2017 Toyota Highlander Problems & Owner Complaints

Power Train 70 2 crash 3 injury

“The contact owns a 2017 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked but still running in a driveway on an incline. After exiting the vehicle, there were abnormal beeping and ticking noises detected, and the vehicle began to roll down the street. The contact and daughter were pinned between the door and the vehicle. The contact's daughter sustained injuries to her chin and teeth. The driver has lumps and bruises on her leg and back pain, but medical attention was not provided. The rear wheels were on the curb and hit a trash can, and the vehicle stopped rolling. The local…”
NHTSA complaint #11609315, 2024 · 2 injury(ies)

“ON SATURDAY APRIL 27 AT 2 PM I PUT MY CAR IN PARK AND WAS GETTING OUT. THE CAR STARTED ROLLING BACKWARDS AND AS I WENT TO REACT WAS KNOCKED DOWN AND PINNED UNDER THE FRONT LEFT TIRE OF THE CAR. MY THREE CHILDREN WERE IN THE BACK WATCHING THEIR MOTHER LYING ON THE GROUND HELPLESS AND SCREAMING FOR HELP. THANK GOD TO GOOD SAMARITAN'S THEY LIFTED THE CAR OFF OF ME WHILE I WAITED FOR THE EMS TO ARRIVE. SEVERAL WITNESSES SAID THE CAR WAS IN FACT IN PARK AND THIS SHOULD HAVE NEVER HAPPENED. I AM SEVERELY SORE AND INJURED AND THIS SHOULD NOT EVER HAPPEN. THIS HAPPENED ON HYLAN BLVD. PARTY CITY IN…”
NHTSA complaint #11204256, 2019 · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS PARKING THE VEHICLE, IT SUDDENLY SPED FORWARD, DROVE OVER A MEDIAN, AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE MANUFACTURER OFFERED TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE OR PROCESS A REQUEST FOR THE VEHICLE TO BE REPURCHASED. THE CONTACT WAS UNSURE OF WHICH OPTION TO TAKE. DARCARS TOYOTA FREDERICK (5293 BUCKEYSTOWN PIKE, FREDERICK, MD 21704, (301) 696-6300) WAS CONTACTED, BUT DID NOT DIAGNOSE OR REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 14,680. *BF…”
NHTSA complaint #11267105, 2019 · crash

Unknown Or Other 51 7 crash 1 fire

“My vehicle lost power while driving on the interstate. I pulled over and smoke started coming from under the hood. Flames then started approximate 10-20 seconds later. Flames consumed the vehicle for a total loss. My insurance company declared the vehicle a total loss. Toyota stated they are investigating the issue. The police and fire department were present. The loss of power happened with no warning. There was a brief flash of the check engine light followed by a low power mode warning. I had just pulled over off of the interstate. This happened within 30 seconds of the vehicle catching on…”
NHTSA complaint #11487549, 2022 · fire

“bought the car in 2018 and ever since it makes a rttling noise, Toyota says it is the hybrid system engaigeing, hybrid cars are not supposed to make noise.”
NHTSA complaint #11744157, 2026 · crash

“WHILE DRIVING IN A CITY STREET AT APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH I HAD MY WINDOW WIPERS ON DUE TO SOME POLLEN ON MY WINDSHIELD. WHILE WINDOW WIPERS WERE ENGAGED I APPROACH A DOWNWARD HILL AND HIT NOTING BUT SUN GLARE BLINDING ME I PUT MY BRAKES ON BUT BY THAT TIME MY SUV SLAMMED INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. THE EMERGENCY BRAKING SYSTEM DID NOT ACTIVATE”
NHTSA complaint #11318183, 2020 · crash

Electrical System 46 1 crash 1 fire 2 injury

“MY TOYOTA HIGHLANDER WOULD NOT GO INTO PARK. THE SUV LUNGED FORWARD OVER CURBING AND INTO BUILDING. THEN WENT VIOLENTLY INTO REVERSE AND INTO A UNCONTROLLABLE SPIN. THEN THE SUV WENT VIOLENTLY INTO DRIVE AND JUMPING OVER A CURBING AND INTO A DITCH AND WAS SITTING ON TOP OF A NATURAL GAS LINE. DURING THIS WHOLE TIME I WAS PRESSING THE BRAKE AND PUSHING THE IGNITION SWITCH TRYING TO TURN OFF THE ENGINE. THIS WAS DONE IN A PARKING LOT AS I WAS TRYING TO PARK. *DT *TR”
NHTSA complaint #11242500, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, WITHOUT WARNING THE VEHICLE WOULD VIOLENTLY SHAKE INTERMITTENTLY, LURCH AND ACCELERATE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING IN A PARKING LOT THE VEHICLE INADVERTENTLY ACCELERATED WHILE DRIVING THROUGH A CROSSWALK. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED DUE TO THE VEHICLE LURCHING AND SHAKING, SHE HAS SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HER TONGUE, NECK AND BACK. NO MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NEEDED. THE CONTACTED STATED THAT VARIOUS WARNING LIGHTS WOULD ILLUMINATE, THE MOON ROOF W…”
NHTSA complaint #11311500, 2019 · 1 injury(ies)

