The Toyota HIGHLANDER is the three-row family favorite. With 13,048 complaints across its lifecycle, the HIGHLANDER reflects the high sales volume Toyota commands in this segment. Toyota buyers consistently report excellent long-term ownership experiences, so focusing on the best model years can help you find a HIGHLANDER that will provide reliable transportation for years to come.

13,048
Total Complaints
105
Total Recalls
27
Model Years
116
Reported Deaths

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

Common Problem Categories

Power Train 1,470
Electrical System 1,166
Service Brakes 1,100
Unknown Or Other 1,092
Engine 980

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2025 6 3 0 0 Good
2024 72 6 16 0 Good
2023 362 8 28 0 Average
2022 452 4 44 4 Average
2021 928 3 58 6 Below Average
2020 606 4 38 0 Average
2019 1,044 3 76 2 Below Average
2018 616 5 76 2 Average
2017 678 4 64 4 Average
2016 266 3 40 2 Average
2015 474 2 38 22 Average
2014 306 5 16 0 Average
2013 558 3 88 0 Average
2012 456 2 40 8 Average
2011 456 5 32 0 Average
2010 538 10 52 10 Average
2009 356 8 14 14 Average
2008 1,002 9 118 36 Below Average
2007 318 4 30 2 Average
2006 686 6 76 8 Average
2005 576 5 100 16 Average
2004 670 3 84 6 Average
2003 632 0 86 2 Average
2002 670 0 54 16 Average
2001 316 0 56 4 Average
1998 2 0 0 0 Good
1997 2 0 0 0 Good

Toyota Highlander Years to Avoid

Avoid the 2019 model year, which saw a spike in complaints—particularly power train. The 2018 and 2020 model years also experienced elevated complaint levels. While Toyota's overall reliability is excellent, these specific years may require more thorough pre-purchase inspections.

Best Toyota Highlander Years

The 1997 model year stands out with significantly fewer reported complaints. Early production years often have fewer documented issues. Consider also the 1998 through 1999 model years if available, as they represent strong choices with lower complaint profiles.

What Owners Are Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions