2021 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

4 recalls, 600 complaints - 193 TSBs - 5/5 safety rating

SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY:RECLINER

Defect Description

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The second-row seat backs may fail to lock into position during seat back adjustment.

Consequence

A seat back that fails to lock may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the return springs in the seat back recliner assemblies, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed April 27, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated August 27, 2026. This is a phased recall. Owne... Read more

550,007 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

TIRES

Defect Description

Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Highlander vehicles. The 20-inch accessory tires with an insufficient load rating for the vehicle's Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) were installed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor ... Read more

Consequence

Tires with an insufficient load rating can be overloaded and fail, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

SET will inspect and replace the tires and information placard, as necessary free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 16, 2024. Owners may contact SET's customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET's number for this recall is SET24A.

4,763 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION

Defect Description

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 cir... Read more

Consequence

An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue to be mailed in phases through January 2026. Owners may con... Read more

999,901 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS

Defect Description

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.

Consequence

A detached front bumper cover can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

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.

750,795 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Complaint Statistics

600 total complaints 32 crashes 9 fires 24 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE	90
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	70
POWER TRAIN	69
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	56
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	45
SERVICE BRAKES	36
STEERING	24
STRUCTURE:BODY	17
AIR BAGS	15
SUSPENSION	14

Incident date: Jun 13, 2026

Our Transmission is failing on our 2021 Highlander. It has a little over 76,000 miles on the vehicle. 2021 and 2022 seem to have many issues with the transmission failing. The dealership's estimate is almost $11,000! We only buy Toyotas and never had this issue with our Sequoia, sienna, avalon, Rav... Read more

Incident date: Apr 14, 2025

A known issue with this transmission. It started whining and had to be replaced at around 40,000 miles. Was replaced with a rebuilt transmission instead of a new one.

Incident date: Apr 3, 2026

The Automatic transmission is making a whining noise when you press the accelerator. I took it to the dealer and they confirmed it needs a new transmission. the vehicle started making noise at 58,000 miles. When I was able to bring it in it had 60,200 miles on it. They would not cover it under warra... Read more

Incident date: Jun 22, 2026

Experiencing high pitched whine noise at approximately 65k miles. Local Toyota dealer test drove vehicle, also noticed high pitched whine, and diagnosed as transmission going bad due to issues noted in T-SB-0008-21. Transmission can fail without warning at any time and leave driver stranded or in da... Read more

Incident date: Jun 8, 2026

at 109,000 miles the car started having a whining sound with accelerating. When inspected by the Toyota dealer were told we would need a new transmission. Upon further searching there have been many many reports of transmission failure with the UA80 8 speech automatic transmissions. Toyota is aware ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2025

The back hatch of the car has issues closing regularly. Nearly half of the time you push the button to shut the back hatch when it is open it will not close and has to be shut manually. Typically, it shuts an inch or two and then beeps at you and when you push the button again nothing happens but be... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2025

Incident date: Jun 26, 2026

Vehicle started making a high pitched noise when accelerating at around 98,000mi. I took the vehicle in for the 100,000mi service at 100,854mi and had them also look at this issue. I was told that there was a failure in the front carrier pinion shafts and they recommended replacing the transaxle as... Read more

Incident date: Jun 25, 2026

2021 Toyota Highlander UA80 transmission failed at 100,000 miles. Codes P2808, P0741. Matches Toyota TSB-0160-18 and T-SB-0008-21. Dealer Alexander Toyota and TMS Brand Engagement denied goodwill. TMS rep stated "TSBs don't matter" despite pending class action Pallaya v Toyota, Case 2:25-cv-10458,... Read more

Incident date: Jun 24, 2026

My 2021 Toyota Highlander is experiencing the documented transmission issue impacting vehicles with the UA80E transmission. Our transmission whines and experiences a hesitation or jerks the vehicle. Especially under acceleration. My vehicle was purchased brand new from Toyota. Serviced at a Toyota d... Read more