“ON 3/8/21 I WAS DRIVING MY 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLAND APPROX. 13 MILES AWAY FROM MY HOME. I BEGAN TO SMELL SMOKE AS I WAS DRIVING AND THROUGH FURTHER INVESTIGATION I FOUND THE SMOKE TO BE COMING FROM THE CHARGING PORT AT THE BOTTOM OF THE MIDDLE ARM REST. THERE IS A FUNCTIONAL CAP ON THIS PORT TO KEEP DEBRIS FROM FALLING INTO IT. I DID NOT SEE ANY DEBRIS IN IT AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT. BUT WHILE CHECKING FOR THE SOURCE OF SMOKE I FELT HEAT COMING FROM THE PORT AND THEN IT MELTED TO THE FLOOR. ONCE THIS HAPPENED I PULLED OVER TURNED THE TRUCK OFF AND EXITED.”
NHTSA complaint #11400087, 2021 · fire

Engine 44 3 crash 2 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, WITHOUT WARNING THE VEHICLE WOULD VIOLENTLY SHAKE INTERMITTENTLY, LURCH AND ACCELERATE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING IN A PARKING LOT THE VEHICLE INADVERTENTLY ACCELERATED WHILE DRIVING THROUGH A CROSSWALK. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED DUE TO THE VEHICLE LURCHING AND SHAKING, SHE HAS SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HER TONGUE, NECK AND BACK. NO MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NEEDED. THE CONTACTED STATED THAT VARIOUS WARNING LIGHTS WOULD ILLUMINATE, THE MOON ROOF W…”
NHTSA complaint #11311500, 2019 · 1 injury(ies)

“bought the car in 2018 and ever since it makes a rttling noise, Toyota says it is the hybrid system engaigeing, hybrid cars are not supposed to make noise.”
NHTSA complaint #11744157, 2026 · crash

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS PARKING THE VEHICLE, IT SUDDENLY SPED FORWARD, DROVE OVER A MEDIAN, AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE MANUFACTURER OFFERED TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE OR PROCESS A REQUEST FOR THE VEHICLE TO BE REPURCHASED. THE CONTACT WAS UNSURE OF WHICH OPTION TO TAKE. DARCARS TOYOTA FREDERICK (5293 BUCKEYSTOWN PIKE, FREDERICK, MD 21704, (301) 696-6300) WAS CONTACTED, BUT DID NOT DIAGNOSE OR REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 14,680. *BF…”
NHTSA complaint #11267105, 2019 · crash

Service Brakes 29 5 crash 7 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS SEATED IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT, THE DRIVER FELL ASLEEP BEHIND THE WHEEL. UPON WAKING UP, THE DRIVER ATTEMPTED TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL, BUT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A LIGHT POLE AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE STOMACH, HEAD, AND NECK. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED FOOT, CHEST, TONGUE, AND NECK INJURIES. THE FOUR REAR PASSENGERS SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE NECK, HEAD, LIPS, FEET, AND ARMS. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS REQUIRED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE…”
NHTSA complaint #11110831, 2018 · crash · 6 injury(ies)

“My car would randomly shut off at red lights, one time I was on a hill & thought I was going to roll back into the car in front of me. After restarting it would turn on. The radio would randomly shut off. We eventually replaced the battery. On a Fri.(Dec 17th) my car would not start, so my Husband drove the kids & I to school, upon my return the car started. He told me the wheel locks & I need to move it. Then on Mon. (Dec 20th) driving my daughter to preschool school…I have video from home camera showing your system will not let me attach a video) …my car stalling as I reversed out of the dri…”
NHTSA complaint #11543659, 2021 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“WHILE DRIVING IN A CITY STREET AT APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH I HAD MY WINDOW WIPERS ON DUE TO SOME POLLEN ON MY WINDSHIELD. WHILE WINDOW WIPERS WERE ENGAGED I APPROACH A DOWNWARD HILL AND HIT NOTING BUT SUN GLARE BLINDING ME I PUT MY BRAKES ON BUT BY THAT TIME MY SUV SLAMMED INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. THE EMERGENCY BRAKING SYSTEM DID NOT ACTIVATE”
NHTSA complaint #11318183, 2020 · crash

Fuel/Propulsion System 28 1 crash 1 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER.THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH,WHEN MULTIPLE WARNING LIGHTS BEGAN TO ILLUMINATE AND THE VEHICLE SEIZED.THE CONTACT WAS ABLE RESTART THE IGNITION AND DRIVE AWAY.THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LOCAL DEALER LIA TOYOTA OF ROCKLAND (618 NY-303, BLAUVELT, NY 10913:(845) 367-4219),WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH NEEDING THE MAC SENSOR PLUG TO BE REPLACED.THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT CONTINUED TO EXPERIENCE THE FAILURE.THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO LIA TOYOTA OF ROCKLAND AND WAS DIAGNOSED WITH NEEDING "UNKNOWN RECALL" TO BE COMPLETED. REPAIRS WERE COMPLETED…”
NHTSA complaint #11387675, 2018 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“The engine stalled because the fuel pump is failing. We have found that many 2017 Toyota Highlanders have had the fuel pump recalled for this exact issue, yet our VIN is not included in this recall. We experienced the exact issue the recall was issued for stalling while driving. Issue on July 24, 2027: The engine stalled while driving on the highway at high speed and lost power steering, creating a major safety issue. We had our vehicle towed to a car care center. The car care center identified diagnostic codes related to low pressure fuel system pressure, engine stall history, etc. but cann…”
NHTSA complaint #11749551, 2026

