2008 TOYOTA Highlander Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
402
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
SERVICE BRAKES
50 complaints
THERE WAS NO INCIDENT. WHEN THE BRAKE MALFUNCTION SCREEN DISPLAYED, I DROVE THE VEHICLE TO THE NEAREST TOYOTA DEALER IN PUEBLO, COLORADO. I RECEIVED THE ATTACHED SERVICE MESSAGE AND PICKING TICKET; 17june2025. IT ALSO NEEDS NEW BRAKE PADS, ROTOR ADJUSTMENT, AND 5 NEW TIRES. TOTAL~$6000. WAY TOO PRICY! I PAID FOR THE DIAGNOSTIC TEST, AND DROVE HOME CAREFULLY! THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN SITTING IN MY CARPORT SINCE, AND I AM WALKING THE CITY LIMITS FOR ALL PURPOSES. THE 12V BATTERY DIED MID-JULY, WITHOUT REPLACEMENT SINCE. I LIVE IN LA JUNTA, 70 MILES EAST OF THE DEALER. SO WE'RE LOOKING AT 99,000 TOTAL MILES AS IT SITS.
Sep 25, 2025
Good Afternoon, The brake actuator and booster pump failed on my 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. ABS, Brake, and VSC warning lights came on, and the brakes became weak and unsafe. A repair shop confirmed the issue with codes C1252, C1256, and C1391. I tried to fix it at a local shop last year, but the problem came back. It seems this repair can only be fully done at a Toyota dealer due to software requirements. However, the dealer repair cost is very high. I cannot afford the repair or a new car right now because of family budget limits — we have three children and rely on this vehicle every day(only one car). Toyota declined to help, even though I later found this issue was once covered under Program ZKC, which I missed. The vehicle is still unsafe and available for inspection. Thank you very much for considering my issue!
Jul 17, 2025
Brake actuator failure. Have to manually brake, stopping distance significantly increased. 3,145$ to replace at Toyota dealership.
Nov 26, 2024
In June 2019, Toyota issued a recall for ABS malfunction, diagnostic code C1391 - brake actuator and accumulator. New parts were issued by Toyota in 2019 as part of the recall. My vehicle experienced ABS malfunction, diagnostic code C1391 in March 2022 and was repaired by Toyota with the new and improved parts issued as part of the recall. As of October 14, 2024, my vehicle is experiencing the same issue again - ABS brake malfunction diagnostic code C1391, with the brake system light, master warning light, abs light and ABS Malfunction warning noted on the screen. The vehicle can be inspected. Toyota has inspected and confirmed it is the same issue again. The new and improved parts from 2019 should not fail within 20,000 miles. Toyota did confirm that they used the new parts issued as part of the recall and cannot explain why they failed faster than the original parts causing dangerous braking issues.
Oct 22, 2024
We were driving at about 40 MPH and approached our turn. When I depressed the brakes, they felt spongy and I had trouble slowing quickly. The yellow triangle illuminated on the dash and a long warning beep sounded. I was able to get safely parked in a parking lot, and my son came and took a look as well. We had the car towed to a shop, who diagnosed the problem, stating that we needed to replace the brake booster pump and actuator assembly. A family member noted that Toyota had issued a recall for vehicles with the same year/make/model for the braking system, so we had it towed to our local Toyota dealership to verify that they had no open recalls on the brakes and complete a full inspection otherwise. They validated that the brake booster pump and actuator assembly needed to be replaced. I am left wondering why my vehicle was not included in Toyota's recall.
Sep 11, 2024
+ 45 more complaints for this component
ENGINE
50 complaints
The engine burns Coolant and yet doesn't overheat. The engine on cyl 4 misfires. Changing the head gasket didn't repair the issue, replacing all fuel Injectors and ignition parts didn't either. Heads inspected and passed. Compression testing passed. Always misfires on cyl 4. No repair aside from an ecu reflash or replacement seems to be possible. 4 shops looks at it and couldn't find any reason why it was misfiring and no traces of water were found in the interior, on the floor, in the oil or exhaust in the cooling system.
Mar 14, 2024
On September 25, 2021, my husband was driving our 2008 Highlander locally to the store. The low pressure light came on and said pull over immediately. He pulled over and and checked the oil dip stick and our car was totally out of oil. He also notice oil under our car and a line of oil going up the street. The following day, I contacted Toyota Experience Center and was informed their were no service campaigns on my Highlander. I had the car towed to my local mechanic and he verified that the car had no oil and replaced the failed oil cooler hose. My concern is that the oil cooler hose failed, draining all of the oil in minutes. I feel this is a safety issue because of how rapidly it occurred and If we couldn't immediately stop the car our engine could have seized up and made the car stop.
Sep 29, 2021
I WAS DRIVING MY VEHICLE ON A SHORT TRIP ON THE HIGHWAY WITH MY EIGHT YEAR OLD DAUGHTER WHEN A HOSE ON THE ENGINE OIL COOLING ASSEMBLY BURST. THIS RESULTED IN ALL OF THE OIL IN THE VEHICLE BEING DRAINED IN A VERY SHORT AMOUNT OF TIME. NO WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AS A RESULT OF THIS. I DIDN'T DISCOVER THE ISSUE UNTIL PULLING BACK INTO MY DRIVEWAY IN WHICH THERE IS AN INCLINE. THEN THE LIGHT INDICATING LOW OIL PRESSURE FINALLY CAME ON. I OPENED THE HOOD AND FOUND THE DIPSTICK TO BE COMPLETELY DRY. I ALSO FOUND A SLOW DRIP OF OIL UNDER THE CAR (ONLY SLOW SINCE IT WAS ONLY A SMALL AMOUNT OF OIL REMAINING). I THEN DISCOVERED THAT THE ENTIRE UNDERCARRIAGE OF THE VEHICLE AS WELL AS THE BACK HATCH OF THE VEHICLE WERE COVERED WITH OIL. MY DAUGHTER AND I ARE VERY FORTUNATE THAT THE OIL THAT COVERED THE VEHICLE DID NOT CATCH FIRE AND AS FAR AS I KNOW THE OIL SLICK ON THE HIGHWAY DID NOT CAUSE ANY ACCIDENTS. I AM NOW BEING TOLD BY TOYOTA THAT THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE, BUT IT IS NOT LISTED AS A RECALL. NOT ONLY DID THEIR KNOWN ENGINEERING ISSUE PUT MY FAMILY AND OTHER FAMILIES' LIVES IN DANGER, THEY ARE ALSO NOT WILLING TO PAY FOR THE REPAIRS OF THE DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE THAT THEIR KNOWN DEFECT CAUSED. THERE IS A "WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT" THAT WAS ISSUED BY TOYOTA FOR THIS DEFECT. ACCORDING TO TOYOTA THE WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT NOTICE WAS ISSUED TO THE PREVIOUS OWNER OF MY VEHICLE AND I WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. I HAVE ALSO HAD OTHER WORK PERFORMED AT THE DEALERSHIP SINCE THEN AND WAS NEVER MADE AWARE OF THE DEFECT OR WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT. I AM TRYING TO UNDERSTAND HOW A MANUFACTURER CAN KNOW A DEFECT EXISTS THAT CAN POTENTIALLY CAUSE ENGINE SEIZURE, FIRE AND ACCIDENTS, BUT NOT ISSUE A RECALL. INSTEAD THEY LIMIT THE NOTICE TO A "WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT" WHICH ISN'T CAUGHT BY THE DEALERSHIP FROM A VIN CHECK.
Dec 14, 2020
WHILE DRIVING ON I40 NEAR TEXAS/NM STATE LINE, OIL COOLER LINE FAILED RESULTING IN THE HIGHLANDER DUMPING OIL ON THE ROADWAY FOR OVER A MILE BEFORE IT WAS NOTICED. PULLED OFF IMMEDIATELY, SAW OIL POURING OUT FROM BOTTOM PASSENGER SIDE OF ENGINE COVER. EXTERIOR LOWER PASSENGER SIDE AND REAR OF VEHICLE WERE ALSO COVERED IN OIL. NO DASH INDICATOR LIGHTS EVER WARNED OF ISSUE. THIS LEFT US STRANDED ON SIDE OF BUSY INTERSTATE WITH HEAVY SEMI TRAFFIC FOR HOURS WHILE WAITING FOR A TOW TO A SHOP FOR REPAIRS, WHERE WE HAD TO WAIT A DAY FOR THE PART. COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE TOYOTA KNEW OF A DEFECTIVE DESIGN THAT COULD LEAD TO ACCIDENTS AND DEATH, AND CHOSE NOT TO ISSUE A RECALL! WILL BE SEEKING LEGAL ACTION.
Dec 03, 2020
THE INCIDENT HAPPENED WHILE I WAS DRIVING MY FAMILY NORTH ON INTERSTATE 81 AT 1:00 AM. WE WERE TRAVELING AT ABOUT 75 MPH. IN MY DRIVER-SIDE MIRROR, I NOTICED WHAT LOOKED LIKE A MIST GETTING KICKED UP BEHIND THE CAR AND COVERING THE REAR WINDOW. IN THE DARK, I COULDN'T TELL IF IT WAS WATER OR SOME OTHER LIQUID. THE ROAD WAS DRY SO MY WIFE AND I PLANNED TO GET OFF ON THE NEXT EXIT AND INSPECT THE CAR, WE HAD CHILDREN IN THE CAR, AND STOPPING ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD DID NOT SEEM SAFE. WHILE WE WERE LOOKING FOR THE NEXT EXIT, I KEPT LOOKING FOR INDICATOR LIGHTS TO COME ON AND CHECKING THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE TO SEE IF I COULD DISCERN IF THERE WAS ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. NO INDICATOR LIGHTS CAME ON AND THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE STAYED WITHIN NORMAL LEVELS. THEN AFTER A FEW MINUTES, ABOUT 5-6 MINUTES, THE ENGINE SEIZED. ALL OF THE INDICATOR LIGHTS CAME ON AND THE DISPLAY SAID THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE VSC SYSTEM. THANKFULLY THE CAR CONTINUED TO ROLL AND I WAS ABLE TO PULL THE CAR TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND TURN ON THE EMERGENCY BLINKERS AND CALLED FOR ASSISTANCE. WHEN FINALLY WE GOT THE CAR TOWED TO THE NEAREST TOYOTA DEALERSHIP WE WERE INFORMED THAT THE OIL COOLANT LINE HAD "BLOWN" AND OUR ENGINE HAD SEIZED FROM A LOSS OF ENGINE OIL. TWO WEEKS BEFORE THIS INCIDENT THE CAR ALSO DISPLAYED THE VSC WARNING SO WE HAD THE CAR TOWED TO BEAMAN TOYOTA WHERE WE PAID 1818.60 TO HAVE, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE WATER PUMP AND DRIVE BELT REPLACED. KNOWING WE WERE GOING ON THE ABOVE TRIP WE HAD ALL THE RECOMMENDED REPAIRS PERFORMED SO WE COULD BE CONFIDENT IN THE CAR DURING OUR TRIP.
Nov 19, 2020
+ 45 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
43 complaints
Airbag failed to deploy in a front-left collision with another vehicle. The other vehicle's airbags did deploy. The vehicle is totalled and not available for inspection. The lack of deployment resulted in a head injury and whiplash. There was no advanced warning of this being a problem.
Dec 06, 2022
srs light stays on. have seen many comp;aints on this with 2008 highlander. many say its a wiring problem in steering column.
Jul 12, 2021
SRS AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT ON VEHICLE MONITOR ALARMS ONCE THE CAR IS STARTED AND REMAINS ALARMED AT ALL TIME.
Jan 03, 2020
WE WERE DRIVING ON WA14 GOING ABOUT 55MPH WHEN OUR RIGHT SIDE AIRBAG CURTAIN EXPLODED. WE WERE NOT IN A COLLISION. NO BODY DAMAGE. THE AIRBAGS EXPLODED OUT OF THIN AIR.
Aug 06, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE AIR BAG SENSOR FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V245000 (AIR BAGS). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 47,000.
May 19, 2017
+ 38 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
30 complaints
Slowing down, but the car surged forward colliding into a building. The dealership only ran a .5 hour diagnosis and couldn't find anything. Did not proceed w/further diagnosis as did not want to pay out of pocket.
Aug 05, 2022
WHEN ACCELLERATING INTO TRAFFIC AFTER STOPPING FOR A STOP SIGN OR LIGHT THE CAR MOVES INTO THE TRAFFIC BUT DOES NOT ACCELLERATE BUT COASTS DISPITE FLOORING THE GAS PEDAL. AFTER 2 TO 5 SECONDS THE CAR WILL ACCELERATE. THE TECH AT THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP SAID THAT THIS WAS CAUSED BY THE COMPUTER THROTTLE CONTROL THAT SETS ACCORDING TO DRIVING HABITS. THIS STALL WHEN ACCELLERATION IS NEEDED HAS ALMOST CAUSED MANY COLLISIONS FROM TRAFFIC COMING UP BEHIND THE VEHICLE. THIS STALL HAPPENS ALSO WHEN TRYING TO PASS A VEHICLE ON ROADS, PULL OUT FROM BEHIND VEHICLE BEING PASSED, DEPRESS THE GAS PEDAL AND NO ACCELERATION FOR 2 TO 5 SECONDS THEN THE ACCELLERATION HAPPENS. THIS COMPUTER FLAW IS SUCH A SAFETY PROBLEM THAT IF I LET ANYONE ELSE DRIVE MY VEHICLE, I HAVE TO WARN THEM ABOUT THE ACCELERATION DELAY AND TO MAKE SURE THERE IS BEYOND NORMAL CLEAR SPACE BEFORE PULLING OUT INTO TRAFFIC. I TRY TO DRIVE SMOOTHLY AND AVOID FLOORING THE GAS PEDAL. IN ORDER AVOID A SAFETY ISSUE THIS COMPUTER THROTTLE PROBLEM REQUIRES THE GAS PEDAL TO BE CONSTANTLY FLOORED TO MAKE SURE THAT WHEN ACCELERATION IS REALLY NEEDED THAT IT WILL HAPPEN. I AM SURE I AM NOT THE ONLY OWNER DOING A DRIVING WORK AROUND OF THIS ISSUE. THIS HAS HAPPEND CONSISTANTLY SINCE I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN 2009.
