Does a Toyota Highlander have a heated steering wheel?
Yes. In current Highlander models sold in North America, a heated steering wheel is available, but typically only on higher trims and certain packages.
This article explains which trims typically include it, how to verify if a specific vehicle has it, and options for adding it if your model doesn’t already have the feature.
Trims and packages that commonly include heated steering wheels
Trim-level overview
Availability depends on model year and market, but the Highlander follows a common pattern where the feature is standard on top trims and optional on mid-range ones. Here’s a general guide:
- Platinum: Standard heated steering wheel
- Limited: Standard heated steering wheel
- XLE: Optional via a package or as an add-on (varies by year)
- LE and L (base trims): Not typically equipped with a heated steering wheel
- Hybrid variants: Typically align with the same trim structure (Limited/Platinum standard; XLE optional)
Concluding: If you want a heated steering wheel, target Limited or Platinum, or check if the XLE is equipped with the associated package for your model year.
How to verify in your Highlander
Key indicators to check
To confirm whether a specific Highlander has a heated steering wheel, check these indicators and sources:
- Look for a dedicated steering wheel heat switch or symbol on the steering wheel itself or near the climate controls (often a small button with a steering wheel and heat waves).
- Check the window sticker or the vehicle build sheet for the option "Heated Steering Wheel" or related package names.
- Explore the vehicle’s settings in the infotainment or instrument cluster; there may be a "Steering Wheel Heater" or climate-related toggle.
- Ask the dealer or review the owner's manual for model-year-specific details.
Concluding: Using the above checks will help you determine whether a given Highlander includes a heated steering wheel, and where it sits in the trim/package structure.
What to consider if you want to add it
Factory vs aftermarket options
If your Highlander doesn’t have a heated steering wheel but you want one, you’ll typically need to rely on factory option packages rather than aftermarket retrofits due to electrical integration and warranty considerations. Availability depends on model year and region; discuss with a Toyota dealer about install options and compatibility with your trim.
Summary
In summary, heated steering wheels are available on Toyota Highlander models, primarily on Limited and Platinum trims, with optional availability on XLE depending on year and package. Base L and LE trims generally do not offer the feature. To confirm for a specific vehicle, check the window sticker, the owner's manual, or consult a dealer. If you want to add it, the recommended path is through a factory option package rather than aftermarket modification.
What is the lawsuit against the Toyota Highlander?
Recent and ongoing lawsuits involving the Toyota Highlander address issues such as faulty door lock actuators, a potential transmission defect in certain models, and a claim that 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids have fuel tanks that do not fill completely. Other recent lawsuits include an investigation into defective power liftgates and a separate class action settlement for a Bluetooth echo defect that affected some Highlanders.
Current and recent lawsuits
- Door Lock Actuators: A class action lawsuit was filed because many Toyota models, including the Highlander, reportedly have defective door lock actuators that may fail to engage properly. The lawsuit claims owners have been charged for repeated replacements, which Toyota allegedly considered "wear and tear" items.
- Transmission Defect: Lawsuits allege that certain Highlander models (2017-2022) equipped with the UA80 automatic transmission have a defect that can cause whining, erratic shifting, and premature failure. A Customer Support Program (CSP ZJC) was created but only covers a limited number of vehicles, according to Change.org.
- Fuel Tank Defect: A class action lawsuit was filed on behalf of owners of 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids, claiming a defective fuel tank vent causes it to not fill to its capacity.
- Power Liftgate Defect: Some Highlander models (XU20, XU40, XU50, and Highlander Hybrid MHU28) are reportedly affected by a power liftgate defect that can lead to costly repairs, with the lawsuit alleging Toyota knew about the issue but did not issue a recall or warning.
- Bluetooth Echo Defect: A class action lawsuit over a Bluetooth defect that caused an echo on calls in certain Toyota models, including the Highlander, resulted in a settlement, notes this article from Unión Rayo and ClassAction.org.
How to proceed
- Identify your vehicle's details: Determine if your Highlander is included in any of these lawsuits by checking its model year, VIN, and the specific defect alleged.
- Gather evidence: Collect any repair invoices, service records, or documentation related to the defect.
- Contact an attorney: Speak to a lawyer who specializes in consumer or automotive class action lawsuits to understand your options and how you may be affected by an ongoing investigation or settlement.
- Check settlement websites: Visit official settlement websites if they are available for a specific lawsuit, as they often provide important information and instructions for potential claimants.
Does the Highlander have a heated steering wheel?
Grand Highlander Limited
The Limited is here to help with an inviting interior that includes heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and even a heated steering wheel.
Which Toyota models have heated steering wheels?
Many current Toyota models offer a heated steering wheel, especially in higher trim levels or with specific option packages. Examples include the Camry, RAV4, Crown, and Tacoma, with features often tied to packages like the "Cold Weather Package".
- Camry: Available on models like the 2025 Camry, often as part of the Cold Weather Package.
- RAV4: Features a heated steering wheel on certain trims such as the TRD Off-Road (with the Cold Weather Package) and the SE/XSE (in the Weather Package).
- Crown: Available on the XLE grade and up, including heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats on some models.
- Tacoma: The SR5 model can be equipped with an available heated steering wheel, and it is also included in packages like the TRD Off-Road Upgrade Package on some models.
- Corolla Cross: Heated steering wheels are available on the LE and Hybrid SE trims, and on the XLE and Hybrid XSE trims.
- Land Cruiser: The new Land Cruiser offers a heated steering wheel.
- GR Corolla: The available heated steering wheel is listed for this model.
- C-HR: The 2026 C-HR is listed as offering a heated steering wheel.
Where is the heated steering wheel button on a Toyota Highlander?
To activate the heated steering wheel function in the Toyota Highlander, you can typically find the relevant button or switch on the center console or the control panel on the door trim. Press or operate the button or switch to start the heated steering wheel function.