“Leaking fuel line due to deterioration of plastic liner in fuel line.”
NHTSA complaint #11696733, 2025

Vehicle Speed Control 13 4 crash 2 injury

“My car would randomly shut off at red lights, one time I was on a hill & thought I was going to roll back into the car in front of me. After restarting it would turn on. The radio would randomly shut off. We eventually replaced the battery. On a Fri.(Dec 17th) my car would not start, so my Husband drove the kids & I to school, upon my return the car started. He told me the wheel locks & I need to move it. Then on Mon. (Dec 20th) driving my daughter to preschool school…I have video from home camera showing your system will not let me attach a video) …my car stalling as I reversed out of the dri…”
NHTSA complaint #11543659, 2021 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“MY TOYOTA HIGHLANDER WOULD NOT GO INTO PARK. THE SUV LUNGED FORWARD OVER CURBING AND INTO BUILDING. THEN WENT VIOLENTLY INTO REVERSE AND INTO A UNCONTROLLABLE SPIN. THEN THE SUV WENT VIOLENTLY INTO DRIVE AND JUMPING OVER A CURBING AND INTO A DITCH AND WAS SITTING ON TOP OF A NATURAL GAS LINE. DURING THIS WHOLE TIME I WAS PRESSING THE BRAKE AND PUSHING THE IGNITION SWITCH TRYING TO TURN OFF THE ENGINE. THIS WAS DONE IN A PARKING LOT AS I WAS TRYING TO PARK. *DT *TR”
NHTSA complaint #11242500, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“I TURNED MY CAR TO PARK IN THE CHURCH PARKING LOT. I BELIEVE MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE, IT HAPPENED SO FAST, I AM NOT SURE. . ALL OF A SUDDEN THE CAR BEGAN TO ACCELERATE ON IT'S OWN! IT SCARED THE DAYLIGHTS OUT OF ME! SUDDENLY THE CAR JUMPED THROUGH A WOODEN FENCE AND OFF A FIVE FOOT DROP OFF TO THE STREET BELOW. I WAS LUCKY THERE WAS A PILE OF GRAVEL TO STOP ME. I PUT IT INTO PARK.THE AIRBAGS DID NOT GO OFF. I WAS NOT HURT. BUT I AM VERY STRESSED BY THE INCIDENT. IT WILL BE A MONTH BEFORE IT IS FIXED.”
NHTSA complaint #11281468, 2019 · crash

Visibility/Wiper 12 1 crash 2 injury

“THE BULKY SIDE MIRROR ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE CREATES A SAFETY HAZARD WHEN MAKING A LEFT HAND TURN BECAUSE OF A LARGE BLIND SPOT. I WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT DUE TO THAT VERY REASON. I WAS MAKING A LEFT HAND TURN AS DESCRIBED ABOVE. I CHECKED FOR ONCOMING TRAFFIC SEVERAL TIMES AND TURNED WHEN I SAW TRAFFIC WAS CLEAR. I WAS HIT ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE BECAUSE MY VISIBILITY WAS BLOCKED BY THE MIRROR AND THE ONCOMING VEHICLE WAS NOT SEEN.”
NHTSA complaint #11054889, 2017 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“Driver side interior visor has failed and does not secure in place causing obstruction of view while driving.”
NHTSA complaint #11656682, 2025

“There is a splotchy glare that appears on my windshield that makes it EXTREMELY difficult to see out the windshield in the rain. It is not fog, I have cleaned the inside and outside of the windshield, changed the wiper blades, tried the heated windshield feature, defrost, and seriously done everything and it does not go away unless direct sunlight is on it. Forget driving in the rain at night, I was unable to see the lines in the road and it's worse when headlights are facing your direction. I ran off the road and had to park my car until the rain passed. This is absolutely dangerous. The guys…”
NHTSA complaint #11482315, 2022

Air Bags 9 6 crash 13 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS SEATED IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT, THE DRIVER FELL ASLEEP BEHIND THE WHEEL. UPON WAKING UP, THE DRIVER ATTEMPTED TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL, BUT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A LIGHT POLE AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE STOMACH, HEAD, AND NECK. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED FOOT, CHEST, TONGUE, AND NECK INJURIES. THE FOUR REAR PASSENGERS SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE NECK, HEAD, LIPS, FEET, AND ARMS. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS REQUIRED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE…”
NHTSA complaint #11110831, 2018 · crash · 6 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT CALLED ON BEHALF OF THE DRIVER AND STATED THAT ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE OF THE DRIVER'S VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED HEAD INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE FRONT PASSENGER SUSTAINED LEG INJURIES AND THE REAR PASSENGER ALSO SUSTAINED HEAD AND NECK INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE DRIVER OF THE OTHER VEHICLE ALSO SUSTAINED INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A POLICE TOW LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAK…”
NHTSA complaint #11113884, 2018 · crash · 4 injury(ies)

