What are the most common problems with the 2011 Toyota Highlander?

Steering issues, including loss of power assist and noise, are the most common complaints and a primary concern for owners.

How many recalls does the 2011 Toyota Highlander have?

The 2011 Toyota Highlander currently has 6 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2011 Toyota Highlander a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Steering issues, including loss of power assist and noise, are the most common complaints and a primary concern for owners. Electrical system problems and visibility/wiper issues are also frequently reported. The Highlander received good safety ratings, with an overall score of 4 out of 5 stars from NHTSA. Fuel economy is adequate for an SUV of its size, averaging 19 MPG combined. With 6 recalls and 228 complaints, a pre-purchase inspection is crucial to identify potential problems. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2011 Toyota Highlander?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2011 Toyota Highlander.

2011 Toyota Highlander Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Steering issues, including loss of power assist and noise, are the most common complaints and a primary concern for owners.
Electrical system problems and visibility/wiper issues are also frequently reported.
The Highlander received good safety ratings, with an overall score of 4 out of 5 stars from NHTSA.
Fuel economy is adequate for an SUV of its size, averaging 19 MPG combined.

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Overview

2011 Toyota Highlander

The 2011 Toyota Highlander offers a comfortable ride and family-friendly space, but its average reliability and a significant number of complaints, particularly concerning steering and electrical systems, warrant careful consideration for used car shoppers. With 6 recalls and 228 complaints logged, potential buyers should prioritize thorough inspections. Its 19 MPG combined is reasonable for its class, and it achieved solid safety ratings, including a 5-star side crash rating. However, the high volume of TSBs (163) suggests potential quality control concerns that could lead to unexpected repair costs.

Critical Failure Risk

Clunking, popping, or clicking noises from the steering wheel or column, often related to the intermediate steering shaft. Loss of power steering assist can also occur.

Early detection can help you avoid a $600-$1,200 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns6

Service Bulletins163

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

228

Steering33

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families seeking a spacious and comfortable SUV with decent fuel economy.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand flawless reliability and minimal maintenance.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2011 Toyota Highlander Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic (S5)
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 19

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Most Common Issues

1. Steering

Most reported

Usage: 33 reports

2. Visibility

Usage: 25 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Inspect all fluid levels - Inspect wiper blades - Inspect ball joints and dust covers - Inspect brake lines and hoses - Inspect steering linkage and boots - Inspect drive shaft boots - Inspect chassis and body bolts

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (7 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

6 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2011 Toyota Highlander reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Toyota Highlander is 7.7/10. Reliability score is 7.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 6. Owner complaints: 228.

How practical is the 2011 Toyota Highlander for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2011 Toyota Highlander?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Toyota Highlander is 6.5/10. Overall score is 6.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Toyota Highlander?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Inspect all fluid levels - Inspect wiper blades - Inspect ball joints and dust covers - Inspect brake lines and hoses - Inspect steering linkage and boots - Inspect drive shaft boots - Inspect chassis and body bolts at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $488. Repair prediction highlight: Steering Intermediate Shaft (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,000).

What engine is in the 2011 Toyota Highlander?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2011 Toyota Highlander use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Toyota Highlander, transmission is Automatic (S5). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Toyota Highlander?

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Toyota Highlander?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2011 Toyota Highlander?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Toyota Highlander, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2011 Toyota Highlander use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Toyota Highlander, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S5).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Toyota Highlander?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2011 Toyota Highlander good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2011 Toyota Highlander is a family-oriented SUV that prioritizes comfort and practicality over performance.

What are the most common steering problems on the 2011 Toyota Highlander?

Top complaint category: steering (33 reports, 14.5% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Toyota Highlander?

This model year has 6 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2011 Toyota Highlander?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2011 Honda Pilot and 2011 Ford Edge.