How ConsumerAffairs uses cookies

This website utilizes technologies such as cookies to enable essential site functionality, as well as for analytics, personalization, and targeted advertising. To learn more, view the following link:

Toyota Highlander Reviews

1.1
135 reviewsRating Calculation
A company’s ratings are a time-based and verification-based weighted average numerical calculation of the ratings submitted by consumers in the most recent 24-month period.

Our editorial standards

  • Our editorial team reviews and fact-checks all content before it’s published.
  • We rely on expert input and trusted sources to verify our articles.
  • All articles published must meet our editorial standards and independence policy.

Our review standards

  • Our moderation team evaluates reviews to make sure they meet our guidelines.
  • We require contact information to verify reviews come from real customers.
  • Financial relationships do not influence whether we publish a consumer review.

About Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a mid-size crossover SUV. Read more Toyota reviews to learn about other models.


Visit www.toyota.com/highlander

Toyota Highlander Reviews

Filter by Rating

  • (26)
  • (5)
  • (9)
  • (22)
  • (66)

Popular Mentions

    Our review standards

    • Our moderation team evaluates reviews to make sure they meet our guidelines.
    • We require contact information to verify reviews come from real customers.
    • Financial relationships do not influence whether we publish a consumer review.
    Recent
    • Recent
    • Oldest
    • Most helpful

    A link has directed you to this review. Its location on this page may change next time you visit.

    Our review standards

    • Our moderation team evaluates reviews to make sure they meet our guidelines.
    • We require contact information to verify reviews come from real customers.
    • Financial relationships do not influence whether we publish a consumer review.
    Page 3 Reviews 80 - 230
    StaffReliability

    Reviewed Jan. 7, 2017

    I'm a loyal, longtime Toyota owner and am sorry to write this negative review. In 2015, I very hesitantly traded my reliable, much-loved 2000 4Runner for a new 2015 Highlander Limited. What a huge mistake. Other people have commented here that the steering wheel goes crazy when you accelerate - especially from a full stop. I, too, have that problem. You must have a firm grip on the wheel to keep the vehicle under control and stay in your lane. It's hard to control even when you expect it to happen. I've also seen complaints here about the Highlander's brakes. I've had many close calls when someone in front of me stopped suddenly. When I hit the brakes hard, it feels like the pedal goes all the way to the floor. The ABS does not engage.

    My vehicle also has trouble going up steep inclines; the rear tires spin - even in dry weather. And when the road is wet, there's almost zero traction. It seems particularly bad when it's misting and the road is barely wet - oil & other buildup really impact traction. Also, the back end fishtails in wet weather - especially when going around a curve or turning a corner - even at low speed. There's a steep, curved drive into my office parking garage that I can barely navigate when it's wet.

    Another extremely dangerous issue is that the vehicle feels like it lifts up & floats when it hits a wet spot on the road. The first time I drove it in the rain was on a busy rural highway. I hydroplaned into the opposite lane with a livestock semi coming toward me. I had no control for several seconds. When I was able to steer back into my lane, I must’ve hit another puddle because the rear started fishtailing - fortunately toward the shoulder on my side of the road. It was an incredibly frightening few moments - and the cattle truck was blowing its horn at me the whole time. I was not speeding or driving recklessly before the incident. I'm so very lucky the truck wasn’t closer and that there were no other cars around me.

    I've always been a confident, competent driver. However, now I hesitate to drive when the roads are wet because I do NOT feel safe. I wonder if anyone else has had traction issues or if there's something wrong with my vehicle. I've had the tires checked - they're good and not under-inflated. My 2015 Highlander is such a disappointment. It’s really nice-looking and well-appointed. I love all the bells & whistles (except the driver-side vented seat doesn't work consistently). HOWEVER, I do not trust it and I've discouraged several people from buying one. It's just too dangerous.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Staff

    Reviewed Dec. 23, 2016

    My car engine started on its own after being turned off. I went shopping at Walmart on 12/22/16 and parked my 2016 Toyota Highlander XLE in the parking lot (only had 640 miles at the time). I put the car in park and pushed the engine start/stop button to turn off the car. My family and I exited the car and I used the keyless entry pad to lock the doors. We shopped for approximately 45 min. When we returned to the car, I used the keyless entry pad to unlock the doors so I could put our purchases in the trunk. As I got close to the vehicle I heard an engine running, but thought it was the car next to us. I bent down and listened under the front end of my Highlander and to my surprise, I realized my car engine was running. When I opened the driver side door and looked at the dashboard, I noticed a small triangular yellow caution light was flashing but I don't remember what the message said other than caution.

    If my car randomly starts on its own while it's in a garage, it could cause toxic fumes to fill my garage if left on long enough, and could cause harm or death to someone who breathes it in. After reading about the brake/wire recall on some 2015-2016 Highlanders (breaks failing to work while driving!!), coupled with the recent issue I had at Walmart, I am nervous about driving my car. I wish I had read about these issues before buying my car 30 days ago. I thought I had done my homework and read several websites before buying the car, but I will read recall reports before buying a car from now on.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Contract & Terms

    Reviewed Nov. 15, 2016

    Toyota had me sign a contract that was on a computer and never disclosed the surrender fee. It was not until I received a copy of the lease agreement from Toyota. I have had problems with the vehicle stopping. I must apply the brakes much sooner than my Nissan or my Ford Mustang. There is rust on the hood of the vehicle. Paint is flaking off the hood down to the primer. I repeatedly advised Toyota of the brake issue which was the traction light coming on and having to reset itself when the brakes were applied. The vehicles was put in park and started rolling backwards.

    TJ Toyota repeatedly told me that could not recreate the problem. I demanded it be kept until they did. I was told by the Service Manager that it is normal for the traction light to come on. If that were the case why was I not told two visits prior. They never recreated the problem with the vehicle in park. It only happened twice but had I not had quick reflexes, students walking home from school would have been run over. I will never lease nor buy a vehicle from Toyota again.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed Nov. 6, 2016

    I had an accident on the freeway. Traffic was stopping ahead of us, it was raining. I had plenty of time to stop, but the alarm on the Highlander came on and no matter how hard I pushed on the brakes, it would not slow down. It sounds like the ABS system "takes over" to prevent you from sliding. Unfortunately, it doesn't allow me to stop. This could have been SO much worse, but this is a serious problem that must be fixed by Toyota.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Verified purchase
    Customer ServicePrice

