Highlander Years to Avoid: How to Find the Best Model Years

Apr 9, 2021

Toyota Highlander is one of the nation’s best-selling SUVs, setting a sales record in 2018. However, it still has a few blemishes on its record, let’s find out which Highlanders are best left on the lot.

2021 Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander was released for the 2001 model year. Deriving from the Camry’s platform, it was the first car-based mid-size SUV. This Highlander fits comfortably in the Toyota SUV lineup, slotted between the smaller RAV4 and the larger 4Runner.

The main focus of the Highlander was to be a capable SUV on the main roads as well as being adequate on off-road trails.

However, since it was based on the Camry’s platform, the vehicle’s success on the road did not translate to off-road capability. Until this title was stolen by the RAV4 in 2006, the Highlander was Toyota’s best-selling SUV.

More recently, Toyota set a Highlander sales record in the U.S. for 2018, moving nearly 250,000 units. While the Highlander is one of the best, it still has its shortcomings.

2003 Toyota Highlander - Photo by Toyota

First-generation Highlander (2001-2007)

The first-generation Highlander was released in 2001 as a five-seat SUV. The Highlander differed from other SUVs of the time by focusing on being great on the road instead of off the beaten trail. Toyota achieved this via its unibody construction and four-wheel independent suspension.

A 2.4L I4 engine came standard on the Highlander, it produced 155 hp, 163 lb.-ft. of torque, and had a max towing capacity of 3,000 lbs. The only transmission offered on the Highlander was a four-speed automatic transmission with “snow mode.”

Optional for the Highlander was a 3.0L V6 engine. This V6 produced 220 hp, 222 lb.-ft. of torque, and increased the max towing capacity to 3,500 lbs. The larger V6 consumed three more mpg than the inline-four with their combined mpg being 18 and 22, respectively. Buyers also had the choice between the standard FWD or optional AWD.

In addition to providing optional AWD and a snow mode on the transmission, the Highlander had many capabilities to compensate for its poor off-roading ability. These capabilities included 6.9-inches of ground clearance (.4 more of an inch was provided on the AWD version) and an optional vehicle skid control system with traction control and selective braking.

First-gen. Highlander: Years to Avoid & Better Alternatives

Years to Avoid: 2003-2005
Good Years: 2001-2002
Best Years: 2006-2007

The Highlander was very safe, receiving an overall mark of “good” from the IIHS. The NHTSA reports that on average, the first-generation Toyota Highlander received over 100 complaints per model year.

For the 2001-2002 models, the most common complaint was about the sun visor. While driving, it could fall down and obstruct the driver’s view.

However, the 2003 Highlanders common problem was much more worrying and expensive. Overheating caused by a coolant leak was common. This could call for a total engine replacement, costing buyers around $3,200.

Also, the 2004-2005 model years suffered from another expensive problem, defective transmissions.

The 2006-2007 Highlanders are the best option because they don’t have as many reliability concerns, have more standard features, and the 2007 models have a standard rollover sensor and side airbags.

2013 Toyota Highlander - Photo by Toyota

Second-generation Highlander (2008-2013)

The second-generation Toyota Highlander was released for the 2008 model year. If this generation had to be described in one word, it would be “safety.” It received the IIHS Top Safety Pick for every model year, six in total.

Improving on the last generation, this Highlander came with a larger cabin, a more powerful engine, and better standard features.

Unlike the last one, the second-row seats have a 40/20/40 split. Better yet, the “20” in the middle could be stowed away allowing for either captain’s chairs or a full bench seat.

As the Highlander got larger, it also got heavier. However, Toyota was aware of this and made the 3.5L V6 engine that produced 270 hp and 248 lb.-ft. of torque standard for the new Highlander.

The new engine would be paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and had a max towing capacity of a massive 5,000 lbs. Similar to the last model, FWD was standard but AWD was optional, with their combined mpg being 19 and 20, respectively.

Second-gen. Highlander: Years to Avoid & Better Alternatives

Years to Avoid: 2008
Best Years: 2009-2013

The second-generation Highlander had a rough start. The 2008 model had 13 recalls and over 300 complaints according to the NHTSA.

