2026 Toyota Highlander Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
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.
2026 Toyota Highlander
Critical Failure Risk
Intermittent issues with infotainment system, power accessories, or warning lights.
Early detection can help you avoid a $150-$600 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
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.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic (S8)
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 24
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Most Common Issues
1. Minor Electrical Glitches
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Chassis Noise
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Tire Rotation and Inspection
Est. shop cost: $50 - $100
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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.