    Reviewed Oct. 24, 2016

    After nine months of ownership, the touch screen radio broke. A simple push of the finger on a 106F day and a crack went across screen. Dealer refuses to repair or replace "due to outside influences". Which I can only take to mean ISIS or aliens. This is a $3500 replacement. I also find out I was duped into buying a cheap Panasonic and not the JBL I thought I was getting. After numerous attempts with dealer I was told to call Toyota Customer Care. After an hour on the phone with Toyota Corporate, they turned around and called the dealer. Again I was told it was caused by "outside influences". Toyota customer care is a joke, and the dealer network is worse. To stick a customer with a $3500 cost on a nine month old vehicle is insane. They have not returned calls, or followed up on claims I submitted. They did not test or exam the radio, they only took a picture. I cannot recommend a Toyota. I will never buy another Toyota.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Customer ServiceInstallation & SetupCoveragePunctuality & SpeedStaff

    Reviewed Sept. 15, 2016

    I purchased a brand new 2015 Toyota Highlander Limited vehicle, and within the first 90 days of ownership, the plastic front and side panels that cover the machinery at the bottom of the driver's seat came apart. Immediately, I scheduled a service appointment to have it repaired. It took approximately four long months and numerous attempts on my part to schedule the repair appointment. It was finally repaired, only to break within 48 hours of retrieving it from the dealer. Subsequently, I contacted the dealership numerous times over approximately a six months time frame to schedule the second repair. I was always told they were waiting on the FTS person to arrive in the area to address it.

    Dealership service personnel reported they could not repair the seat despite the car being less than a year old and under warranty until instructed otherwise. To reiterate, the decision rested with a person identified as the FTS (an engineer) from Glen Burnie, MD, their regional division. Irritated and knowing my car was almost a year old, I contacted several divisions of Toyota (in writing & via registered mail) and advised them the car had to be repaired or replaced. I asked whether they no longer stood behind their products. Were they going to ignore the fact that the car was under warranty? I reminded them according to law, a customer had rights regarding the lemon law. After dealing with a callous, non-empathic case worker out of California, on several phone calls, he agreed to repair the seat a second time.

    Finally, months later, the seat's plastic front/side panels were going to be repaired or allegedly replaced. Toyota kept my vehicle from September 6th until Monday, September 12th, 2016 for the second repair of the seat, trunk, and the Voice command. On the 12th, I arrived to retrieve my car. A slim, short, young mechanic drove the car from the back of the service garage to the front where I stood with my service representative. He opened the door and hopped out. As he did so, the two of us observed and heard the plastic panels pop apart again. The service representative shook her head and the foreman arrived to join us at looking at the car.

    During this time, they both turned to look at me and informed me that Toyota instructed them to not repair my seat a third time. So, I took my lemon back home in the exact manner I took it to the dealership to be repaired. Obviously, it was NOT repaired as far as I was concerned. Can you say irritated? After all, I spent over $45,000 for the car.

    Upon my arrival home, I called my Toyota HQ case worker, who did absolutely zilch to resolve this in an acceptable manner in my opinion. He gleefully reported he called the dealership and despite the seat breaking under the weight of the mechanic it would not be fixed a third time and no further action would be taken by Toyota despite the warranty. The reason being because the FTS (engineer) decided the seat should not be repaired due to my being a full figured woman. Staff and documentation indicated my weight was the problem. Now, did I mention that I also own a 2004 Highlander? I still own and drive this one and its seats have never broken. Did I mention that I was a loyal Toyota customer and this was my fourth purchase?

    I also had numerous problems with the trunk door failing to open 80% of the time and the Voice Command worked about 5% of the time for me. This might be due to my somewhat deep, but feminine voice. The bottom line, I truly believe the car is a lemon, but Toyota will not stand behind this product the way the company should. In my opinion, Toyota has become so big that customer satisfaction does not matter to them.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Staff

    Reviewed Aug. 30, 2016

    I bought a 2015 Highlander brand new. I am very unsatisfied with my choice. I am getting 15 mpg in the city. On the highway... the best I've been able to average is 17mpg. Took the car to the dealer and the best they got it up to was 16mpg. I've had to had the driver's side window seal replaced 3 times due to squeaking when I roll up the window, and it needs to be replaced again for the same problem. The driver's side door panel chrome is now aligned properly and needs to be replaced. The rear arm axles (or something with the suspension) went out and had to be replaced at 10,000 miles. When I turn corners, the car makes an almost listing noise. Imagine the noise you would hear in a boat swaying over waves in the ocean. The dealer hasn't been able to find where this noise is coming from. I have 13,000 miles on the car now and I'm ready to trade it in.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedStaff

    Reviewed April 29, 2016

    Purchased my 2014 Highlander LX new. Twice now the plastic driver's plastic seat trim which covers the seat electronic controls has broken. The first time was within a year of purchase and dealer replaced it. At that time, the service rep said if it broke again, I would have to pay to have it replaced. That certainly raised a red flag and sure enough, less than a year later, the same thing happened. I called the service manager who told me he has never heard of the trim breaking. Odd, since they had already replaced mine.

    In any event, I see on this site alone that others have reported exactly the same problem and experienced refusal by Toyota to acknowledge the part failure. This is my 5th Toyota product and I've never had this problem before. I know there are others with this problem. I encourage others with this issue to post here and elsewhere so Toyota can't continue to assert that there is no problem with their cheap, flimsy seat trim. Meanwhile, I am driving around with the seat trim hanging out every time I open my door as there is no way to adequately secure it - not exactly great marketing for Toyota.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed Jan. 16, 2016

    My 2015 Toyota Highlander Limited V6 produces horrible torque steer under the slightest brisk takeoff and even if I am starting off with slight accelerator pressure with a damp service the vehicle has a difficult time finding grip. The car is a FWD model and when I have attempted to press the vehicle to get out into fast traffic it decides which way I should be steering. This thing is horrible, embarrassing when I gave guest aboard, and is dangerous if you are not completely ready for its torque steering shenanigans.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Customer ServiceStaff

    Reviewed Jan. 16, 2016

    I was driving to work in my Toyota Highlander when I came upon a red light (where other cars were already stopped). I pushed down on the brakes and quickly realized the car was not responding. I had no control of the vehicle. To avoid the car in front of me, I directed the car into the opposing lane (because there were no cars) and tried to apply the breaks again, but still nothing. Finally after the third try of hitting the brakes the car came to a stop. I was petrified, and immediately pulled the Highlander to the side of the road.

    I was afraid, but I had to continue my drive to work. I work the overnight shift, so the next morning I drove my car from work straight to the dealership to have it looked at. I was helped by a representative who must have dealt with this complaint before as he at the ready with quick precise answers, before even hearing me out. "There is no problem" he responded, "this is just your ABS brakes jumping in to help you out in a slide." But I was not sliding. I said to him, "I was going 30mph on a dry road, and the brakes were not helping me do anything."