Feb 13, 2020
WHEN ACCELLERATING INTO TRAFFIC AFTER STOPPING FOR A STOP SIGN OR LIGHT THE CAR MOVES INTO THE TRAFFIC BUT DOES NOT ACCELLERATE BUT COASTS DISPITE FLOORING THE GAS PEDAL. AFTER 2 TO 5 SECONDS THE CAR WILL ACCELERATE. THE TECH AT THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP SAID THAT THIS WAS CAUSED BY THE COMPUTER THROTTLE CONTROL THAT SETS ACCORDING TO DRIVING HABITS. THIS STALL WHEN ACCELLERATION IS NEEDED HAS ALMOST CAUSED MANY COLLISIONS FROM TRAFFIC COMING UP BEHIND THE VEHICLE. THIS STALL HAPPENS ALSO WHEN TRYING TO PASS A VEHICLE ON ROADS, PULL OUT FROM BEHIND VEHICLE BEING PASSED, DEPRESS THE GAS PEDAL AND NO ACCELERATION FOR 2 TO 5 SECONDS THEN THE ACCELLERATION HAPPENS. THIS COMPUTER FLAW IS SUCH A SAFETY PROBLEM THAT IF I LET ANYONE ELSE DRIVE MY VEHICLE, I HAVE TO WARN THEM ABOUT THE ACCELERATION DELAY AND TO MAKE SURE THERE IS BEYOND NORMAL CLEAR SPACE BEFORE PULLING OUT INTO TRAFFIC. I TRY TO DRIVE SMOOTHLY AND AVOID FLOORING THE GAS PEDAL. IN ORDER AVOID A SAFETY ISSUE THIS COMPUTER THROTTLE PROBLEM REQUIRES THE GAS PEDAL TO BE CONSTANTLY FLOORED TO MAKE SURE THAT WHEN ACCELERATION IS REALLY NEEDED THAT IT WILL HAPPEN. I AM SURE I AM NOT THE ONLY OWNER DOING A DRIVING WORK AROUND OF THIS ISSUE. THIS HAS HAPPEND CONSISTANTLY SINCE I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN 2009.
Feb 13, 2020
RE: NHTSA RECALL 14V168000, AKA SC-E0M141007, (10/07/14) 'A NUMBER OF VEHICLES INCLUDING THE TOYOTA HIGHLANDER 2008-2010, WHERE THE STEERING COLUMN ASSEMBLY CONTAINS ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS TO THE DRIVER'S AIRBAG MODULE HOUSED IN A SPIRAL CABLE ASSEMBLY, WHICH INCLUDES A FLEXIBLE FLAT CABLE (FFC). DUE TO THE SHAPE AND LOCATION OF THE FFC'S RETAINER, THE FFC COULD BECOME DAMAGED WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL IS TURNED. CONSEQUENCE: IF THE FFC IS DAMAGED, CONNECTIVITY TO THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG MODULE COULD BE LOST AND THE AIR BAG DEACTIVATED. 2 YRS AGO OUR '08 HIGHLANDER SPORT THE CRUISE CONTROL STARTED ACTING ERRATICALLY, NOT ENGAGING/NOT TURN/OFF USING THE COLUMN MOUNTED STALK. OUR WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED, & TIME PASSED, & THE CC BECAME UNRELIABLE, ON A FEW OCCASIONS WAS UNSAFE WHEN IT DID NOT 'CANCEL' PULLING BACK ON THE STALK. I'M HANDY SO I PULLED OFF THE STEERING WHEEL AND TOOK APART THE CLOCK SPRING, DISCOVERED THAT THE SPIRAL CABLE WAS COATED IN A WAXY DIRTY LOOKING BUILDUP & THERE WERE ABRASIONS ON THE FLAT WIRE TAPE, EXPOSING THE COPPER BENEATH, WHICH CRACKED. THIS TO ME IS THE SAME THING THAT HAPPENED TO THE WIRE TAPE FOR THE VEHICLES IN THE AIRBAG RECALL MENTIONED ABOVE, ONLY THE DAMAGE ON MINE HAPPENED TO THE CC WIRING PORTION AND NOT THE AIRBAG PORTION (OR THE HVAC CONTROLS OR HORN WIRING). I FEEL OUR VEHICLE SHOULD HAVE BEEN INCLUDED IN THIS CAMPAIGN AND THAT OUR CLOCK SPRING SHOULD BE REPLACED AS WELL. PLEASE REFER TO THE 2 PHOTOS I ATTACHED. THE ONE SHOWING THE WEAR SPOT, IF YOU DOWNLOAD IT AND ZOOM IN, SHOWS THE EXPOSED COPPER AND CRACK IN IT. THE OTHER PHOTO SHOWS THE LOOP IN THE FLAT ELECTRICAL TAPE WHERE THE WEAR SPOT HAPPENED AS WELL AS THE DIRTY WAXY BUILDUP ON THE TAPE. THIS SAME WEAR COULD CREEP DOWN TO THE AIRBAG MODULE WIRES IN THIS FLAT TAPE AND MAKE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM SHUT DOWN, CAUSING MORE UNSAFE CONDITIONS FOR MY WIFE AND I. MY VIN SHOULD BE ADDED
Oct 15, 2016
FOR ABOUT 6 MONTHS OR LONGER, THE CRUISE CONTROL ON THIS CAR HAS BEEN OPERATING ERRATICALLY, WHEN IT WANTS TO IT SEEMS. THE PROBLEM ALWAYS SEEMED TO BE THAT I COULDN'T TURN THE SYSTEM ON. NOW, HOWEVER, WHEN I AM SOMETIMES ABLE TO TURN IT ON, AND SET THE SPEED, THE PROBLEM BECOMES THAT THE STALK ON THE LOWER RIGHT SIDE OF THE STEERING WHEEL WILL LOSE IT'S CONNECTION AND THE MOVEMENTS OF THE STALK BECOME INACTIVE. THIS IS VERY SURPRISING IF YOU'RE PLANNING TO SLOW DOWN, SPEED UP OR MORE IMPORTANTLY HIT THE CANCEL BUTTON. THE ONLY THING TO DO IS HIT THE BRAKES. THIS IS VERY DISTRACTING AND POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS.
Apr 29, 2016
+ 25 more complaints for this component
STEERING
29 complaints
CLUNKING NOISE FROM STEERING COLUMN STARTED IN JULY OF 2020 AND IS GETTING WORSE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 130000. I MOSTLY HERE THE NOISE WHILE TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL AND ALSO FEEL THE CLICK IN THE STERRING WHEEL.
Sep 13, 2020
MILEAGE ON 2008 HIGHLANDER SPORT IS 159226. WIFE ADJUSTED STEERING TELESCOPE/TILT WHEN SLOWING TO STOP SIGN. STEERING WHEEL COLUMN CAME OFF IN HER LAP.
Aug 24, 2020
UPPER STEERING COLUMN DETACHED FROM STEERING SHAFT WHILE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, IMMEDIATELY AFTER DRIVER ADJUSTED THE TILT FEATURE. VEHICLE WAS ON INTERSTATE HIGHWAY TRAVELING 70 MPH WHEN INCIDENT OCCURRED. DRIVER WAS ABLE TO SLOW VEHICLE DOWN AND REATTACH STEERING WHEEL. NO CRASH OR INJURIES RESULTED. AFTER INCIDENT, DRIVER VISITED TWO DIFFERENT TOYOTA DEALERSHIPS TO INQUIRE ABOUT ANY BULLETINS OR NOTICES REGARDING THE ISSUE. BOTH DEALERS COULD NOT FIND ANY BULLETINS OR NOTICES. VEHICLE APPEARS TO HAVE PREVIOUS FRONT-END DAMAGE FROM PREVIOUS CRASH, AS EVIDENCED BY MISALIGNED FRONT BUMPER COVER.
Oct 29, 2019
THE STEERING SHAFT MAKES A CLUNKING NOISE DURING LOW SPEED TURNS. THERE HAVE BEEN A NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS OVER THE YEARS, BUT NO RECALL. MEANWHILE, TOYOTA IS CHARGING AROUND $800 TO MAKE THE REPAIR.
Oct 07, 2019
FOUND STEERING SHAFT NOISY/ WORN/LOOSE
Aug 10, 2019
+ 24 more complaints for this component
TIRES
22 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER EQUIPPED WITH MICHELIN LTX M/S TIRES, SIZE: P245/65/R17 (NA). WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE THREAD ON THE REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRE SEPARATED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE REAR BUMPER AND REAR WHEEL WELL LINER WERE PARTLY DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. IN ADDITION, THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE OTHER THREE TIRES HAD CRACKED AND WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE TIRES HAD NOT BEEN REPLACED. THE CONTACT WAS AWARE OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13T012000 (TIRES), BUT THE TIRE SIZE WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE TIRE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,000 AND THE VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 107,800.
Jul 26, 2016
THIS REPORT CONCERNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER LIMITED THAT WAS PURCHASED NEW AS A DEALER LEFTOVER. THE VEHICLE HAS JUST OVER 20,000 MILES AND THE TOYO OPEN COUNTRY A20 TIRES ARE SHREDDING AND HAVE PIECES OF THE TREAD MISSING. THIS IS ON ALL FOUR TIRES. THE TIRES ARE P245/55R19 WITH A DOT NUMBER CXHH-DK80508. I HAVE NOT YET CONTACTED TOYO, HOWEVER FROM OTHER COMPLAINTS NOTED, IT DOES NOT SEEM THAT THE MANUFACTURER WILL WILLINGLY ACCEPT THE DEFECT OF PREMATURE WEAR OF THIS TIRE. THE TIRE SIZE IS UNIQUE, WHICH CAUSES THE REPLACEMENT COST TO BE MUCH HIGHER THAN MORE STANDARD SIZES. *TR
Dec 30, 2010
TIRE FALLING APART AND FLAKING INCLUDING PREMATURE WEARING ON FACTORY OEM TOYO OPEN COUNTRY 245-55X19 A20 TIRES WHICH WERE ON MY 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER PURCHASE BRAND NEW ON JUL 2008. APPROXIMATE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 20,195. ALL TIRES ARE SHOWING THE SAME ABNORMAL WEAR AS VERIFIED BY TOYOTA DEALER. THERE ARE NUMEROUS ONLINE COMPLAINTS OF SIMILAR OWNERS WITH PICTURES OF THE UNUSUAL WEARING. MINE ARE WORSE THAN ARE DESCRIBED AS CONCURRED BY TOYOTA SERVICE ADVISORS. *TR
Oct 19, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER EQUIPPED WITH TOYO OPEN COUNTRY AT TIRES, SIZE P245/55R19. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ALL FOUR TIRES WERE CHIPPING AWAY ON THE SHOULDER OF THE INSIDE. WHILE DRIVIGN 35 MPH, THE TIRE PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A REPAIR SHOP WHERE THE TIRES WERE INSPECTED AND THE CHIPPING WAS DISCOVERED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE TIRE MANUFACTURER WHO ADVISED HER TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO THEIR TIRE DEALER. THE CONTACT DID NOT FEEL COMFORTABLE DRIVING THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER WITH THE DEFECTIVE TIRES. THE TIRES HAD NOT BEEN REPLACED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 28,000.
