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    Toyota Highlander

    EPA MPG: 23 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    We expect the 2025 Highlander will be more reliable than the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2022, 2023 and 2024 models.

    The 2020 Toyota Highlander has been recalled 4 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2020 Toyota Highlander owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other/unsure

    "Sunglass holder fell off"

    Anonymous, WA (2020 Toyota Highlander)

    "Power lift-gate does not open fully and will not power close without manually pushing it into full open position first."

    Anonymous, AZ (2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum 3.5-L V6)

    "Rear lift gate apparatus does not operate 40% of the time."

    Anonymous, WA (2020 Toyota Highlander XLE 3.5-L V6)

    "The undercarriage came off during a trip. About a $3000 repair and now it is under recall"

    Anonymous, FL (2020 Toyota Highlander XLE 3.5-L V6)

    "The front lower bumper cover could possibly fall off the vehicle. It was repaired under a recall. There is a pending recall for the front passenger airbag possibly not deploying in an accident."

    Anonymous, MI (2020 Toyota Highlander XLE 3.5-L V6)

    "I had a bear run out of the ditch and lightly hit my bumper which then let loose on the one side and went under my vehicle. I was able to drive it into my yard, but my bumper was a mess. This has not been repaired yet, but I have a recall on my counter that there IS a recall on the bumper portion for just this reason"

    Anonymous, MN (2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum 3.5-L V6)

    "None yet. Acquired this car used from the dealer this week."

    Anonymous, FL (2020 Toyota Highlander XLE 3.5-L V6)

    "Power rear lift gate often refuses to close. Have to try repeatedly and pull it in order to close."

    Anonymous A., WA (2020 Toyota Highlander LE 3.5-L V6)

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    What Owners Say

    Automatic climate control

    "Air fans are weak. Its unclear how to get specific vents to move air. They seem to be preset, so you have not enough control over them. Not like my 04 Toyota Camry. More control there, more ability to target where the air went."

    Anonymous, WA (2020 Toyota Highlander Limited 3.5-L V6)
    Other climate system problem

    "It relates to the previous problem."

    Anonymous A., ON (2020 Toyota Highlander XLE 3.5-L V6)
    Refrigerant leaks

    "The problem started this summer just as a heat wave hit our area. We took it to the local Toyota dealer who recharged the system and told us to bring it back in 10 days. Before the 10 days was up the AC only blew hot air. We took it back to Toyota who told us the lines going to the rear cooler were corroded. Further, the part was on back order. Having to spend $500 for first recharge, we were told to fix it would cost $600 for the part, $500 labour and another $500 to second refrigerant recharge. In short, it is a lot of money for a 4 year old vehicle with only 35k . I am not impressed with Toyota."

    Anonymous A., ON (2020 Toyota Highlander XLE 3.5-L V6)

    "The airconditioner stopped working before the car was four years old. We took it on and found that the connection between the front airconditioner and back had a leak. This is the second Toyota weve had that has had this problem. So needless to say we arent too pleased."

    Anonymous, (2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE 3.5-L V6)

    "the back air conditioning line went bad, leak developed."

    Anonymous, FL (2020 Toyota Highlander XLE 3.5-L V6)

    "leak in the rear a/c lines"

    Anonymous, ON (2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum 3.5-L V6)

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    What Owners Say

    Keyless entry

    "Driver side door will not unlock with the keyless entry. The problem is intermittent and I have an appointment for repair in August. It can be unlocked using the key enclosed in the electronic key."

    Anonymous, PR (2020 Toyota Highlander Limited 3.5-L V6)
    Other electrical system problem

    "My lift gate would not respond when I attempted to use it and had to be replaced. Its still touchy and difficult to activate when I need it. But randomly will activate if my foot crosses the sensor accidently"

    Anonymous, OH (2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum 3.5-L V6)
    Remote engine starter

    "Was difficult to use. I had to be shown how to lock unlock and relock car to activate. It doesnt always respond."

    Anonymous, OH (2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum 3.5-L V6)

    Noises And Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Squeaks or rattles

    "When you shut off the vehicle it makes a noise like the sound of a crow. Asked the dealership what it was and was told that it was the electronic park brake and not to be concerned. Was also told that they have replaced them in other Highlanders and that the noise came back shortly after replacement"

    Anonymous A., BC (2020 Toyota Highlander Limited 3.5-L V6)

    "Intermittent rattle in driver side head panel behind visor at speeds above 50 mph"

    Anonymous, CA (2020 Toyota Highlander Limited 3.5-L V6)

    "Dashboard rattles. 3 visits to the dealer to fix it. No success."

    Anonymous, AB (2020 Toyota Highlander L 3.5-L V6)

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    What Owners Say

    Premature brake wear

    "This is more with the dealer, told I needed brakes and I didn't have them do service. Took to a very reputable independent repair shop I do not need them for another 3-4 months."

