What are the most common problems with the 2026 Toyota Highlander?

Excellent overall safety score of 5 from NHTSA.

How many recalls does the 2026 Toyota Highlander have?

The 2026 Toyota Highlander currently has 0 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2026 Toyota Highlander a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. 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. All-Wheel Drive and an 8-speed automatic transmission are standard. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2026 Toyota Highlander?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2026 Toyota Highlander.

2026 Toyota Highlander Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller

Overall Score

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 $

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

Recall Campaigns0

Service Bulletins15

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

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

Specs

Vehicle Specs

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

CarFocal account required

See the full 2026 Toyota Highlander buyer report before you decide

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

Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

Is the 2026 Toyota Highlander reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2026 Toyota Highlander is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. 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 7.7/10. Overall score is 7.7/10 (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.