Incident date: Jun 25, 2026

Incident date: Mar 1, 2002

Have been having issues with my 2021 highlander power liftgate strut failure. It will not open at times unless you have to repeat pressing the button. It makes a noise that you know it is definitely not working right. This has been going on for three years and the service department keeps telling ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 17, 2026

Transmission started to whine and act erratically during driving. These effects put safety of those in the vehicle at risk by causing distractions to whomever was driving the vehicle, taking their focus off driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who confirmed the transmission needed to be repl... Read more

Incident date: Jun 21, 2026

The transmission is in the whining stage of transmission failure. It has been confirmed by Cumberland Toyota in Cookeville, TN. There were no warning lamps, etc. however Toyota did post a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) on February 09, 2021 that my vehicle would have transmission issues. My warra... Read more

Incident date: Jun 16, 2026

After just passing 100K miles, there is now a whirling noise upon acceleration. After taking to an auto repair shop, they narrowed it down to the transmission and said it was a known problem (referenced T-SB-0008-21) and suggested I take it to the dealership. I took to the dealership where a service... Read more

Incident date: Jun 6, 2026

Transmission needed! 76,000 miles and Toyota will not address the issue! We have owned Toyotas for 30 some years! Sienna, Avalon, RAV4, Sequoia, and now the Highlander!!!!! There is a massive issue with the transmission across the board in the 2021 and 2022 Highlander and Toyota will not replace.

Incident date: Jun 11, 2026

I own a 2021 Toyota Highlander with approximately 127k miles. The vehicle has developed a noticeable whining/whirring noise during acceleration. The noise appears to originate from the drivetrain/transmission area and has become increasingly noticeable over time. The condition occurs every-time dur... Read more

Incident date: Jun 11, 2026

Incident date: Jun 15, 2026

I own a 2021 Toyota Highlander with approximately 93,000 miles. The vehicle developed transmission symptoms including whining noise. A Toyota dealer diagnosed internal transmission failure and recommended complete transmission replacement at a cost of approximately $9786.31. Toyota declined repair a... Read more

Incident date: Mar 31, 2026

The front lower bumper detached while driving on the PA turnpike. The vehicle was traveling in the left lane approximately 75 MPH and was bumping on the road until we were able to pull over all the way to the right lane for approximately 1-2 miles. This hanging bumper dragging on the floor causing s... Read more

Incident date: Jun 15, 2026

Transmission makes a metallic whining sound when you accelerate. Associated and confirmed to be transmission failure. Vehicle has 65,000 miles on it and failure is considered premature. The specific transmission, UA80, is known to have manufacturing defects that cause this problem

Incident date: Jun 16, 2026

The transmission in my 2021 Toyota Highlander began producing a whining noise during acceleration between approximately 15-50 mph at around 80,000 miles. The noise stops when the accelerator is released and has progressively become louder. The vehicle was inspected by a Toyota dealership. I was info... Read more

Incident date: Jun 14, 2026

The vehicle transmission has a distinct whine noise as previous models have had. This is a known issue with these transmissions.

Incident date: Jun 6, 2026

On XXX, I was driving my 2021 Toyota Highlander at approximately 55 mph when a deer entered the roadway and I had to brake suddenly to avoid a collision. My [XXX] daughter was properly seated in the second-row seat and was properly restrained by her seatbelt. During the braking event, the second-ro... Read more

1 injured

Incident date: Jun 13, 2026

Right after the manufacture warranty of 60K miles, the car began to make a humming noise. I took the car into the dealership with 65K miles on 13 Jun 2026, and the Toyota dealership stated that the humming is caused by the transmission and we will need to replace the entire transmission. The cost ... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2025

On two separate occasions I was traveling approx. five to ten miles an hours and had to change lanes. Traffic was heavy and I had to accelerate quickly to do the lane change. The vehicle engine started to rev high and I was barely moving. It was like the transmission didn't know what to do. I had to... Read more

Incident date: Mar 1, 2026

The contact owned a 2021 Ford EcoSport. The contact stated that while driving approximately 25-30 MPH, the vehicle ahead applied the brakes. The contact then depressed the brake pedal; however, the brakes were inoperable, causing the vehicle to rear-end the vehicle in front. The contact further s... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Jun 1, 2025

Goodday, I bought the car a month ago from a dealer on terms. The first time i drove car and turning right its sounds like the wheel or something is about to break off. Like maybe the axel. Extremly loud. Scary loud. No matter speed, turning right does this. I returned car to dealer. They say the ro... Read more

Incident date: Apr 25, 2026

I am reporting an auto dealership and its finance company for contract fraud, electronic profile manipulation, and using illegal repossession threats to cover it up. During my vehicle purchase, the dealership used deceptive bait-and-switch tactics. They altered my final contract numbers without my ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 1, 2026

My vehicle has 67,100 miles. A whining/whistling noise recently started and the dealer has diagnosed that a new transmission is needed at a cost of $6,000-$8,000 and it is out of warranty. Researching this shows that this is a known manufacturing defect referred to under T-SB-0008-21. I am conc... Read more

Incident date: Apr 25, 2026

While idling at a standstill (in a drive-thru queue), my 2018 Hyundai Tucson suddenly experienced a severe engine overheat, causing the vehicle's air conditioning system to immediately blow hot air and shut down. The vehicle was brought directly to an authorized Hyundai dealership (Chapman Hyundai o... Read more

Incident date: Apr 25, 2026

Incident date: Jun 1, 2025

Transmission makes whining noise

Incident date: Aug 11, 2025

vehicle battery failure

Incident date: May 1, 2026

I have the 2.0 L eco-boost engine that has the coolant leak. It’s ford service bulletin TSB 19-2346

Incident date: May 15, 2026

2023 Ford Bronco Sport purchased 2 years ago with only 1 minor recall. I’ve had to replace my water pump already and it’s had a fuel injector recall (amongst others) in place for over a year and FORD is unable to remedy due to not having parts. This could cause a fire in my engine and is a major... Read more

Incident date: May 5, 2026

2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab RST with the RST select package. The "Chrome-Like" trim inside and outside reflective the sunlight badly and depending on travel direction and Sun position, horrible reflection appears and momentary blinds you. It is very comparable to having the sunlight ref... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2026

Receiving daily Battery Saver Mode notices telling me some remote features including lock/unlock may temporarily be unavailable. Not to use my AC and go for longer rides, which I have done with no change. My interior lights are not coming on. My radio powers off and on while driving. Constant clicki... Read more

Incident date: May 30, 2026

Clear coat and paint began to oxidize and fade after 4 years of ownership even when maintaining with wax

Incident date: Apr 1, 2021

The HV battery cooling fan on the 2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid has no protective filter and no cleaning or inspection interval in Toyota’s published Scheduled Maintenance Guide. Toyota acknowledged this exact problem in TSB T-SB-0087-13 (July 2013) for 2012–2016 Camry HV vehicles, stating the coolin... Read more

Incident date: May 4, 2026

The Rear Automatic Braking (RAB) software fails to detect a connected trailer harness. The truck experiences un-commanded, sudden emergency braking during multi-point turns when going from forward to reverse when manueverimg a trailer, creating an immediate hazard of neck injury, trailer jackknifing... Read more

Incident date: May 21, 2026

Failed System: Fuel Injector Failure (?) at high speeds, under load (uphill), causing an immediate and life threatening loss of power. While traveling on the highway, going up mountainous areas, the vehicle loses power and shakes violently. During multiple repairs/visits, the dealerships state th... Read more

Incident date: May 19, 2026

The power window motor and regulator on the drivers side failed to roll up the window. It was raining and made it stessful driving home . The window was stuck down and the rain was soaking the inside of the car. Very distracting while driving.

Incident date: May 17, 2026

Will be driving and suddenly my EPS light turns on and doesn’t allow me to turn. I have sudden loss of power assist, making the steering wheel incredibly heavy to turn. Once I pull over to safety and fully turn the truck off and back on, I can generally make it to my destination as the sensor temp... Read more

Incident date: Feb 1, 2026

The Jayco manufacturer cut structural support members (“X” supports) during assembly, allegedly to provide plumbing clearance. These modifications caused drainage problems and plumbing chafing issues. We were further advised that the rear tank itself may not require replacement, contrary to prio... Read more

Incident date: Jun 8, 2024

Description of Incident: While stopped at a red light at a busy intersection near a shopping district, the vehicle's Auto Idle Stop (AIS) system engaged and shut off the engine. When I attempted to restart by pressing the brake pedal — as instructed — the vehicle failed to restart. The dashboar... Read more

Incident date: Mar 1, 2026

piston rings wore out prematurely on our 2012 honda odyssey. this was caused by the vcm system. its a known issue on hondas. it only had 88,600 miles at the time. we were driving our 2012 honda odyssey in december 2023. the check engine light began to flash. it starting running rough. we had it to... Read more

Incident date: Mar 14, 2026

Sliding rear window leaking, causing mold and ruined seats. Had it "fixed" in 2023 only 3 years of owing it. Now here 3 years later the same issue is occurring and they're not willing to make it right. Mold causes a safety hazard for my children and anyone in my vehicle. My truck only has 30,000 mil... Read more

Showing 50 of 600 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2021 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

2021 Toyota HIGHLANDER SUV AWD

Category	Rating
Overall Rating	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash, Driver	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash, Passenger	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Side Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Passenger	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Rollover Risk	16.4%

Safety Technology

Feature	Status
Electronic Stability Control	Standard
Forward Collision Warning	Standard
Lane Departure Warning	Standard

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings Program. Ratings are based on crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

EPA Fuel Economy, 2021 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

Trim / Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG	Fuel Type	Annual Fuel Cost
3.5L 6-cyl, Automatic (S8) (Front-Wheel Drive)	20.0	28.0	23.0	Regular	$2,700
3.5L 6-cyl, Automatic (S8) (Front-Wheel Drive)	21.0	29.0	24.0	Regular	$2,600

CO2 Emissions: 389.0 g/mile (Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD)

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2021 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

193 manufacturer communications from 107 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	31
350000 EQUIPMENT	30
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	13
160000 STRUCTURE	11
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	9
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	7
140000 AIR BAGS	6
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	5

063110 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)

TT: Engine Oil Leak between the Lower Oil Pan and Crank Case

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

TT: Engine Oil Leak between the Lower Oil Pan and Crank Case

116340 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER

OBSOLETE NOTICE March 11, 2024: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0013-24.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This is to advise of various price adjustments that will affect Toyota Genuine Motor Oil and Long Life Coolant, effective March 1, 2024. These products are ordered through the Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) website.

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TSB: The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master keys are lost. Once the system is reset, all previously registered keys will be erased and can never be reused. Another feature,

353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)

TSB: Some 2018 ? 2022 model year Toyota vehicles equipped with a Premium Audio with Dynamic Navigation System require a Special Service Tool (SST) USB flash drive to update the map, points of interest, and system software. The SST is used w

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

TSB: Some 2018 ? 2024 model year Toyota vehicles equipped with an A25A-FKS, A25A-FXS, M20A-FKS, or M20A-FXS engine may exhibit one or more of the following conditions: ?Milky/discolored engine oil. ?An ?Oil Pressure Low? warning message

062000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

270000 LANE DEPARTURE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TI: TECHNICAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR 22TC01 DATA COMMUNICATION MODULE (DCM) REPROGRAMMING CERTAIN 2021 MODEL YEAR C-HR, RAV4 PRIME, TUNDRA CERTAIN 2021-2022 4RUNNER, HIGHLANDER, HIGHLANDER HV, PRIUS PRIME, SEQUOIA, TACOMA CERTAIN 2022 PRIUS

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TSB: Some drivers of 2020 ? 2022 model year Highlander Hybrid vehicles may be sensitive to the momentary transition from regenerative braking to hydraulic braking under certain driving conditions, such as while driving downhill, or turning

140000 AIR BAGS

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

138500 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REFRIGERANT HOSES AND FITTINGS

TSB: The air conditioning dye injection tool kit has been developed to aid in identifying the location of air conditioning refrigerant leaks. Follow the procedures outlined in this service bulletin to aid in locating, inspecting, and repair

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

TSB: Some 2020 ? 2022 model year Highlander and RAV4 vehicles, and 2022 model year Tundra vehicles equipped with a start/stop switch may exhibit water entry to the vehicle from the HVAC drain hose being disconnected from the air conditionin

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

OBSOLETE NOTICE August 17, 2023: This bulletin is no longer applicable and is now obsolete

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

OBSOLETE NOTICE August 17, 2023: This bulletin is no longer applicable and is now obsolete

140000 AIR BAGS

TSB: Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for most 1979 ? 2023 model year vehicles may be available provided the re

180000 VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

350000 EQUIPMENT

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

TT: A very small percentage of customers experience operational difficulties with some telematics features which they cannot resolve on their own. These resources, in conjunction with the Repair Manual, are for dealership personnel to assis

346000 COMMUNICATION:MANUFACTURER TELEMATICS

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TT: Some 2021 - 2023 Highlander HV, RAV4 HV and Sienna HV vehicles equipped with Rear Motor Generator, MGR (Q610), may duplicate an abnormal noise (Drone, Growl, Humming, and/or other) from the MGR at various vehicle speeds and normal drive

280000 BACK OVER PREVENTION

063100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL

TSB: Some 2020 ? 2023 model year Highlander Hybrid and 2021 ? 2023 model year RAV4 Hybrid, RAV4 Prime, Sienna Hybrid, and Venza Hybrid vehicles may exhibit a MIL ON condition with one or both of the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

072100 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

DP: Although the high-pressure fuel pump is covered by Toyota?s New Vehicle Limited Warranty for 5 years or 60,000 miles (whichever comes first), we at Toyota care about the customers? ownership experience. Toyota is providing coverage for

061400 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL

TT: Some Model Year 2018-2023 vehicles equipped with A25A-FKS/FXS or M20A-FKS/FXS engines may display the following message ?Engine Maintenance Required Visit Your Dealer? on the combination meter

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

280000 BACK OVER PREVENTION

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TT: Some 2021 to 2023 MY vehicles equipped Rear Motor Generator, MGR (Q610) may experience an oil leak concern. This issue is currently under investigation

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

TSB: Some 2019 ? 2022 model year Avalon, 2018 ? 2023 model year Camry, 2017 ? 2022 model year Highlander, and 2017 ? 2020 model year Sienna vehicles equipped with a 2GR-FKS engine may exhibit a knocking noise from the vacuum pump at idle.

280000 BACK OVER PREVENTION

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TT: On some 2021-2022MY Highlander HV, RAV4 HV, RAV4 Prime and Venza models, the connector cover for the Under Floor Wire Harness for the Rear Motor Generator may have the appearance of being damaged or missing

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TSB: Some 2019 ? 2022 model year Avalon, 2018 ? 2023 model year Camry, 2017 ? 2022 model year Highlander, 2017 ? 2020 model year Sienna, and 2016 ? 2023 model year Tacoma vehicles equipped with a 2GR-FKS engine may exhibit a knocking noise

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

TT: To assist with the early detection and early resolution of audio related concerns, it may be requested as part of the remanufactured head unit return to recover MMR data from the head unit. The following steps are instructions on how to

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

TSB: Some 2020 ? 2022 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid and 2021 ? 2022 Sienna Hybrid vehicles may exhibit a MIL ON condition with Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) P0087 (Fuel Rail/System Pressure ? Too Low) and/or P107A2A (Fuel Rail Pressu

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)

TSB: Some 2018 ? 2022 model year Toyota vehicles equipped with a Premium Audio with Dynamic Navigation System, require a Special Service Tool (SST) USB flash drive to update the map, points of interest, and system software. The SST is used