Oct 12, 2010
GREETINGS. I AM WRITING TO YOU REGARDING MY 2008 HIGHLANDER SPORT, SERIAL NUMBER [XXX]. SPECIFICALLY, I AM WRITING ABOUT THE OEM TIRES, TOYO OPEN COUNTRY, DOT CXHH, DK82508. AS OF TODAY, I HAVE 23, 897 MILES ON THE VEHICLE; AND THE TIRES ARE COMPLETELY WORN OUT TO A POINT BELOW THE WEAR BARS, WHICH INDICATES THAT THEY MUST BE REPLACED NOW. WHEN I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN OCTOBER 2008, I PURCHASED THE TOYOTA MAINTENANCE PROGRAM, SO THE TIRES ARE ROTATED AND BALANCED (IF NECESSARY) EVERY 5,000 MILES WHEN I ALSO CHANGE THE OIL. I AM A 46 YEAR OLD FATHER OF THREE SMALL CHILDREN, WITH NO MOVING VIOLATIONS, TICKETS OR ACCIDENTS. I TELL YOU THIS ABOUT MY LIFE TO INDICATE THE TYPE OF CONSERVATIVE DRIVER THAT I AM. I HAVE CONDUCTED EXTENSIVE RESEARCH ONLINE AND HAVE IDENTIFIED THE LOWEST PRICE FOR A SET OF FOUR TIRES AT $759.88, WHICH WILL ACTUALLY MORE EXPENSIVE DURING THE BUY DUE TO THE TPMS SYSTEM, THE NECESSITY FOR AN ALIGNMENT WHEN REPLACING FOUR TIRES, AND TAX. I REALIZE THAT TIRE REPLACEMENT IS JUST ONE PART OF THE OVERALL MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENT FOR A VEHICLE. HOWEVER, TIRES ON A $33,000 VEHICLE SHOULD PROVIDE FAR MORE MILEAGE THAN 24,000 MILES. IN FACT, IF YOU HAVE THE TIME-I INVITE YOU TO GO THE BLOG TITLED TOYOTA NATION, WHERE ALL OF THE WRITERS CONSISTENTLY MAKE DISPARAGING REMARKS ABOUT TOYOTA?S CHEAP TIRE SELECTION. SO MUCH IN FACT, WRITERS DISCUSS VARIOUS METHODS FOR OVERCOMING THE BURDEN OF FINDING A SUITABLE, WELL-PRICED REPLACEMENT WHEN THERE ARE ONLY THREE COMPANIES WHO MAKE THE 245/55-R19. THOSE COMPANIES ARE TOYO, BRIDGESTONE AND HANKOOK. MOST WRITERS CONVERT TO A LARGER TIRE OR A SMALLER TIRE WITH NEW WHEELS, WHICH OF COURSE AFFECTS NOT ONLY THE SPEEDOMETER/ODOMETER READINGS, BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY PERFORMANCE AND POSSIBLY SAFETY OF THE VEHICLE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Sep 19, 2010
+ 17 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
16 complaints
The Intelligent power module failed on the vehicle. I read this is common for my vehicle however there is no recall matching my VIN. Vehicle was purchased out of state one year ago. We took the vehicle to a Toyota dealership who suggested I inquire about the issue because it’s possible this VIN should have been included.
Aug 17, 2025
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2008 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 123,399, and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 271,890.
Aug 14, 2025
CAR AUTOMATICALLY LOCKED MY YOUNG CHILD IN THE CAR. I USED THE FOB TO UNLOCK THE CAR. THEN I OPENED THE BACK DOOR TO PUT MY CHILD IN HIS CARSEAT AND PLACED MY KEYS ON THE DRIVER SEAT TO HAVE ACCESS TO BOTH MY HANDS FOR THE TASKS. ONCE MY CHILD WAS STRAPPED IN I SHUT THE BACK RIGHT DOOR TO GO GET IN THE DRIVER FRONT DOOR. AS SOON AS I SHUT THE BACK DOOR I HEARD A BEEP AND ALL THE DOORS LOCKED DOWN, LOCKING MY CHILD INSIDE WITH THE KEYS. AS IT WAS A HOT DAY IN MY TOWN, I IMMEDIATELY CALLED THE POLICE, WHO HAD TO COME AND JAMMED THE THE DOOR SO I COULD GET OUT MY SON. WE HAVE SINCE CHANGED THE KEYS IN THE FOB AND ON 9/25/2016 WHILE SEATED IN THE CAR IT AGAIN LOCKED ITSELF BEFORE I WAS ABLE TO PUT THE KEYS IN THE IGNITION
Sep 26, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. AFTER THE CONTACT PLACED THE 7 MONTH OLD CHILD IN THE BACK SEAT WITH THE SMART KEY INSIDE THE VEHICLE, ALL THE DOORS ERRONEOUSLY LOCKED. THE CHILD BECAME TRAPPED INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE WINDOW HAD TO BE BROKEN IN ORDER TO UNLOCK THE DOORS. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE SMART KEY SAFETY FEATURE DID NOT PREVENT THE DOORS FROM BECOMING LOCKED WHILE THE SMART KEY WAS INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 113,000.
Sep 04, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE STOPPING THE VEHICLE AFTER PRESSING THE KEYLESS PUSH START SYSTEM, THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO TRAVEL DOWN A HILL WHICH RESULTED IN A CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED AND NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Jul 14, 2015
+ 11 more complaints for this component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
12 complaints
AFTER PARKING THE CAR AT THE AIRPORT FOR A COUPLE OF DAYS AND UPON RETURN STARTED THE CAR AND STARTED HEARING GRINDING NOISE FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE ENGINE AND WOULD NOT BE AUDIBLE AT THE HIGHWAY OR FREEWAY DRIVING SPEEDS (> 40 MILES). TOOK TO THE DEALER TO GET 2 OUTSTANDING RECALLS (SPIRAL CABLE AND SOFTWARE UPDATE FOR BRAKE PEDAL OVERRIDE) AND WAS TOLD THAT THE WATER PUMP IS FAILING. COST COULD BE AROUND $800 AND WAS NOT HAPPY TO HEAR AS THE QUALITY OF THESE PARTS CONSISTENTLY BEEN DETERIORATING AND HAD TO REPLACE ON EARLIER TOYOTA'S THAT I OWNED. *TR
Oct 25, 2014
I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK. THE OIL COOLER HOSE FAILED LEAKING OIL AND SMOKING FROM BURNING ON EXHAUST THEN OIL PRESSURE LIGHT CAME ON. DEALER SAYS RECALL WAS DONE ALREADY HOWEVER IT APPARENTLY DID NOT FIX THE ISSUE. THEY SAY THEY CAN'T DO ANYTHING CAUSE IT WAS ALREADY DONE ONCE. NOT SURE IF ANY ENGINE DAMAGE WAS DONE NEED TO HAVE IT TOWED TO A SHOP. *TR
Oct 13, 2014
WHILE SITTING IN A LINE OF TRAFFIC ON OUR WAY HOME FROM A 2 MILE TRIP TO THE STORE, WE NOTICED A HOT OIL SMELL. I SAID TO MY WIFE THAT SOMEONE NEEDS TO GET THEIR CAR IN FOR SERVICE WORK, NOT KNOWING THAT WE WERE THIS SOMEONE! THIS SMELL HAD NOT BEEN PRESENT AT HOME, ON OUR TRIP TO THE STORE OR WHEN PARKED THERE. WHEN I PULLED INTO MY GARAGE, STEAM/SMOKE APPEARED TO BE COMING FROM THE HOOD. THE DIPSTICK SHOWED VERY LOW OIL. THERE HAD BEEN NO SIGNS OF AN OIL LEAK IN THE GARAGE BEFORE, BUT, AFTER ARRIVING HOME I SAW A BIG OIL LEAK. I CALLED THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP (1/2 MILE FROM HOME) WHO TOLD ME TO BRING IT UP TO SEE WHAT WAS GOING ON. BY THE TIME THAT I GOT THERE MY CAR WAS MAKING A SOUND MAKING IT OBVIOUS SOMETHING VERY WRONG. I PULLED DIRECTLY INTO THE SERVICE BAY. THE MECHANIC CHECKED THE DIPSTICK WHICH SHOWED ABSOLUTELY NO OIL IN MY ENGINE. HE PUT IT ON THE HOIST, ADDED OIL, AND RESTARTED THE ENGINE. THE OIL POURED OUT AS FAST AS HE HAD PUT IT IN. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, HE SAW THAT THE LOWER OIL COOLER LINES HAD RUPTURED. MY ENGINE HAD BEEN CLOSE TO SEIZING. REPLACING THESE PARTS WAS VERY EXPENSIVE, $437, BUT REPLACING MY ENGINE WOULD HAVE BEEN MUCH MORE EXPENSIVE. MORE IMPORTANTLY WAS THAT THE DANGER OF A FIRE FROM THE OIL THAT WAS POURING OUT ON THE HOT ENGINE WAS NOT OUT OF THE QUESTION. WHILE AT THE DEALERSHIP, THE MECHANIC POINTED AT A LEXUS AND STATED, "THIS IS VERY INTERESTING. THAT LEXUS SUV IS IN HERE FOR THE SAME PROBLEM, THE OIL COOLER LINES RUPTURED." HE SAID THAT HE WOULD NOT BE SURPRISED TO SEE THIS BE A RECALL ISSUE, AS THE NEW LINES ARE DESIGNED DIFFERENTLY WITHOUT RUBBER FITTINGS, AND WILL NOT RUPTURE. THIS WOULD INDICATE TO ME THAT TOYOTA HAS NOTICED A DESIGN FLAW IN THE OIL COOLER LINES THAT WERE IN MY HIGHLANDER. I FEEL THIS OIL COOLER LINES PROBLEM IS AN ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE RESEARCHED AS A POSSIBLE TOYOTA RECALL. *TR
Oct 03, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO EXHIBIT A LOUD, ABNORMAL NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE WATER PUMP WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED BUT THEY OFFERED THE CONTACT NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 62,000. ...UPDATED 07-10-13 *BF
May 01, 2013
VALVE SPRINGS. WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. I MANAGED TO STEER ACROSS 4 LANES OF FAST TRAFFIC TO A COMPLETE STOP. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO THE CLOSEST TOYOTA DEALER AND WAS DIAGNOSED AS PISTON FAILURE. THE CAR WAS TOWED 140 MILES TO MOTORCARS TOYOTA FOR REPAIR. THE TECHNICIAN INSPECTED AND DIAGNOSED: "A VALVE SPRING ON THE #2 CYLINDER BROKE IN FRONT HEAD AND DROPPED INTO THE # 2 CYLINDER, DESTROYING THE PISTON AND SEVERELY DAMAGING THE SHORT BLOCK ASSEMBLY. BLOCK HAD A HOLE IN IT AND #2 PISTON WAS BROKEN IN HALF". REPAIR INCLUDED: REPLACING SHORT BLOCK ASSEMBLY, FRONT HEAD, EXHAUST CAM, VALVE, SPRING. I HAD TO PAY APROX. $6000 FOR A PROBLEM TOYOTA PUBLICLY ADMITTED SOME 2008 V8 MODELS HAD. FAULTY VALVE SPRINGS WAS ACTUALLY A RECALL BUT ONLY FOR LEXUS MODELS. NOT FAIR! *KB
Feb 02, 2012
+ 7 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
10 complaints
VEHICLE WOULD NOT GET OUT OF 1ST GEAR WHEN IN MOTION. WHEN ACCELERATING, IN EITHER MANUAL OR AUTOMATIC, VEHICLE WOULD GO IN NEUTRAL AND COAST WHEN TRYING TO SHIFT INTO ANY OTHER GEAR. REVERSE WORKED FINE. WOULD ALSO NOT START OUT IN A HIGHER GEAR WHEN SHIFTED INTO 2-4 GEARS.
Feb 02, 2018
FOLLOWING A OIL CHANGE AT LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER, A LARGE PUDDLE OF OIL (2 FOOT X 2 FOOT PLUS) FOUND UNDER CAR. I SUSPECTED OIL FILTER OR STRIPPED OIL PAN PLUG. *JS VEHICLE TOWED TO DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THEY STATED IT WAS COMPLETE FAILURE OF THE AWD TRANSFER BOX AND THAT IS WAS NOT COVERED BY WARRANTY. ESTIMATED COST TO REPAIR - $5,000.00+ NOTE - DURING A PREVIOUS OIL CHANGE AT APPROXIMATELY 63,000 MILES TOYOTA DEALER STATED THERE WAS A POSSIBLE SMALL LEAK ON THE AWD TRANSFER BOX AND THAT THEY WOULD MONITOR THIS DURING FUTURE OIL CHANGES. I WAS NEVER INFORMED, OF ANY ADDITIONAL LEAKAGE DURING ANY OIL CHANGES AT THE SAME TOYOTA DEALER. (CAR DID NOT LEAK ANY OIL PRIOR TO FAILURE OF THE AWD TRANSFER BOX)
Apr 14, 2014
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE DRIVING AT SPEEDS OF 5 MPH IN SNOWY WEATHER, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO LOOSE TRACTION, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SPIN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE ENGAGED THE BRAKES AND WAS ABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE WITH THE SUSPENSION TRACTION CONTROL. THE TRACTION CONTROL HAD TO BE SHUT OFF BEFORE HE WAS ABLE TO ACCELERATE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE BELIEVED THAT THE FAILURE WAS CONTRIBUTED TO THE WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION AXLE. THERE WERE NO REPAIRS MADE TO THE VEHICLE AND THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 9,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 12,000.
