Toyota Highlander Years to Avoid | Least Reliable Models

The Toyota Highlander is a popular midsize SUV known for its dependability and comfort. Unfortunately, not all model years are trouble-free. Some years have had substantial faults such as engine problems and electrical issues.

Buying a used Highlander from these years can result in pricey repairs and frustration. This article will look at the Toyota Highlander years to avoid and help you make a more informed car purchase decision.

An Overview of the Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that has been popular with families and commuters since its introduction in 2001. It is known for its dependability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. 

The car provides a pleasant driving experience with a large interior and many safety systems. Toyota has improved the Highlander’s design, performance, and technology throughout time. The Highlander is available in both gasoline and hybrid powertrains, making it suitable to customers looking for fuel efficiency without compromising performance. 

It comes in a lot of trims and combinations to suit different budgets and purposes. The Highlander is designed to be used for everyday commutes and help people enjoy road trips.

Common Problems in Certain Toyota Highlander Years

Some common problems in certain Highlander years have been: 

Engine Issues

Certain Toyota Highlander models have had engine problems like excessive oil burn and sludge formation. These issues can cause decreased engine performance and total engine failure if not treated in time. Oil changes and regular maintenance help with this but serious cases usually need expensive repairs or engine replacement.

Transmission Problems

Some Highlander models have experienced transmission hesitation and even premature transmission failure. These symptoms can cause unpredictable acceleration and a jerky ride. In extreme cases, owners have had to replace or rebuild the transmission, which can be costly to repair.

Electrical System Failures

Electrical issues in the Highlander can run from faulty infotainment screens to broken power windows and door locks. Dashboard warning lights lighting with no obvious mechanical problem have also been reported by some owners. These electrical issues can be annoying and sometimes need expensive diagnostics and replacement parts.

Brake System Issues

Certain Highlanders have experienced premature brake wear issues which create squealing sounds or less than optimal braking. This results in longer stopping distances and can become a safety concern, particularly under emergency braking. More usual replacement of brake pads and rotors can be needed to achieve optimal performance.

Suspension and Steering Issues

Some Highlanders have also had problems with the suspension and steering components which end in a rough or unstable ride. Drivers have complained of severe vibrations, clunking sounds, and losing control at higher speeds. These issues can lead to uneven tire wear and expensive repairs to suspension components if left unaddressed.

Toyota Highlander Years to Avoid

Here are 5 of the worst years for Toyota Highlander:

2003 Model Year

The 2003 Highlander had many engine reliability problems such as sludge buildup in the oil that would result in full engine failure. Many owners also reported transmission problems and premature transmission failure. These issues lead to high repair bills to make the 2003 model a vehicle to stay away from.

2008 Model Year

The 2008 Highlander also experienced many complaints about high oil consumption, which could cause damage to the engine if not checked regularly. The hybrid model experienced battery and electrical system malfunction, which was costly to repair. The brake system problems were also prevalent, which compromises braking power and safety.

2014 and 2015 Model Years

These years saw major transmission issues such as hesitation and short power loss during driving. Electrical system malfunctions like malfunctioning infotainment displays and dashboard lights were also commonly reported. Some owners also complained of bad interior material quality with high wear and tear showing up earlier than expected.

2019 Model Year

The 2019 Highlander also had issues with fuel system malfunctions such as failed fuel pumps that resulted in stalling while driving. Build quality issues within the interior, like rattling sounds and premature wear on the seats, were prevalent among owners. Although not as bad as some of the previous problem years, these reliability issues make it a good idea to reconsider this model year.

2020 Model Year

The 2020 Highlander had early reliability issues such as engine stalling and the feel of inconsistent power. Some owners had software glitches in the infotainment system which resulted in freeze-ups and unresponsive touchscreens. Complaints related to suspension also appeared with reports of a rough ride and excessive road noise that destroys overall comfort.

Also Read: Why Hyundai Is Bad | Top Reasons to Avoid Their Cars

Best Toyota Highlander Years to Buy

Although some Toyota Highlander years have faced reliability problems, there are several years known for their reliability and comfort. Here are the best Toyota Highlander years to look for when buying a used one.

2007 Model Year

The 2007 Highlander is part of the last generation years. It is known for being durable. It has a plain but reliable engine with few problems relative to other early Highlanders. With its high safety rating and comfortable ride, it is an excellent option for buyers on a budget.

2013 Model Year

The 2013 Highlander has a refined V6 engine, smooth ride, and roomy interior. It has fewer mechanical issues reported compared to previous models, so it is a reliable choice. With a good mix of performance and gas mileage, this model year is still a top recommendation.

2017 Model Year

Toyota brought major improvements to the Highlander in 2017, such as the more efficient and powerful V6 engine. It also got advanced safety technologies like Toyota Safety Sense that had automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. The upgraded tech and smooth ride make it one of the finest Highlanders to buy.

2018 Model Year

The 2018 Highlander took the 2017 model to the next level with its well-appointed interior and great fuel economy. Owners highly rate its reliability and people rate the car to be a low-maintenance vehicle for long-term ownership. It also comes with an easy-to-use infotainment system and great room for big families.

2021 Model Year

The 2021 Highlander is one of the newer and more refined models with revised technology, hybrid availability, and a luxury cabin. Its solid safety record and gas mileage make it an excellent choice for a new-model customer. With few reported issues and solid resale, it’s an outstanding selection.

Conclusion

The Toyota Highlander is a dependable SUV, but some model years have had major issues. It is important to know what year Toyota Highlander to avoid. Engine failure and electrical flaws make some years undesirable. Avoiding problematic years will help you avoid costly repairs and irritation. 

Try finding a well-reviewed model year so you can have a smoother and safer driving experience. Before buying a car, always check its history and maintenance records to ensure you receive the best value for your money.

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