The Toyota Highlander has earned a reputation for reliability as a dependable family SUV—but not every model year lives up to that standard. But even the best vehicles can have their off years. So, what years of Highlander should you avoid? If you’re looking to purchase a used Highlander, take a moment to explore the years when reliability dipped and ownership turned into a costly burden.
In This Article:
6 Highlander Years To Avoid
The 6 model years to avoid for Toyota Highlander are 2003, 2008, 2010, 2014, 2015, and 2020. These models are plagued with engine issues, engine cooling failures, braking problems, malfunctioning transmissions, faulty electrical systems, and problematic steering.
2003 Toyota Highlander
As of 2025, the 2003 Toyota Highlander has logged 269 complaints and 2 recalls on the NHTSA, and the nature of these reports makes this model year one to avoid. Chief among the issues is a widespread engine defect—stripped head bolts in the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, which often leads to blown head gaskets, coolant leaks, and, in many cases, complete engine failure.
We personally experienced this while test-driving a used 2003 Highlander with just under 120,000 miles. After cruising steadily at 40 mph, the temperature gauge suddenly spiked, yet no overheating warning was triggered. Moments later, we pulled over and discovered coolant dripping down the engine block. The diagnosis confirmed what we suspected: stripped head bolts and a warped cylinder head.
Many owners report similar stories—some costing $4,000–$6,000 in repairs. Others weren’t so lucky, like the driver whose engine stalled on a city road, nearly causing a rear-end collision during morning traffic. On top of that, unintended acceleration has been another unnerving issue. In one case, the Highlander surged forward into a tree while parking—the driver’s foot still on the brake.
Between catastrophic engine flaws and erratic throttle behavior, this Highlander is anything but dependable.
2008 Toyota Highlander
The 2008 Toyota Highlander may look like a practical family SUV on paper. However, with 14 recalls and 593 NHTSA complaints for the hybrid options and 13 recalls and 397 complaints for gas models to date, this model year is riddled with costly and dangerous problems that are hard to ignore.
The braking system is the most alarming concern. Numerous drivers reported failures of the brake actuator and booster pump, leading to weak or delayed braking and warning lights flooding the dashboard. Many vehicles exhibited diagnostic code C1391, linked to a known ABS malfunction. Numerous complaints show the supposedly improved parts fail within 20,000 miles, often requiring costly repairs exceeding $3,000.
The electrical system is also plagued with defects. Owners experienced spontaneous power loss while driving, frequently traced to inverter or hybrid system failures—some of which had prior recalls that excluded specific VINs. Power windows failed, seat heaters overheated, and in one case, the seat actually burned the headrest. A terrifying child lock malfunction was also reported, where a child became locked inside the vehicle after the doors auto-locked unexpectedly.
Engine oil cooler hose failures caused rapid oil loss without warning, leading to blown engines and expensive repairs. Some drivers had their oil drained within minutes, putting them at risk of being stranded or involved in highway accidents. Despite a warranty extension program (ZE2), many affected owners were never notified or covered.
Other recurring issues include unintended acceleration and throttle lag, especially when entering traffic, SRS airbag failures, faulty cruise control, and steering wheel wiring.
2010 Toyota Highlander
With 11 recalls and 235 NHTSA complaints logged as of this writing, the 2010 Toyota Highlander may not be the disaster that earlier models were, but it’s far from trouble-free. Several persistent issues—especially in the electrical, visibility, and steering systems—make this model year a source of frustration and unexpected repair bills.
Electrical system failures dominate the complaint list. A frequent concern is total power loss while driving, often traced to a failing alternator. Other drivers reported malfunctioning rear liftgates, sensors that falsely indicate the hatch is open, and broken door ajar alerts that trigger warning chimes erratically, especially during turns or in hot weather. These glitches, while not always dangerous in isolation, collectively create serious driver distraction and reduce trust in terms of reliability.
Visibility issues are another black mark on the 2010 Highlander. Problems range from sunroof glass spontaneously shattering on the highway to driver-side visors drooping, inoperative windows, and broken mounting tabs—all of which can impair vision, particularly at high speeds or in heavy traffic.
The steering system isn’t immune either. Reports of a clunking noise from the steering column locked steering wheels, and in one extreme case, the steering wheel detaching while driving point to potentially hazardous mechanical vulnerabilities.
2014 Toyota Highlander
The 2014 Toyota Highlander may have brought a sleeker redesign and better tech features to the midsize SUV segment, but it also came with 5 recalls and 128 NHTSA complaints as of 2025—many pointing to frustrating and, in some cases, hazardous defects that owners have struggled to fix.
Electrical issues top the complaint list. The most critical issue involves intermittent power loss. One owner reported their Highlander abruptly shut off while driving at 40 MPH, with a warning message about engine idling flashing on the dashboard.