“On April 5, 2026, my 2017 Toyota Highlander was involved in a side‑impact (T‑bone) collision on the front & rear passenger side. I was seated in the front passenger seat. The impact was hard enough that my insurance company declared the vehicle a total loss. During the crash, I struck my head, but no airbags deployed (front, side, or curtain). The vehicle is being released to Liberty Mutual Insurance. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure. I am concerned that the airbag/SRS system may not have functioned properly in a crash severe enough t…”
NHTSA complaint #11731086, 2026 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

Fuel System 9

“The contact owns a 2017 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that while his wife was driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power with several warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that an image with the brake pedal depressed was displayed. The contact was informed by his wife that the vehicle then stalled. The driver was unable to restart the vehicle and assistance was provided to push the vehicle to the side of the roadway. The driver was able to restart the vehicle after several attempts. The contact stated that the failure had reoccurred, and the vehicle was towed…”
NHTSA complaint #11625513, 2024

“The contact owns a 2017 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that while driving 50 MPH, the vehicle started jerking, the RPM decreased, and the vehicle started losing motive power. The message "Reduced Engine Power" was displayed. The contact stated that she came to a complete stop at a traffic light. The contact stated that while attempting to drive from a complete top, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to restart the vehicle; however, the vehicle jerked increasingly while driving. The contact veered to the side of the road, where she remained. The contact stated that the failure had…”
NHTSA complaint #11577200, 2023

“The contact owns a 2017 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated before the vehicle suddenly lost motive power and stalled. The vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to a local mechanic who diagnosed that the fuel pump was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in the NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V682000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The contact stated that the vehicle had expe…”
NHTSA complaint #11503559, 2023

Structure 8 2 crash

“WHILE DRIVING IN A CITY STREET AT APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH I HAD MY WINDOW WIPERS ON DUE TO SOME POLLEN ON MY WINDSHIELD. WHILE WINDOW WIPERS WERE ENGAGED I APPROACH A DOWNWARD HILL AND HIT NOTING BUT SUN GLARE BLINDING ME I PUT MY BRAKES ON BUT BY THAT TIME MY SUV SLAMMED INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. THE EMERGENCY BRAKING SYSTEM DID NOT ACTIVATE”
NHTSA complaint #11318183, 2020 · crash

“I STOPPED AT MY NEIGHBORS HOUSE TO GIVE HER SOMETHING,I LEFT THE ENGINE RUNNING WHEN I WENT IN TO HER HOUSE AS SOON AS I WENT INTO HER HOUSE I HEARD A NOISE LOOKED OUT AND COULDN'T SEE THE CAR,I WENT OUT SIDE AND THE CAR HAD JUMPED IN TO GEAR AND WENT INTO HER GARAGE ( THE DOOR WAS OPEN) THE CAR HIT HER BIKE,GOLF CLUBS THERE WAS A 2X4 ON A CHAIR THE CAR HIT THE 2X4 AND THEN THE OTHER END OF THE 2X4 HIT HER WASHING MACHINE WITCH STOPPED THE CAR.THE DOOR WAS LOCKED SO I WENT HOME (3 HOUSES FROM HER HOUSE) TO GET THE OTHER SET OF KEYS THE CAR STILL WOULDN'T UNLOCK SO I USED THE THE KEY THAT IS I…”
NHTSA complaint #11176510, 2018 · crash

“The paint on the hood is flaking off. There is no reason other than the paint being defective for this to happen in this manner. We just noticed it today. 11/14/25”
NHTSA complaint #11699455, 2025

Wheels 6

“2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER VIN: [XXX] I purchased my Highlander new in 2017 and I have had consistent electrical issues. The radio has consistently fluctuated between bass, treble, and off for no apparent reason. I have taken my vehicle to the dealer 4 times and still no change. I have replaced the battery 3 times although I only have 25,000 miles on 55,000mile tires, the tire treads are wearing quickly. I rarely go anywhere and when I do it is on smooth surfaced, well-maintained roads. All maintenance is completed at the dealership, including rotation and balancing. I really so annoyed and I…”
NHTSA complaint #11443756, 2021

“I HAD THIS CAR 2017 BRAND NEW, AFTER 10000 MILE, I HEARD SOME NOISES FOR MY FRONT WHEELS, I DID MY OIL AND MAINTANCE SERVICE OFTEN BY TOYOTA DEALERSHIP,I TOLD THEM ALL THE TIME ABOUT BRAKES AND FRONT WHEEL MAKE SOME NOISES, THEY ALWAYS EVERYTHINGS LOOKS FINE, AFTER 2 YRS I HAD ENGINE CHECK LIGHTS ON, I WENT TO TOYOTA DEALERSHIP, AND THEY SAYED IT S NOT COVERED I HAVE PAY MY OWN MONEY FOR FIXED, THEY SAYED ENGINE MISFIRE ON CYLINDER, FOR NEW CAR ONLY DRIVING 2YRS, IT S HAPPENED FEB/05/2019, AFTER 6 MONTHS THEY FOUND FRONT PASSENGER OUTER CV BOOT LEAKING AND I HAVE TO PAY MY OWN PACKET TOO, AND…”
NHTSA complaint #11390931, 2019

