The 2017 Toyota Highlander is known for its tough exterior and cutting-edge driver assistance systems, as well as a third row that is sufficiently large and above-average fuel efficiency. However, there are still issues with the fuel pump, roof rails, and windshield wires of the 2017 SUV, which have resulted in recalls. The powertrain, brakes, and electrical system were also problematic for customers.
The NHTSA has 131 complaints about the 2017 Toyota Highlander as of late 2021. The same issues are frequently brought up: the automobile won’t start, it stalls when moving, and strange noises are emanating from the engine.
The following are the most typical difficulties, issues, and NHTSA complaints:
- 27 complaints have been filed regarding the powertrain, including problems with the transmission, stalling when driving, and shifting issues. “One 2017 Highland owner stated that after only 25,000 miles, the automatic transmission failed at a stoplight. Many additional owners, some of whom validated his experience more than once, concurred.” The car has abruptly, without warning, switched to a low-power limp mode three times at 30,000, 40,000, and 42,000 miles while traveling at highway speeds (70 mph), causing a quick deceleration in the middle of high-speed highway traffic.
- Electrical problems: Twenty complaints are related to electrical problems. Customers have stated that the car would sometimes shut off at random, the engine won’t start, and in one instance, the battery failed after less than three years of ownership and 44,000 miles on the odometer. According to a 2017 Highland owner, “At a red light, the car twice stalled on me. Without any ability to steer, the vehicle twice came dangerously close to being hit from behind.
- 16 complaints have been made about the failure of the service brakes, as well as about their lack of power, difficulty starting, and odd noises. One 2017 Highlander owner reported that he hit the brake pedal in response to unwanted acceleration, but the car kept moving and struck a sign. The identical problem led to a similar accident for another owner. He says, “I attempted stopping immediately after the car in front of us stopped, but the Highlander’s automated collision avoidance kicked in and took control of my brakes, but it still didn’t stop. I ultimately rear-ended the vehicle in front of me.
- Among the 33, hard shifting and quick acceleration “Other reported complaints reference additional difficulties in addition to the ones mentioned in different other categories, such as some owners finding metal shavings and dark muck in the gearbox fluid. A 2017 Highland owner who left the engine running while performing a quick errand inside a residence reported one of the more serious problems after hearing a crash. The vehicle sped up and [crash-landed] into the garage.
In This Article...
What is the lifespan of a 2017 Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander can run for up to 300,000 miles, or almost 20 years, according to statistics. Although that is a long time to own any vehicle, Highlander owners appear to be happy with their purchase. 12.4 percent of Highlander owners, or twice as many as the average SUV owner, keep their vehicles for more than 15 years, according to iSeeCars.
Cities like Jacksonville, Florida, saw percentages up to 17% higher than that. The lifespan of a 300,000-mile SUV is also longer than that of most other SUVs. Competitors like the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder typically have a 250,000-mile lifespan.
The outstanding dependability of the Toyota Highlander is supported by Consumer Reports as well. Since 2001, the Highlander has received an excellent or nearly excellent overall reliability rating. Over the years, owners have reported a few issues with their Highlanders, but the most are easily rectified. Toyota frequently paid owners back for the cost of repairs when there was a recall, for example.
Although Highlanders rarely draw criticism, certain model years are worse than others. Because of its defective brakes and engine block bolts, the 2003 model is often regarded as being the worst. The 2015 Highlander’s unpleasant seats are another reason why it isn’t a popular with buyers.
Fitting of Toyota Highlander in garage
Dimensions of the Toyota Highlander’s exterior This makes it simple to fit into small parking spaces and places while becoming road king. Additionally, there is no need to worry about fitting under bridges or parking garage doors due to its height of 68.1 inches (not counting the antenna).
Is the 2017 Toyota Highlander a good year?
Based on how well the 2017 Toyota Highlander performed in the 2017 Affordable Midsize SUVs category, it was ranked second overall. It is a finalist for our 2017 Best 3-Row SUV for Families award, the winner of our 2021 Best Used Cars for Teens award, and the winner of our 2017 Best 3-Row SUV for the Money award.
What is the Toyota Highlander’s typical issue?
Similar problems with the motorized tailgate and air conditioning system plagued the Toyota Highlander’s previous version from 2008 to 2013. A few owners have also complained of oil leaks from the engine and clunking sounds they hear when rotating the steering wheel.
Which Highlander model is the best?
The 20082013 edition is most likely the best option. You get more interior room, more features, a more potent engine lineup, better safety ratings, and better crash test results with this generation.
Toyotas have a 300,000 mile lifespan.
One of the most popular midsize cars on the market, the Toyota Camry is known for its longevity. With regular maintenance, you can expect to get between 200,000 and 300,000 miles out of your Camry.
Why are Toyota cars so durable?
Toyota cars last a very long time and feature some of the most dependable engines available. This is a result of the business’ thorough attention to production and design. Before the car is supplied to the consumer, any flaws are found and fixed thanks to the quality management systems.
Which is more dependable, a pilot or a Highlander?
The information above makes it evident that the Toyota Highlander outperforms the Honda Pilot in every category, including safety features and fuel efficiency. The Highlander is a much better choice if you’re searching for a three-row SUV that is incredibly dependable in this situation.