2024 Toyota Highlander Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Service Brakes are the primary ownership risk; inspect for inconsistent engagement and potential failure.
- The electrical system, including instrument clusters and rearview cameras, has been subject to numerous recalls and complaints.
- A high recall count (162) indicates potential for ongoing issues and associated repair costs.
- Despite safety strengths, the overall reliability profile warrants a cautious approach for used buyers.
2024 Toyota Highlander
The 2024 Toyota Highlander presents a mixed bag for used-car shoppers. While it boasts a top overall safety rating of 5 from NHTSA, its reliability is a significant concern, earning a 'Below Average' verdict. This is underscored by a high number of recalls (162) and customer complaints, particularly regarding the service brakes and electrical system. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and prioritize thorough inspections. The Highlander offers a respectable 24 MPG combined, but the high recall count suggests potential for future repair costs.
Critical Failure Risk
Complaints include brake pedal going to the floor, inconsistent engagement, and sudden lurching forward. Some reports indicate warped rotors at relatively low mileage.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,000 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
Buyers prioritizing safety ratings and fuel efficiency who are willing to undertake rigorous pre-purchase inspections and accept a higher risk of mechanical issues.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Risk-averse buyers or those seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2024 Toyota Highlander Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2024 Toyota Highlander.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 7
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 24
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See the full 2024 Toyota Highlander buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. Braking System
Most reportedUsage: 7 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 3 reports
First Service Interval
- Tire Rotation (Parts: Tire Rotation) - Brake Inspection (Parts: Brake Fluid Level Check) - Wiper Blade Inspection (Parts: Wiper Blades) - Floor Mat Check (Parts: Driver's Floor Mat)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2024 Toyota Highlander reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2024 Toyota Highlander is 5.3/10. Reliability score is 5.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 162. Owner complaints: 34.
How practical is the 2024 Toyota Highlander for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 7.
What is the overall score for the 2024 Toyota Highlander?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2024 Toyota Highlander is 6.6/10. Overall score is 6.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.5/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 4.9/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2024 Toyota Highlander?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Tire Rotation (Parts: Tire Rotation) - Brake Inspection (Parts: Brake Fluid Level Check) - Wiper Blade Inspection (Parts: Wiper Blades) - Floor Mat Check (Parts: Driver's Floor Mat) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,200 - $1,800. Repair prediction highlight: Brake System (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $800).
What engine is in the 2024 Toyota Highlander?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.
What transmission does the 2024 Toyota Highlander use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Toyota Highlander, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2024 Toyota Highlander?
EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.
What kind of powertrain does the 2024 Toyota Highlander use?
Powertrain classification is Hybrid (HEV).
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2024 Toyota Highlander?
16 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2024 Toyota Highlander?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Toyota Highlander, seating capacity is 7.
What body style is the 2024 Toyota Highlander?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Toyota Highlander, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2024 Toyota Highlander use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Toyota Highlander, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2024 Toyota Highlander?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2024 Toyota Highlander good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. This guide provides tuning and modification insights for the 2024 Toyota Highlander (US market).
What are the most common service brakes problems on the 2024 Toyota Highlander?
Top complaint category: service brakes (7 reports, 20.6% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2024 Toyota Highlander?
This model year has 162 official safety campaigns listed.