2021 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

4 recalls, 636 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

636 total complaints 39 crashes 11 fires 26 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE	87
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	76
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	74
POWER TRAIN	62
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	49
SERVICE BRAKES	46
STEERING	24
STRUCTURE:BODY	18
AIR BAGS	17
SUSPENSION	14

Incident date: Aug 10, 2026

Leadcar Toyota LaCrosse WI has diagnosed and reported that the transmission needs to be replaced. Pertains to Service Bulletin T-SB-0008-21 the pinion shaft bearing defect. The major powertrain component is failing prematurely. Cost to repair is over $9,000 as it is out of warranty. We purchased... Read more

Incident date: Sep 9, 2026

Transmission failure at 80,000 miles

Incident date: Aug 24, 2026

transmission has failed. Toyota states: Toyota Technical Service Bulletin T-SB-0008-21 addresses a whining or grinding noise in select 2021 Toyota vehicles equipped with UA80E orUA80F automatic transmissions caused by a defect in the front carrier assembly pinion shafts. Yes it can be available for ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 14, 2026

The 8 speed automatic transmission (UA80E) in my 2021 Toyota Highlander Limited V6 FWD failed at 75,491 miles. The failure presented as a loud whining noise during acceleration between 30 and 40 mph. A Toyota dealership diagnosed complete transmission failure requiring full replacement of the transa... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2026

**Component/System:** Automatic Transmission — 8-speed (UA80E/UA80F), Toyota Highlander **Description of the problem:** My 2021 Toyota Highlander (approximately 116,000 miles) has developed a high-pitched whining noise a while ago, that occurs during acceleration, consistent with the symptom desc... Read more

Incident date: Aug 24, 2026

On August 24, 2026, my vehicle was parked, turned off, and locked for more than 6 hours in a parking lot. Without warning, the vehicle experienced a spontaneous thermal event/self combustion. The fire and thermal damage were entirely localized to the dashboard area inside the passenger cabin. The en... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Aug 24, 2026

Fire

Incident date: Aug 19, 2026

At 57,000 miles the dealership says the transmission must be replaced. Toyota refused to replace it under warranty because they stated it wasn't serviced at Toyota consistently. There isnt a service for the transmission under 100k miles. This is a known issue with this transmission and they act obli... Read more

Incident date: Aug 19, 2026

1. The car makes a squeaky sound when I accelerate. The faster I go the louder the noise becomes. I took the car to the Toyota dealership and was told that the transmission needs to be replaced. The car is only 5 years old. I checked online and noticed a lot of other people are also complaining abou... Read more

Incident date: Aug 19, 2026

Incident date: May 30, 2026

The transmission whining started 70,000 miles and it is progressively gotten worse, there has been some sudden shifting at times. The manufacturer has known about this 8 speed transmission. Problem since 2017 and they haven’t done anything to improve it. Isn’t is something that the warranty only... Read more

Incident date: Aug 19, 2026

While driving and applying the brakes to come to a complete stop at low speed (approximately 5–15 mph), the vehicle intermittently loses brake responsiveness for a brief moment during the transition from regenerative braking to hydraulic (friction) braking. This causes the vehicle to lurch forward... Read more

Incident date: Aug 14, 2026

Toyota has known that the UA80 transmissions are faulty & they have not issued a recall. Mine failed at 60,500 miles just outside of the warranty period. I paid over $5,000 to have it replaced & the dealer confirmed that it required replacement due to a faulty transmission assembly. Toyota refuses... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2026

The car's transmission is failing. •The "Whine of Death": The most common early warning sign is a high-pitched, airplane-like whining noise that rises in pitch with vehicle speed/engine RPM, especially once the transmission reaches operating temperature. •Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): To... Read more

Incident date: Aug 27, 2026

It's about the problem with the automatic transmission UA80 already has the buzz That many customers are complaining sometimes it has jerks too.

Incident date: Aug 3, 2026

At 66,000 miles the transmission on my 2021 toyota highlander is failing. This is a known issue with these transmissions and toyota is actively working against people to help get the parts replaced at their cost.