    I explained to him that when I went into the opposing lane I passed the grey car in front of me that was in my lane. If another car had been in the opposite lane, I would have had to hit the car in front of me. He responded, "well it sounds like you tried to pump your brakes and you cannot do that in a Highlander." I was astonished that these were his answers. I ONLY PUSHED THE BRAKES SO MANY TIMES BECAUSE THE BRAKES WERE ALREADY NOT RESPONDING!! He continued, saying the next time this happens push down as hard on the brakes as I can without removing my foot and see if this works better. "The next time? I don't ever want to experience this again! I don't want there to be a next time." I told him.

    Because I refused to leave without the car being inspected, he finally agreed to have it looked at. He said "it will be hours, so if you're willing to leave it here." This has been an unforgettable experience. I am concerned about driving this car. I just got the Highlander 2 months ago. I have four children I drive on a daily basis (whom, luckily, were not in the car).

    Thanks for your vote!
    Customer ServiceStaff

    Reviewed Dec. 26, 2015

    I purchased my first Toyota expecting great trouble-free ride. I have 5,400 miles on the car in 6 months. The alarm has gone off 3 times on its own. I have called the dealer and they said that was an old problem that Toyota corrected so not sure what is wrong. I am back home up north for about a month and my poor relatives are keeping my car in their driveway in Florida. They are not real happy or are their neighbors.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed Dec. 22, 2015

    Just want Toyota and other consumers know how brutal the front seats are when traveling LONG distances. It is unbelievable how bad it hurts in these front seats!!! I will never purchase another Highlander!

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed Dec. 1, 2015

    2014 Toyota Highlander before its first oil change 5000 miles started making noises. It appears to be coming from under the carriage right under the middle row, sounds like an old car. Also both the captain chair in the middle row rattle and shake when driving over bumps or rough terrain. I took it to the dealer a few times but they don't seem to have a fix for it, and as for the chairs, they say they're just bad quality. I'm surprised that with so many complaints for the same issues, Toyota does not take care of the problem.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed Sept. 20, 2015

    Car now has 36000 miles. From day 1 burned 1 qt every 2000 miles at best. Toyota will not do anything to correct as they say it is normal to burn 1 qt for every 1200 miles! Owned 8 Toyotas and never between oil changes do I ever have to add oil. They are not backing up their product and Lemon Law proceedings are under way as the car also had numerous oil leaks which they finally dropped the engine and redid 21 seals and gaskets.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Profile pic of the author.

    Reviewed Sept. 13, 2015

    Bought 2006 Highlander in June 2008 with 44k miles. Had 2 owners by this time. Won't hold an alignment. Warranty on follow up alignments are free for 6 months but it did not matter how many times I returned it for a realignment. Tires are new, balanced etc. Previous owners must have seen this problem and dumped it. I had a loan and not in financial position to do the same. Dealer I bought it from was one of many that GM closed in 2008. Gave it to my son and I bought a bicycle. During the time I had it I did not have to do any repairs.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Customer Service

    Reviewed July 14, 2015

    Totally frustrated with the hands free system in my 2015 Highlander. I have completed the tutorial, voice trained the system, and still does not work properly. I have communicated with Toyota but so far they feel there is not an issue. Dealer has been good to work with but does not have an answer. Examples:

    Question: Directions to Birmingham Alabama.
    Answer: Where do you want to find Burlington coat?
    Question: Directions to (name of dealer) Toyota

    Answer: Where do you want to find Latin and South American?

    Really? Worst hands free system I have ever used. Did I mention this is the platinum state of the art vehicle? Other than this the car operates as expected but this is unacceptable. So was Toyota's response that at this point they do not see an issue. Very interested to see if anyone else has the same issue.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Customer ServiceStaff

    Reviewed April 30, 2015

    Toyota Highlander Platinum Hybrid 2015 - On four separate occasions the car would not start. I get a flashing yellow indicator in the instrument panel but no messages are record. On the first occasion the car would not start for 3 consecutive days. On the forth day I called Toyota Care and arranged for a tow truck to take the vehicle to the nearest Toyota Dealer for service. The tow truck driver informed me that we would need to push the car away from the house in order to hook it for loading on the flat bed. When we started pushing the car it suddenly started. I asked the tow truck driver to tow the vehicle anyway. The tow truck driver then informed me that he could not load the truck on the flat bed since the tow hooks were missing from the vehicle.

    Upon further research I found the tow hooks are not included with this $50k+ vehicle. I asked the tow truck driver to follow me to the dealer. The service department could not find any faults in the car's memory and therefore were not able to resolve the problem. Since this first incident the problem has recurred four more times. On this last incident I recorded what happens when the vehicle doesn't start and will post the video on YouTube.

    This car has left me stranded on four separate occasion. I complained to Toyota Corporate but received no response. They are simply not interested in resolving these problems. On the last occasion I was able to get the vehicle started after removing the preload on the steering wheel. I suspect, but can't conclude at this time, that the problem may be related to preload on the steering wheel that occurs when the car is parked and the wheels turning to one side or the other.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Staff

    Reviewed April 17, 2015

    Purchase a brand new 2015 Highlander LE plus which was special order to get the Blizzard Pearl with black interior. Terrible rattling noise from the back driver seat area when a small bump or imperfections on the road. Have taken it to the dealership twice and basically got a sorry that's the way it is. On one occasion they did take the seat off and tried to re-adjust the seat but did not take care of the issue. Can't believe I have to deal with this on a brand new car, only has 3,200 miles on it. Will probably not buy a Toyota vehicle again. If someone else has this issue, please let me know.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed April 2, 2015

    Purchase 2013 Highlander and 7 months later went to dealer for an oil change, comes out with engine vibrating and tapping. Contact Toyota Corp they refuses to repair or replace vehicle. Went to arbitration and of course his job was to favor them. Dealerships still refuse to fix the vehicle and it is tapping and vibrating extremely bad. I feel as though all the Toyota owners of these damaged vehicles would be extremely nice if we can file a class action lawsuit against Toyota. That is the only way we can conquer that Corporation as an whole not as an individual.

    Toyota are designed to disregard their responsibility toward the customers and continued to fib against all of the owners who purchase a vehicle from their know good ...We seriously need to form a CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT against Toyota. If anyone know of a class action on these 2013, 2014, 2015 please let me know because I am all for it ASAP.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed March 1, 2015

    24,000 miles only on the car. Brake failed backing down a hill.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Verified purchase
    Customer ServiceStaff

    Reviewed Jan. 13, 2015

    We purchased two new 2014 Toyota Highlanders, one for me and one for my wife. The side panel of the seat that contains the electric seat controls was coming apart after a few months and we took my wife's car back and then a month or so later my Highlander was doing the same thing. They ordered a new part but it didn't fix the problem and so we have two new 2014 Toyota Highlanders that have the side panel hanging down from the seat.

    The dealer in Clanton Alabama McKinnon Toyota turned it over to Toyota and we received a call from them two weeks later and they basically don't have a fix and don't know when they will have a fix. They said they would update us monthly about it. Don't know what to do from here but very disappointed in the response so far. Not sure Toyota realizes how many people see our seat falling apart each time we get out of the car.

