2023 Toyota Highlander

185 federal complaints (244 component records) · 9 recall campaigns on file · 86 service bulletins · 8 Canadian recalls
See all 28 model years of the Toyota Highlander →
Engine
2.4L 4-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
FWD
EPA economy
21 city / 28 hwy
Federal complaints
185
Recall campaigns
9
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Other
40
Body & structure
32
Engine & cooling
28
Power train
20
Seats
19
Brakes
18
Fuel system
17
Driver assistance
13
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 53 complaints01 years old: 48 complaints2 years old: 38 complaints3 years old: 46 complaints4 years old: 0 complaints5 years old: 0 complaints56 years old: 0 complaints7 years old: 0 complaints8 years old: 0 complaints9 years old: 0 complaints10 years old: 0 complaints1011 years old: 0 complaints12 years old: 0 complaints13 years old: 0 complaints14 years old: 0 complaints15 years old: 0 complaints1516 years old: 0 complaints17 years old: 0 complaints18 years old: 0 complaints19 years old: 0 complaints20+ years old: 0 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 185 of 185 complaints with a usable failure date.

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Body & structure

32 complaint records2 crash reports
"Tailgate stays open; sensors seem to fail. It will work one day and not work on another day. My wife is short and handicapped and she can’t close it manually...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse body & structure parts in the directory →

Engine & cooling

28 complaint records2 crash reports
"When I hit the gas the car doesn’t go anywhere and almost got into an accident. Turbo lag maybe or something really really wrong. This is going to cause a huge accident..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse engine & cooling parts in the directory →

Power train

20 complaint records
"Transmission failure at 106,000 miles, full replacement under extended warranty and new transmission is begging to fail at 109,000 miles...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse power train parts in the directory →

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
26V128000SeatsToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The second-row seat backs may fail to lock into position during seat back adjustment.Normally free
25V744000Back Over PreventionToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system.Normally free
25V595000Electrical SystemToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Toyota Venza, 2023-2025 RAV4 Prime, RAV4, Highlander, GR Corolla, Crown, 2024-2025 Lexus TX, LS, Toyota Tacoma, Grand Highlander, and 2025...Normally free
25V040000SteeringToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Tacoma, Lexus RX350, 2023-2024 NX250, and NX350 vehicles...Normally free
24V548000EquipmentGulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain Toyota 2023 GR Supra, 2024 4 Runner, Corolla, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Tacoma, Tacoma Hybrid, 2023-2024 BZ4X, Corolla Cross...Normally free
24V452000TiresSoutheast 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.Normally free
24V419000TiresGulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain 2022-2024 model year Highlander L and Highlander LE vehicles equipped with the Blackout Package that includes 20" black alloy wheels and tires.Normally free
23V720000StructureToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Highlander & Highlander Hybrid vehicles.Normally free
Show 1 more recall campaigns
CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
23V480000SteeringToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Corolla, Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Tacoma, 2023 Lexus RX350, RX350 Hybrid, RX500 Hybrid, 2023-2024...Normally free