“PURCHASED NEW TIRES GOODYEAR AVIVA AT WALMART COVINGTON LA ON AUG 2019 THE CAR PULLED AS SOON AS I PURCHASED THEM AND THEY SAID TO GET ALIGNMENT. WELL AFTER 2 ALIGNMENTS AT TOYOTA AND A THIRD AT AUTOVILLE REPAIR SHOP THEY CAME TO CONCLUSION IT WAS BAD TIRES. THESE TIRES HAVE ONLY 2000 MILES ON THEM AND WALMART WONT CREDIT ANYTHING. THEY WILL KILL PEOPLE IF YOU DONT DO ANYTHING ABOUT THIS PROBLEM . I AM 70 YEARS OLD AND THESE ARE WORST TIRES I EVER OWNED PLEASE HELP PEOPLE STAY ALIVE AND RECALL THEM.”
NHTSA complaint #11321008, 2019

Exterior Lighting 4

“The low beams began to get dim after ~60K miles until it began to be difficult to see the right shoulder of the road. After a number of visits, the Toyota dealer said there was some kind of cloudiness on the internal surfaces of the low beam and that the only solution was to replace both headlight assemblies. By then I had also failed state inspection (because of the lights.) I paid the ~$1400 for the replacements and the lights work now. BUT, I can see inside the sealed low beam portion a few areas with a bit of cloudiness. The dealer said they could not explain and Toyota Engagement (the onl…”
NHTSA complaint #11514813, 2023

“I PURCHASED A TOYOTA HIGHLANDER IN APRIL 2017 FROM THE JIM COLEMAN DEALER IN BETHESDA, MARYLAND. SINCE THEN, THIS TERRIBLE DESIGNED CAR IS HURTING ME AND MY FAMILY. IN THE BACK OF THE CAR, THE REAR LIGHT COVERS STICK OUT ABOUT 3 INCHES, THE EDGES ARE AS SHARP AS A KEEN KNIFE (PHOTOS ATTACHED). WHEN I UNLOAD STUFF FROM THE TRUNK, IT OFTEN HURTS ME. I HAVE TRIED TO BE VERY CAREFUL. I ALSO REMINDED MY TEENAGE SON WITH CAUTION. HOWEVER, IT STICKS OUT TOO MUCH AND IS TOO SHARP. IT IS HARD TO AVOID. IT KEEPS HURTING. FOR EXAMPLE, THREE MONTHS AGO, ON AN EVENING IT WAS DARK AND RAINING, AT A COSTCO…”
NHTSA complaint #11251810, 2019

“IN THE BACK OF THE CAR, THE REAR LIGHT COVERS STICK OUT ABOUT 3 INCHES, THE EDGES ARE AS SHARP AS A KEEN KNIFE (PHOTOS ATTACHED). WHEN I UNLOAD STUFF FROM THE TRUNK, IT OFTEN HURTS ME. I HAVE TRIED TO BE VERY CAREFUL. I ALSO REMINDED MY TEENAGE SON WITH CAUTION. HOWEVER, IT STICKS OUT TOO MUCH AND IS TOO SHARP. IT IS HARD TO AVOID. IT KEEPS HURTING. FOR EXAMPLE, THREE MONTHS AGO, ON AN EVENING IT WAS DARK AND RAINING, AT A COSTCO PARKING LOT, WHEN I UPLOADED GROCERIES ONTO THE CAR, MY RIGHT ARM AND JOINT WERE SUDDENLY HIT BY THIS SHARP CUTTING EDGE OF THE REAR LIGHT COVER. THE KEEN EDGE CUT…”
NHTSA complaint #11246740, 2019

Seat Belts 4 1 injury

“THE DRIVER'S SEATBELT IS NOT ERGONOMICALLY PLACED, AND REACHING UP, BACK AND PULLING FORWARD WITH MY LEFT ARM TO ATTACH THE SEATBELT HAS DAMAGED MY LEFT SHOULDER (SEVERE TENDINITIS AND A PARTIALLY TORN ROTATOR CUFF). TO DATE PHYSICAL THERAPY HAS NOT RESOLVED THE ISSUE AND I MUST RETURN TO THE ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON FOR FURTHER EVALUATION.”
NHTSA complaint #11057407, 2017 · 1 injury(ies)

“The contact owns a 2017 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that upon entering the vehicle and attempting to buckle the seat belt, the contact became aware that the seat belt was no longer attached. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the anchor point bolts were severely corroded. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 75,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11565106, 2023

“2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DEFECTIVE SEATBELTS. THE CONSUMER STATED THE RIGHT REAR PASSENGER SIDE BUCKLE CUT THROUGH THE BELTED FABRIC. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO BE REIMBURSED FOR THE REPAIRS.”
NHTSA complaint #11439476, 2021