140000 AIR BAGS

TSB: Some 2005 ? 2022 model year Toyota vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty smell is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The pur

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TT: Some Model Year 2018-2021 vehicles equipped with A25A-FKS/FXS or M20A-FKS/FXS engines may display the following message ?Engine Maintenance Required Visit Your Dealer? on the combination meter.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TT: Some Model Year 2018-2022 vehicles equipped with A25A-FKS or A25A-FXS engines may experience a MIL ON condition with the following DTCs: P043F00, P043E00, P24007E, P24007F, P24187E

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TT: Some Model Year 2018-2022 vehicles equipped with A25A-FKS or A25A-FXS engines may experience a MIL ON condition with the following DTCs: P043F00, P043E00, P24007E, P24007F, P24187E

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

TT: Vehicles listed above equipped with a Denso Ten radio (Entune Audio Plus or Premium Audio) may exhibit a condition in which the radio screen continues to show a Bluetooth phone call in progress after the call has ended. This condition h

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TSB: Some 2020 ? 2022 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, and 2021 ? 2022 model year Venza Hybrid vehicles equipped with the 12.3-in. Premium Audio system may exhibit an abnormal multi-display operation, including but not limited to: an inter

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

050000 PARKING BRAKE

TSB: Some 2020 model year vehicles equipped with Audio Plus (version 1021) or Premium Audio (version 1021) or earlier may exhibit one or more of the following conditions: ?Barge in function defaulted to OFF. ?Limited phone book grammar. ?Di

350000 EQUIPMENT

061610 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM):SOFTWARE

TT: Some Model Year 2018-2021 vehicles equipped with A25A-FKS/FXS or M20A-FKS/FXS engines may display the following message ?Engine Maintenance Required Visit Your Dealer? on the combination meter.

063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR

TT: Some 17-22MY Highlander and 17-20MY Sienna vehicles may experience a MIL ON condition with DTC(s) P042000, and/or P043000. This issue could involve deteriorated catalyst material from the bank 1 or bank 2 catalytic converter.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

160000 STRUCTURE

TSB: Some 2010 ? 2022 model year Toyota vehicles may exhibit paint stains after the removal of Rapgard?. The paint stains may appear to be under the clear coat but are usually under wrinkles in the Rapgard?. The wrinkles may trap water and

160000 STRUCTURE

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TSB: This Service Bulletin provides a procedure to properly perform the Techstream ?Control the Injection Mode? active test in some 2016 ? 2022 model year Toyota vehicles equipped with an FKS engine

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

162210 STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS:ACTIVE SHUTTERS/GRILL

TSB: Some 2020 ? 2022 model year Highlander (except XSE models) and Highlander Hybrid vehicles may exhibit an abnormal whistle noise from the front when driving over 35 mph. This may be caused by the radiator grille bracket. A new radiator

346000 COMMUNICATION:MANUFACTURER TELEMATICS

TT: To improve customer support of telematics connected services features, additional resources have been provided in the Service Lane - Knowledge Center.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

DL: Due to improper programming of the Data Communication Module (DCM), which provides cellular communication in various situations, including emergencies, the driver and Safety Connect operator may not be able to hear each other?s voices

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR 22TC01 DATA COMMUNICATION MODULE (DCM) REPROGRAMMING CERTAIN 2021 MODEL YEAR C-HR, RAV4 PRIME, TUNDRA CERTAIN 2021-2022 4RUNNER, HIGHLANDER, HIGHLANDER HV, PRIUS PRIME, SEQUOIA, TACOMA CERTAIN 2022 PRIUS

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

160000 STRUCTURE

DL: A seam near the fuel inlet may not have been properly sealed during manufacturing. This can allow water to leak into the interior area of the vehicle, behind the third-row seat, when the vehicle is exposed to wet environmental condition

160000 STRUCTURE

TI: TECHNICAL INSTRUCTIONS LIMITED SERVICE CAMPAIGN 22TD02FUEL INLET HOUSING CERTAIN 2021 MODEL YEAR HIGHLANDER CERTAIN 2021 MODEL YEAR HIGHLANDER HYBRID

