Is the Toyota Highlander a Reliable Midsize SUV?
The Toyota Highlander is one of the most practical SUVs. Its latest version offers a hybrid variant ideal for long commutes and family adventures. And seating for up to eight passengers makes the Highlander a versatile midsize SUV. But is it reliable? Let’s dig into the Toyota Highlander reliability scores.
What are the Toyota Highlander’s reliability scores?
The Toyota Highlander earned a solid reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0 from RepairPal. That places the Highlander seventh out of 26 midsize SUVs. The ranking is based on the following three factors:
- Cost: The Toyota Highlander’s average annual repair and maintenance costs are $489, compared to $573 for midsize SUVs.
- Frequency: Highlander owners bring their vehicles to the repair shop for unscheduled repairs 0.33 times per year, compared to 0.4 for the class.
- Severity: The probability of severe repairs for the Toyota Highlander is 13%, compared to 13% for midsize SUVs.
The most common Toyota Highlander problems
Toyota has a reputation for reliability, and one of the top vehicles to wear that badge is the Highlander. However, this SUV isn’t without issues. Data shows the most common problems owners have reported to the consumer site RepairPal. They are as follows:
- Massive oil leak and loss of oil pressure — reported by 144 owners
- Airbag light due to problematic center airbag sensor — reported by 67 owners
- Check engine light due to hose off of air filter housing — reported by 63 people
Those reported problems are relatively low, considering the large number of Highlander models on the road.
Which SUVs outrank the Highlander in reliability?
Many might think the Highlander would be the most reliable SUV because of Toyota’s reputation, but that’s not the case. This Toyota SUV ranks seventh, putting six models ahead of it in RepairPal’s rankings:
- Mazda CX-5
- Hyundai Santa Fe
- Toyota Venza
- Hyundai Veracruz
- Mitsubishi Endeavour
- Dodge Journey
Is the Highlander a good midsize SUV?
U.S. News & World Report ranks the 2023 Highlander 14th out of 22 midsize SUVs. That doesn’t take away from this Toyota SUV’s fuel efficiency, upmarket cabin, spacious and comfortable seating in the first two rows, and updated infotainment system. Consumers typically find a composed and confident ride in the Highlander.
On the negative side, the new turbocharged four-cylinder engine drones loudly when pushed hard, and the third row is cramped for most adults.
