2017 is a long-lasting year for the Highlander, reaching over 300,000 miles with only minor A/C and noise problems. At $28,835 – 37,398 it’s expensive, but worth it for the dependability.
2017 Toyota Highlander: Key Points
- Reliability ratings are great with no widespread mechanical issues. There are improvements from 2015, making models from 2016 and newer good choices.
- There’s an efficient 4-cylinder and V6 with average power.
- Fuel economy is good at up to 23 MPG combined.
- Safety ratings are excellent, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests and a Top Safety Pick Award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- We recommend the 2017 Toyota Highlander due to outstanding reliability ratings and great technology. The Highlander ranks 7th out of 17 midsize SUVs based on owner reviews.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
Top Critics Reviews
- Consumer Reports finds the Highlander to be reliable with high resale value, but is missing exciting performance.
- Edmunds 4/5, noting a quiet and comfortable ride, but has a cramped third row.
- Kelley Blue Book gives the Highlander a 4.5/5 finding great safety features, but missing off-road and towing capabilities.
What Problems Does the 2017 Toyota Highlander Have?
Problems include wind noise, smelly air conditioning and oil consumption issues. The issues are relatively minor and similar on models from 2016 through 2020, making them all good choices.
Excessive wind noise is the most common complaint from owners at around 1,500 miles. Some owners have found damage to the gaskets on the doors which causes the noise. Replacing gaskets costs about $200.
Moldy smells from the air conditioning are rare, but happen around 30,000 miles in some vehicles. The most common source of the problem is a clogged A/C drain line, which allows mold to build up.
Excessive oil consumption is another rare issue, but mentioned on some Highlanders at around 40,000 miles. Toyota vehicles tend to use more oil than other engines to protect components. The best course of action is to check oil levels regularly, and top off as needed.
There are 4 recalls, similar to other midsize SUVs. Recalls include spare tire air pressure, roof rail fastener, windshield wire harness, and fuel pump. Most serious is the fuel pump since a failure can make the engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
How Long Will the 2017 Toyota Highlander Last?
Reaching over 300,000 miles the Highlander is one of the longest-lasting SUVs on the market. The Edge and Acadia have shorter lifespans by 100,000 miles. Repair Pal estimates the maintenance costs to be very affordable at $462 per year.
As a Highlander reaches 125,000 miles, owners should prepare to replace water pumps for $1,000, wheel bearings costing $350, and the brake light switch which costs $100.
So far, we haven't had any problems with it. We purchased this vehicle based on its reliability record from a couple different websites.
Yes it is. Since purchase there has not been any major problems. Regular maintenance only and has taken my family and I to and from without any problems.
No problems! I have never had a service issue with this highlander vehicle. From experience Toyota lasts forever and that is why I purchased this one.
I have not experienced any problem in particular. Toyota's hope their value so I would say that helps with reliability.
Toyota's are very reliable. I have always liked the Toyota brand. Because of the dependability. It is comfortable.
Do not like the compass on the dash it is better in the 2012 sienna other than that it is a great car easy to drive very comfortable.
Three years and loving this car. Reliable and no issues at all. Amazing engine. Gas saver and no needs of repair so far.
Very reliable and has no mechanical problems, although there are some features that I wish I had on my vehicle.
How Much is the 2017 Toyota Highlander Worth?
Blue book prices range from $28,835 – 37,398, making the Highlander more expensive than an Outback or Grand Cherokee. When new, the price range was $30,630 to $46,260. Depreciation is better than average, losing only about 7% of the current value per year.
What Are the Models & Specs?
LE is the entry-level model with:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Heated Mirrors
- Toyota Safety Sense Bundle
LE Plus adds features including:
- Power Liftgate
- Upgraded Cloth Seating
- Fog Lights
- Power Driver’s Seat
XLE adds quality of life features such as:
- Sunroof
- Leather Seating
- Keyless Entry and Ignition
- Heated Front Seats
- Auto Dimming Rear View Mirror
- Second Row Window Sunshades
SE is a minor upgrade for sportier driving with:
- 19-Inch Wheels
- LED Running Lights
- Sport Suspension
- Unique Interior Trim
Limited is a luxury version adding:
- Unique 19-Inch Wheels
- Upgraded Leather
- Ventilated Front Seats
- Second Row Captain’s Chairs
Limited Platinum adds even more luxury features with:
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Automatic Wipers
- Heated Second Row of Seats
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is excellent in the 2017 Highlander, with all-new technology added this year in a mid-cycle refresh.
- Base technology includes a 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 5 USB ports, Bluetooth, 6-speakers, and a 3.5MM AUX jack.
- Optional upgrades include an upgraded 8-inch touchscreen navigation system, satellite radio, app integration, and a 12-speaker JBL stereo system.
- Standard safety features include airbags, automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation, a rearview camera, and a lane departure warning system. A 360 degree camera is optional.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is average even with the upgraded V6. The larger engine takes the SUV from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.2 seconds and tows up to 5,000 pounds.
- The base engine is a weak 2.7L 4-cylinder with only 185 horsepower.
- An available upgrade is the more powerful 3.5L V6 with 295 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Highlander?
The Highlander is similar in size to rivals including the CX-9 and Pilot. Passenger room is great in the second row, but the third row is cramped and best suited to young children. The optional captain’s chairs in the second row are a luxurious upgrade.
Cargo space is good with 13.8 cubic feet of room behind the third row, 42.3 behind the second, and 83.7 when all seats are folded flat. There’s enough room for a family of 5 and their luggage.
How Does the 2017 Toyota Highlander Compare to Other SUVs?
The highest-rated midsize SUV of 2017 is the Toyota 4Runner. Where the 4Runner comes out ahead is with better off-road capabilities, but the Highlander has more technology. Overall, the Highlander is a better daily driver if you never plan on hitting trails.
Another rival is the more affordable Honda Pilot. The Pilot has a larger interior with more room and a standard V6 engine, but safety features are better in the Highlander. The competition is close, but we recommend the Highlander over the Pilot simply for the technology.
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Toyota Highlander a Good SUV?
Yes, the highlander gets a high owner rating of 4.6 out of 5 with a lot of positive reviews mentioning a luxurious interior, great technology, and a comfortable ride.
Overall, 2017 is a great year for the Highlander with some improvements from the older 2015 model. Quality is similar from 2016 through 2020, making them all good choices depending on your budget.
Yes. It is very reliable and rides smoothly. It also handles well for being a larger vehicle. I like that it can seat 8 people and is pretty roomy.
Yes. Good for a small family. Good vehicle for work and casual travel. This vehicle has a lot of space and very good on ask. Lots of features that make driving safe and comfortable.
Yes, I truly am happy with the vehicle that I have purchased. The reviews were amazing as well. I feel safe driving my son around.
Yes I would recommend this car to anyone. We have had it for over a year and it has been a great car for my family of 4. Plenty of room for car seats.
Yes I haven't had any problems with the highlander. It looks good, is reliable and lots of features.
Very good on mileage. Looks very nice. Love the color and style it has all wheel drive which is great in the snow.
This is a reliable vehicle. Beautiful design and interior. So spacious, good for the snow, and the whole family can travel comfortably.
It is an excellent vehicle. Comfortable, roomy, reasonable gas mileage, and like most Toyotas, it is very reliable.