160000 STRUCTURE

TI: TECHNICAL INSTRUCTIONS LIMITED SERVICE CAMPAIGN 22LD01 OPTIONAL BODY-COLORED REAR SPOILER DESIGNED FOR: CERTAIN 2021 MODEL YEAR IS HIGHLANDER AND HIGHLANDER HYBRID VEHICLES

160000 STRUCTURE

DD: LIMITED SERVICE CAMPAIGN 22TD02 (Remedy Notice) Dealer Letter and Technical Instructions Available on TIS Certain 2021 Model Year Highlander and Highlander Hybrid Sealant for a Seam near the Fuel Inlet

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

SSC: Toyota Over-The- Air (OTA) Pilot Program Team Members SPECIAL SERVICE CAMPAIGN 22TC01

350000 EQUIPMENT

TT: Vehicle control apps might not operate as expected at times due to preconditions (normal operating parameters) not being established, vehicle settings and/or network/cellular coverage concerns

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

TSB: Some 2018 model year Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2019 model year Avalon and Avalon Hybrid, 2020 ? 2021 model year Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, and Corolla, and 2021 model year Sienna Hybrid vehicles may exhibit decreased front windshield

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

OBSOLETE NOTICE March 22, 2022: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0024-22.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TT: Some 17-22MY Highlander, and 17-20MY Sienna vehicles with engine serial numbers that start with F or G may experience an engine oil leak condition from the No.2 Oil pan. This issue is currently under investigation. Please take detailed

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

TT: Some 2017-2022 Highlander, and 2017-2020 Sienna vehicles may experience an engine oil leak condition from the No.2 Oil pan. This issue is currently under investigation. Please take detailed pictures of the oil pan leak condition before

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TT: The purpose of this Tech Tip is to provide diagnostic tips to prevent misdiagnosis of the following DTC?s and prevent repeat repairs. One or more of the Heated Oxygen Sensors (O2) or Air Fuel ratio sensor (A/F) DTCs below could set due

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

TT: When customers have a concern about a discharged battery, no start, or general battery concern, the DCA-8000 is the only appropriate tool to use for diagnosis

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TT: Vehicle control apps might not operate as expected at times due to preconditions (normal operating parameters) not being established, vehicle settings and/or network/cellular coverage concerns

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

SSC: SPECIAL SERVICE CAMPAIGN 22TC01 Over-the-Air (OTA) pilot program. This pilot program would enable you to complete Special Service Campaign 22TC01 for DCM (Data Communication Module) Reprogramming for Safety Connect, which includes yo

140000 AIR BAGS

150000 SEAT BELTS

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

140000 AIR BAGS

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

RL: Due to improper programming of the Data Communication Module (DCM), which provides cellular communication in various situations, including emergencies, the driver and Safety Connect operator may not be able to hear each other?s voices d

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

220000 SEATS

114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

TSB This Service Bulletin includes guidelines meant to help determine whether to repair or replace a wire harness assembly based on damage type. This Service Bulletin should be used in conjunction with the applicable model and model year El

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TT: Some customers may experience the inability to activate Remote Connect or Remote Connect becoming inoperative when attempting to send commands to the vehicle. To simplify the diagnosis of this system and prevent the unnecessary replacem

118310 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:DRIVER MONITORING:SOFTWARE

190000 TIRES

POL: This consolidated Tire Warranty Guide contains the complete warranty terms for all brands of ground and spare tires currently in use by Toyota. This information must be kept near the point of vehicle sale and be available to any custom

200000 WHEELS

Showing 100 of 193 bulletins.