Steering 4 1 crash 1 injury

“My car would randomly shut off at red lights, one time I was on a hill & thought I was going to roll back into the car in front of me. After restarting it would turn on. The radio would randomly shut off. We eventually replaced the battery. On a Fri.(Dec 17th) my car would not start, so my Husband drove the kids & I to school, upon my return the car started. He told me the wheel locks & I need to move it. Then on Mon. (Dec 20th) driving my daughter to preschool school…I have video from home camera showing your system will not let me attach a video) …my car stalling as I reversed out of the dri…”
NHTSA complaint #11543659, 2021 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“Toyota manufacturing issue-fuel line is manufactured incorrectly-had gas seeping into cab of vehicle and tailpipe. Severe safety issue Steering wheel/column sticks and almost lose control when driving due to a worn out coupler-poor design and manufacturing.”
NHTSA complaint #11634540, 2024

“The contact owns a 2017 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated while his wife was driving inside the parking lot of a gas station, the steering wheel seized and then the vehicle stalled. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact stated that a bystander assisted with jumpstarting the vehicle. The contact drove the vehicle to a nearby Walmart and was informed that the battery needed to be replaced. The contact purchased and replaced the battery. The contact called and made the local dealer aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed. Th…”
NHTSA complaint #11542042, 2023

Suspension 4

“The contact owns a 2017 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that upon purchasing the vehicle, there was an abnormal clicking sound coming from the front passenger’s side tire. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the contact was informed that the wheel bearings needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer where it was purchased, Norm Reeves Honda Superstore Huntington Beach (19131 Beach Blvd, Huntington Beach, CA 92648), and the contact was informed that no fault was found with the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle stalle…”
NHTSA complaint #11513602, 2022

“When the vehicle was ~1.5 years old following its 10,000 mile maintenance, substantial thumping generated from the rear of the vehicle. Each time, the dealership attempted to resolve the problem finding issues with struts; however, it only went away in late March after having the vehicle in the shop for weeks at a time on 5 different occasions Nov 2018 - Mar 2019. I engaged Toyota HQ (800-331-4331) - filing report #1901092572 - requesting an exchange of the vehicle. This was denied and I was offered a 8 year warranty. *Due to COVID, I rarely drove this vehicle through 2020 and most of 2021, wh…”
NHTSA complaint #11447818, 2022

“HAVE TAKEN THIS VEHICLE MULTIPLES TIMES TO TOYOTA DEALERS LOOKING TO ADDRESS A FRONT SUSPENSION PROBLEM. IT FEELS LIKE THE STEERING WHEEL IS SHAKING A LITTLE BIT WHEN IS BEING DRIVEN AT SLOW SPEED OVER UNEVEN STREET PAVEMENT SURFACE (SMALL POTHOLES) IT FEELS SOMETHING IN THE SUSPENSION IS LOOSE AND IT WOBBLES FROM LEFT AND RIGHT. I ALWAYS FEEL IT ON THE STEERING WHEEL. THEY HAVEN'T BEEN ABLE TO DETERMINE WHAT IS THE REAL PROBLEM ARGUING THEY DON'T FEEL ANY WOBBLING ON THE VEHICLE”
NHTSA complaint #11355319, 2020

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 3 1 crash 1 injury

“MY TOYOTA HIGHLANDER WOULD NOT GO INTO PARK. THE SUV LUNGED FORWARD OVER CURBING AND INTO BUILDING. THEN WENT VIOLENTLY INTO REVERSE AND INTO A UNCONTROLLABLE SPIN. THEN THE SUV WENT VIOLENTLY INTO DRIVE AND JUMPING OVER A CURBING AND INTO A DITCH AND WAS SITTING ON TOP OF A NATURAL GAS LINE. DURING THIS WHOLE TIME I WAS PRESSING THE BRAKE AND PUSHING THE IGNITION SWITCH TRYING TO TURN OFF THE ENGINE. THIS WAS DONE IN A PARKING LOT AS I WAS TRYING TO PARK. *DT *TR”
NHTSA complaint #11242500, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“1 WEEK AGO, 7-26-20, MY CAR STALLED SLIGHTLY AND THEN AN ENGINE ICON APPEARED. A MESSAGE APPEARED FOR ME TO VISIT MY DEALER. I TOOK IT TO THE TOYOTA DEALER. THE LIGHT WENT OFF AS I ARRIVED THERE. I HAD TO PAY FOR A DIAGNOSTIC CHECK AND THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG. I WAS TOLD TO MAKE SURE I WAS USING A GOOD GRADE OF GAS. LATER IN THE WEEK I GOT GAS AT A SHELL STATION. THE CAR WOULDN'T CRANK AT THE PUMP. IT KEPT TRYING TO TURN OVER. I GOT A MESSAGE TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE AND PUSH IGNITION. THEN IT SAID LOW BRAKE PRESSURE. I SAT THERE A FEW MINUTES AND TRIED AGAIN. I FINALLY GOT IT…”
NHTSA complaint #11342785, 2020

