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2026 Toyota Highlander Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller
2026 Toyota Highlander Report

Overall Score

7.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Excellent overall safety score of 5 from NHTSA.
  • Good fuel efficiency with a combined EPA rating of 24 MPG.
  • The absence of recalls and complaints is a strong positive for reliability.
  • Be aware of 15 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) which may indicate minor issues requiring attention.
See the 4 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2026 Toyota Highlander

The 2026 Toyota Highlander presents a compelling option for used-car shoppers, boasting an excellent overall safety score of 5 and respectable combined fuel economy of 24 MPG. Its clean record of zero recalls and zero consumer complaints is a strong indicator of initial build quality. However, the presence of 15 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggests potential for minor, though not safety-critical, issues that buyers should investigate. These TSBs point to areas where Toyota has identified and addressed potential improvements or minor concerns that may require attention.

Critical Failure Risk

Intermittent issues with infotainment system, power accessories, or warning lights.

Early detection can help you avoid a $150-$600 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
24
MPG
City
21
MPG
Highway
28
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.0/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families and individuals seeking a dependable, safe, and reasonably fuel-efficient SUV for daily commuting and general use.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers highly sensitive to even minor potential issues or who prefer a vehicle with absolutely no documented service bulletins.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2026 Toyota Highlander Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2026 Toyota Highlander.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
24

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Minor Electrical Glitches

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Chassis Noise

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Tire Rotation and Inspection

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 (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2026 Toyota Highlander reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2026 Toyota Highlander is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2026 Toyota Highlander for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2026 Toyota Highlander?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2026 Toyota Highlander is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2026 Toyota Highlander?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Pads and Rotors (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $600 • Max: $900).

What engine is in the 2026 Toyota Highlander?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.

What transmission does the 2026 Toyota Highlander use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2026 Toyota Highlander, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2026 Toyota Highlander?▾

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2026 Toyota Highlander?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System.

What body style is the 2026 Toyota Highlander?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2026 Toyota Highlander, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2026 Toyota Highlander use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2026 Toyota Highlander, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2026 Toyota Highlander?▾

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

Is the 2026 Toyota Highlander good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2026 Toyota Highlander is a family-oriented SUV prioritizing comfort, safety, and reliability. It features a 2.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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