    I am planning on taking the car back to McKinnon and leaving it there until it's fixed or replaced. Any suggestions would be welcomed. We ask about replacement but the Toyota representative said because it was still drivable it didn't apply. I read the lemon law summary that said that if devalued the car it would be covered. Hope this helps someone else and maybe us as well to spread the story.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Verified purchase
    Customer ServiceStaff

    Reviewed Dec. 29, 2014

    Brake failure on new 2015 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, twice - Three days after I bought my new car from DCH Toyota of Oxnard, a systems trouble warning light came on. As I was pulling my car over to call the Toyota dealer that I bought my car from, the brakes went out, then the car lurched to a stop. I had no control of the car. I shut the car off, called the dealer. Was told to take it to the nearest Toyota repair. I turned the car back on, there was no warning light and the brakes worked, so like an idiot, I drove the car to the nearest dealer. The Santa Barbara service department I took the car to was very nice, they gave me a loaner and worked on my car. The next day I drove an hour back from where I live to pick the car up, I was told they found and fixed the problem. I drove my new car from California to Montana and back, over steep mountain passes. I really liked this car.

    One month later, with five thousand miles on my car, I took my car into be serviced at DCH Toyota of Oxnard, where I bought the car. Everything was great. The very next day, after the car was serviced, my brakes went out. There was no warning this time. I got a brake system failure light and one second later, I had no brakes or control of the car.

    I called my dealer. They told me it wasn't their problem, to take it to the Santa Barbara dealer. I called several times. No one at DCH Toyota would talk to me. I kept being sent to voicemail. I called the Toyota headquarters and was told they would have someone get back with me the next day. After letting my car sit off for fifteen minutes or so, I turned it back on, there was no warning light and the brakes worked, so I slowly drove the car home. A lawyer called DCH Toyota for me, and within a minute from him talking to them, they called me. I had Toyota roadside assist tow my car to DCH. They were very nice, gave me a loaner and seemed to understand that I didn't want to ever drive this car again.

    December 24th, 2014, I was told they found the problem and replaced two failed parts. I went in to talk with them about the fact that I now had no confidence in the car and didn't want it. I was told by one head service tech that he wouldn't want his wife or children in this car. The manager said, maybe he would let his wife drive it. On the 24th DCH was very understanding and said they would look for a new car to replace my car. It may take 4 - 6 weeks and to drive the loaner until the 26th to decide what I wanted to do.

    On the 26th I told DCH that I didn't want to ever drive the car again. They told me, it wasn't their problem and that I had to go through Toyota. I now had filed under the lemon law, that my car was fixed and fine. This was not the new, safe, car I paid a lot of my hard earned money for. Shame on DCH, the sales manager said Toyota's a billion dollar company, it's their job to sort this out, not theirs.

    I was in two life threatening situations in a brand new car, whose brakes went out due to a computer malfunction and a bad brake part, and I still had to drive it home. Is it fixed, maybe, maybe not. Another person Nov. 23rd complained that her Toyota Highlander's brakes failed, she got in an accident. I was lucky I wasn't hurt or killed. I was told, by the Toyota company, I have to wait 30 days to see if I qualify for a new car under the lemon law. They won't give me a loaner. If they won't give me a new car right away, I would like a refund and the low mileage Lexus I traded in back.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Staff

    Reviewed Dec. 26, 2014

    I've been battling with the issue of overheating since I purchase my car. I have changed the thermostat and radiator coolant but still persists. I've also pressure tested the cooling system for any leakage and flushed the radiator for any sediments too. I'm almost tired getting tired of the car as I can't use A/C because if I do so, the temperature rise immediately. Kindly advice me for next action. Thanks.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Installation & SetupStaff

    Reviewed Dec. 26, 2014

    2014 Highlander - Broken seat control casing on driver's side: C. of Castro Valley, CA wrote about the same problem that I have had. I bought the car in March. By Dec. 1st the dealership had tried to repair the broken plastic casing that anchors the driver's seat and protects the controls for lowering and moving the driver's seat - five times. They even installed running boards as they claim that the way I get in and out of the car was causing the breakage. After the fifth time they said I was the reason for the problem and that I was the only person they knew of who had the problem in the USA and thus they would no longer pay for any more repairs. Now the controls are contained with scotch tape and I ride around with the broken plastic pieces looking for a solution to a broken seat.

    Thanks for your vote!
    CoverageStaff

    Reviewed Dec. 16, 2014

    I purchased my 2012 Highlander 12/28/12, I started having issues soon after, I took it into AutoNation formally, Champion Toyota, Houston, TX. I was given the run around and they just kept putting band aids on the problem. I spoke to several upper management personnel but by no avail the problem still occurs. The Upper Light Console falls down while driving at any given time while driving or just being parked. I have taken my vehicle in on several occasions for this. I'm Highly Disappointed and upset to keep going through this with the dealer which I purchased it and also purchased EXTENDED WARRANTY! I just can't be the only one having this problem. I feel they are shafting me since I have warranty and it's covered and they need to replace it, I believe it's a bigger problem and they don't want to do it. I have noticed they are hiring Kids to repair and work on vehicles instead of real people that knows what they are doing. This is why it's not being fixed because they do not know how to do it.

    I'm not looking for free but I want fair and honesty and for them to own their mistakes for not repairing it correctly the first time. This is frustrating knowing you are paying for this huge investment and not happy with what you purchased. It been a nightmare with these people. I had a Toyota Rav4 before this and never had any issues whatsoever so I thought I'd stick with Toyota but they have really let me down this time and it will be my last vehicle from them.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed Nov. 25, 2014

    152000+ miles. Only things replaced are brake pads, tires, tire rotation annually, oil changes every 7,500 miles with Mobile 1 synthetic, routine maintenance every 30,000 miles by Toyota, genuine Toyota timing belt and water pump replaced at 90,000 miles, 2 fuel oxygen sensors replaced (cost $450 per sensor; but use only OEM since replacement parts may not be compatible like I found on my previous Camry). That is it. Best car, minivan or SUV I ever owned -- Almost 13 years & 150K+ miles; and still runs like new.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed Nov. 23, 2014

    I was driving into a driveway. The pavement was wet with leaves and I was only going about 5 mph up a slight incline. I felt the car slip on the leaves while I applied the brakes and then the car lunged forward slamming into the car that was parked in the driveway. I continued to step on the brakes, but I couldn't get the car to stop. My Hybrid finally stopped when the car in the driveway was smashed against their garage door and outside brick. The other car was severely damaged, garage door and frame were damaged and the bricks were destroyed. The insurance company says I am 100% at fault, but I know something went wrong with the Hybrid.

