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What is the biggest problem with a Toyota Highlander?

In simple terms, the most consistently cited issue across Highlander ownership and reliability reporting is transmission behavior and reliability, particularly in older model years. Overall, the Highlander remains praised for durability, but buyers should be aware of past transmission concerns and how they have been addressed over generations.

Assessing the question: reliability, risk, and what to watch

This article weighs the most commonly reported problems, explains how they vary by generation, and offers practical steps for buyers and owners. The goal is to separate isolated complaints from widespread defects and to highlight how Toyota’s design changes and recalls have shaped the current risk profile.

Common problems reported by Highlander owners

Note: The following highlights reflect patterns reported by owners and reliability surveys; they are not universal and depend on model year, maintenance, and driving conditions.

Transmission behavior: Some generations report rough shifting, shuddering, hesitations, or occasional failure in certain automatic transmissions. Recent models have improved reliability as designs evolved, but older examples can still show wear-related symptoms.

Hybrid battery and inverter (for Highlander Hybrid): In a minority of cases, owners report battery degradation or inverter/thermally related cooling issues, though many are resolved under warranty or recalls.

Infotainment and electrical glitches: Touchscreen freezes, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and sporadic sensor warnings have appeared in specific years or trims.

Oil consumption: A subset of engines across various generations may show higher oil consumption or leaks, typically requiring routine monitoring and timely maintenance.

All-wheel-drive and brake components: In higher-mileage or winter-weather use, some AWD systems or braking components show wear or noises, though these tend to be maintenance-driven rather than systemic failures.

These patterns reflect owner reports and recall histories rather than a single universal defect; proactive maintenance and careful model-year selection can mitigate many concerns.

Model-year highlights and what changed over time

To contextualize, here is a concise look at how Highlander generations evolved to address or reveal these problems.

First generation (2001-2007): Known for strong baseline reliability; some reports of transmission and engine management concerns in early builds, typically at higher mileage.

Second generation (2008-2013): Refinements in refinement and durability; occasional transmission shudder reported in some early mid-cycle years; interior and efficiency improvements noted.

Third generation (2014-2020): Introduction of an eight-speed automatic for many trims; generally strong reliability, with fewer pervasive transmission issues but some AWD and infotainment quirks in certain configurations.

Fourth generation (2020-present): Updated platforms and standard safety/infotainment tech; hybrid options continue, with overall reliability remaining solid though software updates and recalls persist in the ecosystem.

These notes illustrate broad trends rather than certainties for any individual vehicle; a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a review of the vehicle’s maintenance history are essential.

Tips for buyers and owners to reduce risk

Practical steps can minimize exposure to the most common problems and improve long-term ownership experience.

Before you buy: ensure the vehicle has a complete maintenance history, all recalls have been addressed, and a qualified shop conducts a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the transmission (where applicable), hybrid system (for hybrids), electricals, and braking.

Request service records showing regular maintenance, especially for transmission service intervals and any past dealer-reported work.

Check for open recalls and service campaigns, including airbags, braking, and hybrid-system components.

Have a diagnostic scan done if you notice transmission noises, rough shifting, hesitation, or warning lights; address issues promptly rather than delaying repairs.

With diligent shopping and proactive maintenance, a Highlander can deliver long-term reliability and practical family utility.

Conclusion

For most buyers, the Toyota Highlander offers dependable reliability, a spacious interior, and strong resale. The most commonly cited problem—transmission behavior in certain generations—should be weighed against the model year, maintenance history, and a thorough inspection. By selecting well-maintained examples and staying on top of service, owners can mitigate the biggest risk and enjoy the vehicle’s strengths.

Summary

The predominant issue cited for the Highlander is transmission-related reliability in older model years, with occasional hybrid-battery concerns on the hybrid variant and some infotainment/electrical glitches in select years. Overall, the Highlander remains a durable choice; informed buyers who verify maintenance history and heed recalls tend to experience fewer problems and longer service life.

What year do Toyota highlanders have transmission problems?

Avoid 2001–2003, 2008–2010, 2014–2016, and 2020 Highlanders. These years are linked to problems like transmission wear, oil leaks, tech glitches, and HVAC issues.

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

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.

Which year Toyota Highlander to avoid?

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

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.