Since many years ago, the Toyota Highlander has been a well-liked SUV option. It provides all the necessities, such as a roomy interior, effectiveness, and a wealth of technology. The Highlander is one of the most dependable SUVs, which is not unexpected given that it is a Toyota.
Additionally, the less maintenance you need to do on an automobile each year, the more reliable it is. The state of parts, your driving style, and maintenance are just a few of the many elements that affect a car’s dependability. According to Motor & Wheels, a Toyota Highlander can last for far over 200,000 kilometers.
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Do Highlanders continue to be valuable?
The Highlander received higher ratings than other well-liked cars like the Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent. KBB data indicates that the Highlander keeps 60.2 percent of its value 36 months after purchase. It still has 46.3 percent of its worth after 60 months.
Do Toyota Highlanders frequently experience issues?
Knowing what kind of performance to anticipate from each model year is crucial if you’re thinking about purchasing a Toyota Highlander. Although Toyota is a reliable brand and the Highlander is a well-liked and sturdy SUV, not every year for the Highlander was successful. If you want to be sure you get a dependable car that will endure through years of regular use, you must be aware of the Toyota Highlander years to stay away from.
Some buyers love experimental cars, but nobody wants to purchase one they believe won’t be a dependable daily driver.
We’ll also touch on the Highlander model years that have received the best ratings and reviews, as well as any other factors you might want to take into account before purchasing a Toyota Highlander.
In A Hurry? Here Are The Toyota Highlander Years To Avoid
Here are the primary Toyota Highlander model years to stay away from if you want a vehicle that will last.
- 2003
- 2008
- 2014
- 2015
That’s a relatively short list of trouble years for a car that has been in regular production since 2001, in all honesty. Consumers today should steer clear of those four years because they had the most serious issues.
Additionally, there was a rocky time between 2010 and 2012, and those model years nearly made this list. The 2010 and 2012 models aren’t quite as reliable or useful as the model years prior to or beyond 2015, despite the few complaints.
On the other hand, a 2010 or 2012 Highlander can still be a wise purchase if it’s priced reasonably and has a decent maintenance history. However, if you are interested in any of the models we’ve already discussed, you should probably conduct some investigation. Some of the frequent issues with the Toyota Highlander are simple to fix. If you use the car as your main mode of transportation, other problems can be far more serious and a major inconvenience.
The CoPilot app isn’t just for purchasing a car; it can also be used to keep track of recalls and receive recommendations on which regular maintenance activities are most crucial.
Engine Bolts Becoming Stripped
If you don’t identify the problem right away, it could become quite serious. Unfortunately, coolant leaks and overheated engines are the most typical first signs that your engine bolts are stripped.
When necessary, the bolts can be changed, and the bolt holes can be redrilled, but only if your engine hasn’t already suffered other harm as a result of overheating. That means that for many customers who experienced this problem, a complete engine replacement was the only option.
The 130k mile mark is the problem’s peak frequency, however once it occurs once, it may happen again.
Engine Failure
One of the more serious problems with Toyota Highlanders is often engine failure. Engine failure can be caused by a variety of factors, but those failures are likely connected to the engine bolts being stripped and contributing to overheating issues.
In light of these factors, purchasing a Toyota Highlander from one of their problematic years puts you at a significantly higher risk of needing an engine replacement.
It’s also important to think about whether you have the funds to replace your engine or if you would probably need a new car if your engine failed, as engine failure is an issue that only certain car owners are prepared to fix.
Engine failure tends to occur around 120k miles, while it can occasionally occur significantly earlier. Many Highlanders will run above 120k miles without any problems, but they could develop issues afterwards.
Using Engine Oil Faster Than Average
Unfortunately, the Toyota Highlander is one of those cars infamous for using oil. Although this issue can affect practically any model of Highlander, it tends to be more prevalent in older models.
Interestingly, despite being a good automobile overall, the 2002 model year has the worst oil burn rate. So, on a 2002 Highlander, we wouldn’t worry about this issue too much if you’re okay with spending a bit more money on oil. However, it can be a bigger issue if you’re thinking about a different model year with other documented problems.
Fuel Tank and AC Condenser Problems
Although both buyers and critics gave the 2020 Highlander redesign a generally positive review, it had a few dependability issues. There have been rumors that the gasoline tank on the 2020 model is defective.
In particular, reports stated that they were unable to fill the tank to its 17.1 gallon maximum capacity. Instead, they were only able to fill approximately 12 to 14 gallons.
Additionally, a number of complaints claimed that the Highlander’s air conditioning system might or might not work. The AC apparently ceased delivering chilly air since the condenser was prone to damage. Condenser replacement, which can cost anywhere from $60 to $150 including labor, is a straightforward remedy.