Apr 05, 2010
SUDDEN ACCELERATION OF NEW HIGHLANDER 2008 MODEL. I HAD REPORTED FOR THE FIRST TIME I FEB 19, 2009 WHEN I TOOK THE CAR FOR SERVICE THAT THERE IS SOMETHING WRONG WITH ACCELERATION, AS IT RUNS AT A HIGHER SPEED. THEY CHECKED & I WAS TOLD THERE IS NOTHING WRONG BY THE DEALER.MY WIFE WHO NEVER HAD ANY ACCIDENTS GOT INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT ON DEC. 21,2009 WHEN AS SHE WAS PARKING THE CAR ACCELERATED SUDDENLY & HIT THE BUILDING IN FRONT. THE IMPACT WAS SO GREAT THE PEOPLE THAT WERE WORKING IN THAT BUILDING CAME OUT TO SEE WHAT HAPPENED. INSPITE OF WEARING SEAT BELTS, HER CHEST HIT THE STEERING WHEEL SHE WAS IN SEVERE PAIN. AFTER EMERGENCY VISIT, SHE DID NOT HAVE ANY FRACTURES, BUT BRUISES OF RIBS. SHE WAS SO SCARED SHE WAS AFRAID TO DRIVE FOR WEEKS. IT TOOK MORE THAN 8K FOR REPAIRS.THE CAR STILL HAS THE SAME PROBLEMS &WE ARE AT A LOSS WHAT TO DO. SHE IS DRIVING WITH CAUTION LOCALLY UNTIL THIS PROBLEM IS RESOLVED. WHEN WE CONTACTED 2 DEALERS, WE ARE TOLD THE CAR IS MANUFACTURED IN JAPAN & IT IS NOT ON RECALL LIST. WE TRY TO CONTACT NUMEROUS TIMES WITHOUT SUCCESS. NEED HELP IN RETURNING THIS CAR TO TOYOTA , AS IT IS A SERIOUS HAZARD . *TR
Mar 06, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT WAS BACKING OUT OF THE RESIDENCE DRIVEWAY ON A SLIGHT INCLINE. THE DRIVER STEPPED OUT OF THE VEHICLE WHILE THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS PLACED IN THE REVERSE POSITION AND WITHIN THREE SECONDS THE VEHICLE ROLLED OVER TOP OF THE DRIVER. THE AMBULANCE WAS CALLED TO THE SCENE. THE DRIVER WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL AND SUSTAINED SEVERE INJURIES TO THE LEFT LEG AND CHEST AREA. THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. THE CAUSE OF FAILURE HAS NOT BEEN DETERMINED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND VIN WERE UNKNOWN. UPDATED 4/5/10 *CN THE CONSUMER STATED SHE STEPPED OUT OF THE VEHICLE NOT REALIZING IT WAS IN GEAR. IT STAYED STATIONARY FOR SEVERAL SECONDS BEFORE RUNNING HER OVER. UPDATED 05/11/10.
Mar 01, 2010
+ 5 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
9 complaints
The drivers door either locks or doesn’t when hitting the lock button it shake (unlocks an locks rapidly.
Mar 11, 2022
The driver door lock either won’t unlock or won’t lock it does a back n forth montion
Mar 05, 2022
2008 HIGHLANDER CAUGHT FIRE AND BURNED TO A COMPLETE LOSS. NONE OF THE NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS WORKED CORRECTLY TO ALERT MY WIFE. THE CAR WAS IN MOTION MOVING APPX 20 MILES PER HOUR AND THE CABIN FILLED WITH SMOKE AND WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. OIL SPRAY WAS NOTED AND PICTURES TAKEN ON THE ROADWAY BEHIND THE VEHICLE TO THE BURN SITE. THERE WAS A RECALL ON AN OIL LINE FOR THIS VEHICLE IN THE PAST.
Jan 22, 2019
SUNROOF SHATTERED
Dec 04, 2018
BRAKE BOOSTER AND ACTUATOR PER TOYOTA DEALERSHIP OF FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS FAILED ON THIS CAR ALTHOUGH SAME SYSTEM USED ON SAME YEAR CAMRY THAT WERE TECALLED
Jan 23, 2018
+ 4 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
9 complaints
BRAKE MALFUNCTION SPEED SENSOR. *TR
Jan 28, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH AND APPLYING PRESSURE TO THE BRAKES, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE THEY PERFORMED A DIAGNOSTIC TEST WHICH CONCLUDED THAT THE BRAKE BOOSTER HAD BURST AND WOULD NEED REPLACING. THE DEALER PERFORMED THE REPAIRS AND THE MANUFACTURER PAID FIFTY PERCENT OF THE REPAIR COSTS. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 53,000. UPDATED 05/03/11*LJ UPDATED 05/11/11
Apr 11, 2011
RECENTLY I WAS INVOLVED IN A MINOR REAR-END ACCIDENT. THE IMPACT SPEED WAS APPROX 10-15 MPH AND LIGHT TO MODERATE DAMAGE WAS DONE TO MY VEHICLE, WHICH IS A 2008 HIGHLANDER. PRIOR TO THIS ACCIDENT I NOTICED MY ANTI-SKID BRAKING SYSTEM ACTIVATED AT A POINT I WOULD CONSIDER TO BE PREMATURE. THIS PREMATURE ACTIVATION LIMITS THE BRAKING POWER OF THE VEHICLE WHEN IT IS NEEDED. THIS PROBLEM WAS BROUGHT TO THE ATTENTION OF SOUTH COUNTY TOYOTA IN COSTA MESA, CA AND THEY STATED THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATING TO SPECIFICATION. I AM STILL CONCERNED ABOUT THE ISSUE AND WOULD LIKE TO HAVE IT EVALUATED BY A TOYOTA MOTORS REP WHILE I AM PRESENT. I DO BELIEVE THIS PREMATURE ACTIVATION OF THE ANTI-SKID SYSTEM WAS A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR IN MY RECENT ACCIDENT AND IT MAY HAVE BEEN PREVENTED IF THE FULL BRAKING POWER WAS AVAILABLE. AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT THE STREETS WERE DRY AND IT HAD NOT RAINED IN SEVERAL WEEKS. THE VEHICLE SUFFERED MODERATE FRONT END DAMAGE WHICH HAS SINCE BEEN REPAIRED. TOYOTA WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ACCIDENT AND THEY HAVE FAILED TO CORRECT THE ISSUE OR ADMIT THERE IS ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. AS OF RIGHT NOW I CAN DUPLICATE THE BRAKE FADE/ ISSUE 100% OF THE TIME. *TR
Mar 08, 2010
I HAVE TOYOTA HIGHLANDER 2008 FROM AUG 2008. THIS CAR HAS A PROBLEM WITH BRAKING. FIRST WINTER IT WAS UNSAFE TO PARK CAR ON SHOPPING PARKING, BECAUSE OF CLOSE PROXIMITY TO OTHER CARS. HIGHLANDER WAS NOT STOPPING, IT CONTINUED MOVING WITH MY LEG ON THE BRAKE PEDAL. THIS CAR WAS NOT SLOWING DOWN. I DROVE MANY DIFFERENT SUVS FROM RENTAL COMPANIES, LIKE CHEVY TRAIL BLAZER, GMC ACADIA, JEEP TWO DIFFERENT MODELS, BUT NEVER HAD ANY PROBLEMS WITH BRAKES. I WENT TO THE DEALERSHIP THREE TIMES AND EACH TIME THEY TOLD ME THEY CANNOT DO ANYTHING. I'M USED TO THIS CAR NOW, BUT BRAKING STILL NOT GOOD. IT REQUIRES DEEP PRESSURE ON THE PEDAL AND CAR IS STOPPING LONGER. *TR
Feb 12, 2010
LEFT AND RIGHT REAR BRAKES STAY ENGAGED WHEN APPLIED AND WILL NOT DISENGAGE FOR UP TO 2 MINUTES AFTER RELEASED. I WAS TOLD THAT THE MECHANISM (APPARENTLY THE CALIPERS) WAS CORRODED. *TR
Feb 09, 2010
+ 4 more complaints for this component
VISIBILITY
6 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WATER LEAKED INTO THE VEHICLE'S CABIN ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE CAUSING THE RUGS TO BECOME DRENCHED AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE VEHICLE'S DRAINING SYSTEM FOR THE SUNROOF WAS CLOGGED THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED ABOUT HER SHOES GETTING WET AND APPLYING THE WRONG PEDAL WHILE DRIVING, CAUSING AN ACCIDENT THE CONTACT OPENED THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR AND NOTICED THAT THE CARPET WAS DRENCHED. THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN JANUARY 2020. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC THAT DETERMINED THAT THE WATER WAS ENTERING THE CABIN THROUGH THE SUNROOF. THE CHANNEL THAT DRAINED THE SUNROOF WAS CLEARED, BUT THAT DID NOT CORRECT THE ISSUE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 144,450.
Feb 11, 2020
THE DRIVER SIDE SUN VISOR KEEPS FALLING DOWN. IT DOES NOT STAY UP AND IMPAIRS DRIVER VISION. *TR
Mar 27, 2013
THE DRIVER'S SUN VISOR DOES NOT STAY UP -- WHEN EITHER PULLED BACK OR PUSHED FORWARD -- AND FALLS IN THE DRIVER'S LINE OF VISION. THIS LEADS TO A DANGEROUS SITUATION BECAUSE IT MEANS THE DRIVER LOSES HIS FIELD OF VISION FOR A FEW SECONDS AT VERY UNPREDICTABLE TIMES. *TR
Mar 16, 2012
ON 6/9/2010 ASKED DEALER TO CK. VEHICLE B/C AIR VENTS WERE THROWING OUT WHITE SUBSTANCE. DEALER SAID THE CABIN FILTER WAS CONTAMINATED AND REPLACED AT 27,180 MILES. ON 12/9/2010 31,109 MILES RETURNED TO DEALER WITH SAME COMPLAINT WHITE SUBSTANCE THROUGH VENTS. SAME RESPONSE, CABIN FILTER. I SAID HOW COULD FILTER BE THE PROBLEM AFTER JUST 3929 MILES, 6 MO SERVICE. DEALER CHECKED WITH TOYOTA NO RECORD OF ISSUES HERE. WE ALSO OWN A 2007 LEXUS AND HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. ON 1/14/2011 LEXUS SERVICE REPLACED THE EVAPORATER CORE WITH UPDATED PART AS PER TSB 0032-28. LEXUS SAID TOYOTA DEALER SHOULD DO THE SAME. TOYOTA DEALER HAS REFUSED TO REPLACE. MY CONCERN, WARRANTY EXPIRES IN MARCH 2011 AND STILL HAVING THE PROBLEM. CANNOT CONTINUE TO REPLACE COSTLY CABIN FILTER. WHAT SHOULD I DO TO GET THE REPAIR COMPLETED? *TR
Feb 02, 2011
WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY THE SUNROOF EXPLODED AND SENT GLASS FRAGMENT EVERYWHERE. FORTUNATELY THE SHADE WAS PULLED CLOSED OTHERWISE GLASS WOULD HAVE BEEN BLOWN INTO THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER COMPARTMENT AT 55 MPH. GLASS WAS COMPLETELY DISTRIBUTED THROUGHOUT THE HEADLINER AND IT HAD TO BE REMOVED TO ENSURE GLASS WOULD NOT INTERFERE WITH AIR BAG OPERATION OR BECOME A PROJECTILE IF THE AIR BAG ACTUATED. THE SUNROOF IS MADE OF TEMPERED GLASS AND NOT SAFETY GLASS. WHEN IT EXPLODED, THE GLASS WAS NOT HELD CAPTIVE BY THE SAFETY FILM. ONLY A TWO INCH BORDER OF GLASS REMAINED IN THE SUN ROOF FRAME. THIS IS A VERY SIGNIFICANT SAFETY OVERSIGHT. IF THE SUN ROOF SHADE HAD BEEN OPEN, THE DRIVER WOULD HAVE BEEN HIT WITH GLASS AND AN ACCIDENT WOULD LIKELY HAVE OCCURRED. *TR
Mar 14, 2008
+ 1 more complaint for this component
STRUCTURE
5 complaints
The contact owns a 2008 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the front end of the vehicle was making an abnormal clunking sound. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the entire subframe was severely corroded and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 175,000.
Jan 16, 2024
While driving the vehicle the back door and glass back panel sometimes release and open unexpectedly . I saw that a "service bulletin" was issued for a problem with the rear door, (T-SB-0091-12), but a dealership told me my vehicle wasn't "covered".