Incident date: Aug 1, 2026

Lift gate does not open. Hydraulic struts have failed and the lift gate will only open with significant manual effort. This means that the rear door cannot be opened from inside the car.

Incident date: Aug 17, 2026

My system information warning signal and chime indicates that an unbuckled passenger is present in my front passenger seat when nobody is there. Additionally, buckling the seat belt does not turn off the signal and chime. The sporadic signal and chime can continue for a very long time before eventua... Read more

Incident date: Aug 20, 2026

Bought my 2021 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD 3 years ago due to supposed safety and reliability. Transmission went out right after warranty at 64,000 miles. Was not made aware that this is a common issue. Vehicle hard shifted and suddenly lost power when driving home with my 4 year old while making a le... Read more

Incident date: Jun 1, 2026

I made my last payment on my Toyota in June and the week I made my payment my mechanic confirmed a whining that had just started to be a transmission failure. After taking to another specialty transmission shop my transmission is failing. The internal bearings are failing just like the recall in oth... Read more

Incident date: Jul 8, 2026

This vehicle experienced transmission failure at 43,000 miles. There is a technical bulletin regarding a known manufacturer defect for this Make/Model/Year (TSB-008-21) and we were told by our Toyota service technician that our vehicle displayed all of the same symptoms as those identified in the te... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2026

At around 75000 miles (less than 5 year old vehicle) the transmission exhibited a noticeable whine. After further research I presented the vehicle to the local Toyota dealer service department. An active technical service bulletin T-SB-0008-21 that describes a manufacturing defect with the front c... Read more

Incident date: Aug 10, 2026

My 2013 Hyundai Sonata (VIN [XXX]) suffered a driver's airbag clock spring failure, completely disabling the primary restraint safety system. ABS light was on, the horn and all other electronics on the steering wheel were not functioning. All symptoms indicated in the recall This vehicle is explic... Read more

Incident date: Aug 5, 2024

I am reporting a serious safety incident involving my 2024 Chevrolet Traverse RS AWD, with approximately 34,378 miles. On or about [XXX], while the vehicle was being driven near Sarasota Florida at approximately 25 mph, it suddenly lost propulsion and all electrical power. The instrument panel, dis... Read more

Incident date: Aug 5, 2024

Incident date: Apr 6, 2026

Vehicle was being driven on the interstate going 70-77 mph. First noticed faint knocking sound and loss of ability to accelerate followed by check engine light and multiple system failure notifications. Pulled over on the highway between exits and turned vehicle off to call for assistance. Turned ve... Read more

Incident date: Dec 31, 1969

The contact owns a 2026 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as intended. The contact pulled over to the side of the road, turned off and restarted the vehicle; however, the failure persisted. A dealer was contact... Read more

Incident date: Jul 23, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Edge. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked roughly while turning right or left, with a grinding sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was driving sluggishly. The contact stated that the brakes had ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 28, 2026

The contact owns a 2025 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start while attempting to start it. There were no warning lights illuminated. A tow truck company successfully jump-started the vehicle, and the vehicle was towed to the local dealer. The dealer was unable to dupli... Read more

Incident date: Jul 25, 2026

Collision Mitigation Braking System has activated numerous times while traveling on a straight road with no other vehicles around. The brakes activated hard where items shifted in the vehicle and the seatbelts locked. Occupants were thrust forward at the time of braking. Contact was make with the de... Read more

Incident date: Jun 29, 2026

My car began to shake significantly when going over 60 mph on the highway. I had to drive under the speed limit. When I had the car checked, they said the shocks had been leaking and it impacted the alignment, causing my tires to become “wavy” and unsafe to drive. I had to get a set of 4 new tir... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2024

In the event of a differential pinion shaft failure, the customer may experience a loss of motive power and/or unintended vehicle movement with Park requested if the parking brake is not applied. A loss of motive power or unintended vehicle movement increases the risk of a crash

Incident date: Jul 16, 2026

The contact owns a 2022 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving approximately 62 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power with the message "Reduced Engine Power" displayed, and the check engine warning light intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, wher... Read more

