What Toyota highlanders are being recalled?
The exact Highlander models under recall vary by year and VIN; check official sources to confirm whether your specific vehicle is affected.
Recalls are issued by manufacturers in coordination with regulators such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and typically target safety-related issues. Because recall notices can be added or closed over time, owners should verify status using VIN-based lookups on official sites and consult their local Toyota dealer for a free remedy if an open recall exists.
Understanding recalls for Highlanders
Recalls affecting Highlanders are published when a safety issue is identified that could impair vehicle operation, performance, or occupant protection. The scope of a recall is defined by a specific VIN range, model year, and sometimes production plant. Because new notices can appear and existing ones can be completed, the official recall list is dynamic.
Common recall categories affecting Highlanders
Below are recall categories that have historically involved Highlander models. The presence of a recall in these categories depends on the exact VIN and production year.
- Airbag and supplemental restraint system (SRS) inflator-related recalls
- Fuel system and fuel pump-related recalls
- Electrical and software-related recalls affecting safety features
- Steering, braking, and related control modules recalls
These categories illustrate the types of issues that have led to Highlander recalls in the past. The specific models and years affected by current recalls must be confirmed by VIN lookup.
How to check if your Highlander is recalled
To determine whether your vehicle is currently subject to a recall, use VIN-based lookups on official resources. This ensures you get the most accurate, up-to-date information for your exact vehicle.
- Locate your Highlander’s VIN, found on the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield) or the driver’s door jamb, and in your vehicle registration document.
- Visit the NHTSA recall lookup tool or Toyota’s official recall page and enter your VIN.
- Review the results for any open recalls specific to your vehicle, noting the recall number and the recommended remedy.
- If an open recall is listed, contact a Toyota dealer to schedule the free service and remedy described in the recall notice.
- Keep documentation of the recall notice and any completed service for your records.
If no recalls appear for your VIN but you have concerns about a risk or symptom, contact Toyota Customer Service or NHTSA with your VIN for confirmation.
What to do next if your Highlander is recalled
Open recalls require timely action to ensure safety and compliance with the recall remedy. Dealers perform recalls at no cost to the vehicle owner, and the timeline for service can vary based on parts availability and appointment slots.
Owners should re-check recall status periodically, as new notices may be issued and existing ones may be updated or expanded to additional VINs.
Key safety reminders
Always address open recalls promptly. If you rely on a loaner vehicle, coordinate with the dealer to minimize downtime, but do not delay if your Highlander has an active recall.
Summary
Recalls for Toyota Highlanders are issued on a VIN-specific basis and can change over time. There isn’t a single universal list of affected models for all Highlanders. The most reliable way to determine whether your particular Highlander is recalled is to perform a VIN-based check on official NHTSA and Toyota pages and to contact a local Toyota dealer for guidance and remedy options.
What Toyota models are being recalled?
Recent Toyota recalls affect models including the 2022-2024 Tundra, 2022-2024 Lexus LX, 2024 Lexus GX (engine debris issue) and a broader recall covering the 2023-2025 Crown, GR Corolla, Highlander, RAV4, Venza, and 2024-2025 Tacoma and Grand Highlander (potential driving blind issue). Other models with past or separate recalls include the 2019-2020 Corolla, CH-R, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, and various 2020-2021 models like the Camry, Corolla, and RAV4. It is recommended to check the specific VIN on the Toyota USA Newsroom or NHTSA website to see if your vehicle is affected.
Current and recent recalls
- Engine debris: 2022-2024 Toyota Tundra, 2022-2024 Lexus LX, and 2024 Lexus GX vehicles.
- Driving blind issue: 2023-2025 Toyota Crown, GR Corolla, Highlander, RAV4, and Venza; 2024-2025 Tacoma and Grand Highlander.
- Other affected models: 2025 Camry, Crown Signia, and RAV4 PHEV, along with the 2024-2025 Lexus TX and 2025 Lexus RX.
Older or separate recalls
- 2019-2020: Corolla, Corolla Hybrid, and C-HR.
- 2020-2022: Camry, Camry Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, and various Lexus ES and RX models.
- 2021: Sienna Hybrid.
How to check your specific vehicle
- Visit the Toyota recall website.
- Enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or license plate information.
- You can also check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
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
Are there any recalls on the Toyota Highlander?
Yes, there are recent recalls affecting certain Toyota Highlander models, including the 2020-2023 models for a potentially detached front bumper cover and 2021-2024 models from specific distributors for accessory tires with insufficient load ratings. Additionally, some 2023 models may need another inspection related to a previous airbag recall. You can check if your specific vehicle is affected by using its VIN on the Toyota Recall Website or the NHTSA website.
Recent recalls by model year
- 2023 Highlander: Some vehicles may require an additional inspection for the driver's airbag, as a previous repair may not have been performed correctly.
- 2021-2024 Highlander: Models sold by certain distributors may have incorrect accessory tires with insufficient load ratings, increasing the risk of tire failure.
- 2020-2023 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid: The front lower bumper cover may become loose or detach after a minor impact, creating a road hazard.
- 2024 Grand Highlander: A separate recall was issued for certain 2024 Grand Highlander and Lexus TX models regarding the curtain shield airbags, which may not deploy as intended in certain crashes if the window is down.
What to do
- Check your VIN: Visit the official Toyota recall website or the NHTSA website and enter your vehicle's 17-digit VIN to see if your specific car is included in any open recalls.
- Contact a dealer: If your vehicle is affected, schedule a free repair with a Toyota dealership.
- Check owner notifications: You should receive an official notification from Toyota by mail regarding any necessary repairs.
Which year to avoid Toyota Highlander?
Years to potentially avoid for the Toyota Highlander include 2001–2003, 2008–2010, 2014–2015, and 2020, due to common issues like transmission problems, oil leaks, and tech glitches. These years often experienced specific failures such as stripped head bolts (2003), torque converter issues (2008–2010), excessive oil consumption (2014–2015), and teething problems from a new design (2020).
Problematic model years
- 2001–2003: Early models had issues with stripped head bolts and coolant leaks, leading to overheating.
- 2008–2010: These years were known for transmission problems, including hesitation and a whining noise from worn torque converters.
- 2014–2015: Owners reported excessive oil consumption and problems with the brake actuator.
- 2020: The first year of a new generation introduced software bugs, leading to glitches with the infotainment system and other tech features. Inconsistent brake feel was also a reported issue.
Other considerations
- 2017–2019: Some sources also mention these years as having issues, including electrical faults and water leaks.
- 2023 and newer: The turbocharged four-cylinder engine in some newer non-hybrid models can have a delayed acceleration response.
