Was 2012 a good year for the Toyota Highlander?

The Toyota Highlander had a solid year in 2012, with strong sales and positive reviews from critics and consumers. The midsize SUV continued to be a popular choice for families, offering a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reliable performance.

Overview of the 2012 Toyota Highlander

The 2012 Toyota Highlander was the third model year of the vehicle's second generation, which had been introduced in 2008. The Highlander remained one of Toyota's best-selling SUVs, competing in the crowded midsize SUV segment against rivals like the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet Traverse.

The 2012 Highlander was available in several trim levels, including the base LE, mid-level SE, and top-of-the-line Limited. Powertrain options included a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.5-liter V6, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.

Sales and Critical Reception

In 2012, Toyota sold over 122,000 Highlanders in the United States, a 15% increase from the previous year. The Highlander was Toyota's third-best-selling SUV, behind the RAV4 and 4Runner. Reviewers praised the Highlander's comfortable ride, spacious and versatile interior, and reputation for reliability.

The 2012 Highlander received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), further bolstering its appeal to family buyers.

Key Highlights of the 2012 Toyota Highlander

• Comfortable, spacious interior with seating for up to eight passengers


• Available all-wheel drive for improved traction and capability


• Reputation for reliability and durability


• Solid fuel economy, especially with the four-cylinder engine


• Comprehensive safety features, including standard stability and traction control

Overall, the 2012 Toyota Highlander was a strong performer in the midsize SUV segment, offering a well-rounded package of comfort, utility, and reliability that appealed to many family buyers.

What year to stay away from a Toyota Highlander?

Years to avoid in the Toyota Highlander include 2003, 2008, 2014, 2015, and 2020 due to common issues like transmission problems, oil leaks, and technology glitches. Other problematic years to consider are 2001-2007 (engine and climate control issues) and 2016-2019 (varying issues including potential oil leaks in some models).
 
This video discusses problems with the Toyota Highlander from 2020 to 2025, including paint issues: 54sCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 11, 2025
Toyota Highlander years to avoid

• 2001–2007: Prone to engine overheating, head gasket failures, and climate control issues like AC compressor and blower motor problems. 
• 2003: A big year for issues, particularly engine oil sludge buildup and premature transmission wear, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch. 
• 2008: A redesigned model that experienced oil cooler line leaks, which can cause engine damage if not addressed, and lower-quality interior components. 
• 2014: A recall was issued for the second-row seat assembly that may not lock correctly into the seat track, and there were also reports of issues that might be linked to the transmission, says Clutch and Reddit users. 
• 2015: Experienced growing pains from its redesign, with various reports of growing issues, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch. 
• 2020: Experienced early transmission and software problems, say Clutch and Reddit users. 

You can watch this video to learn more about common problems with the 2020-2025 Toyota Highlander: 51sChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025

Is 2012 a good year for Highlander?

As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and comfort to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest. 366 out of 472 of owners (78% of them) rank the 2012 Highlander five out of five stars.

What is the best year of Highlander to buy used?

The best years for a used Toyota Highlander are generally considered to be the 2016-2019 models for their reliability, safety features, and a good balance of modernity and value. However, 2006-2007 are excellent choices for budget-conscious buyers seeking first-generation durability, while 2021-2022 are great for those prioritizing modern technology in the fourth generation. 
Top recommended years
This video discusses Toyota Highlander reliability problems: 1mChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025

• 2016-2019: A strong recommendation for a blend of features and reliability, with 2017-2019 models benefiting from a mid-cycle refresh that added more standard safety features and refined the V6 engine. The 2019 model is often praised for perfecting the third-generation design. 
• 2021-2022: These are top-rated years in the newer, fourth generation, offering the latest design, technology, and safety features, with 2021 introducing a completely redesigned model. 

Budget-friendly options
This video discusses the best Toyota Highlander models to buy based on price and reliability: 55sCar MavenYouTube · Feb 16, 2025

• 2006-2007: These are considered the best of the first generation, known for exceptional durability and affordability. They are capable of high mileage but can be harder to find in good condition. 

Other years to consider

• 2013: A great value for those on a tighter budget, offering a good V6 engine and strong safety scores at a lower price point. 
• 2017 Hybrid: A solid choice in the hybrid lineup, with a refreshed engine and standard safety tech, though it's important to check for fuel pump recalls. 

Years to approach with caution

• 2017 non-hybrid: Some sources suggest this is the worst year of the non-hybrid third generation, as it was the first to use the new 8-speed transmission, which may be less reliable than the older one. 
• 2014-2015 Hybrid: These years can have issues with the rear power hatch. 

General tips

• Hybrid models: If you are considering a hybrid, be sure to check for maintenance records, especially regarding the hybrid battery coolant, and prioritize the 2017-2019 models as they benefit from a more refined engine. 
• V6 engine: For any year with the V6 engine, be aware that some models may experience oil leaks, so it is essential to check oil levels regularly and ensure oil changes are up to date. 
• Safety features: For models prior to 2017, check if the specific vehicle has been updated with safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and emergency braking. 

What are the common problems with a 2012 Toyota Highlander?

Common problems with a 2012 Toyota Highlander include oil leaks, especially from the VVT-i oil line, and issues with the AC compressor and system. Other frequent complaints involve transmission problems, faulty door lock actuators, and potential wheel bearing wear. 
Engine and fluid problems 

• Oil leaks: A common and significant issue is a burst VVT-i oil line, which can cause a large oil leak, leaving oil on the ground, engine, and undercarriage. Other engine oil leaks around the timing chain cover have also been reported.
• VVT-i gear wear: The 3.5L V6 engine may experience wear on the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) gear.
• Sludge buildup: Sludge buildup in the engine is another potential problem.
• Water pump leaks: The water pump can be prone to leaking. 

Transmission and drivetrain issues 

• Transmission problems: Some owners report transmission issues that may require replacement. 
• Differential leaks: Leaks from the front and rear differentials are also reported. 

Air conditioning and electrical issues 

• AC compressor failure: The AC compressor is a frequent point of failure, sometimes requiring a complete replacement of the AC system. 
• Non-cooling AC: Owners have also reported the AC unit not getting cold enough. 
• Door lock actuator failure: The door lock actuators can fail intermittently. 
• Other electrical issues: Problems with O2 sensors, EVAP codes, and knock sensors can occur. 

Other common problems

• Wheel bearings: Wheel bearings are a common issue with this model. 
• Brake system: Premature wear on brake pads and rotors is reported, as well as other brake system components like the master cylinder and calipers. 
• Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS): The TPMS light may frequently illuminate, indicating a low-pressure issue or a leak somewhere in the system.