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2023
New 2026
Used 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006

Toyota Highlander Hybrid

EPA MPG: 35 mpg
RECALL ALERT:
There are 6 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.
Slide #1 Thumbnail

Reliability

Overall Reliability

The 2023 Highlander Hybrid is more reliable than other cars from the same model year.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has been recalled 6 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
Most Common Trouble Spots
Common Trouble Spot
Common Trouble Spot
See all 2023 Potential Trouble Spots

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

Exhaust

Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

What Owners Say

Other/unsure

"Struts for powered tail/lift gate malfunctioned and were out of stock at Toyota. Had to wait several weeks for correct items to be available."

Anonymous A., (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Rear hatch cylinders had to be replaced"

Anonymous, OH (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Mice chewed through wiring under hood -- a common problem in newer cars that use soy-based wiring insulation"

Anonymous, NY (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"tailgate would not close properly"

Anonymous, FL (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Had to replace all 4 tires."

Anonymous, TX (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"12V aux battery failed. Replaced under warranty Whole process took 1 day."

Anonymous A., VA (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Bronze 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Rear hatch did not close electrically during sub 32 degree weather. Replaced hatch struts under warranty."

Anonymous, NE (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

""Hatch wouldn't close in cold weather, dealer changed the control computer to no avail. Drivers side hatch strut/motor made noises and hatch didn't want to raise in cold weather. Dealer changed drivers side hatch strut/motor. It seems to be working now, but also the weather has been warmer""

Anonymous, ON (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Power rear lift gate will not open properly. Needed some manual help. Still working on the fix"

Anonymous, PA (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Rear hatch had intermittent opening and closing problems. Dealer service fixed by replacing the struts under warranty but at first said I would pay over $1,000 because they couldnt get it to repeat the problem when they checked it."

Anonymous, NY (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Rear hatch hydraulic cylinder catches and makes noise. Sometimes won't open in cold weather"

Anonymous, IN (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Load more

Body Hardware

Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

What Owners Say

Other body problem

"The right side airbag pillar molding got loose. That must have happened when my 83 year old wife gripped it as support to get out of the car!!!"

Anonymous, CA (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Seat controls - manual

"The middle passenger seat would not fold down. Started in March 2025 and was constant. Cables had to be replaced (under warranty)."

Anonymous, OH (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Tailgate, hatch or trunk

""Tailgate does not consistently open or close, have to press the latch or button up to 12 times to get it to open or close. Have had to body shop and also replaced opening mechanism, but the problem remains.""

Anonymous, KS (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Unsure 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Rear lift gate motors failed and had to be replaced."

Anonymous, SK (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"The tailgate failed to fully open. I took it to a dealer three times. Each time the issue exhibited during check in but the techs returned the vehicle after failing to reproduce the problem. I finally reported the issue to Toyota online. They sent a tech from the factory. It took hours (they told me) to reproduce the problem but they then replaced major mechanical parts to fix the tail gate. This problem took 2 months to resolve."

Anonymous A., NC (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Load more

In-car Electronics

Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

What Owners Say

Apple CarPlay

"Unable to use carplay without being linked on a hard wire basis to iPhone and the screen locks up without allowing me to accord anything else on the electronic menu"

Anonymous, WI (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Other in-car electronics problem

"Pad seems to be inconsistent in charging -on and off"

Anonymous A., MT (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Unless I hard wire my phone the electronic options are not available on the screen"

Anonymous, WI (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Noises/Leaks

Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

What Owners Say

Squeaks or rattles

"Rattle happens on rough roads only. Started approximately 12 months ago. Dealer could not find the source. On cobblestone roads the noise is considerable. Smooth roads its not noticeable"

Anonymous A., WA (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

""I have a rattle in the driver's side dashboard but it comes and goes. Toyota mechanic has taken the car (with me in it) for two lengthy test "rattle drives" and no rattle with either me or the mechanic driving. They've installed additional insulation in a couple of areas around the dash and driver's side window based on my discription of rattle location. I drive 15 miles from dealership and it rattles like crazy, turn around, pick up mechanic, drive same road, no rattles. They're checking it out again on an upcoming maintenance appointment. Other than the rattle, really like the car. UPDATE: Routine Service appt May 15, 2025. Manager and mechanic took the car out for a rattle ride and isolated the rattle to the left front door. Rattle stops when interior door cover removed. They've reported the problem to Toyota and will get back to me with the resolution. May require replacement of the driver's side interior door surface/cover.""

Anonymous A., FL (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Paint/Trim

Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

What Owners Say

Loose exterior trim or moldings

"Road dirt and grime constantly accumulate inside the bottom of the doors on the inside of the bottom trim. Need to continually clean this area."