It has been recalled three times for incorrect labels, two times for the airbags, twice for melting window switches, twice for a seat heater that can catch fire, twice for the exhaust tip falling off, and one time each for the seatbelts and accelerator.

However, there is always good in the bad. In this instance, the good is that nearly all of the vehicle has been replaced, so it should hold up for future owners.

Showing that Toyota learned from its mistakes made on the initial model year (2008), the complaints were cut in half for every model year thereafter (2009-2013). Although the NHTSA lists no glaring complaints, there were a few, and most had to do with electrical system failures.

The only common problem to be found on the Toyota Highlander is a defective steering shaft that may need to be replaced. The good news is that it’s not an expensive fix and owners can usually diagnose this themselves. A crunching or clunking noise when turning at low speeds is a tell-tale sign that the shaft needs replaced.

2014 Toyota Highlander - Photo by Toyota

Third-generation Highlander (2014-2019)

The third-generation Highlander rolled into showrooms for the 2014 model year. Unsurprisingly, the Highlander had grown yet again, increasing in both length and width.

Aside from styling, the most significant change was seating for eight passengers. The new Toyota Highlander shared several similarities with the previous generation.

Similarities included a standard six-speed transmission, standard FWD, optional AWD, a standard 2.7L I4 engine, an optional 3.5L V6, a max towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, and exceptional safety.

For 2014, Toyota found an extra three mpg for the Highlander, bringing the base FWD version to 22 mpg combined.

Third-gen. Highlander: Years to Avoid & Better Alternatives

Better Years: 2014-2016
Best Years: 2017-2019

As stated previously, the Highlander put a strong emphasis on safety. The IIHS awarded the Highlander the top-notch IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award for the 2014-2017 model years. This did not mean the 2018 and 2019 model years slouched when it came to safety, as they both received the IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The only fault to be found in the third-generation Highlanders safety was in the small overlap front test where it received a mark of “acceptable”. For the 2014 and 2015 model years it received the acceptable mark for both the driver and passenger sides in the small overlap front test.

Whereas from 2016-2019 it received a mark of good on the driver’s side, the passenger side, however, remained unchanged.

The third-generation Highlander was relatively reliable. It received a mere 100 complaints per model year on the NHTSA. Obviously, this does not mean the Highlander was without fault. The most common problem was with the tailgate. When owners tried to unlock the tailgate, it would refuse to open.

Another common problem is fuel pump failure, however, Toyota remedied this with a recall to fix it. All in all, this generation does not seem to be causing any major trouble for owners. The 2017-2019 model years are the best because they have Toyota’s direct fuel injection system and a slightly better crash rating.

2021 Toyota Highlander - Photo by Toyota

Fourth-generation Highlander (2020-present)

The fourth-generation Highlander hit the market in 2020 on a new GA-K platform. The innovative platform improved both the ride and handling. Other improvements for the new generation included Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, more cargo space, and Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5+ standard on all models.

Toyota would make their 3.5L V6 engine paired with an eight-speed transmission standard on all Highlanders. This engine is rated at a combined mpg of 23 or 24 for the FWD and AWD variants, respectively.

Predictably, the Highlander had grown yet again, this time it got longer and wider.

Fourth-gen. Highlander: Years to Avoid & Better Alternatives

Best Years: 2020-Present

The fourth generation seems to be very reliable thus far with few complaints on the NHTSA. Although, this may be chalked up to the fact that the fourth-generation Highlander is too new to judge.

The only problem reported for the new generation is that the fuel tank will not fill up completely. However, this seems to be a Toyota problem as it is also a problem on the smaller RAV4. Likely, Toyota will announce a fix for this issue in the near future.

Continuing the theme of safety, the new Highlander received a Top Safety Pick for 2020 and Top Safety Pick+ for 2021 from the IIHS. It managed to score a “good” in every category except for the headlights.

For 2021, it received an “acceptable” score on every trim, not including the Platinum which received a “good”. The 2020 LE and XLE trims received the lowest value possible with a score of “poor”.

Toyota Highlander: Choosing the Right One

As time has shown, the Highlander has been an extremely safe SUV. Also, it only has a few notable reliability concerns.