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2026427
2026-09-09
Seats And Restraints52,750Issue: On certain vehicles, the seatback recliners for the second-row seats may not have been manufactured properly. As a result, the seatback(s) may not lock in position and could move in a crash.
2026101
2026-03-05
Seats And Restraints39,897This recall was replaced by Transport Canada recall no. 2026-427. Issue: On certain vehicles, the seatback recliners for the second-row seats may not have been manufactured properly.
2025594
2025-10-30
Visual System99,178Issue: Under certain conditions, a software problem could cause the rearview camera image to freeze or not to display. If this happens, the rearview image may not display when the transmission is shifted into reverse.
2025469
2025-09-11
Visual System70,480Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem could cause the combination meter in the instrument panel not to display when the vehicle is started.
2025242
2025-05-06
Airbag7,441Issue: On certain vehicles, the steering wheel spiral cable assembly could disconnect. If this happens, the airbag (SRS) warning lamp would turn on, and the driver-front airbag wouldn't work in a crash.
Show 3 more Canadian recalls
RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2025037
2025-01-29
Airbag31Issue: On certain vehicles, the inspection completed by a Toyota dealer during recall SRC RF2 (Transport Canada recall no. 2023-386) may not have been done correctly. As a result, a second inspection is required.
2023574
2023-10-26
Structure50,501Issue: On certain vehicles, the front lower bumper cover may not be attached properly. As a result, if there is a minor impact to the front bumper, the lower bumper cover, engine under cover, and the fender liners could separate from the...
2023386
2023-07-12
Airbag7,018This recall was replaced by Transport Canada recall no. 2025-242. Issue: On certain vehicles, the steering wheel spiral cable assembly could disconnect.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
T-SB-0040-24 Rev1
Jun 2026
StructureSome 2020 – 2026 model year Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles may exhibit a water leak from the roof rack attachment clips. This may be caused by the sealant in the roof channel obstructing the proper seating position for the clip gasket.
T-SB-0021-26
Mar 2026
Electrical SystemSome 2020 – 2024 model year Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles may exhibit a condition in which the air conditioner does not cool due to a leak and/or corrosion in the rear underbody air conditioner tube and accessory assembly.
T-SB-0055-24 Rev2
Jan 2026
Unknown Or OtherSome 2005 – 2026 Toyota vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition.
T-SB-0086-25
Nov 2025
StructureSome 2020 – 2023 model year Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles may exhibit a condition in which the Power Back Door (PBD) will not open or close and/or stops moving while opening or closing. A modified PBD unit assembly is available to address these conditions.
T-SB-0083-25
Nov 2025
Electrical SystemA new head unit software update is available for 2022 – 2025 model year Tundra, and Tundra Hybrid; 2023 – 2025 model year Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Mirai, and Sequoia Hybrid vehicles equipped with Toyota Multimedia versions earlier than...
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
22TE09
Sep 2025
SERVICE CAMPAIGNElectrical SystemAlthough the HV Floor Under Wire Harness and Rear Traction Motor Cable is covered by Toyota’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty for 3 years or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first), we at Toyota care about the customers’ ownership experience.
T-SB-0015-24 Rev2
Sep 2025
Electrical SystemA new head unit software update is available for 2023 model year Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, and Mirai vehicles equipped with Toyota Multimedia (earlier than version 2170).
T-SB-0058-23 Rev1
Jun 2025
SERVICE CAMPAIGNElectrical SystemThe air conditioning dye injection tool kit has been developed to aid in identifying the location of air conditioning refrigerant leaks. The procedures outlined in this Service Bulletin aid in locating, inspecting, and repairing refrigerant leaks.
T-TT-0779-25
Apr 2025
Electrical SystemTo assist with the early detection and early resolution of audio related concerns you may be asked to recover MMR data from the head unit. The following steps are instructions on how to retrieve the data from the system and are only to be used when requested by FTS and/or FPE.
T-SB-0013-24 Rev1
Feb 2025
Electrical SystemThe 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, Add/Remove Key, is also available.
LSB006523
Dec 2024
Unknown Or OtherTT: Engine Oil Leak between the Lower Oil Pan and Crank Case
T-SB-0050-24 Rev2
Dec 2024
Electrical SystemSome 2022 – 2024 model year Tundra and 2023 model year Highlander vehicles may exhibit a MIL ON condition with Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) P162B87 (Lost Communication with Battery Monitor Module Missing Message) and/or P15AD87 (Active Grille Air Shutter "A" Missing) present.
T-SB-0035-24 Rev2
Dec 2024
StructureAcid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere.
T-SB-0038-24 Rev2
Dec 2024