Oct 19, 2022
A FEW MONTHS AFTER BUYING THE VEHICLE NEW, MY HUSBAND NOTICED A MILDEW SMELL IN MY VEHICLE THAT WOULD COME AND GO. I THOUGHT IT WAS JUST FROM LIVING IN A HUMID PLACE. WHEN THE SMELL BECAME CONSTANT, MY HUSBAND LIFTED UP THE FLOOR MAT IN THE BACK SEAT AND DISCOVERED THAT THE CARPET WAS SOAKING WET. WE THEN CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP TO TAKE THE HIGHLANDER IN TO BE LOOKED AT AND TO SEE WHAT WAS CAUSING THE WATER LEAK. WE TOOK IT INTO THE DEALERSHIP ON JUNE 18, 2014 AND WE WERE LATER INFORMED THAT FOUR RUBBER STOPPERS (WHICH WERE AT THE TIME LOSE INSIDE THE BUMPERS, BUT SHOULD HAVE BEEN INSERTED INTO THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE) THAT WERE MEANT TO KEEP WATER OUT OF THE INTERIOR OF THE CAR HAD FALLEN OUT AND THE TECH WOULD NEED TO RE-INSERT THE STOPPERS, AND FOR GOOD MEASURE, GLUE THEM INTO PLACE IN ORDER TO STOP WATER FROM ENTERING THE VEHICLE. *TR
Apr 02, 2015
DRIVER DOOR LOCK MECHANISM HAS STOPPED WORKING WITH THE REMOTE, THAT IS A NUISANCE, NOT A SAFETY ISSUE BUT, RECENTLY I HAD DIFFICULTY MANUALLY UNLOCKING THE DRIVER'S DOOR AND FOR 1 - 2 MINUTES WAS NOT ABLE TO UNLOCK THE DOOR TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. I WAS TRYING TO MANUALLY UNLOCK THE DOOR (THE POWER LOCK MECHANISM QUIT WORKING) BUT THE DOOR LOCK WAS JAMMED SUCH THAT I COULD NOT GET THE DOOR UNLOCKED. I TRIED PUSHING THE ELECTRIC DOOR LOCK BUTTON TO TRY TO UNJAM THE MECHANISM AND EVENTUALLY THAT WORKED AND I WAS ABLE TO MANUALLY UNLOCK THE DOOR AND EXIT THE VEHICLE. THIS IS CLEARLY A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE IF THE VEHICLE WAS ON FIRE I MAY NOT BE ABLE TO GET OUT. A BRIEF SEARCH ONLINE SHOWED THAT THIS IS A VERY PREVALENT ISSUE WITH TOYOTA VEHICLES. TOYOTA SHOULD BE FORCED TO REMEDY THE SITUATION AND A RECALL SHOULD BE IMPLEMENTED TO MAKE TOYOTA FIX THE FLAWED VEHICLES THEY HAVE SOLD. I WILL GO SEE A DEALER IN THE NEXT DAY OR TWO TO GIVE THEM THE CHANCE TO DO THE RIGHT THING AND FIX IT FREE OF CHARGE BUT I IMAGINE THAT WILL ONLY GET ME AN INCREASED BLOOD PRESSURE. *TR
Oct 20, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR DOOR HATCH WOULD LOCK AND UNLOCK INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO REPLACED THE HINGES AND THE MOTOR ON THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND A CLAIM WAS FILED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 29,917.
Sep 26, 2011
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
5 complaints
Air bag lights continue to show. Vehicle had not been in any accidents. Seat warms do not work light comes on when you turn them on. Driver window will go up half way occasionally. Back wiper motor makes loud noise and doesn’t work anymore. Tire sensor also comes out.
May 06, 2023
2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO DEFECTIVE SRS AIRBAG SYSTEM. *LD *TR
Mar 12, 2019
AIRBAG SENSOR LIGHT DEPLOYED, AND REMAINED LIT FOR APPROXIMATELY THREE DAYS. TOYOTA DEALERSHIP AT PULLMAN, WA DIAGNOSED THE PROBLEM AS A FAULTY SPIRAL CABLE; THE SPIRAL CABLE ASSEMBLY WAS REPLACED AT A COST OF $491.69. I WONDER WHY THERE WAS A RECALL DONE ON ~450,000 TACOMAS, BUT NOT ON THE HIGHLANDER. IT SOUNDS LIKE A SIMILAR PROBLEM: POOR ENGINEERING LEADS TO FRICTION, CAUSING A SHORT IN THE CABLE. WARNING LIGHT GOES ON, AND THE DRIVER AIR BAG MAY NOT DEPLOY DURING A WRECK. I COULD THINK OF 1001 BETTER WAYS TO SPEND $500!!! *JB
Sep 03, 2013
I WAS DRIVING MY 2008 HIGHLANDER ON NOVEMBER 11, 2012 AND THE AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON. THE FOLLOWING DAY I WENT ONLINE TO SEE IF THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE TOYOTA WEBSITE. THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THE AIRBAG LIGHT FOR THE SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAG SYSTEM. I TOOK MY VEHICLE TO MY TOYOTA DEALER TO HAVE THE RECALL WORK DONE ON NOVEMBER 14. THE AIRBAG LIGHT WAS STILL ON AFTER THE RECALL WORK. I LEFT THEM THE VEHICLE SO THEY COULD DO FURTHER DIAGNOSTICS. THEY SAID THE SQUIB CIRCUIT ON THE SPIRAL CABLE FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM ON THE STEERING COLUMN HAD A SHORT IN IT. TOYOTA PART NUMBER 84306-22010. IT WAS NOT PART OF THE RECALL. THE DEALERSHIP TOLD ME THAT IF A REPAIR WAS NOT DONE THERE WAS A GOOD CHANCE THAT THE AIRBAG SYSTEM WOULD NOT WORK IN AN ACCIDENT. THE DEALERSHIP SAID THE AIRBAG LIGHT WOULD LIGHT UP INTERMITTENTLY IF I DIDN'T REPAIR IT AND THAT THEY WERE PRETTY SURE THE AIRBAG WOULDN'T GO OFF ON ITS OWN. MY CHOICE WAS FIX IT OR PARK IT. I HAD THEM DO THE REPAIR, $276.63 FOR THE SPIRAL CABLE AND $150.00 FOR THE LABOR, $443.22 TOTAL WITH SALES TAX. I HAVE OVER 122,000 MILES ON MY VEHICLE AND THE DEALERSHIP HAS BEEN PERFORMING THE MAINTENANCE ON THE VEHICLE. I HAVE TWO OTHER VEHICLES (NOT TOYOTA) AND NEITHER HAS EVER HAD AN AIRBAG SYSTEM PROBLEM AND EACH ONE HAS OVER 100,000 MILES. THE WIRING FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM SHOULD NEVER GO BAD. PLEASE HAVE SOMEONE LOOK INTO THIS PROBLEM. *TR
Nov 15, 2012
THE SPIRAL CABLE WENT BAD CAUSING THE AIR BAG LIGHT TO COME ON MAKING THE AIRBAGS INOPERABLE. *TR
Sep 21, 2012
VISIBILITY/WIPER
5 complaints
THE DRIVER SIDE SUNVISOR WILL NOT STAY UP OUT OF PLACE WHEN NOT NEEDED. WHEN DRIVER IS DRIVING ESPECIALLY IF BRAKES ARE USED THE VISOR FALLS BLOCKING VIEW AND IS QUITE DANGEROUS. VISOR WILL NOT STAY UP.
Dec 12, 2019
SUN VISOR DOE NOT STAY UP.
May 03, 2017
THE DRIVER SIDE SUN VISOR WILL NOT STAY LOCKED IN THE UP POSITION AND THEREFORE PARTIALLY BLOCKS THE DRIVERS VISION WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE.
Jul 04, 2016
DRIVER SIDE SUN VISOR DEFECTIVE - IT DOES NOT STAY IN UP POSITION, DROPS DOWN SUDDENLY & BLOCKING THE VISIBILITY OF THE ROAD; DEALER SAID IT IS A COMMON ISSUE BUT NOT ENOUGH COMPLAINS FOR A RECALL. THIS IS AN ACCIDENT PRONE ISSUE THAT WILL CUT OFF THE DRIVER'S VISIBILITY SUDDENLY. *TR
Jul 07, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHITE PARTICLES WERE EMITTED THROUGH THE VENTILATION SYSTEM WHILE THE CLIMATE CONTROL WAS ACTIVED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A MECHANIC OR THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 76,000.
Jan 28, 2013
SEAT BELTS
4 complaints
Unable to buckle 3rd row passenger side seat belt buckle. Safety of my children were put at risk as I didn’t realize this until recently since our family grew. No warning indicating lights are on.
Feb 01, 2023
THE SEAT BELT WARNING LIGHT CAME ON. AS YOU KNOW AND ANNOUNCED BY TOYOTA THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS CABLE. HOWEVER TOYOTA IS, I FEEL DRAGGING THERE FEET DOING ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. CAN YOU CONTACT TOYOTA AND FIND OUT WHAT IS BEING DONE. ALL I GET IS THE STANDARD ANSWER----WORKING ON IT. NO FIX YET. *TR
Sep 23, 2014
I BELIEVE THERE IS A MANUFACTURING FLAW IN THE 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER SEAT BELTS. WHEN I INITIALLY PURCHASED MY HIGHLANDER (NEW), THERE WAS A CHILD SAFETY SEAT IN THE REAR PASSENGER-SIDE SEAT, WHICH USED THE LATCH SYSTEM FOR INSTALLATION (DID NOT REQUIRE USE OF SEAT BELT). WHEN I FIRST WENT TO INSTALL A BOOSTER SEAT IN THAT POSITION, WHICH WOULD REQUIRE THE SEAT BELT TO BE USED, THE SEAT BELT DID NOT WORK (COULD NOT EXTEND BELT, WOULD NOT RETRACT, ETC.). THE BELT HAD NEVER BEEN USED AND DOES NOT WORK. I HAVE FILED SEVERAL COMPLAINTS WITH TOYOTA, BUT THEY SAID THEY WOULD NOT COVER THE REPLACEMENT OF MY SEAT BELT, BECAUSE I WAS OUTSIDE OF MY WARRANTY TIME (# OF MILES). FIRST, THE BELT HAD NEVER BEEN USED (BECAUSE A CHILD SAFETY SEAT HAD ALWAYS BEEN IN THAT POSITION SINCE I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE). SECOND, THE # OF MILES DRIVEN HAS NO DIRECT CORRELATION TO HOW OFTEN A REAR SEAT BELT IS USED. IT MAY HAVE A DIRECT CORRELATION TO HOW OFTEN THE DRIVER'S BELT IS USED, BUT NONE OF THE OTHER POSITIONS. NOW, THE OTHER SIDE REAR SEAT BELT IS STARTING TO HAVE PROBLEMS...OFTENTIMES IT DOES NOT RETRACT PROPERLY/GETS LOCKED WHEN IT SHOULDN'T, ETC. THE FRONT BELTS ALSO LOCK-UP VERY EASILY AND ARE HARD TO GET UNLOCKED ONCE LOCKED. I BELIEVE THERE TO BE A FLAW IN THE MANUFACTURING/COMPONENTS OF THESE BELTS AND FEEL TOYOTA SHOULD COVER REPLACING THEM. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE!!! *TR
Apr 10, 2014
2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. ATTORNEY REPRESENTING CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO SEAT BELT MALFUNCTION AND REQUESTS AN INVESTIGATION AND REIMBURSEMENT. *SMD AS THE CONSUMER WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, HER SON WAS SECURED IN HIS CAR SEAT, PLAYING QUIETLY WITH THE ATTACHED SEAT BELT. AT THE POINT, THE SEAT BELT WRAPPED AROUND HIS NECK. THE CONSUMER PULLED OVER AND ATTEMPTED TO FREE HER SON FROM CHOKING, SHE WAS UNABLE TO DO SO, ALTHOUGH LOOSENING THE BELT SUFFICIENTLY ALLOWED HIM TO BREATH. FIRST RESPONDERS HAD DIFFICULTY REMOVING THE BELT, FINALLY THEY HAD TO CUT THE SEAT BELT TO PERMIT HER SON TO BE TAKEN OUT OF THE SEAT.
Mar 12, 2013
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
4 complaints
RECENTLY WE'VE GOT A BUNCH OF WARNING LIGHTS ON THE DASHBOARD OF OUR CAR INDICATING A BRAKE SYSTEM MALFUNCTION AND URGING US TO STOP THE VEHICLE IN A SAFE LOCATION. THE BRAKES WERE STILL WORKING AND WE WERE ABLE TO CAREFULLY AND SAFELY DRIVE HOME. AFTER SCANNING THE CAR FOR ABS ERROR CODES AND DOING A QUICK ONLINE SEARCH, I REALIZED THAT THE BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP ASSEMBLY AND ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY FAILED IN OUR CAR.
Feb 06, 2020
ABS MODULE FAILURE, SAME US OTHER PEOPLE COMPLAINING. GOT DASH LIGHTS ON AND THE CAR LOST COMPLETE BRAKE POWER. ABS ACTUATOR NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THE PRICE FOR THE PART IS UNBELIEVABLE HIGH AND SEEMS TO BE RECALLED ON EARLIER MODELS
Jul 15, 2019
BRAKING BECAME ERRATIC. PEDAL WAS SQUISHY AND ABS LIGHTS CAME ON. THIS OCCURRED OVER SEVERAL MONTHS BUT ON AN INTERMITTENT BASIS. LIGHTS WOULD GO OFF FOR A WHILE THEN COME BACK ON.
Dec 05, 2016
VSC, TRACKING AND ABS LIGHTS COME ON WHEN DRIVING. SOMETIMES ON AS SOON AS I REVERSE IN THE MORNING. USED TO GO OFF IF I TURNED CAR OFF AND RESTARTED. SOMETIMES DOESN'T COME ON UNTIL I AM ALMOST HOME FROM WORK (30 MILES) SOMETIMES THE BRAKES FEEL OFF AND NOT GRIPPING. HAD BRAKES INSPECTED AND EVERYTHING FINE. *TT
Jun 21, 2012
WHEELS
4 complaints
GOODYEAR FORTERA HL TIRES PURCHASED AT SAMS CLUB IN WV IN NOVEMBER 2018. TIRES ARE 245/65/R17 WITH DOT CODE M71TJA2R1918. TIRES APPEARED TO HAVE SOME CRACKING ON THE SIDES OF TREADS SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION BY SAMS CLUB. BY APPROXIMATELY 20K MILES WITH EVEN TREADWEAR AND PROPER MAINTENANCE TIRES BECAME MORE CRACKED ON THE SIDES OF THE TREADS AND SMALL CUTS BEGAN APPEARING ON SURFACES AND IN TREAD GROOVES. TIRE WOULD GET SMALL AIR LEAKS THROUGH SOME OF THESE CUTS. SAMS WOULD OFFER TO PATCH THE TIRES UNDER ROAD HAZARD AND CLAIMED GLASS ON ROADWAYS WOULD CAUSE THIS. SOME PATCHES WOULD TEAR LARGER AND LEAK AROUND THE PATCHES PUT IN PLACE. ATTEMPTING STANDARD BLACK PLUG PATCHES WOULD RESULT IN HOLE TEARING LARGER THAN IT BEGAN. SAMS APPLIED A FLAT SEAL/PLUG FROM INSIDE THE TIRE THAT ALSO HAD TEARS FORM ON THE EDGE AND HAD FURTHER LEAKS FROM SAME HOLE. TWO TIRES HAD TO BE REPLACED BY DIFFERENT SUPPLIER 9/15/19 AND ANOTHER TIRE OF THE TWO REMAINING HAVE BEGAN LEAKING AROUND PLUGS 9/19/19.