    Anonymous, NY (2020 Toyota Highlander XLE 3.5-L V6)

    "The brakes seem to wear quickly. Also, the brakes are spongy at times when starting - like theyre gluey when pulling out of a parking spot. I mostly notice it when Ive stopped and sat in the car for a bit and then I start up the car again and try to exit the parking spot/parking lot. There are also times when Im braking and theres a bit of a stutter with the brakes catching."

    Anonymous, ON (2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE 3.5-L V6)
    Rotors

    "Front Rotors warped around 40,000 miles."

    Anonymous, MI (2020 Toyota Highlander XLE 3.5-L V6)

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    What Owners Say

    Backup or other camera/sensors

    "It doesn't signal the driver when stationary objects might be backed into."

    Anonymous A., OR (2020 Toyota Highlander LE 3.5-L V6)
    External music device interface (e.g., smart phone, MP3 player)

    "radio and all things connected to it (usb drive, radio etc) randomly will just go out and dies. vehicle needs to shut off and restarted before it resumes playing"

    Anonymous A., OH (2020 Toyota Highlander Limited 3.5-L V6)
    Other in-car electronics problem

    "dash shows that tailgate and doors are ajar when they are closed tight"

    Anonymous A., OH (2020 Toyota Highlander Limited 3.5-L V6)

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    What Owners Say

    Transmission rebuild or replacement

    "transmission quit at just over 61,000, out of waranty by 1000 miles. Lucky we had purchased extended waranty. Roof had partial colapse after 10+ foot of snow."

    Anonymous A., CA (2020 Toyota Highlander Limited 3.5-L V6)

    "Transmission made high pitched noise under acceleration. Took it to the dealership and was told the entire transmission had to be replaced. This happened around 76,000 miles."

    Anonymous, MI (2020 Toyota Highlander XLE 3.5-L V6)

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    What Owners Say

    Seat controls - power

    "Driver seat makes noise when tilting back and when coming back up. Toyota says the frame needs to be replaced. I bought this up before the end of the Warranty period and was told the seat would have to be removed to inspect or lubricate the pivot points requiring the vehicle to be kept overnight or more if it needed other stuff. I also bought an extended warrant (6 yrs. or 65K) told at time of contract if vehicle need warranty repair overnight a curtesy car would be provided. During this time since purchased no car would be provided, told me to rent a vehicle. Now instead of pulling seat, want me to order new seat frame, I would pay cost for part and labor and no curtesy car provided. Bottom line seat works Just make a binding noise when operating the back up or down. Hasn't gotten worse or better, just very annoying. Othe highlanders and passenger power seat work fine."

    Anonymous, PA (2020 Toyota Highlander XLE 3.5-L V6)

    Paint And Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Loose exterior trim or moldings

    "The roof trim (no roof rack) has repeatedly blown off. The last time Toyota made me pay for it as if it's my fault."

    Anonymous A., OR (2020 Toyota Highlander LE 3.5-L V6)

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    Steering And Suspension

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    2020 SUVs Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Toyota vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
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    Overall Reliability Verdict

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    Engine Major
    Engine Minor
    Engine Cooling
    Engine Electrical
    Transmission Major
    Transmission Minor
    Drive System
    Fuel System/Emissions
    Exhaust
    Steering and Suspension
    Brakes
    Climate System
    Build Quality
    Electrical Accessories
    Body Hardware
    Paint/Trim
    Noises/Leaks
    In-car Electronics
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for over 300,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2024 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes to power equipment and the electrical accessories. NA indicates that we did not receive a large enough sample size to provide data for a specific year. An X indicates that the vehicle was not manufactured for a specific year.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    AIR BAGS
    Dec 20, 2023
    An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
    Summary:
    Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Multiple phases are planned through 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V865000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 999901
    STRUCTURE
    Oct 26, 2023
    A detached front bumper cover can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Highlander & Highlander Hybrid vehicles. During normal vehicle operation, minor impact to the front lower bumper cover may result in the cover coming loose or detaching.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will repair or replace the upper and lower front bumper covers as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed April 22, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB12/23TA12.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V720000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 750795
    AIR BAGS, SEATS
    Oct 14, 2020
    Improper deployment of the seat-mounted side air bag increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
    Summary:
    Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020 Highlander and Highlander hybrid vehicles. Incorrect seat trim covers on one or both of the front seats can prevent the seat-mounted side air bag from deploying properly.
    What should you do:
    Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front seats and replace the seat trim covers as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB14 / 20TA14.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 20V633000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 3121
    ENGINE, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
    Mar 19, 2020
    Improper fuel supply programming can result in a vehicle stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020 Highlander vehicles equipped with a 3.5 L, V6 (2GR-FKS) gasoline engine. Due to an Engine Control Unit (ECU) programming error, fuel may not be correctly supplied to the engine while using the stop and restart feature.
    What should you do:
    Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the ECU, free of charge. The recall began May 15, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA06.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 20V162000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 38810
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