“ACCELERATE SPEED OVER 80MPG CAR JUST SHUTSDOWN THOUGH STEERING STILL MANAGEABLE OR WORKING GAS PEDAL DONT WORK NO MORE HAVE TO CRUISE THE CAR FROM 1 LANE ALL THE WAY TO THE VERY RIGHT LANE LUCKILY EXIT RAMP JUST THERE AND HAVE TO EXIT. TURN OFF CAR THEM RESTARTT CAR WORKS AGAIN NORMAL. SENT TO DEALER KEYES TOYOTA VAN NUYS NOW WILL BE 3 WEEKS STILL NO NEWS AS THE GUY STOPS CALLING US GIVE ME UPDATE AFTER 1ST WEEK. TRIED TO CALL FRIDAY OF 2ND WEEK BUT WAS PUT ON HOLD FOREVER.”
NHTSA complaint #11022544, 2017

Engine And Engine Cooling 3

“The contact owns a 2017 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the spark plugs needed replaced. The spark plugs were replaced by an independent mechanic, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic, who retrieved diagnostic trouble codes P11F0 (Air-Fuel Ratio Imbalance) and P0305 (Misfire In Cylinder Number 5). The mechanic cleaned the fuel injectors, but the failure persisted. The contact was informed that the fuel…”
NHTSA complaint #11741892, 2025

“The contact owns a 2017 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle to an independent mechanic for service, the contact was informed that the engine was leaking due to a timing chain failure. The contact was advised that the engine needed to be taken apart to repair the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11700516, 2025

“The contact owns a 2017 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated upon starting the vehicle, she heard abnormal clicking sounds. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the water pump had failed and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 45,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11437675, 2021

Forward Collision Avoidance 3 1 injury

“The radar cruise control system on my 2017 Toyota Highlander is not functioning properly and creates a safety hazard. When initially setting the radar cruise control, the system works as expected. I can accelerate to a desired speed, press the “set” control, and the vehicle maintains that speed correctly. The problem occurs when I try to increase the set speed. After setting an initial speed (for example, 45 mph), I accelerate to a higher speed (such as 65 mph) and press the “set” control again to update the cruise setting. Instead of setting the new speed, the system reverts to the previously…”
NHTSA complaint #11730932, 2026

“While driving all of these lights started to flash.”
NHTSA complaint #11544723, 2023

Seats 3 1 crash 2 injury

“I WAS IN A REAR IMPACT COLLISION IN MY HIGHLANDER. MY VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY ON A HIGHWAY, HAVING STOPPED TO AVOID A COLLISION, AND WAS HIT FROM BEHIND AT A RELATIVELY HIGH RATE OF SPEED (ESTIMATED 55-65 MPH). MY CAR WAS PUSHED INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF IT WHICH CAUSED A CHAIN REACTION WITH SEVERAL OTHER VEHICLES. IMMEDIATELY AFTER IMPACT I BEGAN TO FEEL NECK AND BACK PAIN AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL. PRIOR TO TRANSPORT, WE NOTICED THAT MY HEADREST HAD BROKEN FREE IN THE IMPACT AND WAS LAYING ON THE BACK FLOORBOARD.”
NHTSA complaint #11271489, 2018 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“THE NEW HEADRESTS ARE TOO FAR FORWARD AND CREATE A LITERAL PAIN IN THE NECK. THE NEW HEADREST REQUIREMENTS ARE CAUSING THE MANUFACTURERS TO PRODUCE VEHICLES THAT THE END USERS ARE HAVING TO MODIFY, OR SET THE SEATS AT AN ANGLE THAT INCREASES THE LIKELIHOOD OF INJURY IN AN ACCIDENT. THIS IS TRUE OF MOST NEW VEHICLES. PLEASE REVISE THE NEW REGULATIONS.”
NHTSA complaint #11035631, 2016 · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AND WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE DRIVESHAFT BECAME EXPOSED. IN ADDITION, THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEAT ADJUSTMENT LEVERS BECAME DETACHED FROM THE SEAT HARNESS. OAKLAWN TOYOTA IN OAKLAWN, IL (60453-2668) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,000. UPDATED 09/28/17*LJ****UPDATED 10/24/17*LJ *JS *AS THE CONSUMER STATED THE NAVIGATION SYSTEM AND RADIO FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT SOLD WITH…”
NHTSA complaint #11012152, 2017

Visibility 3

“Side mirror (glass) shakes/rattles at speeds over 45mph. This affects the visibility of things in the mirror as well as becomes distracting to the driver. When on the interstate with smooth pavement it's impossible to ignore... It's just more noticeable then. Tried moving the mirror to verify and yes, it's loose. Just reporting it now that I became aware of this website but car has had this issue for at least 2 years.”
NHTSA complaint #11627860, 2024

“The contact owns a 2017 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that upon purchase of the vehicle, she discovered a vertical crack on the bottom driver’s side of the windshield. The contact stated that the crack obstructed her vision while driving. The vehicle was returned to the dealer and the windshield was replaced. A year later while driving 60 MPH, a small pebble struck the windshield which cause another vertical crack on the bottom driver side of the windshield. Upon further investigation, the contact discovered two additional cracks in the same area as the original crack. The dealer was n…”
NHTSA complaint #11438515, 2020

