2011 Toyota Highlander Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
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.
2011 Toyota Highlander
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.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
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
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Toyota Highlander.
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 reportedUsage: 33 reports
2. Visibility
Usage: 25 reports
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
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FAQ
Is the 2011 Toyota Highlander reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Toyota Highlander is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. 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 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (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.