For the first generation Highlander (2001-2007), the only ones that should be avoided are the 2003 and 2004 model years. This is because they reportedly suffer from problems that require expensive repairs, such as an engine or transmission replacement.

The 2005 to 2007 Highlanders are among the model years that received stronger reviews.

The 2008 model year Highlander also had some engine problems, so it’s best to leave that one with a for-sale sign on it. However, almost all of the other years have proved to not only be remarkably safe but also reliable.

It’s no surprise that the Highlander is considered one of the best SUVs on the market. If you’re on the hunt for an SUV, look no further than the Highlander.

Cheat Sheet

Toyota Highlander: Model Years to Avoid Like the Plague

2008: Second-generation Highlander
2003-2005: First-generation Highlander

Toyota Highlander: Model Years that Have Some Problems (But are OK for the Right Price)

2014-2016: Third-generation Highlander
2001-2002: First-generation Highlander

Toyota Highlander: Model Years that are Best Buys

2020-Present: Fourth-generation Highlander
2017-2019: Third-generation Highlander
2009-2013: Second-generation Highlander
2006-2007: First-generation Highlander

Photos: Toyota

Frequently Asked Questions

Apr 26, 2022

What are the best years for used Toyota Highlander?

If you are in the market for a used Toyota Highlander then the most important factor is going to be how much you want to spend. The best value in the Highlander would be a 2010 through 2013 model. These can still be found with relatively low mileage, and they have taken the vast majority of their depreciation already. These have a great reliable engine and transmission, but they are missing some of the latest technology.

If you have a higher budget then you will want to take a look at something from 2017 through 2019 this is when Toyota started adding their safety suite to all of their vehicles. This includes the latest technology like adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, automatic high beams, as well as blind-spot monitoring. These are a good value since they have most of the same technology as a new Highlander, but for a bargain.

The Highlander is a great choice to look at if you want a midsize SUV. They are reasonably luxurious and have Toyota's famed reliability.

What problems do Toyota Highlanders have?

The most common problem that has been reported over the generations of the Toyota Highlander is an oil leak from a burst VVT-i line. This is an oil leak that is large enough to lead to a reduction in oil pressure and the only way to repair it is to replace the line. This is a known problem at Toyota, and they have developed an updated line to fix it.

The next most common problem with the Highlander is an issue with the airbag light turning on. This typically happens due to a failed center airbag sensor. When this sensor fails it can cause the system to not work properly and that will turn the light on.

The final most common problem is that the check engine light will turn on due to a hose on the air filter housing coming loose. There is a clamp that is on this hose that is known to fail and fall off and when that happens you will get a vacuum leak that will turn on the check engine light.

What year did the Toyota Highlander body style change?

The Toyota Highlander was first introduced in late 2000 for the 2001 model year and since then there have been four major redesigns. The first generation was built for the 2001 through 2007 model years and had a slight update in 2005.

The second generation of the Highlander was introduced for the 2008 model year and was produced through 2013. This was a total redesign that had a more aggressive styling than the first generation. There was a slight update in 2010 that added a facelift to the front end.

The third generation was released for the 2014 model year and was made through 2019. There was a slight redesign as well in 2016 on the front end of this model to keep up with the new design language that Toyota was adopting. The 4th generation came out in 2020 and is still in production now and it is the most aggressive-looking Highlander yet.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Diane B on September 19, 2021

Oyota highlander 2007. Roomy enough to haul a complete patio set!

A great car in every way. It is reliable, roomy, and has fairly good gas mileage for a SUV. The only mechanical issue I have had is with the radiator. I had to replace it about 5-6 years ago, but I think that was my error in parking too close to a clothes basket in my garage. The only real problem is with the tire gage. It seems to be permanently on. Other than those two issues I have had no problems and we have taken this highlander on two long (5000-6000 mile) trips. It handles beautifully and is very comfortable to drive. The adjustable table driver's seat allows you to raise the seat and that gives you a better view of your surroundings.