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH AT NIGHT, A CRACKING NOISE WAS HEARD ON THE ROOF FOLLOWED BY A LOUD EXPLOSION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUN ROOF WAS SHATTERED, BUT DID NOT COLLAPSE UNTIL THE FOLLOWING DAY. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO TOYOTA OF PHARR (956-815-2285, LOCATED AT 1625 W EXPY 83, PHARR, TX 78577) WHERE THE DEALER INSISTED THAT THE FAILURE WAS CAUSED BY A FALLING OBJECT. THE CONTACT WAS PROVIDED AN ESTIMATE FOR INSURANCE PURPOSES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED.…”
NHTSA complaint #11164551, 2018

Carry Handle 2

“I have had this car seat for 1 year and 10 months and I just found out that the headrest foam piece is split in half (06/26/2025). It has been handled with extreme care and I got it in September of 2023. It has stayed in my specific car and the only reason I found the problem was because I was cleaning them off. It is the third Chicco car seat to have found the foam headrest either broken in half or completely separate from the plastic base in 2 months (2023 & 2024 manufacture dates). There is something wrong with this and I really hope an investigation starts so that others can avoid these is…”
NHTSA complaint #11669607, 2025

“I have had this car seat for 1 year and 3 days and I just found out that the headrest foam piece came off the plastic base frame(06/26/2025). It has been handled with extreme care and I got it in June 2024. It has stayed in my car and the only reason I found the problem was because I was cleaning them off. It is the third Chicco car seat to have found the foam headrest either broken in half or completely separate from the plastic base in 2 months (2023 & 2024 manufacture dates). There is something wrong with this and I really hope an investigation starts so that others can avoid these issues a…”
NHTSA complaint #11669608, 2025

Equipment 2

“I PURCHASED A TOYOTA HIGHLANDER IN APRIL 2017 FROM THE JIM COLEMAN DEALER IN BETHESDA, MARYLAND. SINCE THEN, THIS TERRIBLE DESIGNED CAR IS HURTING ME AND MY FAMILY. IN THE BACK OF THE CAR, THE REAR LIGHT COVERS STICK OUT ABOUT 3 INCHES, THE EDGES ARE AS SHARP AS A KEEN KNIFE (PHOTOS ATTACHED). WHEN I UNLOAD STUFF FROM THE TRUNK, IT OFTEN HURTS ME. I HAVE TRIED TO BE VERY CAREFUL. I ALSO REMINDED MY TEENAGE SON WITH CAUTION. HOWEVER, IT STICKS OUT TOO MUCH AND IS TOO SHARP. IT IS HARD TO AVOID. IT KEEPS HURTING. FOR EXAMPLE, THREE MONTHS AGO, ON AN EVENING IT WAS DARK AND RAINING, AT A COSTCO…”
NHTSA complaint #11251810, 2019

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AND WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE DRIVESHAFT BECAME EXPOSED. IN ADDITION, THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEAT ADJUSTMENT LEVERS BECAME DETACHED FROM THE SEAT HARNESS. OAKLAWN TOYOTA IN OAKLAWN, IL (60453-2668) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,000. UPDATED 09/28/17*LJ****UPDATED 10/24/17*LJ *JS *AS THE CONSUMER STATED THE NAVIGATION SYSTEM AND RADIO FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT SOLD WITH…”
NHTSA complaint #11012152, 2017

Lane Departure 2

“VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY. I PRESSED THE BRAKE IN ORDER TO TURN ON THE VEHICLE SCREEN STARTED TO FLASH AND MAKING CLICKING NOISE. WARNING MESSAGES INCLUDE: CHECK AWD SYSTEM, LANE DEPARTURE ALERT MALFUNCTION VISIT YOUR DEALER AND BRAKING POWER LOW.”
NHTSA complaint #11374506, 2020

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE BLIND SPOT DETECTOR MALFUNCTIONED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BLIND SPOT DETECTION SYSTEM FAILED TO REGISTER A SEMI-TRUCK AS SHE ENTERED INTO THE LEFT LANE PREMATURELY. BUD CLARY TOYOTA OF YAKIMA IN UNION GAP, WASHINGTON WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE, BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED THE CONTACT WITH CASE NUMBER: 171-221-11129. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2,000. *TT UPDATED 10/5/18*JB”
NHTSA complaint #11102431, 2017

Tires 2

“Tire size 245/60R13 105N. Two weeks ago Tire Pressure Monitoring System light went on. Last week I brought it to Toyota dealer to have it patched. On 3/27/22, tire exploded. This tire is a safety hazard”
NHTSA complaint #11458571, 2022

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER EQUIPPED WITH ACHILLES DESERT HAWK UHP TIRES, SIZE: 285/40R22 (NA). THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE SIDEWALLS WERE SEPARATING FROM ALL FOUR TIRES. THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED THE FAILURE WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18T013000 (TIRES). THE CONTACT CALLED TIRE TOWN AUTO SERVICE (LOCATED AT 627 OLD SPANISH TRAIL, SLIDELL, LA 70458, (985) 643-7092) AND INFORMED THEM OF THE FAILURE. THE TIRES WERE NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE TIRE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE TIRE AND VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,000. *LN CONSUMER STATED PLEASE SEE ATTACHED PHOTOS OF TIRE…”
NHTSA complaint #11277124, 2018