Sep 18, 2019
BRIDGESTONE DEULER H/L 400 TIRES HAD POOR TREAD LIFE AND WERE VERY POOR IN ANY AMOUNT OF SNOW. RAIN ALSO RESULTED IN HYDRO PLANNING.
Oct 27, 2015
THE CAR BEGAN TO SHAKE AND WAS UNCONTROLLABLE. MANAGED TO PULL OVER AND UPON INSPECTION FOUND THAT ALL OF THE LUG NUTS ON BOTH FRONT TIRES WERE VERY LOOSE. THE CAR WAS SERVICED BY GREENTREE TOYOTA GREENTREE SCION. COMMERCE DRIVE, BROOKFIELD CT THE DAY BEFORE AND A TIRE ROTATION SERVICE WAS REQUESTED. THE LUG NUTS WERE LOOSENED BUT NEVER TIGHTENED BACK UP. *TR
Jul 22, 2014
CAPS KEEP FALLING OFF OF THE LUG NUTS, WHICH EXPOSES THE STUDS OF THE WHEEL HUB. CORROSION FORMS AND CAUSES THE LUG NUT TO BE DIFFICULT TO REMOVE. ADDITIONALLY, EXPOSURE OF THE STUD CAN WEAKEN THE JOINT. I REPLACED TWO LUG NUTS YESTERDAY, BRINGING THE TOTAL TO FIVE IN THE PAST SIX MONTHS. *TR
May 25, 2011
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
3 complaints
My 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is having severe issues with the ABS system. Toyota is reporting that it needs an ABS actuator and ABS pump replacements. These were a part of Toyota's previous Customer Support Program, but the program expired before I owned the vehicle. That is EXTREMELY dangerous and the issue with the ABS system should be considered a Safety Recall that is ALWAYS available to Toyota customers to rectify and paid for by Toyota. It is a BRAKING ISSUE. It is not just brake pads, or normal wear and tear. This is a known issue and regardless of the timeline, Toyota should absolutely pay for the repair.
Sep 12, 2025
Myself, and many other 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid owners, have a vehicle code labeled C1391 "Leak in Accumulator" wherein the vehicles brake actuator and brake booster pump malfunction. The dash of my vehicle has the following indicators on; Check ABS, Check Brake System, Check VSC System, Yellow Master Warning Light, Red Brake System Light & Buzzer, Yellow ABS Warning Light, and Yellow Slip Indicator Light. This has been a significant cause of concern for me over the past two-three years since purchasing this vehicle. This is a known issue throughout the Toyota Highlander Hybrid community and the dealership is not upholding their previous recall which occurred in late 2019 and ended in 2020, after I had purchased the vehicle. The cost of repairs is upwards of $4,000 and Toyota has not given the proper opportunity for recall repairs to owners. This is a significant safety issue because if the brakes fail, a severe crash may injure myself or others. The problem has been reproduced by several other owners, dealerships, and independent service centers (this is a well known and common issue). This vehicle is available for inspection if requested. I plead that you please insist on Toyota reopening their recall to provide service to the owners of this vehicle, this is an issue with their manufacturing and not on the owners/operators. This problem occurred immediately after receiving scheduled maintenance to my vehicle from a certified Toyota Dealership, whom have quoted me the above cost for repairs and may have caused the issue in the first place.
Feb 27, 2024
ABS system failure for the second time after repair, cost $3400 to replace after causing complete loss of brakes. 4 years after incident same exact ABS warning and VCS system failure with message to immediately take vehicle to dealership. There is a class action lawsuit on other hybrid models but Toyota inspected and said it would cost another $3500 to fix because there is no recall on the part.
Apr 05, 2022
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
3 complaints
The Hybrid inverter failed on the car instantly stopping the car without any sort of warning what so ever. Car did not have a limp mode or any way to get the car off to the side of the road. It stopped in the traffic lane and had to be pushed out of harm's way. A search shows like it's becoming a common problem, $12,000.00 to fix it is another problem.
Feb 25, 2023
WHILE MY WIFE WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE STRAIGHT (SHE BELIEVES SHE WAS TRAVELING UNDER 25 MPH AS SHE CAME TO A RED LIGHT) ON A BUSY ROAD THE VEHICLE MADE A BEEPING ALERT SOUND AND THE DISPLAY ROTATED THROUGH THE FOLLOWING MESSAGES: " (!) CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM- HAVE YOUR VEHICLE CHECKED BY A DEALER, BRAKE BRAKE MALFUNCTION- STOP THE VEHICLE IN A SAFE PLACE IMMEDIATELY AND CONTACT DEALER, ABS CHECK ABS- HAVE YOUR VEHICLE CHECKED BY A DEALER, CHECK VSC SYSTEM- HAVE YOUR VEHICLE CHECKED BY A DEALER." LUCKILY SHE WAS WITHIN A MILE OR TWO OF MY HOME AND WAS ABLE TO GET IT THERE SAFELY. SHE TOOK PHOTOS OF THE WARNING LIGHTS WITH HER CELL PHONE. THEY ARE ATTACHED. WE DROVE IT TO A LOCAL TOYOTA DEALERSHIP AND THEY INFORMED US THAT THE ABS ACCUMULATOR/ACTUATOR WAS INTERNALLY LEAKING AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. WE DROVE IT HOME WHERE WE PARKED IT FOR SEVERAL WEEKS. IN THE MEANTIME, I CALLED TOYOTA'S CUSTOMER SERVICE AND EXPLAINED THE ISSUE AND THAT I HAD SEEN RECALLS ONLINE FOR THE PREVIOUS TWO YEAR MODELS AND ASKED IF THE REPLACEMENT WOULD BE COVERED ON OUR 2008. THE TOYOTA REPRESENTATIVE AGREED TO SUBMIT INFORMATION TO THE LOCAL DEALER TO COVER $1000.00 OF THE COST AS A WARRANTY SERVICE. THEY INFORMED ME THAT IF THERE WERE MANY COMPLAINTS AND A RECALL ISSUED THAT WE COULD LATER BE REIMBURSED FOR THE REMAINING AMOUNT. I UNDERSTOOD THAT MY INFORMING THEM OF THE ISSUE WOULD BE PASSED ON TO THOSE WHO INVESTIGATE THESE MATTERS TO DETERMINE WHAT WOULD BECOME A RECALL ITEM BUT WE NOW SEE THAT OUR COMPLAINT IS NOT LISTED ON THE NHTSA WEBSITE, THUS THE SLOW REPORTING OF THIS ISSUE. THE REPAIR COST WAS $3273.78 FOR PARTS (AFTER THE $1000.00 ASSISTANCE DISCOUNT) AND $490.50 FOR LABOR, PLUS A $40 ENVIRO FEE AND TAX.
Feb 13, 2018
IT WAS RAINING AND THE INTERIOR OF THE CAR WAS TAKING IN WATER. TOYOTA CLAIMED FROM CRACKED TAIL LIGHT BUT TAIL LIGHT HAD NOT BEEN LEAKING BEFORE. WATER IN BACK OF CAR RUINED HYBRID BATTERY AND TRANSITORS. AFTER LOOKING UP ISSUE. FOUND OTHERS WHO HAVE HAD SAME PROBLEM. THE CAR JUST SHUT OFF AFTER THE DASH WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON. LUCKY MY WIFE HAD JUST PULLED INTO A PARKING LOT.
Apr 18, 2017
EQUIPMENT
3 complaints
The radio started skipping and the DVD player won’t turn on
Mar 05, 2022
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CARPET ON THE PASSENGER SIDE FLOORBOARD HAD BECOME WET. THE CONTACT FURTHER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND DISCOVERED THAT THAN WATER WAS LEAKING FROM THE AIR CONDITIONER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS. THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY NEEDED TO REPLACE THE AIR CONDITIONER LINE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THEY WOULD FOLLOW UP WITH THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 61,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 62,184.
Aug 23, 2012
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED THE CONTACT STATED HE WAS ATTEMPTING TO REPOSITION THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE WITH THE JACK HOLDING THE VEHICLE UP. THE JACK SLIPPED FROM UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE WHILE THE CONTACT WAS UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INJURED. THE PASSENGER SIDE FENDER AND THE BOTTOM MOLDING WERE DAMAGED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND A CASE WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000. UPDATED 07/08/11*LJ THE REPAIRS WERE COMPLETED ON JUNE 2, 2011
Jun 01, 2011
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
3 complaints
WHILE DRIVING IN REVERSE MY 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER GAS PEDAL CONTINUED ACCELERATION AFTER BRAKING AND CRASHED INTO MY GARAGE. *TR
Apr 05, 2010
THIS IS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM WITH ACCELERATION WE HAVE HAD WITH OUR TOYOTA HIGHLANDER SINCE WE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. WHEN ACCELERATING, THE VEHICLE WILL PERIODICALLY OVER-REV BEFORE THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFTS INTO THE APPROPRIATE GEAR. THIS RESULTS IN A MOMENTARY LACK OF ACCELERATION. AGAIN THIS IS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM. WHEN TAKEN TO THE TOYOTA DEALER, THEY SAY THEY CANNOT RECREATE THE PROBLEM AND THAT THERE IS NOTHING THAT THEY CAN SEE THAT IS WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. *TR
Feb 10, 2010
I AM LEASING TWO TOYOTA VEHICLES ... A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER AND A 2009 TOYOTA CAMRY. DURING DECEMBER 2009 I EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH THE 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER TRANSMISSION AND SUDDEN ACCELERATION WHILE BRAKING. DETAILS INCLUDE A TRANSMISSION NOISE RATTLE WHILE DRIVING ON A CALIFORNIA FREEWAY AT ABOUT 60 MPH. THIS TRANSMISSION NOISE CONTINUED FOR 3-4 MINUTES, SOUNDING LOUDER AS IF A PART WAS LOOSE INSIDE OF THE TRANSMISSION. I SHIFTED THE TRANSMISSION ON THE 2008 HIGHLANDER BETWEEN GEARS AND THE NOISE EVENTUALLY STOPPED. THE SECOND COMPLAINT ON THE 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER OCCURRED ON DECEMBER 5, 2009, WHILE I WAS PARKING THE VEHICLE. AS I APPROACHED THE PARKING PLACE, WITH MY FOOT COVERING THE BRAKE PEDAL, I EXPERIENCED UNEXPECTED ACCELERATION WHILE BRAKING. THE 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER SUDDENLY LURCHED WITHOUT WARNING AND WOULD HAVE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE THROUGH A PLATE GLASS WINDOW AT THE BANK IF I DIDN'T APPLY FULL FORCE OF THE BRAKE! I WAS ABLE TO APPLY THE BRAKE FIRMLY ENOUGH TO OVERCOME THE SUDDEN ACCELERATION IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE IN TIME. CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA TOYOTA OF CARLSBAD WAS NOTIFIED ON DECEMBER 9, 2009 IN WRITING REGARDING THESE TWO ISSUES. I HAD PERSONALLY DELIVERED A TWO PAGE DOCUMENT DETAILING BOTH OF THESE COMPLAINTS TO THE TOYOTA OF CARLSBAD SERVICE DEPARTMENT. I HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY RESPONSE FROM MY COMPLAINT BY TOYOTA OF CARLSBAD OR THE TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION. *TR
Feb 05, 2010
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
On January 19, 2021, after driving for about two hours, I suddenly started to hear an unusual knocking noise from the engine. I slowed down, but I was unable to pull over immediately because I was driving on a very dark two lane highway, with no safe shoulder. After the same noise continued for about five to ten minutes, a light began to flash indicating extremely low oil pressure, and warning that the car should stop immediately. At that point, fortunately, I was able to pull over at a gas station, where I discovered that oil was gushing from my engine onto the ground. I checked my oil dipstick and noted that the car had no oil, and was thus inoperable. I was extremely concerned that the engine had been damaged while being driven with little to no oil. In 2014, Toyota issued a notice of a Warranty Enhancement Program – ZE2, related to extending warranty coverage for repairs related to a leaking or seeping engine oil cooler pipe. I never received any owner notification of this issue in 2014. Toyota refused to pay for the repair in 2021, and now in November 2021, the engine has quit due to the damage incurred in January 2021. The engine oil cooler pipe is defective and my family could have been seriously injured or killed by its catastrophic failure.