StructureTo prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover.
T-SB-0039-24 Rev2
Dec 2024
StructureThe condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds.
T-SB-0061-23 Rev2
Dec 2024
StructureToyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination.
T-SB-0062-23 Rev2
Dec 2024
StructureVehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc.
23TJ01
Oct 2024
SERVICE CAMPAIGNUnknown Or OtherThe subject vehicles were delivered with only one (1) Smart Key on select models since October 2022 due to a global semiconductor shortage impacting certain microchips. The affected vehicles were delivered with one (1) Smart Key and a second mechanical key.
T-SB-0098-24
Oct 2024
StructureSome 2022 model year Avalon and Avalon Hybrid, 2022 – 2024 model year Camry, Camry Hybrid, Corolla, Corolla Hatchback, Corolla Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius Prime, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, RAV4 Prime, and Venza Hybrid, 2023 – 2024 model year Crown, and 2024 model...
24TC05
Oct 2024
Electrical SystemTECHNICAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR SPECIAL SERVICE CAMPAIGN 24TC05 MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) IS ON WITH DTC P05CE00 SOFTWARE UPDATE CERTAIN 2023 & 2024 HIGHLANDER VEHICLES CERTAIN 2024 GRAND HIGHLANDER VEHICLES
T-SB-0050-24 Rev1
Oct 2024
Electrical SystemSome 2022 – 2024 model year Tundra and 2023 model year Highlander vehicles may exhibit a MIL ON condition with Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) P162B87 (Lost Communication with Battery Monitor Module Missing Message) and/or P15AD87 (Active Grille Air Shutter "A" Missing) present.
T-SB-0062-24 Rev1
Oct 2024
Electrical SystemSome 2023 model year RAV4 Prime vehicles with Data Communication Module (DCM) firmware version earlier than LG-N210hh1V1V-09 may exhibit a condition in which the remote climate system is inoperative after the vehicle has been off for three hours or more.
23TJ01
Sep 2024
Unknown Or OtherThe subject vehicles were delivered with only one (1) Smart Key on select models since October 2022 due to a global semiconductor shortage impacting certain microchips. The affected vehicles were delivered with one (1) Smart Key and a second mechanical key.
24TC05
Sep 2024
EngineSPECIAL SERVICE CAMPAIGN 24TC05 Frequently Asked Questions
T-TT-0751-24 Rev1
Sep 2024
StructureSome customers have expressed concern that the wireless functions of their Key Fob stop working. Key Fob LEDs will not turn ON, but engine starts with key held up against start button. Key battery voltage is confirmed OK and no DTC/RoB is found.
T-SB-0055-24 Rev1
Jul 2024
StructureSome 2005 – 2024 Toyota vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition.
T-SB-0062-24
Jul 2024
Electrical SystemSome 2023 model year RAV4 Prime vehicles with Data Communication Module (DCM) firmware version earlier than LG-N210hh1V1V-09 may exhibit a condition in which the remote climate system is inoperative after the vehicle has been off for three hours or more.
T-SB-0027-24 Rev1
Jul 2024
Electrical SystemOBSOLETE NOTICE July 18, 2024: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0062-24.
T-SB-0035-24 Rev1
Jul 2024
StructureAcid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere.
T-SB-0038-24 Rev1
Jul 2024
StructureTo prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover.
T-SB-0039-24 Rev1
Jul 2024
StructureThe condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds.
T-SB-0055-24
Jun 2024
StructureSome 2005 – 2024 Toyota vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition.
T-SB-0103-20 Rev1
Jun 2024
EngineThis Service Bulletin provides updated non-electric water pump leak inspection and diagnostic tips for some 2008 – 2025 model year Toyota vehicles.
23TJ01
Jun 2024
Unknown Or OtherThe table describes the phases currently planned for the Second Key Delivery Program and the estimated timing of announcement. This table will be updated during each phase launch and as more details become available.
24TC03
Jun 2024
Electrical SystemThe Data Communication Module (DCM), which supports Toyota Connected Services in your vehicle, may not have activated properly during vehicle delivery.
23TJ01
May 2024
SERVICE CAMPAIGNUnknown Or OtherThe table describes the phases currently planned for the Second Key Delivery Program and the estimated timing of announcement. This table will be updated during each phase launch and as more details become available.
T-SB-0061-23 Rev1
May 2024
StructureToyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination.
T-SB-0062-23 Rev1
May 2024
StructureVehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc.
T-SB-0040-24
Apr 2024
StructureSome 2020 􀂱 2023 model year Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles may exhibit a water leak from the roof rack attachment clips. This may be caused by the sealant in the roof channel obstructing the proper seating position for the clip gasket.
T-SB-0035-24
Apr 2024
StructureAcid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere.
T-SB-0038-24
Apr 2024
StructureTo prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover.
23TJ01 Eligibility
Apr 2024
SERVICE CAMPAIGNUnknown Or OtherThe table describes the phases currently planned for the Second Key Delivery Program and the estimated timing of announcement. This table will be updated during each phase launch and as more details become available.