Kathryn C on August 21, 2021

2013 Toyota Highlander: Very reliable and spacious with back up camera

Enjoy the comfort of the Highlander and fortunately, I've had very few problems thus far. Mine is a 2013 and so far I've only had a problem with the door locking system. The drivers side door no longer locks on its own and it has to be done manually now. Toyota is a very reliable brand and I love how my vehicle has a 3rd row seat. With only 1 child, we have plenty of room to put luggage for travel, and we have plenty of seating to take additional passengers. I also love the rear air conditioning, the space the 2nd rowing seating has, and the ride is very smooth. The seats are very comfortable.

Melinda C on September 26, 2021

Over the last couple years and I've had it I have not had to do too much for repairs and it's a 2006.

I have use this vehicle on many cross country trips and I have never had any complaints about how well it handles and the comfortability of it. When it comes to repairs on the vehicle the cost of it is bad about my grade I haven't had to spend too much but I haven't had it to be super cheap. The Toyota highlander is also one of the economical SUVs on the market with roughly gas estimate of 20 miles per gallon. I have thoroughly enjoyed this vehicle of the years I've had to buy another one I would I love Toyotas have a study economical and in the last for a long time.

Rebecca L on October 11, 2021

Toyota Highlander Hybrid 2006 Honest Review

This car has had issues with braking. When the brake is pressed, sometimes it lags or sometimes it accelerates the car a bit. The car itself is quite comfortable and spacious. It can handle a good amount of terrain. It's nice that it's not huge and hefty, it's a good medium size SUV. I feel like the hybrid does not do much for it however. My gas mileage isn't as great as I would have hoped for. It shows when the engine is using the battery and it does not utilize it as frequently as I would've thought. This may be because it's an older hybrid.

Danielle D on June 30, 2021

2006 Toyota highlander hybrid is a reliable vehicle with many functions.

I have had my vehicle for almost 6 years. The engine runs great. I like the built in navigation system, however you cannot input info while driving except to suspend it. The lumbar support is a comfort feature I like, however, the passenger side does not have this feature. It is a reliable vehicle. I wish there was more information or gauge on how much hybrid battery life there is. I t is my understanding that if the large hybrid battery fails, the car just stops where it is. This seems dangerous if driving.

Laurel T on December 14, 2021

The 2007 Toyota Highlander is reliable with thoughtful components.

The 2007 Toyota Highlander is spacious, with ample leg-room and space to haul bulky items. The back seats fold down to accommodate larger items. One of my favorite features is the number of cup holders (6 total) and compartments to store items. This reduces clutter and helps keep the car tidy. I have not experienced any major mechanical issues, other than routine replacement of parts. My only current complaint is gas mileage. I consistently get about 20 miles per gallon driving in the city.

Ashley B on November 26, 2021

2006 Toyota Highlander w/ third row seats

This car has been extremely reliable. The seats are very comfortable and the third row really comes in handy when traveling with a group of people. There is a button labeled 'SNOW ETC' and for driving in the winter at slow speeds when the roads get really icy is such a help. The only problems I've ever had with this car are with the brakes and alignment. Obviously it is getting pretty old in age (13 years) so I'm surprised I haven't run into more issues.

Donna H on January 13, 2022

Retired

We are on our second Highlander. We previously owned a 2004 for ten years and purchased our 2014 XLE. The only issue we had was a water pump replacement last year. It has been 30 years since we replaced a water pump in any car. The back hydraulic tailgate is very spastic. Wont work when cold. Have to close it manually. Dealer wants over $3000 to replace hydraulic lifts. We will trade it in at some point. Overall we have been happy with all our Toyotas.

Samantha M on September 25, 2021

My 2017 Toyota highlander xle is a wonderful car.

It provides the space for my family, but trendy enough not to be a minivan. The safety features (such as lane assist and the blind spot detectors have changed the security I feel with my young son in the vehicle. It is smooth like a luxury car, and quiet despite the large size. The gas mileage is great being that I can take road trips without spending a lot on gasoline. This is my 3rd Toyota and they all have been very reliable vehicles!

Mo L on September 3, 2021

The 2013 Toyota highlander is a wonderful vehicle with many fun bells and whistles.