Nov 12, 2021
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE, THE VEHICLE HESITATED AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE FUEL PUMP FAILING WAS A KNOWN ISSUE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN PUT THROUGH A STRESS TEST AND THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT KEPT AND DROVE THE VEHICLE. THE SERVICE MANAGER STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS NOT THE FUEL PUMP AND THAT THERE WAS AN ISSUE WITHIN THE SYSTEM ONCE THE VEHICLE WARMED UP THAT CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO LOSE POWER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000.
May 15, 2015
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
STEERING WENT OUT ALL OF ASUDDEN WITHOUT NOTICE,ALMOST CAUSING ME TO CRASH,,MY SPEED WAS LEGAL SPEED IN TEXAS 80MPH,,,ALSO A THE ABS LIGHT CAME ON AND FELT LIKE BRAKES WERE GOING TO BE APPLIED,,TURNED ENGINE OFF, RESTARTED CAR AND ABS BRAKE LIGHT WENT OFF
Dec 09, 2020
THE STEERING WHEEL HAD BEEN ADJUSTED TO A SETTING FOR A SHORTER DRIVER, AND WHILE IN THE PROCESS OF RE-SETTING IT FOR A TALLER DRIVER, THE STEERING WHEEL AND ITS HOUSING CAME COMPLETELY OFF OF THE SHAFT THAT REACHES INTO THE ENGINE. TO SAFELY GET OFF THE ROAD, AN ATTEMPT WAS MADE TO STICK IT BACK ON, AND IT WAS UNABLE TO STAY IN THE CORRECT POSITION. ONCE THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER, TO TRY TO REATTACH IT, THE DRIVER AGAIN ATTEMPTED TO SEAT THE HOUSING ON THE SHAFT. THIS MANEUVER WAS COMPLETED SUCCESSFULLY, BUT UPON ATTEMPTING TO DRIVE AGAIN, THE "SLIPPERY WHEN WET" WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AND WHATEVER ENGINE MECHANISM THAT ALERTS BEGAN TO ENGAGE, AFFECTING THE BRAKES, ACCELERATOR, AND STEERING. THIS ALL HAPPENED AS WE WERE BACKING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY, AND THEN ATTEMPTING TO MANEUVER INTO THE ROADWAY.
Jul 24, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
2008 HIGHLANDER HYBRID LIMITED CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND SHOWED CODE P0A1B - DRIVE MOTOR 'A' CONTROL MODULE, THE CODE WAS CLEARED MANUALLY AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WENT OFF, THE NEXT DAY THE LIGHT CAME BACK ON AFTER DRIVING ABOUT 3 MILES THEN PARKED. THE NEXT DAY THE LIGHT WENT OFF ON ITS OWN AS WE TOOK IT TO THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP AND HAS NOT BEEN BACK ON SINCE DRIVING IT THERE AND BACK, THE DEALERSHIP SAID THEY DROVE AROUND A LITTLE AND THE LIGHT NEVER CAME ON, WE BROUGHT IT HOME AND HAVE DRIVEN ABOUT 7 MILES WITHOUT THE LIGHT COMING ON. ACCORDING TO THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEALERSHIP AND CORPORATE TOYOTA THERE ARE NO RECALLS FOR OUR VIN BUT IT IS SHOWING ALL SIGNS OF THE INVERTER ASSEMBLY RECALL THAT AFFECTED 235,000 VEHICLES IN THE RECALL. TOYOTA QUOTED THE REPAIR AT $9000+ AND EVEN THOUGH IT HAS THE SYMPTOMS OF THE RECALLED VEHICLES THEY WILL NOT FIX IT BECAUSE IT IS NOT ON THE RECALL LIST AND THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO. THE REPAIR COST IS MORE THAN THE VALUE OF THE CAR.
Sep 15, 2020
HIGHLANDER HYBRID 2008 WE WERE DRIVING ON A COUNTRY BACK ROAD. IN IDAHO, WE HAD JUST STOPPED AT A STOP SIGN AND WENT TO DRIVE FORWARD AFTER GOING AROUND 100-200 METERS AND THE CAR LURCHED FORWARD WHILE I WAS DRIVING AND THEN THE SCREEN WITH ALL THE WARNINGS BEGAN GOING OFF. ALL OF THEM SAYING PULL OVER TOT THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THAT ALL THE SYSTEMS WERE FAILING. ALL THE WARNINGS SAID THINGS TO TAKE THE CAR TO DEALER. WE PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THEN TRIED TO GET THE CAR TO MOVE FORWARD BY PUTTING IT IN DRIVE AND YOU COULD HEAR THE CAR TRYING TO DO SOMETHING BUT NOTHING HAPPENED. THE CAR DID TURN ON BUT THAT WAS IT.
Jul 12, 2020
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
2 complaints
DEAR SIR/MADAM THE TOYOTA HIGHLANDER /CAMRY AND SIENNA HAVE A OIL COOLER LINE WHICH IS MADE OF RUBBER AND EXPLODE DUE TO THE HIGH TEMPERATURE OF THE OIL. ALL THESE VEHICLES HAVE BEEN CAUSING OIL TO BE LEAKED ALL OVER THE ROADS OF AMERICA WITH TOYOTA NOT HAVING ISSUED A RECALL. YEARS 2008 - 2013 .THIS ISSUE IS DANGEROUS. *TR
Jun 15, 2020
WHEN YOU START UP CAR THERE IS A ENGINE GRINDING NOISE FOR A FEW SECONDS. THIS HAS BEEN REPORTED BY MANY PEOPLE ON THE INTERNET, JUST GOOGLE 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER START UP ENGINE NOISE AND YOU WILL GET A BETTER LOOK AT WHAT IT SOUNDS LIKE. THIS COULD LEAD TO SEVERE ENGINE DAMAGE . IT IS A DEFECT IN THE ENGINE.
Jun 06, 2015
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
I SENT A LETTER TO TOYOTA MOTOR SALES USA AFTER BEING REFUSED SERVICE AT A LOCAL DEALER TO RESOLVE A SAFETY ISSUE, WITH NO REPLY. WHILE PRESSING BRAKE WHEN STARTING I GOT A COUPLE OF ERROR MESSAGES THAT SAID TO CONTACT A TOYOTA DEALER. I DID SOME VERY DETAILED RESEARCH INTO THIS PROBLEM AND WHAT OTHERS HAD ENCOUNTERED. I FOUND THE ERRORS WOULD ONLY SHOW WHEN THE 12 VOLT BATTERY WAS GETTING LOW ON CHARGE. THE BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP IS ONE OF THE SUSPECT ITEMS DRAINING THE BATTERY BECAUSE IT CONTINUES TO RUN LONG AFTER THE VEHICLE IS PARKED. SINCE I DON'T HAVE THE TOOLS TO CHECK THE CURRENT DRAW ON THIS OR IF IT IS EVEN SUPPOSED TO RUN LONG AFTER THE VEHICLE IS SHUT OFF, I WANTED MY TOYOTA DEALER TO CHECK THIS. THERE IS A " CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM NOTIFICATION - ZKC" RELATED TO THIS FOR THE BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY AND BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP ASSEMBLY. I SPECIFICALLY REQUESTED THAT THEY CHECK OUT THE ELECTRICAL COMPONENT OF THE BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP EVEN IF NOT COVERED BY WARRANTY. I ALSO TOLD THEM ABOUT THE ERRORS ONLY OCCURRING ON A LOW 12 VOLT BATTERY CHARGE. THEIR DIAGNOSIS SHOWED AN ERROR CODE OF POAA6 AND ONLY THE WARNING LIGHTS AND ERROR MESSAGE IN THE CAR DISPLAY. THEY NOT ONLY DECIDED THIS WAS NOT COVERED BY WARRANTY BUT ALSO IGNORED MY SPECIFIC REQUEST TO TEST THE BRAKE SYSTEM AT MY EXPENSE. NO ATTEMPT AT CHECKING BRAKES OR 12 VOLT CHARGING SYSTEM. I WAS TOLD THEY WOULD HAVE TO OPEN THE INVERTER TO CHECK THAT WITH THE KNOWN OUTCOME THAT THIS INVERTER IS NOT REPAIRABLE BUT WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED AT A COST OF $10,000.. NEW 12V BATTERY INSTALLED. COMPUTERS CAN MALFUNCTION IF NOT GIVEN THE DESIGN OPERATING VOLTAGE! I HAVE TROUBLE BELIEVING THAT THERE IS A "HYBRID BATTERY VOLTAGE SYSTEM ISOLATION FAULT" DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE ON BOARD COMPUTER DOES NOT REPORT THIS MESSAGE WHEN OPERATING ON A FULLY CHARGED 12 VOLT SYSTEM - IN OTHER WORDS OPERATING UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS.
Nov 25, 2019
AT TOYOTA, WE ARE DEDICATED TO PROVIDING VEHICLES OF OUTSTANDING QUALITY AND VALUE. AS PART OF OUR CONTINUAL EFFORTS TO ENSURE CUSTOMER SATISFACTION, TOYOTA WOULD LIKE TO ADVISE YOU OF A VOLUNTARY CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM THAT HAS BEEN INITIATED FOR YOUR VEHICLE. TOYOTA HAS RECEIVED REPORTS REGARDING CERTAIN INTERNAL MALFUNCTIONS OF THE BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY IN CERTAIN 2008-2010 MODEL YEAR HIGHLANDER HYBRID VEHICLES. IN THESE REPORTS, CUSTOMERS HAVE NOTED VARIOUS BRAKE SYSTEM RELATED WARNING LAMPS ARE ILLUMINATED. THIS CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM PROVIDES COVERAGE AS IT APPLIES TO THE BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY AND BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP ASSEMBLY. THE SPECIFIC CONDITION COVERED BY THIS PROGRAM IS FOR CERTAIN INTERNAL MALFUNCTIONS OF THE BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY. IF THE CONDITION IS VERIFIED, THE VEHICLE WILL BE REPAIRED WITH NEW BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY AND BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP ASSEMBLY UNDER THE TERMS OF THIS CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM. IF THE FOLLOWING WARNING LAMPS ARE ILLUMINATED, THE VEHICLE MAY BE EXPERIENCING A CONCERN WITH THE BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY AND BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP ASSEMBLY THAT IS COVERED BY THIS CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM. THE PART IS BACK ORDERED AND THEY DON'T KNOW WHEN THEY WILL BE AVAILABLE. I JUST PICKED THE VEHICLE FOR THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY WILL NOTIFY ME WHEN IT'S AVAILABLE. I'M STILL DRIVING THE VEHICLE. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON SINCE I FIRST FILED 7 MONTHS AGO. IT'S FUNNY HAS THE PART IS AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE, BUT IT'S ON BACK ORDER FOR MY VEHICLE. THIS IS NOT RIGHT. LOOKS LIKE I'M GOING TO HAVE TO WAIT AGAIN. THANKS FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE IN THIS MATTER.
Sep 13, 2019
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaints
TOOK MY CAR TO STATE INSPECTION AND FAILED BECAUSE ONLY LEFT SIDE REAR BRAKE LIGHT WAS NOT WORKING. I REPLACED THE BULBS AND CHECKED THE FUSE. FUSE IS FINE AND HAD NEW BULBS AND THE LIGHT STILL DO NOT WORK. RESEARCHED ONLINE AND IT SEEMS LIKE MANY PEOPLE ARE HAVING SAME PROBLEM. FROM WHAT I READ FROM PEOPLE ONLINE, NO ONE COULD FIGURE OUT THE CAUSE AND SOLUTION OF THE PROBLEM. SOME PEOPLE ALREADY TOOK IT INTO THE DEALER AND "RESOLVED THE ISSUE" BY SPENDING $400 BUT ENDED UP WITH THE SAME ISSUE A YEAR LATER. SEEMS TO BE GOING IN THE DIRECTION OF ELECTRICAL DESIGN DEFECT. I NEED TO GET THIS ISSUE RESOLVED TO PASS THE STATE SAFETY INSPECTION. *TR
Mar 08, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE HEADLIGHT LENS WERE FOGGED AND THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY FAILED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED PREVIOUSLY AND BOTH THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE HEADLIGHTS WERE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE SEAL FOR THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY WAS DEFECTIVE AND ALLOWED WATER TO ENTER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE WHO FILED A REPORT AND DID NOT OFFER ANY FURTHER ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 54,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 59,000.
