What are the most common problems with the 2013 Toyota Highlander?

The primary concern for the 2013 Highlander is its 'Below Average' reliability, driven by issues like unintended acceleration and steering problems.

How many recalls does the 2013 Toyota Highlander have?

The 2013 Toyota Highlander currently has 4 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2013 Toyota Highlander a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The primary concern for the 2013 Highlander is its 'Below Average' reliability, driven by issues like unintended acceleration and steering problems. Inspect the **steering system** thoroughly, as it's a frequent complaint area. Be vigilant for **engine hesitation or unintended acceleration**; these are critical safety concerns. Confirm that all **airbag recalls** have been properly addressed. While generally safe with an overall NHTSA rating of 4 out of 5, specific component failures can impact safety. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2013 Toyota Highlander?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2013 Toyota Highlander.

2013 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

The primary concern for the 2013 Highlander is its 'Below Average' reliability, driven by issues like unintended acceleration and steering problems.
Inspect the steering system thoroughly, as it's a frequent complaint area.
Be vigilant for engine hesitation or unintended acceleration; these are critical safety concerns.
Confirm that all airbag recalls have been properly addressed.

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Overview

2013 Toyota Highlander

The 2013 Toyota Highlander is a family-oriented SUV with available all-wheel drive. However, its 'Below Average' reliability rating, driven by numerous complaints about steering, engine performance, and vehicle speed control, warrants caution. With 4 recalls and 279 complaints logged, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential. It achieves a respectable 19 MPG combined, but potential repair costs associated with its known issues should be factored into ownership.

Critical Failure Risk

Reports of clunking, popping, or knocking noises when turning the steering wheel, and sometimes a loose or knocking steering column. This is often attributed to the intermediate steering shaft.

Early detection can help you avoid a $200-$1,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

279

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

Buyers prioritizing a spacious and comfortable family vehicle.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Risk-averse buyers or those seeking a completely trouble-free ownership experience.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 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. ENGINE

Usage: 31 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Tire Rotation - Inspect Fluid Levels - Inspect Wiper Blades - Visually Inspect Brake Linings/Drums and Brake Pads/Discs - Check Driver's Floor Mat Installation - Re-torque Propeller Shaft Bolt (4WD)

Est. shop cost: $50 - $100

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

4 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2013 Toyota Highlander reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Toyota Highlander is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 279.

How practical is the 2013 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 2013 Toyota Highlander?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Toyota Highlander is 6.6/10. Overall score is 6.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Toyota Highlander?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Tire Rotation - Inspect Fluid Levels - Inspect Wiper Blades - Visually Inspect Brake Linings/Drums and Brake Pads/Discs - Check Driver's Floor Mat Installation - Re-torque Propeller Shaft Bolt (4WD) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $489. Repair prediction highlight: Steering Intermediate Shaft (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $150 • Max: $400).

What engine is in the 2013 Toyota Highlander?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2013 Toyota Highlander use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Toyota Highlander, transmission is Automatic (S5). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Toyota Highlander?

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Toyota Highlander?

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

What body style is the 2013 Toyota Highlander?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Toyota Highlander, body style is minivan.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Toyota Highlander use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Toyota Highlander, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S5).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Toyota Highlander?

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

Is the 2013 Toyota Highlander good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2013 Toyota Highlander is a family-oriented SUV that prioritizes comfort and practicality over performance.

What are the most common steering problems on the 2013 Toyota Highlander?

Top complaint category: steering (46 reports, 16.5% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Toyota Highlander?

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.