2023 Toyota Highlander Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Engine and Fuel System Issues: Hesitation, surging, and power loss are frequently reported, especially at low mileage, suggesting potential powertrain defects.
- Brake System Concerns: Complaints of sudden braking loss or surging forward during braking are critical safety defects requiring thorough inspection.
- Structural Integrity: The front bumper cover detaching, even after minor impacts, is a recurring issue noted in both recalls and complaints.
- Airbag System Defect: A critical recall for the driver's airbag spiral cable assembly has seen re-issues, indicating a persistent safety concern.
2023 Toyota Highlander
The 2023 Toyota Highlander presents a mixed bag for used-car shoppers. While it boasts a strong overall safety rating of 5 from NHTSA, its reliability record is a significant concern, earning a 'Below Average' verdict. This is underscored by a substantial number of recalls (181) and complaints (176), with particular attention needed for issues related to the engine, fuel/propulsion system, and service brakes. Potential buyers should be aware of the high volume of recalls, which may indicate underlying quality control issues, and factor in potential repair costs associated with its known weak points.
Critical Failure Risk
Hesitation when accelerating from a stop or non-linear acceleration with steady throttle. Often described as 'turbo lag' or 'dead pedal.' This is a known issue addressed by TSB T-SB-0087-23, which involves an ECM software update.
Early detection can help you avoid a $400-$800 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
Buyers prioritizing safety ratings and fuel efficiency over long-term mechanical dependability.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Risk-averse buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2023 Toyota Highlander Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 Toyota Highlander.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 7
- Transmission
- Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 24
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 26 reports
2. Fuel System
Usage: 14 reports
First Service Interval
- Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks - Oil Service (Severe Use) (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter)
Est. shop cost: $70 - $120
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FAQ
Is the 2023 Toyota Highlander reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Toyota Highlander is 4.7/10. Reliability score is 4.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 181. Owner complaints: 176.
How practical is the 2023 Toyota Highlander for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.7/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 453 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2023 Toyota Highlander?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Toyota Highlander is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 9.0/10. Tuning 1.0/10. Practicality 5.7/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 Toyota Highlander?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks - Oil Service (Severe Use) (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $489. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Control Module (ECM) (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,000).
What engine is in the 2023 Toyota Highlander?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.
What transmission does the 2023 Toyota Highlander use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Toyota Highlander, transmission is Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Toyota Highlander?
EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.
What kind of powertrain does the 2023 Toyota Highlander use?
Powertrain classification is Hybrid (HEV).
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Toyota Highlander?
15 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2023 Toyota Highlander?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Toyota Highlander, seating capacity is 7.
What body style is the 2023 Toyota Highlander?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Toyota Highlander, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2023 Toyota Highlander use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Toyota Highlander, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 Toyota Highlander?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2023 Toyota Highlander good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 1/10. The 2023 Toyota Highlander is a family SUV prioritizing comfort and practicality over performance.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2023 Toyota Highlander?
Top complaint category: engine (26 reports, 14.8% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Toyota Highlander?
This model year has 181 official safety campaigns listed.