What are the most common problems with the 2012 Toyota Highlander?

**Steering System:** A prevalent issue involves the intermediate steering shaft, often manifesting as clunking or popping noises and increased steering effort. This can be a significant safety concern and costly to repair.

How many recalls does the 2012 Toyota Highlander have?

The 2012 Toyota Highlander currently has 3 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2012 Toyota Highlander a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. **Steering System:** A prevalent issue involves the intermediate steering shaft, often manifesting as clunking or popping noises and increased steering effort. This can be a significant safety concern and costly to repair. **Engine Oil Consumption:** High-mileage models may exhibit excessive oil consumption, potentially due to worn piston rings or cylinder liners, which could necessitate an engine rebuild. **Electrical System:** Complaints include issues with door lock actuators, power liftgate malfunctions, and intermittent electrical faults. **Brakes and Speed Control:** Reports of unintended acceleration and brake system anomalies, including loss of braking power, warrant careful inspection. **Safety:** The Highlander received a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with 4 stars for frontal crash and rollover, and 5 stars for side crash. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2012 Toyota Highlander?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2012 Toyota Highlander.

2012 Toyota Highlander Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Ryan Davis1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Steering System: A prevalent issue involves the intermediate steering shaft, often manifesting as clunking or popping noises and increased steering effort. This can be a significant safety concern and costly to repair.
Engine Oil Consumption: High-mileage models may exhibit excessive oil consumption, potentially due to worn piston rings or cylinder liners, which could necessitate an engine rebuild.
Electrical System: Complaints include issues with door lock actuators, power liftgate malfunctions, and intermittent electrical faults.
Brakes and Speed Control: Reports of unintended acceleration and brake system anomalies, including loss of braking power, warrant careful inspection.

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Overview

2012 Toyota Highlander

The 2012 Toyota Highlander offers family-friendly utility but demands caution from used car buyers. Despite Toyota's generally strong reputation, this model year struggles with a "Below Average" reliability rating. The most frequent issues reported involve the steering system, electrical components, and the engine. Concerns about unintended acceleration and brake system malfunctions are also notable. While it provides decent fuel economy for its class and a comfortable ride, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential.

Critical Failure Risk

Clunking, popping, or stiffness in the steering wheel, often traced to the intermediate steering shaft.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$9,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls3

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

225

Steering46

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

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing practicality.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Toyota Highlander Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

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

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Most Common Issues

1. Steering

Most reported

Usage: 46 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 27 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Tire Rotation and Inspection - Fluid Level Check - Brake Inspection - Wiper Blade Inspection

Est. shop cost: $50 - $150

5,000 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

3 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2012 Toyota Highlander reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Toyota Highlander is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 225.

How practical is the 2012 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 2012 Toyota Highlander?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Toyota Highlander is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Toyota Highlander?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Fluid Level Check - Brake Inspection - Wiper Blade Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Steering Intermediate Shaft (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $1,200).

What engine is in the 2012 Toyota Highlander?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2012 Toyota Highlander use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Toyota Highlander, transmission is Automatic (S5). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Toyota Highlander?

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Toyota Highlander?

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

What body style is the 2012 Toyota Highlander?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Toyota Highlander, body style is minivan.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Toyota Highlander use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Toyota Highlander, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S5).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Toyota Highlander?

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

Is the 2012 Toyota Highlander good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2012 Toyota Highlander is a family-oriented SUV that prioritizes comfort and practicality over performance.

What are the most common steering problems on the 2012 Toyota Highlander?

Top complaint category: steering (46 reports, 20.4% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Toyota Highlander?

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Toyota Highlander?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Honda CR-V and 2012 Mazda CX-9.