I have two athletic children who need lots of room for equipment & plenty of leg room, which it definitely has whether you sit in front or the back. Also, having a third row is a plus. The ride in comfortable and smooth. If you have third row of seats up, the storage in the back is joke! The only problem that I have had with this vehicle is with the blower. For the air conditioner / heat. It either blows at very high or very low.

Morgan S on November 6, 2021

2006 Toyota Highlander in excellent condition

It has had great overall performance and reliability. The transmission did have to be replaced about three years ago but other than that it has been a great vehicle. The windows have issues rolling up and down but that is not a big deal for me. There are cup holders, ice cold AC and comfortable seats. There are no real luxury features such as Bluetooth or a USB/aux cord which is something that I would love for in another model.

Greg on September 15, 2021

Very dangerous car. 2005 Highlander

It has 4 catalytic converters on it that go out randomly very expensive to have replaced. We had the car for 8 years on 12/03/2020 I was taking my granddaughter to school and the front end locked up and rolled the car. The car has always been very well maintained we are trying to find out if they have had recalls or anyone else had anything like this happen. Totaled the car and we had serious injuries.

Matthew M on October 8, 2021

2019 Toyota highlander is a dream on wheels.

Leather is super comfortable, nav system and sound system are top quality. All the bells and whistles function perfectly and really add tremendously to how comfortable the ride is. The extra row of removable seats makes sure there is enough space for everything and everyone. Passenger and back seat ac controls are great. I have no complaints about the vehicle. It is great.

Sharon L on August 1, 2021

2009 grey Toyota highlander review.

I have had only a few vehicle problems related to my tire pressure light staying on all the time and the gauge not accurately working on all tires. It has proven to be durable and comfortable. The one design feature I would change is the size of the trunk when the third row seat is up. There is barely any room in the trunk when that is the case.

Cindy W on September 28, 2021

Ven though I own a 2009 most people think it's brand new.

Love the Highlander Hybrid Limited because of the comfortable leather heated seats, the great sound system, the cold air conditioned comfort and the quick response of the heater. It drives like a gem and gets great gas mileage too. The beautiful pearl white exterior goes so well with the tan interior. The ride is smooth and so very quiet also.

Jennifer V on July 3, 2021

2010 Toyota highlander hybrid.

At 8 years old it is still a smooth ride and very sharp looking. It is extremely reliable, and is comfortable to fit all seven members of our family. We have taken it on a long road trip and everyone was happy with all of their space. I have had three adults in the back seat and they couldn't get over there leg room!

Stephanie B on October 17, 2021

Toyota highlander 2017: perfect.

It rides very smooth and is good for young drivers who are learning to drive. It has very good mileage and is very comfortable. It has Bluetooth to connect to. And it has cooled and heated seats that are perfect for any kind of weather. It has a spacious backseat and trunk which leaves plenty of room to move around.

Sammy K on November 7, 2021

Oh what a feeling to drive a 2007 Toyota highlander.

Sometimes the windscreen fogs too much despite of turning on the defog controls. The acceleration has been affected I believe due to the age and the need to perform a fuel injection cleaning. Really prefer to drive a manual transmission vehicle as the acceleration is superior to the automatic or cut transmission.

CJ C on September 12, 2021

My 2009 Toyota Highlander has been one of the most reliable cars we've ever owned.

It is very sturdy, does well on bumpy dirt roads with huge potholes, and has enough space to fit two 140 pound dogs! There was a recall on the vehicles after they came out, but after those were fixed, it has been great to drive. It gets about 20/21 miles per gallon, and up to 24 on long highway stretches.

Cole N on October 31, 2021

It is a 2009 Toyota highlander.

It is very good for smooth travel. When you get to bumpier roads it can be a problem. The seats are comfortable. Steering is easy and car runs smooth for being a 2009. I would like to upgrade soon as the car is a bit outdated. It does not have Bluetooth and the radio is not very good.

Ashley D on September 21, 2021

2010 Toyota highlander limited review.

It's an amazing car. 4 wheel drive, does awesome in the snow. It's a smooth drive around town car. And mine is a 2010, and comes with all the features! Heated seats, navigation, 6 CD changer, and my personal favorite, the DVD player in the back, helps entertain the kids for hours.