    I had brand new top of the line winter tires put on 2 days before the accident and new brakes, brake pads put on less than 6 months ago. It doesn't make sense that that much damage could be caused when going into a driveway at a low speed. How else can you explain the damage? Something went wrong with the car. I could not believe it was my fault so I looked up online and saw many forums about Toyota Highlander Hybrid surging problem/brake gap. Toyota needs to be held accountable for this manufacturer defect and admit that there is a problem and do a recall. This is a serious safety issue and now I am afraid to drive my vehicle.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed Nov. 18, 2014

    We own 2011 Highlander SE AWD has 31,000 mile. On November 16, 2014 moved the car from garage and found metal pieces on garage floor. Immediately took the car to the garage and found that both side of front brakes inner pads completely worn out and damaged both rotors. Outside pads has almost 60% thickness left on it. Ended up changing both rotors and pads. Cost me $375 dollars. Mechanic said this may be resulted from faulty brake system. Talk to Toyota and ended up nowhere.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed Nov. 15, 2014

    Our new 2014 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER Limited has begun making noise when traveling relatively slow (<30mph) on a normal road. When there's a very minor bump, a squeaky sound will come from the rear. It's not so noticeable on the freeway (perhaps fewer vibrations and/or the wind noise overpowers it). Upon further investigation (riding in the back and listening for the source), it's coming from the rear-hatch door/car gap near the bottom corners. It sounds like the powered hatch isn't fully tight and the weatherstrip is rubbing. However, the door doesn't feel or appear loose at all. This just started occurring this past week at around 2500 miles.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed Nov. 14, 2014

    2013 Toyota Highlander - Purchase vehicle in 2013. Seven months later engine started tapping and vibrating. Told need motor mounts. Toyota dealership refuse to acknowledge that the engine is tapping and vibrating. Vibrating is very intense that it vibrate in panels inside of the car and runs loud. Arbitrator did not diagnose this vehicle properly and was in favor for Toyota. This vehicle is vibrating even more harder now. Windows is beginning to fall off track as well. As a customer of Toyota, Toyota is not honoring their warranty and I feels as though a Class Action lawsuit needs to be file against Toyota Corporation because of denying and not honoring the warranties on their products. It would be great to start a Class Action Lawsuit against this corporation.

    Thanks for your vote!
    PriceStaff

    Reviewed Oct. 22, 2014

    2010 Toyota Highlander - The first issue was with the front driver's window either coming off track (several times) or the time that the door would not open from inside. I had to roll down the window to open. After the warranty expired, we don't go to the dealer to get it fixed. This started just months after purchasing the new vehicle. Next, just after the 3-yr/36,000 warranties expired, the starter went bad. I contacted both my local dealer and Toyota but neither would. Luckily, we know a good mechanic who fixed and saved us a lot of money. Finally (hopefully), the rear door sensor keeps indicating the door is open when it is not. This causes the interior lights to flash, door to chime, and the rear display to show door open. This happens all of the time. I am afraid to take to the dealer since it is out of warranty and after hearing of similar issues and the cost. Toyota is not a quality product and too bad it took $38,000 to figure it out. I thought I would give them a try after all of the very serious issues they recently had.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed Oct. 8, 2014

    The cover panel on my new 2014 Toyota LE Highlander came apart shortly after having it PermaPlated in May (purchased April 2014). Since that first incident on May 7, 2014 through September 2, 2014 that same part has broken and been replaced by the dealership five times. This is the part that covers the switches on the side the driver's seat. While Toyota of Concord said that they would replace the seat in July, Toyota now refuses to replace the seat. Has anyone had any issue with this part of your Highlander breaking, coming apart? Purchased NEW. Suggestions other than arbitration? Thank you.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed Sept. 1, 2014

    I've had my 2005 Highlander since 4/06. It has approximately 135,000 miles. Happy to say that I've had no issues. I service regularly, all recalls done. Just put on my second set of tires. I drive a lot. It's not a luxurious vehicle, but it runs every day. Gas mileage ok… Oh, did replace battery once and brake pads once, but that's usual maintenance. Great Vehicle.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed July 1, 2014

    I was driving at a freeway at 65 mph and all of sudden, the engine on my Highlander 2010 limited turned off; the steering wheel got locked. The brakes were working and restarted the car for through the key-less ignition button and was able to pull the car safely to the side. The car did a number of resets by itself and would shutdown as I try to move it forward. I had to tow it to the dealership who have advised me so far that I have a missing battery mount and current is being earthed. The dealership will replace it for 95.95+ tax and will further diagnose for any more problems. I don't think this is the issue since I have been running this car for over 25K miles without such a problem. It was really a terrible experience and never felt such negative about Toyota quality.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed June 28, 2014

    2002 Toyota Highlander has just turned 90,000 miles. Not driven long distances as work commute is under a mile and it is a secondary vehicle. In April it starts to buck and plume white smoke. Oil change, tune up, and I'm told it's burning oil. Went ok for about a week and the sporadic but crazy smoking is creating a hazard. Ok so I am told a new engine or a new car. At 90,000. Never knew there were others out there with same issue.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed June 25, 2014

    2012 Toyota Highlander AWD - After four months I had a problem with four inches of water throughout my car! I brought it back to McGee Toyota in Hanover, Mass. The sales manager and Nicole said it was the AC and was fixed! They left the water inside for me to take out!! The problem has reoccurred! Steve ** said they couldn't find the problem. It's been over a week and now I have to get a lawyer involved!! I paid cash, extended warranty and have to wait for it to happen again because of lemon law?!?! Welcome to the USA.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Customer ServiceSales & MarketingPriceStaffReliability

    Reviewed May 28, 2014

    Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. discriminating against Toyota owner due to vehicle safety issues; NOT offering compensation/replacement for families 2011 Highlander that is proven unreliable and unsafe with a number of service records for engine malfunction issues.

    "After 10 years as a loyal, proud repeat buyer of Toyota model cars, it appears the quality of your vehicles has gone down significantly, or my 9 months of research, test driving every comparable SUV possible and competitive pricing lead us to make the wrong vehicle purchase and we got a lemon. The vehicle purchased (2011 Toyota Highlander) has defects or problems that cause it to repeatedly malfunction, and interferes with our ability to operate the vehicle safely. I am seeking remediation relief under s. 218.0171, Wisconsin Statutes lemon law; as defect was reported twice within the first 3 weeks after delivery date and continues to reoccur. I communicated my grave concerns over this condition repeatedly to three dealerships that failed to properly repair and escalate the problems, or take action after a series of repeated malfunctions."

    Bottom Line:Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. will do anything to sell you a new vehicle; but, when you notify them of a major safety issue with your vehicle that is not getting fixed or resolved, they want you to die and go away. They are NOT dedicated to customer satisfaction, safety or reliability. Dealers continually claim that they can't find anything wrong with vehicle to get through the warranty period. Then, they will try and rip you off with a smile on their face!

    Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. has no concern that its authorized dealers discriminate against me for my concerns and get in your face with anger when they don't like what you are telling them. They trample you down like a rag doll when you send a letter (including service records) to corporate indicating vehicle safety concerns and demand replacement/buy back under Lemon Law. Arbitration process is a feel good opportunity for the manufacture thinking they are taking your issue seriously and providing a fair review on the consumers behalf. From my experience, they pay these people to protect the company and not the consumer. This is just a way for the manufacture to get you to ‘Shut Up’!

    Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. has put fear in our young kids; when we take this vehicle they ask if we’re going to get in an accident. What am I supposed to tell them? There is no answer to this question. They are neglecting the safety of our family and others. Should an accident happen due to engine malfunction, Toyota's fault will be evident.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Price

    Reviewed Jan. 10, 2014

    The driver side window is falling down. I have a 2010 Toyota highlander. I have never had this issue before in any vehicle that I have owned. I called Ralph Hayes Toyota about fixing it. They said that it would cost me too much and said that it would be cheaper for me to go to a body shop. I have had 3 brand new Toyota vehicles - two of which were highlanders and out of the 3 vehicles, I have only been happy with one of them. This 2010 highlander has had 3 issues - one the front bumper latches came loose and I had to have an auto body repair shop fix it.

    The dealer ship tried, but failed to fix it. Then a couple of small rust spots in the back doors have come up, not sure what to do with that one yet. Toyota is not making cars the way that they use to. I am not buying anymore Toyota vehicles. It is a shame that I paid $38,000 for a car that the company will not even stand behind. The dealership should but they say that they can't because my warranty is up. Shame on you, Toyota. You have lost a customer.... In these days and times, we should be able to count on our vehicles lasting longer that a couple of years......

    Thanks for your vote!
    Customer Service

    Reviewed Jan. 1, 2014

    My wife was driving our 2005 Toyota Highlander Limited on a local city street, when the front area of the engine compartment started on fire. There were no warning signs at all when the fire erupted inside the front engine area. The fire resulted in damage to the front grill, hood, engine and various plastic body parts in that area. The Police and Fire department were called, at which point the Fire Department needed to pry the hood open since the hood release latch was apparently too melted to allow the hood to open. Damage was concentrated on the frontal area of the engine compartment and headlight area. At this point we are not sure what actually caused the fire to erupt.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed Dec. 8, 2013

    My 2002 Toyota Highlander never gave me a problem until the summer of 2013 when I noticed the oil level low between changes. I took it to the dealer and we decided to monitor the oil more closely between changes. It kept getting worse to the point that the car used a quart of oil in 500 miles. Whenever the car drove at speeds of 65mph or better, oil consumption increased. After reading several oil sludge blogs, I discovered this is a common symptom. After complaining to the dealer and following the "proper channels" to report my problem to Toyota, Toyota says it will not fix my Highlander because I reported the problem too late. I never knew I had a problem until this summer and had no knowledge of the oil sludge class action lawsuit. My Highlander has only 70,000 miles and right now is probably worth salvage value. I'm stuck with an expensive piece of junk that was the fault of a manufacturer's defect that Toyota will not fix. Is this another case of buyer beware or will Toyota do the right thing and stand behind their product?

    Thanks for your vote!
    Coverage

    Reviewed March 23, 2013

    The check engine light was on. I took the vehicle to the dealer and they said I must have run over something to crack this canister. However, the plastic shroud around the outside was not cracked. It's in perfect condition. The part is molded together. Very suspicious that the crack is right where the two parts are molded. The dealer wants $1,100 to fix this. The Highlander is less than one year old and has just 15,445 miles on it. I paid $48,000 for this vehicle and they are not going to cover this part. Granted this part is part of the emission system, which my state does not even require, but I still think this is a faulty part and should be covered under warranty.

    The dealer was not helpful one bit. They just wanted me to order the parts right away or submit it to my insurance company. I never hit anything or ran anything over, but if I did, won't the plastic part on the outside have damage. Really? How dishonest, and shame on you Teton Toyota (local dealer in Idaho). Shame on you Toyota for not supporting me on this issue. I refuse to pay $1,100 more for this vehicle when it's not even a year old.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Customer ServiceStaff

    Reviewed Dec. 21, 2012

    Repair issues (the repairs resulted in additional damage) - I own a 2005 Toyota Highlander, which has an issue with a loose feeling steering wheel that is also off balance. Over the summer, I brought it in to Wilde Toyota to get an alignment, after speaking to a service adviser who recommended it after hearing my issue. I also purchased 4 brand new tires from Wilde at the same time. The problem went away for a little while, but then it returned and I had the same issue. I did some research on my own and found that there was a TSB that could correct the issue. I called Wilde and spoke to a service adviser, who told me that I should bring it in and they can diagnose it for free. I felt like the adviser really didn't want to speak to me since he wasn't listening and he rushed me off of the phone.

    The next day I brought it in to Wilde and they had me sign a piece of paper that said they will be inspecting it. I made it very clear that I wasn't authorizing any work to be done until they speak to me first and I okay the charges. An hour later, the service adviser came out and told me that I'm all set and that I owed over $180. I asked to speak to the service manager, Mike **, who was also pushing back and told me that I was responsible for the charges. Finally, after a long battle with them, the adviser offered to waive the labor and told me that I could just pay for the parts. I paid for the parts and left. I ended up sending an email to the general manager the next day, expressing my dissatisfaction with the service department. But he never got back to me.

    A few weeks after I sent an email to the service department and the service manager, but they also ignored me, the problem has become worse after they performed the TSB on my vehicle. The steering wheel feels even looser and I feel that is now a safety issue. I emailed Toyota headquarters and they got in touch with the customer relations manager, Mary, who basically told me that she couldn't do anything. I cannot believe how I am being treated by Wilde. They know my safety issue concerns, but they don't want to take any accountability to assist me. They have made my issue worse and they are responsible to fix it.

    Please send this to the general manager and the service manager. I feel that Wilde Toyota should fix my issue free of charge. They should have a master technician work on it who knows what they are doing. Since I feel that it is a safety issue, I need to have them assure me that it is fixed if they accept to take my Highlander back to repair what they should have repaired the first time.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Customer ServiceStaff

    Reviewed Sept. 11, 2012

    After leaving our family vacation in Wisconsin to travel back to New York, the engine of my 2011 Highlander stopped in rush hour traffic in Chicago, IL. I called the Toyota customer care and explained the serious health issues of all who were in the car including our family dog. Carefully exiting the highway with an engine stopping is harrowing. This was on August 8th 2012. The dealer and closest repair shop was Grossingers in Lincolnwood, IL. The service was horrendous. We spent 3 days in Chicago at a hotel. It was determined that the engine needed to be replaced and that it would take 7 days. We rented a car from the dealer and headed to NY.