Incident date: Jun 23, 2026

My daughter was driving the vehicle. She left home, drove 2 miles to drop someone off, and returned home on a 2 lane road with a 30mph speed limit. Approximately half way home, while travelling approximately 30-35mph, the hood on the vehicle flew open. It shattered the windshield, bent the hood, ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 5, 2026

My vehicle starts displaying traction control on the dash then says reduced engine power and looses power starting until u stop turn it off and crank it back up. Sometimes it runs really rough and you have to crank it back up. The ac goes in and out on it, sometimes it jerks while driving, after hav... Read more

Incident date: Jul 13, 2026

I was exiting the freeway driving south about 110-115pm in [XXX] when suddenly my car seemed to stall or stop and brake orange light came on. It all happened very quickly and without any warning. The nearest vehicle ahead of me was very far away, at the stop turning left and I was entering the exit.... Read more

Incident date: Jun 13, 2026

belt tensioner failed while on highway without warning, leading to complete shutdown of the engine. Car had to be towed for repair. Complete disintegration of the timing belt, the car only had 51,000 miles. Expensive repair

Incident date: Apr 14, 2025

The contact owns a 2025 Ford Mustang. The contact received notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V122000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to complete the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depresse... Read more

Incident date: Apr 3, 2026

When the vehicle is shifted into Park and the ignition button is pressed, the vehicle fails to shut down. The dashboard displays a "Shift to Park" warning message, indicating the vehicle does not recognize that the gear selector is physically in the Park position.To shut the engine off, the driver m... Read more

Incident date: Jun 8, 2026

My vehicle has been subject of multiple recalls, however the current recall is a significant one and has been pending for months with no end in sight. I am concerned The manufacturer and dealers are not taking this seriously and the delay is causing additional damage to my vehicle. Additionally quic... Read more

Incident date: Jun 22, 2026

own a 1996 Toyota 4Runner with approximately 219,999 miles. My vehicle is subject to a safety recall, but I have been informed that the manufacturer has discontinued the necessary parts or is unable to complete the recall repair. This leaves the vehicle with an unresolved safety defect. I am request... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2025

Visible wiring has become exposed in the windshield/A-pillar area. There is no airbag/SRS warning light at this time, and I am not able to determine from visual inspection whether the exposed wiring is related to the restraint system. However, this is a safety-sensitive area because it can contain o... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2025

Check engine Light P0302 Engine Misfire Cylinder 2. I noticed Low Coolant in the overflow tank. Went to dealer They did a pressure test found coolant Intrusion inside Cylinder 2 open TSB 22-2229 Car or SUV if coolant gets into cylinder can cause engine failure

Incident date: Jun 26, 2026

The transmission has issues not shifting gears and having loss of power when pulling out into intersections that are getting worse with time.

Incident date: Jun 24, 2026

The paint on my car has been chipping nonstop and I have called Honda multiple times about the issue and they will not correct nor acknowledge the problem. This issue has been occurring before 2025, it got even worse in 2025

Incident date: Jun 25, 2026

I have a complaint about GM and my 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ regarding the radio / infotainment system failure after attempting a recommended software update, and the resulting degradation of installed safety features. On 08 MAY 2026, my infotainment system indicated a software update was ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 1, 2002

The contact owns a 2024 Toyota Rav4. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 MPH in a neighborhood, an advertisement unexpectedly appeared on the center display and obstructed the navigation screen. The contact stated that on the most recent failure, the navigation screen returned aft... Read more

Incident date: Jun 25, 2026

Showing 50 of 636 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	$2,650
3.5L 6-cyl, Automatic (S8) (Front-Wheel Drive)	21.0	29.0	24.0	Regular	$2,550

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

7,188 Total Complaints

3 Investigations

661 Reported Crashes

105 Reported Fires

59 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	4	View
2025	3	13	View
2024	7	59	View
2023	9	236	View
2022	5	318	View
2021 (current)	4	636
2020	4	372	View
2019	3	631	View
2018	5	356	View
2017	4	371	View
2016	3	137	View
2015	2	253	View
2014	5	162	View
2013	3	282	View
2012	2	230	View
2011	5	229	View
2010	10	272	View
2009	9	178	View
2008	13	502	View
2007	4	159	View
2006	7	347	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