vehicle configuration and market.


• Seat belt pretensioner or latch-related campaigns that addressed potential in-cabin safety concerns for certain models.


• Steering or electrical system recalls that targeted software updates or component fixes to improve safety and reliability.

It is important to note that recall campaigns are typically VIN-specific. Some Highlanders from that era may have no open recalls, while others may have one or more active campaigns depending on where and when they were sold.

How to check the recall status for your 2013 Highlander

To verify whether a particular Highlander is affected by open recalls, you can use official VIN-based search tools and contact a dealer for confirmation.

• Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) SaferCar.gov VIN lookup and enter your vehicle identification number (VIN). The tool will show any open recalls specific to your car and provide guidance on next steps.


• Log in to Toyota's official Owners Portal or contact a local Toyota dealership to check recall status using your VIN. Dealers can also schedule free recall work if needed.


• Prepare information such as the VIN, model year (2013), trim level, and current mileage before contacting support for faster service.

Open recalls are repaired at no cost to the owner, regardless of the vehicle's age or mileage. If a recall is found but repair parts are temporarily unavailable, the dealer will typically provide a temporary remedy or place the vehicle under a recall fix priority as parts become available.

What to do if you discover an open recall

If your Highlander is listed with an open recall, schedule service as soon as possible. Toyota and NHTSA emphasize that addressing recalls promptly helps ensure occupant safety and vehicle reliability. In the meantime, avoid driving if the recall affects critical safety systems and follow the dealer's instructions for any temporary measures.

Summary

Recalls for the 2013 Toyota Highlander exist and should be checked by VIN. While some campaigns involve airbag safety, seat belts, or fuel systems, only VIN-specific searches can confirm current status. Regularly check official channels to stay informed about any new campaigns that may affect your vehicle and ensure timely, free repairs if needed.

How do I check my Toyota recalls?

For more information about recalls, customers can go to www.toyota.com/recall or contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.

How much is a 2013 Toyota Highlander worth today?

The price for a used 2013 Toyota Highlander varies, but generally ranges from approximately $7,000 to $19,000, depending on the trim, condition, and mileage. You can find lower-priced options with higher mileage, while higher-trim models with fewer miles will be more expensive.
 
Price by trim and condition

• Base/Plus: These models can often be found in the $8,000 to $12,000 range, sometimes reaching up to $13,000, especially with higher mileage. 
• SE: The SE trim typically falls between $10,000 and $19,000, with prices heavily influenced by mileage and a vehicle's specific history. 
• Limited: This higher trim level can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $17,000 or more, depending on the specific vehicle. 
• Hybrid: The Limited Hybrid model can be around $10,000 to $13,000. 

Factors that influence price

• Mileage: Higher mileage will result in a lower price. 
• Condition: A vehicle's condition, history report (accidents, owners), and maintenance records significantly affect its value. 
• Trim level: Higher trims like the Limited will naturally have a higher price than base models. 
• Location: Prices can vary depending on your geographic location due to local market demand and availability. 

What is the recall on the 2013 Toyota Highlander?

Toyota is recalling certain model year 2013 Highlander vehicles manufactured March 13, 2013, through August 6, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the second row left hand seat may not lock in place when positioned in the forward front or second adjusting position.

What is the most common problem with a Toyota Highlander?

The most common problem with the Toyota Highlander is a major oil leak and loss of oil pressure caused by a faulty VVT-i oil line. Other frequent issues include infrequent but noticeable interior rattles, especially from the moonroof or dashboard, and problems with the 8-speed automatic transmission in 2017-2019 models, leading to noises, delayed shifting, and failure. 
You can watch this video to learn about common problems with Toyota Highlander, including the 8-speed transmission issue: 59sChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025
Most common problems

• VVT-i oil line rupture: This is the most frequent and serious issue, where the oil line bursts, causing a massive oil leak that can lead to complete engine failure if the vehicle is driven while the low oil pressure light is on. A revised part has been issued, but it has also been reported to have the same problem. 
• Interior rattles and noises: Many owners report various rattles and squeaks coming from the interior, such as the moonroof, dashboard, or infotainment screen, particularly on bumpy roads or in cold weather. 
• 8-speed automatic transmission: Specific models, particularly the 2017–2019 Highlanders, have been associated with issues such as a whining noise, delayed shifts, hard shifts, and even complete failure. 
• Airbag sensor failure: Some models have a faulty front passenger airbag sensor that can short-circuit, preventing the airbag from deploying correctly. 

Other potential issues

• Air and water leaks: Some model years have reported issues with plugged sunroof drain lines, leading to water leaks inside the vehicle. 
• Check engine light: This can be caused by various issues, such as the hose coming off the air filter housing or a failed oxygen sensor. 
• Brake issues: Some models have reported premature wear of brake pads and rotors, or a vibrating sensation when braking. 

This video discusses problems with the 8-speed transmission in the 2017-2019 Toyota Highlander: 58sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Jul 31, 2021