Faulty Head Gasket and Oxygen Sensor
Models of the Highlander from 2001 to 2007 frequently experience engine overheating. Owners who have experienced engine overheating have reported that a blown head gasket is to blame. A closer look reveals that the head bolts frequently pull the engine block’s threads out, which eventually results in a ruptured head gasket.
Meanwhile, it was claimed that the oxygen sensors in a number of Highlander models were defective. This flaw results in the engine misfiring and harsh idling.
These are the ideal vehicles for college students since they can transport you, your friends, and your belongings everywhere you need to go, whether you need to squeeze into a small campus parking space or transport ten loads of laundry home.
Toyota Highlander Years To Buy
Naturally, now that we’ve covered the model years to stay away from, it’s time to discuss the most reliable and cost-effective model years.
All cars run the danger of something going wrong, and parts break in all kinds of vehicles, so these models aren’t ideal. However, these cars are frequently reliable, robust, and enjoyable to drive.
The best Highlander seasons are:
- 2001
- 2005
- 2006
- 2007
- 2009
- 2013
- 2017
- 2018
- 2019
- 2020
- 2021
From 2016 on, Highlander models have all been more reliable and have received far fewer issues or complaints overall than earlier models. The 2021 model appears to be excellent so far, but it is a fairly recent model, so it’s possible that customers haven’t driven the car far enough to experience problems. However, based on Highlanders’ recent performance, we anticipate that the 2021 model will be a strong long-term performer.
You might not be particularly knowledgeable about your car’s brakes unless you’re a mechanic or a super-committed auto enthusiast. How much time do they usually last? How frequently should brakes be replaced? We have solutions.
Which Models Of Toyota Highlander Are Great To Buy Used?
The majority of the models we mentioned in the section above are good choices for secondhand purchases, but some are superior to others. We’d suggest the 2010 model if you’re searching for a decent deal and want a model that’s a little roomier and bigger than others. They have a few more problem reports than other models, but other models from 2009 to 2011 are also an excellent option.
The 2016, 2017, and 2018 versions are all excellent values and provide exceptional performance for the price if you’re searching for a more recent model and don’t mind the price. Although we haven’t had a chance to endorse the 2019 and 2020 models as used cars just yet, they are already demonstrating symptoms of being a decent alternative.
Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You
The simplest way to purchase a car is using the CoPilot auto shopping app. You may create a customized list of the top car listings in your area by telling us what you’re looking for, and we’ll search the inventories of every dealership in your area.
Just seeking for more recent models? The search engine for virtually new vehicles is CoPilot Compare. only observe recentfive years or lessautos with little mileage. The greatest place to look for off-lease, early trade-in, and CPO vehicles is CoPilot Compare.
What’s best? We have more information on each vehicle than our rivals since CoPilot was developed using the same technologies that dealerships use to acquire and sell their inventories. Since CoPilot doesn’t partner with automakers, there aren’t any sponsored posts or other dubious tacticsjust the most information about the best vehicles. To learn more about CoPilot’s operation, see our About Us page.
What Toyota Highlander mileage qualifies as high?
One of the most durable midsize SUVs on the market, the Toyota Highlander can keep going for up to 300,000 miles after you drive it off the lot.
Do Toyota Highlanders have issues with their transmissions?
In order to enable you to drive at the correct speed, the gearbox transfers power from the motor to your wheels.
Given that the transmission must convert the exact quantity of power for the required speed,
Do 2011 Toyota Highlanders handle snow well?
Can a Toyota Highlander Handle Snow Well? The Toyota Highlander performs exceptionally well in snow because to its raised and commanding ride height. This elevates it above many other cars in terms of drivability in snow, along with its assortment of safety measures from the Toyota Star Safety system.
Has a 2011 Toyota Highlander got a timing chain or belt?
All 2021 Toyota Highlander models include an interference engine and timing chain. Check out the information in the table below.
The 2011 Highlander has four wheels.
Depending on the model, used Toyota Highlander vehicles can be had with a 3.5 L gasoline engine that produces up to 270 horsepower. The all-wheel drive 2011 Toyota Highlander is available.
Which SUV is the most valuable when sold?
Some SUVs will maintain their value better than others, claims Kelley Blue Book. Which vehicles are expected to retain the most proportion of their original sticker price, according to the website’s prediction.
KBB predicts that over a five-year period, the 4Runner will keep 58.6% of its value. That comes as no surprise. The 4Runner, which Toyota based on the Tacoma, is anticipated to hold 70.2 percent of its value. However, the 2022 Toyota 4Runner, especially in TRD variants, remains one of the greatest off-road SUVs you can buy until the 4Runner is redesigned in 2023. It is not a high-end SUV. The 4Runner easily tackles challenging situations. a 4Runner Most people are unaware that the 4Runner has an optional, extremely small third row that may accommodate two additional passengers if necessary.