Sierra H on December 3, 2021

I have a 2007 light silver Toyota Highlander.

It is extremely reliable and wonderful on gas mileage. Very roomy and drives smoothly. The only part that doesn't currently fit my family well is that I would love to have the fold up third row seating that some Highlander's have and I will be buying a car with third row soon.

Betty J on December 8, 2021

I have a 2010 Toyota highlander, 4-cylinder automatic.

The Toyota highlander is a very comfortable vehicle. It has a third seat and can seat eight passengers comfortably. It has several USB ports to power electronics for the family. It has front and rear air conditioner controls. My highlander is very reliable and economical.

Alyssa M on December 12, 2021

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum has so many bells and whistles!

I love all of the different driving modes (eco, snow, rain, dirt). I love my automatic high beams and automatic windshield wipers. I have lane assist which is awesome. My cooling and heated seats are amazing. The car is comfortable and large, but drives like a car.

Zara F on September 23, 2021

To sum it all up, the 2008 Highlander is just old and not working great.

Expensive on gas, the car doesn't run smoothly, the volume knob inside the car is broken, doesn't offer Bluetooth, fan belt makes a squeaking noise as well as the brakes. Uncomfortable to drive because you can feel everything, back right window won't go down or up.

Anna D on August 16, 2021

I drive a 2007 Toyota Highlander that is burgundy.

I love my car because it is three rows and it has a lot of space. There is room for a family or a large dog which I have. The best thing about my Toyota is how long it has lasted through. I have had that car over 10 years and it has been the best thing.

Daisy H on July 24, 2021

Are 2008 highlanders really that great?

The paint is coming off in many parts of the vehicle due to soon damage. Some parts from the exterior are coming apart. I have been the only owner and have taken care of it but the quality of the inside material is not great, it is very delicate.

Emily A on June 30, 2021

Sports SUV Highlander 2009

Don't have any problems with the vehicle yet. Still runs smooth. Fits about 8 people comfortably. Interior is nice. Has snow, and sports mode. Good gas mileage. Spacious in the inside. Black leather interior. White on the outside color.

Jack on June 23, 2021

Constant Maintenance on my 2003 Highlander

Every 10k miles i have been dumping $1k into this rust bucket. All 02 sensors, water pump, center exhaust, brakes dragging and need cleaning every 7k, rear differential, and more. These are just some of the parts between 70-109 k miles.

Ruth H on October 27, 2021

The 2019 Toyota Highlander XLE has ample people and cargo room.

Downside is mileage is only about 22-23 mpg. Very quiet car, nice standard amenities like lane wander signal, back up camera, keyless ignition. Electronic rear hatch opening. Our vehicle has a roof opening and tilt panel as well.

Warren N on July 19, 2021

Gas mileage is amazing also even with my 2010.

Its big and spacious and reliable. Very comfortable and performance is great even on the standard models. I would like to upgrade into the newest model hopefully in the future. The car is amazing and you will not regret it.

Randy on August 14, 2021

Engine block leaks coolant 2004 base model

The 2004 4 cylinder , careful of the engine block main bolt , mine was leaking coolant and needed a used engine afterwards. Youll be hearing gurgling sound in front of dash whenever you start car. So watch out.

Victoria on June 11, 2021

2010 Toyota Highlander limited

Ive had my Highlander for 11 years and literally nothing has failed but I keep up with preventive maintenance. I have about 105k miles, and still a smooth safe ride. Hate to sell it but thinking of a 2022.

Rich on January 8, 2022

2018 Toyota Highlander

2018 Highlander LE V6 Just a great vehicle no complaints typical Toyota reliability this is my third Toyota replace the 2005 with 500,000 miles on it. You get your money worth out of a Toyota

Austin Kinney

Austin M. Kinney’s auto coverage can be found on popular sites like DriveTribe and Vehicle History. When he’s not busy writing about cars, he can be found hosting videos on his popular automotive YouTube channel, Kinney’s Reviews, which has grown to garner over 4,000 monthly views, and his writings have been viewed over 200,000 times.