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What is the best year to buy a used Toyota Highlander?

The best year to buy a used Toyota Highlander is typically around 3-5 years old. This allows you to get a well-maintained vehicle at a significant discount compared to the original MSRP, while still benefiting from Toyota's renowned reliability and longevity.


Why the 3-5 Year Old Range is Ideal


When it comes to purchasing a used Toyota Highlander, the sweet spot is usually around 3-5 years old. This is because vehicles typically experience their steepest depreciation in the first few years of ownership. By the time a Highlander is 3-5 years old, it will have already gone through this initial depreciation, allowing you to get a great deal on a well-cared-for SUV.


Additionally, at this age, the Highlander will still have plenty of life left in it. Toyota is known for manufacturing highly reliable and durable vehicles, so a 3-5 year old Highlander will likely have many more years of service left, provided it has been properly maintained.


Key Factors to Consider



  • Mileage: Look for a Highlander with relatively low mileage, ideally under 60,000 miles. This indicates the vehicle has been driven conservatively and should have plenty of life left.

  • Maintenance History: Thoroughly review the vehicle's maintenance records to ensure it has been well-cared for and serviced according to Toyota's recommendations.

  • Accident History: Check the vehicle's history report for any accidents or major repairs, as these can impact the Highlander's long-term reliability and value.

  • Trim Level and Options: Consider the specific trim level and options you desire, as this can impact the price and availability of used Highlanders on the market.


By focusing on a 3-5 year old Toyota Highlander with low mileage, a clean maintenance history, and the desired features, you can get an excellent used SUV that will provide years of reliable and comfortable service.

What year used Highlander is best?


A: The best years for the Toyota Highlander, according to the above guide, include the 2004, 2005, and 2007 models from the first generation and the 2017-2019 models from the third generation. These years have shown high reliability, minimal complaints, and good owner satisfaction ratings.



How many miles is a Toyota Highlander good for?


300,000 miles
There is no definitive answer, but as a general rule of thumb, a Toyota Highlander that has been well-maintained can last for over 200,000 miles and even up to 300,000 miles. So, if you're looking at a used Highlander that has been properly cared for, it should last you for many years to come.



What are the negatives on a Toyota Highlander?


2025 Toyota Highlander

  • Highs Strong fuel economy estimates, comprehensive list of safety features, quiet and comfortable cabin.
  • Lows Limited third-row space, small cargo capacity behind third row, yawn-inducing driving dynamics.



Which generation of Toyota Highlander is most reliable?


Please note that we have ranked the following models based on most reliable to least reliable.

  • 4 First Generation Toyota Highlander (2001-2007) Reliability Score: 88/100.
  • 3 Second Generation Toyota Highlander (2008-2013)
  • 2 Fourth Generation Toyota Highlander (2020-Present)
  • 1 Third-Generation Toyota Highlander (2014-2019)



What are the grades of Toyota Highlander?


The 2023 Toyota Highlander is offered in six trim levels: L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum. Whichever model you choose, it will be powered by a standard turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine generating 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, teamed to an eight-speed automatic transmission.



Are used Highlanders reliable?


Toyota is known for building reliable vehicles, and the Highlander is no exception. With proper maintenance, a used Highlander can last for many years and miles. The Highlander also has a spacious and practical interior, with plenty of cargo space and seating for up to eight passengers, depending on the model year.



Which Highlander has the best fuel economy?


What is the Fuel Economy of the Toyota Highlander for 2022?

Fuel Economy of the 2022 Highlander
Trim LevelsMPG
Hybrid Platinum36 City, 35 Highway (FWD) – 35 City, 34 Highway (AWD)
Platinum21 City, 29 Highway (FWD) – 20 City, 27 Highway (AWD)
Hybrid Limited36 City, 35 Highway (FWD) – 35 City, 34 Highway (AWD)



What year of highlander to stay away from?


TL;DR. In a nutshell, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2008, 2014, and 2015 are the most problematic years that you should avoid if you are on the path to getting a used Toyota Highlander. Major automotive platforms give Toyota Highlander a good score in terms of reliability. In general, they are above-average good cars.



What is the most common problem with Toyota Highlander?


If you are Highlander owner now, or are thinking of becoming one, these are the common issues you should know about.

  1. Oil Leaks And Loss Of Oil Pressure.
  2. Malfunctioning Oxygen Sensor.
  3. Air Filter Housing Hose Disconnect.
  4. Ignition Coil Failure.
  5. Airbag Warning Light Due To Problematic Airbag Sensor.



What is the most common problem with a Toyota Highlander?


If you are Highlander owner now, or are thinking of becoming one, these are the common issues you should know about.

  1. Oil Leaks And Loss Of Oil Pressure.
  2. Malfunctioning Oxygen Sensor.
  3. Air Filter Housing Hose Disconnect.
  4. Ignition Coil Failure.
  5. Airbag Warning Light Due To Problematic Airbag Sensor.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.