2021 Toyota Highlander Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Airbag system failures are a critical safety concern, with multiple recalls and a significant number of complaints.
- The power train is the most common complaint area, indicating potential for costly drivetrain issues.
- Braking system problems are also prevalent, requiring careful inspection.
- While safety ratings are high, the volume of complaints suggests a need for thorough pre-purchase inspection.
2021 Toyota Highlander
Critical Failure Risk
The most frequent complaint category, with 108 instances, suggests potential problems within the drivetrain. Symptoms can range from performance degradation to more severe failures.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$4,000 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
Savvy shoppers prioritizing safety ratings and willing to conduct rigorous pre-purchase inspections.
+1 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
2021 Toyota Highlander Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Toyota Highlander.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 7
- Transmission
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 23
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Most Common Issues
1. Powertrain
Most reportedUsage: 108 reports
2. Braking System
Usage: 59 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection
Est. shop cost: $75 - $100
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Toyota Highlander reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Toyota Highlander is 5.9/10. Reliability score is 5.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 7. Owner complaints: 456.
How practical is the 2021 Toyota Highlander for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.8/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 7.
What is the overall score for the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Toyota Highlander is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 9.4/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 4.8/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Toyota Highlander?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $650. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $3500 • Max: $5000).
What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
Base MSRP is $48,690.
What engine is in the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.
What transmission does the 2021 Toyota Highlander use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Toyota Highlander, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
13 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2021 Toyota Highlander?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Toyota Highlander, seating capacity is 7.
What body style is the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Toyota Highlander, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Toyota Highlander use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Toyota Highlander, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2021 Toyota Highlander good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2021 Toyota Highlander is a family-oriented SUV prioritizing comfort, safety, and practicality over performance.
What are the most common power train problems on the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
Top complaint category: power train (108 reports, 23.7% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
This model year has 7 official safety campaigns listed.