    After emails, phone calls and written correspondence in the mail, Toyota had agreed to reimburse us for hotel, rental car and the towing of the car back to New York. Well we paid $563 for the car to come back. The car just arrived on September 7, 2012, an entire month after it ** the bed. I have yet to be reimbursed. I have contacted lemon law attorneys who said Toyota doesn't play nice. I have finally sent the information and complained to the New York attorney general today on the request of our insurance agent. In addition to being completely difficult to work with, they mocked my candor and honesty about my finances due to my health issues and that of my epileptic 6-year-old son with autism. I had spent well over $2,500 on unexpected expenses involving this problem car with less than 20,000 miles on it.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Customer ServicePunctuality & Speed

    Reviewed April 19, 2012

    We bought a used 2008 Toyota Highlander 2.5 years ago. Three weeks ago, it started smoking and we brought it back to the Toyota dealership but they didn't find anything wrong. One week later, it went haywire and nearly died on the interstate. They told us it was oil sludge build up and needed a new engine for $5,000. They cited lack of maintenance because we didn't have it serviced through them. Although, we did get routine oil changes and have never had this problem with any other car we have owned. It only has 80k+ miles and we expected much more from our Toyota. Numerous calls to Toyota have gone nowhere.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Contract & Terms

    Reviewed Feb. 19, 2012

    I just was told that there is sludge in my engine and that it needs to be replaced. I could not believe that a 2002 Toyota Highlander with 70k miles on, it needs a new engine! I found online the terms of a settlement about sludge build up but that was many years ago and now my car is too old to qualify. Toyota never sent me a letter stating the problems with sludge buildup or a solution. It is no wonder that they settled this so quickly and quietly for 3.5 million – as that is only 1,000 ruined engines, burned by Toyota!

    Thanks for your vote!
    Customer ServicePrice

    Reviewed Sept. 12, 2011

    I purchased a new Highlander in June 2003. I took it in Aug. 2003. When I put on the brakes, it sped up. I was told it was because I had driven a straight shift all my life (50+) and didn't understand an automatic. I wrote the company and told me to take it to the dealer. Finally, when the caliper had cut a groove in the brake, they admitted a small problem. Then, it kept feeling weird in the front right. On the rack, I discovered a bolt missing in the brake caliper. They had to replace the whole right front brake system, I think they did?

    I have had a slow leak in one tire the whole life. When moving to Utah, I had the car serviced at Knoxville Toyota; drove to Northwest Tennessee, spent night, started car next morning and got on interstate. All lights went on. I was near Paducah, KY. I called Knoxville Toyota to get a number, got directions and got to dealer. Both the transmission fluid and brake fluid pitcocks were open (left that way by Knoxville Toyota). Paducah called them and said I could have been killed. They did not charge me. I got to Salt Lake City and second week, I noted a leak under the car. I took it in. Karl ** said they'd never had this kind of leak before and it costs $1500.00 to repair for a $1.00 piece. The lack of transmission fluid could have been the cause.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed Aug. 10, 2011

    I needed service for my brand new Toyota Highlander, and I called Toyota Roadside Assistance (supposed to be included in my new car purchase). After several calls, I was told that they could not find me in the system. I would have to pay for a tow truck to take my car in for service. I gave them my debit card number, but then they gave me a higher price than what was quoted, and told me they could not guarantee a tow truck would come on that day. I told them to forget it; I called a tow truck, and paid both for the tow and the new tire. Toyota Roadside then charged my debit card the amount of $129.95 for towing service that they never provided to me. I have repeatedly called Toyota Customer Experience, and have faxed them all of the receipts. This has been more than a month. I want reimbursement for the charge on my debit card and for the charges I incurred in getting service for my car. I have called repeatedly, and sent at least four emails. I am getting really fed up with Toyota

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed July 26, 2011

    I bought my 2002 Toyota Highlander new. I always had Toyota, or the representative do all the service needed, and on time. After traveling 120,000 miles, I have no problems. The first oil change was when after the oil goes in the top and gone 1 quart one tank of gas.

    As a WARNING, check oil daily.

    From the complaints I have read, Toyota is ignoring the problem, and refuses to help. Oil sludge build up is an engineering defect, and not a lack of maintenance issue.

    Toyota should be recalling these vehicles.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed July 6, 2011

    I am an owner of a 2001 Toyota Highlander. Despite having only 88,000 miles on the vehicle it burns oil despite oil changes at intervals not exceeding 4050 miles. The vehicle is no longer operable and I have been advised by Don Jacobs Toyota that the engine needs to be replaced at a cost of approximately $7,500.

    I contacted the Toyota Oil Gel settlement hotline, however , my request for assistance was rejected because my claim was not filed be the date required by the oil gel settlement litigation.

    As an owner of a covered vehicle I never received any notice of the pending legal action or the settlement not given any indication by Toyota to take extra cautionary maintenance procedures to avoid or mitigate oil gel problems.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed June 16, 2011

    Our 2006 Toyota Highlander suddenly overheated after driving only half mile at a speed of 35 mph. We had our vehicle towed to Crown Toyota to have it diagnosed. They kept the vehicle for 15 days. They tore down the engine and told us we would have to replace the engine due to a warped block leaking water pump and leaking head gasket. Our car had 68970 miles and was no longer under warranty. They wanted $5400 to replace it with a used engine. We paid $654 just for the diagnosis and our car was returned without them reassembling the engine.

    We had the car towed to a private mechanic and we were informed the block was not warped just the threads on the bolts of the engine were defective. They did not have to disassemble our engine the way they did and if we wanted them to reassemble it, we would have to pay more money. I have found numerous complaints about the same thing happening to the 2003 Highlander. I am very upset with Toyota for not accepting fault on a manufacturer defect and with Crown Toyota for misdiagnosing the problem and the fact we have to pay to reassemble the engine they did not even have to tear down. I have filed a complaint with the NTSB and hope they look into this and Toyota recalls the vehicle and pays for the repairs.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed June 15, 2011

    The window glass in my 2005 Toyota Highlander is falling repeatedly. Two years ago, the first rear window glass fell into the door pocket, and I had to pay roughly $200 to fix it. Now, another rear window glass fell into the door pocket, and I had to pay another $250 to fix it.

    I complained to the Milham Toyota dealer in Easton, PA. Their manager spoke to Toyota and then told me flat out that I had to pay the money, if I want to fix it.

    The name Toyota was always associated with high quality. Looking at their recent troubles with quality and my personal experience with their highlander, I wonder if that claim is still true.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed May 18, 2011

    We purchased a "certified" 2002 Highlander in May of 2004. We financed it through Toyota and also purchased a Platinum Extended Warranty. Remember, this is after Toyota announced they were "aware of a tendency for certain engines to sludge”. They had the gall to sell it as "certified”. We spent (arguably) at least $2,000 over market for the "extra assurance" the "certified" designation gave us.