Anonymous, SK (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Other paint & trim problem

"The roof molding is quite loose and gets lost in a car wash. Toyota told me that is a car wash problem. All other cars in that car wash do not have that problem. Why I??? I "fixed" it by securing the ends with DUCTTAPE.YES DUCTTAPE NEEDED ON A HIGHLANDER 2023 TO KEEP THE MOLDING ON!!!"

Anonymous, CA (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Climate System

AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

What Owners Say

Refrigerant leaks

"HOSES LEAKED. FIXED BY WARRANTY REPAIR. ALL GOOD"

Anonymous, NV (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Drive System

Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

What Owners Say

Driveshaft or axle

"Left front axle nut loosen. We had to repair as they claimed we had loosened it. This was impossible as we don't have the needed tools, just like most consumers. And why would we do this on a car under warranty?"

Anonymous, (2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Engine Electrical

Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

Brakes

Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

Suspension/Steering

Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

Electrical Accessories

Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

Transmission Major

Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

Transmission Minor

Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

EV Battery

Electric/hybrid battery pack failure, replacement or malfunction, or cooling.

Engine Minor

Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

Engine Cooling

Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

Engine Major

Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

Fuel System/Emissions

Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

2023 SUVs Reliability

This Car
vs. Similar Cars

Toyota vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

See How Other Brands Stack up
Reliability History
* Redesign year
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Overall Reliability Verdict
POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
Powertrain
Electric Motor
EV Battery
Engine Major
Engine Minor
Engine Cooling
Engine Electrical
Transmission Major
Transmission Minor
Drive System
Fuel System/Emissions
Exhaust
Suspension/Steering
Brakes
Climate System
Build Quality
Electrical Accessories
Body Hardware
Paint/Trim
Noises/Leaks
In-car Electronics
Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.

Learn more about car Reliability.

Recalls
PROVIDED BY
SEATS
Mar 05, 2026
A seat back that fails to lock may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The second-row seat backs may fail to lock into position during seat back adjustment.
What should you do:
Dealers will replace the return springs in the seat back recliner assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 20, 2026. Owners may contact Toyota¿¿¿s customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 26TB06 and 26TA06.
For more information:
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 26V128000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 550007
Hide Recall Details
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Oct 30, 2025
A rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may cause the rearview camera to freeze or display a blank screen when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
What should you do:
Dealers will update the parking assist software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 2, 2026. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 25TB13 and 25LB06. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE25.
For more information:
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 25V744000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 1024407
Hide Recall Details
AIR BAGS, STEERING
Jan 29, 2025
A deactivated driver's air bag will not deploy as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Tacoma, Lexus RX350, 2023-2024 NX250, and NX350 vehicles that may have been incorrectly repaired under previous NHTSA recall number 23V-480. An electrical connection inside the steering column's spiral cable assembly may be insufficiently welded, causing the connection to separate and deactivate the driver's air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
What should you do:
Dealers will inspect and replace the spiral cable assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2025. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 25TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 25LA02.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 25V040000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 1716
Hide Recall Details
EQUIPMENT
Jul 23, 2024
A vehicle with an incorrect maximum capacity weight value may be overloaded, which can increase the risk of a crash.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain Toyota 2023 GR Supra, 2024 4 Runner, Corolla, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Tacoma, Tacoma Hybrid, 2023-2024 BZ4X, Corolla Cross Hybrid, GR Corolla, GR86, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius Prime, Sequoia Hybrid, Tundra, Tundra Hybrid, Venza Hybrid, 2023-2025 Crown, and 2025 Camry Hybrid vehicles equipped with GST accessories. The load carrying capacity modification label may display inaccurate added weight values. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
What should you do:
GST will mail new labels to owners, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2024. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 24R2.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 24V548000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 33848
Hide Recall Details
STRUCTURE
Oct 26, 2023
A detached front bumper cover can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Highlander & Highlander Hybrid vehicles. During normal vehicle operation, minor impact to the front lower bumper cover may result in the cover coming loose or detaching.
What should you do:
Dealers will repair or replace the upper and lower front bumper covers as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed April 22, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB12/23TA12.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V720000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 750795
Hide Recall Details
AIR BAGS, STEERING
Jul 12, 2023
A deactivated driver's air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury during a crash.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Corolla, Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Tacoma, 2023 Lexus RX350, RX350 Hybrid, RX500 Hybrid, 2023-2024 Lexus NX250, NX350, and NX350 Hybrid vehicles. An electrical connection inside the steering column's spiral cable assembly may be insufficiently welded, causing the connection to separate and deactivate the driver's air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
What should you do:
Dealers will inspect and replace the spiral cable assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 8, 2023. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TA08. Lexus' number for this recall is 23LA02.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V480000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 152927
Hide Recall Details
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