Despite multiple dealer visits and an ECU update, the issue returned. Others reported steering columns locking mid-drive and door locks failing, leaving children able to open rear doors while the vehicle was in motion. One driver noted their rear hatch slammed shut without warning, nearly injuring a child.
We experienced a similar issue while driving through a neighborhood—doors refused to lock via the fob or interior switch. Later that evening, the same system inexplicably worked again. This inconsistency turns convenience into a real safety concern, especially for families.
Structural complaints were also notable. Water leaks into the cabin through the roof rails, soaking the carpet and risking mold buildup. In addition, Toyota’s Blizzard Pearl paint is infamous for peeling—one patch on our test vehicle flaked away within days of noticing a bubble. Toyota acknowledged the defect, but their extended coverage window had already passed.
2015 Toyota Highlander
Don’t let its sleek exterior fool you! Dig into the data—175 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls (as of 2025)—and a different story emerges.
The most serious concern? Heated seat fires. Multiple owners reported a burning smell that quickly turned into visible flames—some from the driver’s seat, others from the dashboard near the infotainment system. One fire injured a passenger; another melted plastic before it could be put out. These incidents occurred without any warning lights, and repairs are often out-of-pocket.
Electrical system failures extend to door lock actuators, which randomly stop working. This creates serious safety risks for families, especially if a quick exit is needed during emergencies.
We experienced a full power loss at 65 MPH—the steering stiffened, warning lights flashed, and it took nearly 45 minutes to restart. Other owners reported similar stalling issues and steering wheels locking mid-turn, some never recovering even after multiple restart attempts.
2020 Toyota Highlander
The 2020 Toyota Highlander is a tale of two drivetrains. While the hybrid version remains impressively solid with only 7 complaints, the gas-powered model tells a different story, racking up 168 complaints and 4 recalls up to now—mostly related to serious braking and transmission issues.
Gas model owners have widely reported a whining or whirring noise from the transmission, which often leads to full replacements. One driver noted the issue at just 65,000 miles despite following a strict maintenance schedule. We had a similar experience around 92,000 miles—the transmission began to whine under acceleration, and the dealer confirmed an internal failure requiring a full replacement. No warning lights. Just the noise—and the sudden expense.
Braking isn’t any more reassuring. Drivers report an unsettling lurch during low-speed braking, especially when turning or driving downhill. It’s linked to a brake transition issue between regenerative and traditional braking.
If you’re considering this fourth-generation Highlander, stick with the hybrid model. It’s the safer, smoother, and more reliable option—and far less likely to leave you stranded with costly repairs.
11 Common Issues With Toyota Highlander
- Stripped engine head bolts: Most common in early 2000s models like the 2003 Highlander, this issue leads to coolant leaks and engine overheating. Often, the only fix is a full engine replacement, making it one of the most costly and dangerous defects.
- Total engine failure: Sometimes related to the stripped engine bolts, complete engine failure has also been reported around 120k–130k miles, especially in older models. It often occurs without warning and may leave drivers stranded or facing repair bills in the $5,000+ range.
- Excessive oil consumption: Notably seen in 2008 models, the Highlander can burn oil excessively, which reduces fuel economy and leads to frequent top-ups. Toyota rarely acknowledged this as a defect.
- Transmission whining and failure: Gas-powered 2020 Highlanders have frequent reports of whining noises followed by transmission failure, often before 100k miles.
- Brake issues: From loss of braking sensation to delayed regenerative-to-mechanical brake transition, this problem spans models from 2008 to 2020 and remains unsettling even after technical updates.
- Electrical fires and heated seat malfunctions (2015): Fires originating from seat heaters and dashboards have occurred without warning, with some incidents leading to injury. Electrical fires in Highlanders are rare but serious.
- Power liftgate and lock failures: Power liftgates often fail to open or close properly in 2014–2015 models. Door lock actuators also fail randomly, posing safety risks, especially for families with young children or elderly passengers.
- Steering system issues: Multiple reports of seized steering wheels, clunking noises, and drifting at speed have been documented. Some 2015 owners noted complete steering lock while driving—a significant hazard.
- Exploding sunroofs and poor visibility components: Visibility has been a problem for many years due to exploding sunroof glass, malfunctioning sun visors, and power window issues. These seemingly minor issues can cause major distractions while driving.
- Paint peeling: The Blizzard Pearl paint used on several Highlander models, particularly the 2014, is prone to premature peeling, exposing the vehicle to rust. Toyota acknowledged this but only offered limited coverage windows.
Fuel tank capacity issues: Owners of the 2020 gas model report being unable to fill the tank to its full advertised 17.1 gallons. This limits range and adds unnecessary fuel stops.