Which SUV maintains value?
Thanks to a recent complete redesign, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is at its best. The three-row utility defies typical trends in hybrid SUV design, such as shoddy brake feel and a subpar interior. Instead, it offers exceptional fuel efficiency, a more than 600-mile driving range, and a ton of cargo room. Although it isn’t enjoyable to drive, this hasn’t diminished its appeal. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is the only hybrid crossover to make the top ten, maintaining, on average, 53.4% of its original value after five years.
Subaru Forester: 53.7 Percent Resale Value (After Five Years)
The Subaru Forester was completely revamped for 2022, and its off-road capabilities makes it stand out from the majority of its compact crossover competitors. It rides with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and has standard AWD (that figure climbs to 9.2 inches for Wilderness models). The Forester is highly rated for safety and includes Subaru’s EyeSight active safety system as standard. Additionally, we liked its infotainment system and affordable price. With so many advantages, it’s hardly surprising that the Forester is anticipated to retain 53.7% of its value after five years.
Jeep Grand Cherokee: 54.0 Percent Resale Value (After Five Years)
The Jeep Grand Cherokee combines on-road comfort with off-road capabilities. This SUV has attractive outward style, and a new plug-in hybrid model can go 26 miles on just electricity. We were thrilled that the new WL model drives like a totally contemporary SUV after the outdated WK2-generation model started to exhibit its age. The Grand Cherokee is a popular family-hauling vehicle. That is reflected in its resale value. After five years, you can anticipate the Jeep Grand Cherokee to keep 54% of its value.
Ford Bronco: 55.7 Percent Resale Value (After Five Years)
The Ford Bronco, although being a new model, is already anticipated to keep 55.7% of its value on the secondary market after five years. The nameplate “Bronco” shares a long history with many other cars on this list. Since the new generation of classic Broncos has only increased in popularity, we believe that Ford’s off-road vehicle will continue to hold the same cachet in the future. We anticipate that the hard-core Bronco Raptor will experience the same.
Porsche Macan: 56.6 Percent Resale Value (After Five Years)
The Porsche Macan is the only luxury sports crossover on this list. Porsche vehicles are known for resisting depreciation, and the Macan is no exception, with an anticipated value retention of 56.6 percent after five years. Any form of the Macan is fantastic to drive. It rides smoothly and has excellent handling characteristics. Its selection of drivetrains includes anything from the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine to the powerful 2.9-liter twin-turbo V-6 featured in the Macan GTS. Although adding options to a Macan can get pricey, customers should rest easy knowing their SUV will still be worth a respectable amount after five years.
Subaru Crosstrek: 57.2 Percent Resale Value (After Five Years)
On our list of SUVs and crossovers with the best resale values, the small Subaru Crosstrek surpasses its larger sibling, the Forester. The Crosstrek not only has good off-road performance, especially for its class, but it’s also a pleasure to drive. Excellent safety ratings and electronics make the offer even more enticing. This raised hatchback looks like it’s ready for any adventure, and all of these benefits are contained in a beautiful and alluring design. Therefore, it comes as no surprise to us that the Subaru Crosstrek will retain 56.2% of its value after five years.
Ford Bronco Sport: 57.8 Percent Resale Value (After Five Years)
The Baby Bronco outperformed its big brother in terms of value retention during a five-year period. The Ford Bronco Sport, a smaller body-on-frame crossover that can replace the large Bronco, will hold 57.8% of its value after five years. It still sports fantastic, rough style. Although it performs well off-road, it is nevertheless quiet and comfy when driving. Additionally, there are ingenious storage options within. In other words, it offers a lot of the appeal of the standard Bronco without the drawbacks of regularly operating an off-road vehicle.
Toyota 4Runner: 63.4 Percent Resale Value (After Five Years)
Despite being one of the oldest cars in its class and having been on sale for more than ten years, the Toyota 4Runner’s attraction hasn’t diminished. The Toyota 4Runner continues to represent the Japanese automaker’s reputation for dependability and quality despite occasional minor changes. Even while its ride quality isn’t very smooth on the road, it still has a lot of capability off the beaten path. After five years, the 4Runner will typically still be worth 63.4 percent of what you paid for it.
Jeep Wrangler: 74.2 Percent Resale Value (After Five Years)
The Jeep Wrangler once again tops our list of vehicles with the highest resale value for 2022. After five years, the typical Wrangler will still be worth 74.2 percent of what it was when it was new, bucking depreciation like it was nothing. The Wrangler is a cultural icon in its own way and the gold standard for off-road SUVs. Its extraordinary potential makes it simple to ignore its poor on-road driving performance. The Jeep Wrangler won IntelliChoice’s 2022 Best Overall Value Popular Vehicle award in part due to its high retained values.