T-TT-0754-24
Apr 2024
Electrical SystemCustomers have expressed concerns about the performance of Qi Wireless Chargers. Wireless chargers on applicable vehicles are designed to work with Qi Certified devices only. MagSafe devices, that are not Qi Certified, may not charge as expected with Qi Wireless Chargers.
T-TT-0751-24
Apr 2024
Electrical SystemSome customers have complained that the wireless functions of their Key Fob stop working. Key Fob LEDs will not turn ON, but engine starts with key held up against start button. Key battery voltage is confirmed OK and no DTC/RoB is found.
T-SB-0015-24
Mar 2024
EquipmentTSB: A head unit software update is now available for 2023 model year Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, and Mirai vehicles equipped with Toyota Multimedia (earlier than version 2050).
23TJ01_P5_Dealer
Mar 2024
Electrical SystemDP: The subject vehicles were delivered with only one (1) Smart Key on select models since October 2022 due to a global semiconductor shortage impacting certain microchips. The affected vehicles were delivered with one (1) Smart Key and a second mechanical key.
Toyota Second Ke
Mar 2024
Electrical SystemThe table describes the phases currently planned for the Second Key Delivery Program and the estimated timing of announcement. This table will be updated during each phase launch and as more details become available.
T-PANT-2024-004-
Mar 2024
Engine And Engine CoolingThis 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.
T-SB-0013-24
Mar 2024
Electrical SystemTSB: 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, Add/Remove Key, is also available.
23TJ01 Current P
Mar 2024
Unknown Or OtherThe table describes the phases currently planned for the Second Key Delivery Program and the estimated timing of announcement. This table will be updated during each phase launch and as more details become available.
TSB010421
Feb 2024
Service BrakesTSB: 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 on the Multi-information Display (MID).
23TJ01A
Nov 2023
Electrical SystemDP: The subject vehicles were delivered with only one (1) Smart Key on select models since October 2022 due to a global semiconductor shortage impacting certain microchips. The affected vehicles were delivered with one (1) Smart Key and a second mechanical key.
23TJ01P4B
Nov 2023
Electrical SystemRL: The supply of Smart Keys available for Toyota vehicles has been temporarily limited to one (1) on select models since October 2022 due to global semiconductor shortages impacting certain microchips.
23TJ01P4C
Nov 2023
Electrical SystemTI: TECHNICAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR 23TJ01 Second Key Delivery Program Multiple Models and Model Years
TSB008123
Nov 2023
Electrical SystemTSB: Some 2023 model year Highlander vehicles equipped with a T24A-FTS engine may exhibit a MIL ON condition with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P05CE00 (Cold Start ?B? Camshaft Position Timing Performance Bank 1).
23TJ01
Nov 2023
Electrical SystemTI: TECHNICAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR 23TJ01 Second Key Delivery Program Multiple Models and Model Years
TSB008723
Nov 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingTSB: Some 2023 model year Highlander vehicles may exhibit one or both of the following conditions: ?Hesitation when accelerating from a stop. ?Non-linear acceleration from a stop or rolling stop with steady throttle.
T-TT-0741-23
Oct 2023
EquipmentTT: Some MY23-24 Highlander and Grand Highlander/HV vehicles may experience a condition where the engine does not restart automatically following a start/stop event. However, the engine may be restarted normally after a period of time in the IG OFF condition.
T-SB-0081-23
Oct 2023
Electrical SystemTSB: Some 2023 model year Highlander vehicles equipped with a T24A-FTS engine may exhibit a MIL ON condition with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P05CE00 (Cold Start ?B? Camshaft Position Timing Performance Bank 1).
23TJ01
Aug 2023
Electrical SystemDP: The subject vehicles were delivered with only one (1) Smart Key on select models since October 2022 due to a global semiconductor shortage impacting certain microchips. The affected vehicles were delivered with one (1) Smart Key and a second mechanical key.

Showing 60 of 86 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Walk the body slowly in daylight.Panel gaps, rust at the rockers and wheel arches, and cracked trim are this vehicle's structure complaints. Open and close the liftgate or trunk and look at the latch area.
  2. Cold-start it yourself and listen for the first thirty seconds.Knocking, ticking that fades as it warms, or blue or white smoke on startup are the sounds of this vehicle's engine cluster. Check the oil level and the coolant color, and ask whether the engine or its head gaskets have ever been out.
  3. Drive it from a dead stop, twice, on a hill if you can.Shudder, hesitation, or a lurch under light throttle is how this vehicle's largest complaint cluster shows itself. Then ask for the transmission service history in writing; repeat repairs are a pattern, not a fluke.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 9 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Toyota Highlander →