NHTSA Safety Investigations, TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2008

Steering Column Separation

On November 16, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) as an upgrade to a Preliminary Evaluation (PE18-005). The investigation focused on allegations of steering wheel separation from the lower steering column after using the tilt and/or telescopi... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2008

Upper Steering Column Separation

On May 4, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE18-005 to investigate three allegations of steering column separation for Model Year (MY) 2008 through 2013 Toyota Highlander vehicles. Two (2) of the 3 complaints were received by ODI in April 2018 and occurre... d while the vehicle was in motion. Since opening PE18-005, one (1) additional VOQ involving steering column separation has been received. This incident occurred while the vehicle was stationary.As part of PE18-005, ODI examined the field data, warranty data, and relevant technical information submitted by Toyota in response to the PE18-005 information request letter. Ten (10) additional incidents of steering column separation were identified. Four (4) of these instances occurred while driving. During PE18-005, ODI confirmed that the steering columns in the subject vehicles are equipped with breakaway capsules that are designed to collapse/shear during certain types of vehicle collisions. This design feature aims to reduce driver injury severity from impact with the steering wheel in frontal vehicle collisions. There is no direct method for detecting when the capsules in the subject vehicles have sheared. If the driver operates the tilt/telescoping feature after the breakaway capsules have separated, the steering column may drop out of position and could subsequently detach entirely from the rest of the steering assembly. Loss of steering while driving may cause a loss of vehicle control, which could lead to a vehicle crash.To date, ODI has identified 14 incidents involving complete steering column separation, 6 of which occurred while driving. One of these incidents involved a minor crash. Additionally, there have been 16 events where the steering column dropped from the dashboard mounting brackets, but column separation did not occur. Four of these incidents happened while driving. Of these 30 total separation/drop incidents, 5 of the vehicles have evidence of minor collision repairs months or years prior to the steering column failure.This investigation has been upgraded an to Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) in order to 1) conduct a more detailed analysis of the conditions that may cause the steering column breakaway capsules to separate and 2) assess factors that may contribute to the problem of failing to detect and repair breakaway capsules after they have separated. Toyota has recently revised their repair manual and issued a Collision Repair Information Bulletin to help address the second concern.The VOQs associated with this investigation can be viewed at www.NHTSA.gov under the following ODI complaint numbers: 11141761, 11083623, 11083280, 10888043.Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2006

SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST

THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED PE06-055 BASED ON TWO COMPLAINTS OF LOSS OF EPS ASSIST IN 43,931 MY 2006 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID VEHICLES.ONE OF THE COMPLAINTS ALLEGED THAT A LOSS IN POWER STEERING ASSIST RESULTED IN A CRASH.IN RESPONSE TO AN INFORMATION REQUEST LETTER FROM ODI, TO... Read more

TOYOTA HIGHLANDER - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the TOYOTA HIGHLANDER across all model years (2001, 2025).

125 Total Recalls

7,037 Total Complaints

3 Investigations

638 Reported Crashes

110 Reported Fires

61 Reported Deaths

TOYOTA HIGHLANDER - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2026	0	1	View
2025	3	9	View
2024	7	54	View
2023	9	222	View
2022	5	295	View
2021 (current)	4	600
2020	4	352	View
2019	3	618	View
2018	5	345	View
2017	4	366	View
2016	3	137	View
2015	2	245	View
2014	5	158	View
2013	3	281	View
2012	2	228	View
2011	5	229	View
2010	10	272	View
2009	9	178	View
2008	13	502	View
2007	4	159	View
2006	7	345	View
2005	6	289	View
2004	5	337	View
2003	2	316	View
2002	2	335	View
2001	3	158	View
1998	0	1	View
1997	0	1	View

Other TOYOTA Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
TUNDRA	787	9,074	View
RAV4	669	11,842	View
CROWN	548	141	View
TACOMA	406	10,562	View
VENZA	404	969	View
GRAND HIGHLANDER	388	332	View
PRIUS	365	15,456	View
HIGHLANDER HYBRID	355	1,103	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2021 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2021 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

Safety Technology

EPA Fuel Economy, 2021 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

Technical Service Bulletins, 2021 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

TOYOTA HIGHLANDER - All Years Overview

TOYOTA HIGHLANDER - Year by Year

Other TOYOTA Models