    Trust me, Toyota sent us monthly statements as to what was owed/paid. Service specials made it to us without fail on at least a monthly basis, but we were never notified of the problem engine lurking under the hood. The owner’s manual we finally secured (with much effort, from Schaumburg Toyota) stated 7,500 is the recommended oil change interval. We even changed it (mostly ourselves) more often. We never received the oil-gelling settlement-required glove-box notice, or mailing, or a special letter/notice of any kind, recommending more than doubling the frequency of oil changing from the original 10,000 to 7,500 to 5,000 (rough-service) to the ubiquitous quick-change recommended 3,000 intervals.

    In the middle of 2010, (one month after the oil-gelling was secretly covered on our Highlander), my wife and kids were almost stranded as they were on the way to a family vacation. And the oil "panic light" lit up while on the highway. Luckily, a relative who is an auto tech was with them and was able to assist with the adding of 4 quarts of oil! Also, thankfully, they were close to their destination.

    When my wife called, under great stress, from the service station, I did a search on the internet about excessive oil consumption in 2002 Highlanders. I discovered that this garnered a couple of million hits on "Bing". This was a known effect of an obliviously defective engine. And again, this was known before we bought this "certified" Highlander from Schaumburg Toyota. Wanting to be "made whole", we appealed to the Ates Law firm. They judged (strictly on the basis of the oil-gelling settlement) that we had no claim through that course since our problem was found just about 30 days beyond what the settlement allowed.

    If it were that simple, I would man-up and admit we just didn't appeal the case soon enough. It was/is not that simple. The fact of the matter is that as soon as this problem came to light, I contacted Toyota. The initial contact confirmed the engine was indeed part of the recall, "special policy adjustment". The second contact coldly informed us our claim was too late. All this would "gladly" be shouldered by me/us if we knew about the condition. But how would we have known about it? We bought a "certified used Toyota" from a Toyota dealer. Wouldn't they have refused to sell it as "certified" if they knew about this condition?! Wouldn't they have at least, given it was a known major problem (safety and cost to remedy considerable), made a big deal and given us a statement for us to sign that they notified us of the recommended oil change interval?! Another curious thing, I inquired at our nearby dealer (Grossinger Toyota, Lincolnwood, IL) about extending our extended warranty. They claimed they offered no such thing. I’m curious. How they now offer it, now that most of these problem engines are past oil-gelling mileage, dates, or off the road!?

    I "did the right thing" by pursuing the oil-gelling settlement. My engine wasn't technically covered under the hidden oil-gelling settlement (hidden, in that we were never properly notified!). It’s because one of the points of certification on this "Toyota certified used" car is that the rear defogger was to have been operating properly, and it wasn't. It didn't properly qualify as "certified". Amit ** issued us a printed "IOU" for the same. Also, by their own records (and even though they want all the records that we properly maintained the oil change intervals), they can't certify this auto ever had one (yes, their own records prove) oil change in the first critical 34,000 miles of ownership!

    Well, I am trying to be nice. Toyota offered a "good will" offer of correcting the oil consumption problem. There was no written estimate of what the procedure/s would be, what the decision points would be, etc. They basically are saying they would only fix the excess oil consumption, not any adversely affected parts (sound like we have developed crankshaft knock at times). All this after Grossinger put us through 3 oil consumption tests, and after we gave them the estimate, that the car burns through 1 quart of oil every 400 miles. About that time, we were going on vacation. I told them that it might take us a little beyond the requested 1,000-mile "oil consumption test". We were told, "As long as you have any oil added at a Toyota dealer and they document it, it will be okay.” Well, Steve **, director of fixed operations, ex-service manager, and one who is not (he admitted) familiar with the fact that oil develops acid qualities as it breaks down, said he wouldn't accept the oil consumption test as he couldn't trust the results! Yes, the test he wouldn't accept confirmed my own records that the car burned through 1 quart of oil about every 400 miles.

    So, thanks to a little thing called retail auto fraud in the state of Illinois. Since it was just discovered in the middle of 2010, we have 5 years. We are covered by law. Let's hope Schaumburg Toyota/Toyota North America owns up to what they did to me. And thank their lucky stars the engine didn't seize (as has happened to many others) throwing my wife and my little boys into harm’s way! I am currently open to any and all reasonable solicitations by those who could ably help us secure a settlement, which would make us whole as concerns this ongoing problem. We were able to secure and find any and all documents, which prove we likely are victims of a fraud perpetrated by Schaumburg Toyota and Toyota Motor Sales, USA.

    This is in addition to the fact that Grossinger acts puzzled about our airbag warning light, which activates in cold temperatures. They still haven't said that it is safe or unsafe to drive while this warning light is on. All they say is "there is no code" so "we can't fix it". Well, a simple "Bing" and millions of hits are declaring this is another problem Toyota knows of. But the fix is about $600-$800 and they are reluctant to fix it. Well, geniuses they are: it is recorded in their own records that we complained of this, while under warranty, no less. And they wouldn't/couldn't fix it. Can you imagine if we were (God forbid) in any speed front end collision and the airbag didn't deploy/deploy correctly? And all they say is (in spite of all the credible evidence on the internet) "there is no code that shows". So, in spite of all the reports recorded on the internet, they are not aware of the issue and what the fix is.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed May 9, 2011

    I had my ‘02 Toyota Highlander sludge problem. The service manager accused me of not changing my oil on a regular basis. It was not their fault that the oil was 3 -1/2 quarts low after a recent oil change performed by their service department. I would like to know if I can get my engine replaced free of charge and how do I make that happen? I purchased the vehicle end of January 2003.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed May 6, 2011

    We own a 2002 Toyota Highlander. We just got it out of a repair shop for oil sludge which damaged the engine. We were unsuccessful in trying different things on our own to fix the problem. It just got worse in using a quart of oil in less than 200 miles it was being driven. Our repair bill came to $3,103.79 and we just picked it up on 5-4-2011. It was in the repair shop three weeks to this day. We would like to see Toyota cover this engine repair.

    Thanks for your vote!

    Reviewed July 8, 2009

    Oil was blowing blue smoke out the exhaust on a 2001 Highlander with the 3.0 v-6 motor. It has excessive oil consumption. Vale seals and guides determined to be bad. Also, oil sludge in valve covers all at 55,000 miles. We don't put on many miles. I have never heard of these things going bad at that mileage before in any Toyota. I paid $1,155 to have this repaired. I don't think this should have happened. I have the oil gel glove box and notice from the oil gel problem.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Loading more reviews...

    Toyota Highlander Company Information

    Company Name:
    Toyota Highlander
    Website:
    www.toyota.com