What type of suspension does a Toyota Highlander have?
The Highlander uses independent suspension on both axles, with a front MacPherson strut setup and a rear multi-link suspension.
Across most model years, Toyota has equipped the Highlander with a front MacPherson strut independent suspension and a rear multi-link independent suspension. This combination is designed to balance ride comfort for families with stable handling and cargo versatility. While exact tuning can vary by generation, drivetrain (FWD vs AWD), and trim, the overall layout remains consistent in current models.
Front suspension
The front of the Highlander is configured with a MacPherson strut independent suspension. This layout is compact, lightweight, and helps provide room for a roomy cabin while delivering predictable steering and good ride quality on typical road surfaces.
- Front suspension type: MacPherson strut independent
- Spring type: coil springs
- Steering linkage: connected to the strut assembly for steering feel
- Stabilizer bar: standard to reduce body roll
In summary, the MacPherson front suspension is chosen for a balance of space efficiency, cost, and ride comfort across the Highlander lineup.
Ride and handling implications
The MacPherson strut setup typically provides smooth road comfort and straightforward maintenance while allowing for confident highway cruising and predictable steering responses. The combination with a stabilizer bar helps minimize body roll during cornering, contributing to a stable, steady feel when carrying passengers or cargo.
Rear suspension
The rear suspension on the Highlander is an independent multi-link design. This arrangement helps improve ride quality over rough pavement and supports better wheel articulation, which can translate to improved comfort for passengers and better traction in varied driving conditions.
- Rear suspension type: independent multi-link
- Spring type: coil springs with appropriate dampers
- Stabilizer bar: yes, to help control rollover during cornering
- Alignment: optimized for ride comfort and stability with cargo in the back
Overall, the rear multi-link setup provides better ride comfort and stability compared to simpler suspensions, especially when the Highlander is carrying passengers or cargo.
Maintenance considerations
Common maintenance considerations for the Highlander’s suspension include checking struts/dampers for leaks, inspecting control arm bushings for wear, monitoring tire wear that can indicate misalignment, and ensuring proper wheel alignment. Regular inspection can help preserve ride quality and handling over time.
Generational context
In modern Highlanders (roughly from the early 2000s to today), Toyota has consistently used front MacPherson struts and rear independent multi-link suspensions. While exact tuning and componentry can vary by generation and trim, the overall layout remains the same in current models, with some early generations having different nuances in rear configuration.
Summary
The Toyota Highlander employs an independent suspension system on both the front and rear, featuring a front MacPherson strut setup and a rear multi-link design. This pairing aims to deliver a comfortable ride, stable handling, and versatile cargo capability across its model years and trims.
What kind of suspension does a Toyota Highlander have?
Specifications
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson |
|---|---|
| Rear Suspension Type | Integrated Shock & Spring |
| Drivetrain Compatibility | AWD |
| Camber Plates | Front Only |
| Front Bag Type | Double Bellow |
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.
Is the Toyota Highlander built on a Camry frame?
While most similarly sized SUVs of the time were built on truck frames, the Highlander was based on the Toyota Camry sedan chassis.
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