Aug 15, 2012
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
2 complaints
WHILE DRIVING MY CARE ON THE HIGHWAY THE "LOW ENGINE PRESSURE" LIGHT CAME ON. I IMMEDIATELY EXIT THE HIGHWAY AND WENT TO THE GAS STATION. ALL THE OIL IN MY CAR LEAKED OUT. WE PUT 4 QUARTS OF OIL IN MY CAR AND WHEN YOU TURN ON THE CAR ALL THE OIL LEAKED OUT. I CALL FOR A FLAT BED TOW TRUCK AND DROP MY CAR OFF TO THE DEALER. TOYOTA HAS A RECALL 2GR-FEV6 LSC 90K, WHICH HAS THIS ISSUE. THE TOYOTA DEALER IS SAYING MY VEHICLE VIN # IS NOT EFFECTED BY THIS. HOW COULD THIS BEEN WHEN THE SAME EXACT THING HAPPEN TO MY CAR AND THEY ARE REPLACING THE PARTS THAT ARE PART OF THIS RECALL. THEY ARE CHARGING ME $900.00 TO FIX THE CAR. I NEED HELP. MY TOYOTA LIFE TIME WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER THIS!!!!!.....THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. I BELIEVE TOYOTA IS COVERING IT UP SO THAT THEY DO NOT HAVE TO HAVE ALL THE VEHICLES FIXED DUE TO THIS MALFUNCTION. *TR
Jun 28, 2014
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE STOPPED A STOP SIGN AND THE RPMS BEGIN TO INCREASE EXCESSIVELY. WHEN THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO PULL OFF SHE WAS UNABLE TO DRIVE FORWARD OR IN REVERSE. A MECHANIC CAME AND WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION DROPPED OUT OF THE VEHICLE BECAUSE THE FRONT AXLE HAD BROKEN. THE VEHICLE WAS BEING REPAIRED WHEN THE COMPLAINT WAS FILED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 12000. UPDATED 01/24/11 *BF THE DEALER STATED THE DRIVER SIDE AXLE BROKE IN HALF AND HALF OF THE AXLE BECAME STUCK IN THE TRANSMISSION. ALSO THE CAMSHAFT POSITION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. UPDATED 03/16/11
Nov 18, 2010
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
WHILE DRIVING DOWN HIGHWAY 17 SOUTH TOWARDS SANTA CRUZ, CALIFORNIA ON A RAINING WEDNESDAY MORNING, I SUDDENLY FELT MY VEHICLE LOOSING CONTROL IN A SLIPPERY DOWNHILL HIGHWAY AND I HIT THE CENTER DIVIDER WITH THE LEFT FRONT OF VEHICLE AND CAR SPUN MULTIPLE TIMES AND HITTING THE LEFT REAR BUMPER TO THE WALL FACING THE ONCOMING TRAFFIC. THERE ARE 4 OF US IN THE VEHICLE ALL WEARING SEAT BELTS AND SUFFERED INJURIES. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM DID NOT ACTIVATE. MY INSURANCE COMPANY DECLARED THE VEHICLE TOTAL LOST. I WAS ADVISED TO CONTACT TOYOTA DEALERSHIP IN FREMONT TO INVESTIGATE THE REASONS WHY THE AIR BAG AND ABS DID NOT ACTIVATE. I AM ABOUT TO CALL THE DEALERSHIP ONCE THEY OPEN IN FEW MINUTES. *TR
Apr 02, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH AND APPLYING THE BRAKES TO AVOID HITTING A DEER, THE BRAKES SEIZED AND THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. AS A RESULT, THE DRIVER AND A PASSENGER SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE AWAY FROM THE SCENE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 70,000. UPDATED 11/01/12*LJ UPDATED 11/02/12
Aug 14, 2012
SEATS
2 complaints
MY WIFE WAS DRIVING HER 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER TO WORK AND TURNED ON THE HEATED SEAT. IT HAS BURNED HER LEG AT THE HAMSTRING UNDER THIGH AREA PRETTY BAD. *TR
Feb 07, 2013
THE DRIVER'S SEAT DOES NOT RISE UP ENOUGH TO SEE OVER THE OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR. ALSO, THE OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR IS LARGE AND CONTINUOUS TO THE DOORPOST PRODUCING A VISUAL BLOCK FROM WINDSHIELD SIDE OF THE DOORPOST TO THE FAR END OF THE OUTSIDE MIRROR - ABOUT 16 INCHES. PROJECT THIS VISUAL BLOCK-OUT ACROSS TO A SIDE-STREET INTERSECTION AND IT BLOCKS THE VIEW OF THE ENTIRE SIDE-STREET INTERSECTION AND THEN SOME WHEN TRAVELING ON A FOUR LANE STREET WITH A MERIDIAN IN THE MIDDLE. THIS IS GROSS HAZARD FOR ME AND A VEHICLE IN THE INTERSECTION AND FOR PEDESTRIANS. I HAD ONE COLLISION WHEN LEAVING A CHURCH PARKING LOT ONTO A TWO LANE RURAL ROAD - TRAVELING ABOUT 10 MPH AND THE OTHER VEHICLE WAS STOPPED IN HIS LANE. OCCURRED IN SPRING OF 2008, ABOUT 5 PM - CLEAR SUNNY DAY. I DID NOT SEE HIS CAR - AND THE COLLISION REPAIR COST FOR HIS VEHICLE WAS $2,500 AND FOR MY REPAIR COST WAS $4,000 +-. ALSO, I HAVE HIT THE LOW CONCRETE DIVIDER WITH MY LEFT FRONT TIRE - LOCATED UNDER THE FREEWAY OVERPASS WHEN TURNING - THIS TURN I HAVE DONE 5 DAYS A WEEK FOR 5 YEARS ON THE WAY TO WORK WITH NO PROBLEM UNTIL DRIVING THIS 2008 HIGHLANDER. ALSO, I HAVE HAD SEVERAL NEAR COLLISIONS WITH UNSEEN VEHICLES AND PEDESTRIANS. AT NIGHT WITH VEHICLE BEHIND ME THE LIGHT GLARE IN THE OUTSIDE MIRROR IS SUCH THAT IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE OVER OR AROUND TO SEE A SIDE-STREET INTERSECTION. SIMILAR PROBLEMS EXIST FOR THE RIGHT OUTSIDE MIRROR. TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEM THE MIRROR NEEDS TO BE LOWERED. ALSO, A GAP BETWEEN THE EDGE OF THE MIRROR AND THE DOORPOST WOULD BE A MAJOR GREAT HELP. MY HEIGHT IS 5'-5" NOT TOO SHORT - BY PUSHING HARD WITH MY LEFT FOOT ON THE FLOORBOARD STEP I AM ABLE TO SEE OVER THE OUTSIDE MIRROR AND GAIN A REASONABLE VIEW OF THE SIDE-STREET INTERSECTION - BUT THIS MOVEMENT TAKES AWAY FROM MY CONCENTRATION AND AGILITY TO DRIVE ON. *TR
Dec 10, 2009
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
2 complaints
AS I APPROACHED A STOP SIGN, MY CHECK ENGINE AND VEHICLE STABILITY CONTROL LIGHTS CAME ON. I WAS LESS THAN A MILE FROM MY DESTINATION AND WAS ABLE TO SAFELY PARK MY VEHICLE WITH NO ISSUES. AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, I CONTACTED MY LOCAL TOYOTA DEALERSHIP TO ALERT THEM TO THE PROBLEM. THE DEALERSHIP REPRESENTATIVE ASKED IF THE VSC LIGHT WAS FLASHING AND I TOLD HIM NO; TO WHICH HE REPLIED IT WOULD BE OKAY TO DRIVE. LATER ON THAT EVENING, I DECIDED TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP AND UPON TAKING OFF AT THE LIGHT, THE VEHICLE SEEMED SLUGGISH AT FIRST AND THEN SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND SURGED FORWARD. WHEN I PULLED INTO THE DEALERSHIP, I EXPLAINED WHAT HAPPENED AND AM NOW AWAITING TO SEE WHAT THE PROBLEM IS. *TR
Jul 05, 2012
UPON STARTING MY CAR, THE VSC OFF, CHECK ENGINE, AND ABS LIGHTS REMAINED LIT. ACCELERATION WAS SLOW AND ROUGH, AND THE GENERAL ENGINE FEEL WAS WRONG. I STOPPED CAR AND RESTARTED WITH NO EFFECT. WHILE DRIVING, THE LIGHTS EXTINGUISHED FOR A MOMENT, AND AT THAT POINT PERFORMANCE TEMPORARILY IMPROVED - THIS CAUSED A SURGE IN ACCELERATION. BUT THE SAME LIGHTS CAME ON A MOMENT LATER AND PERFORMANCE, ONCE AGAIN, FAILED. FORTUNATELY I WAS NOT IN TRAFFIC WHEN THE SURGE OCCURRED. *TR
Feb 28, 2012
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
2 complaints
DEALER CLAIMED " THIS IS AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. ACCESS AND TRACED ALL RELATED WIRING TO INSIDE THE FUSE/RELAY PANEL. FOUND SOMETHING HAD CHEWED AND SHORTED OUT THE WIRING" THEY WOULD NOT PROVIDE ANY PROOF. I NOTIFIED TOYOTA MOTORS AND GOT NO HELP FROM THEM. *TR
Oct 06, 2011
THE SENSOR LIGHTS FOR ABS AND VSC HAVE GONE ON AND OFF INTERMITTENTLY ON MY 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. SOMETIMES THE BRAKES ENGAGED THE SKID CONTROL, BRAKING CAPABILITY IS LOST AND OTHER TIMES THE SPEED NEEDLE DOES NOT GAGE PROPERLY. THE SYSTEM WAS INSPECTED BY TOYOTA, WHO INDICATED IT WAS DUE TO DAMAGE TO THE SENSOR FROM A ROPE. TOYOTA SUPPOSEDLY REPLACED THE SENSOR AND THEY STAYED OFF FOR A FEW WEEKS, BUT CONTINUE TO COME BACK. MY VEHICLE STILL HAS LESS THAN 50,000 MILES, AND TOYOTA IS AGAIN TELLING ME THEY HAVE TO LOOK INTO THE PROBLEM. *TR
Dec 30, 2010
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
2 complaints
LEASED THE CAR NEW. ON THE ODOMETER IT HAD OVER 60 MILES REGISTERED. FROM THE FIRST DAY, THE VALVES WERE SOUNDING LOUDLY. THE VALVES ARE STILL SOUNDING LOUDLY, AT 15, 000 MILES. I INFORMED THE SERVICE DEPT, BUT REALLY NOTHING WAS DONE. WHEN WARMING UP THE CAR, WHEN I FIRST HAD IT, THE CAR WAS RUNNING VERY ROUGH. THE SERVICE DEPT. CORRECTED THIS. AT 15,000 MILES A FUEL INJECTOR HAD TO BE REPLACED. SERVICE CONSULTANT STATES HE WILL CHECK THIS IN ONE YEAR. I WANTED TO KNOW HOW COME THE FUEL INJECTOR HAD TO BE REPLACE AND WAS THIS NORMAL IN OTHER CAR. NEW FUEL INJECTOR WAS INSERTED. OLD PART IS NOT AVAILABLE. *TR
Oct 31, 2010
2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER FUEL TANK DAMAGE. CONSUMER STATES ENGINE CHECK LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND WOULD NOT ACCEPT GAS WHEN TRYING TO FILL THE TANK. MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE OVR VALVE AND CHARCOAL FILTER WERE DAMAGED. *KB
Apr 04, 2008
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC
2 complaints
I RECEIVED A VSC ERROR CODE, ON A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER, NOT THE HYBRID MODEL, BUT A LIMITED TOP OF THE LINE MODEL. THE VEHICLE STARTS TO ACCELERATE BY ITSELF & THEN WHEN YOU SLAM ON THE BRAKES TO TRY TO STOP IT, IT FAILS TO STOP. IN ORDER TO AVOID SLAMMING INTO THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME & TO THE RIGHT OF ME, I CHOSE TO TURN LEFT HARD & RUN INTO THE CONCRETE DIVIDER. THIS WAS THE 2ND OCCASION THAT THIS TYPE OF FAILURE HAS HAPPENED TO ME. THE 1ST TIME WAS ON DECEMBER 15, 2010 & I ALSO CHOSE TO TURN LEFT HARD & STRIKE THE DIVIDER INSTEAD OF REAR ENDING THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF OR SIDE SWIPING THE VEHICLE TO THE RIGHT OF ME. ON THE 1ST OCCASION, NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED & BECAUSE OF THAT I ENDED UP STRIKING MY HEAD ON THE EITHER THE DRIVERS SIDE GLASS OR SOME HARD OBJECT AND LOSING MY SHORT TERM MEMORY. THE VEHICLE & THEN CROSSED 3 LANES OF TRAFFIC, FINALLY OFF OF AN EXIT RAMP & CAME TO REST AFTER STRIKING A FENCE POLE. THE 2ND TIME IT HAPPENED WAS ON AUGUST 16, 2010. I ALSO CHOSE TO STRIKE THE CONCRETE DIVIDER AS OPPOSED TO STRIKING THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME OR TO THE RIGHT OF ME. THEN SOMEHOW I ALSO CROSSED 3 LANES OF HIGHWAY & FINALLY COMING TO REST AFTER STRIKING A LIGHT POLE. THE DRIVER SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG DID DEPLOY THIS TIME SO I DID NOT LOSE CONSCIOUSNESS NOR DID I LOSE MY SHORT TERM MEMORY. IT WAS AT THAT POINT THAT I NOTICED THAT A 2ND ERROR CODE ALSO CAME UP STATING BRAKE FAILURE. *TR
Aug 21, 2010
OUR 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HAS HAD THE SAME INTERMITTENT BRAKING PROBLEM SINCE WE PURCHASED IT IN 2008. WHEN WE BRAKE FOR THE FIRST SECOND OR SO OF DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL THE BRAKES WILL EITHER NOT RESPOND OR THERE WILL BE A SLIGHT SURGE IN ACCELERATION. AFTER FURTHER DEPRESSION OF THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE BRAKES WILL ENGAGE, BUT THE INITIAL ENGAGEMENT IS NOT SMOOTH. IT FEELS LIKE SOMEONE THAT HAS BRAKED THEIR VEHICLE TOO RAPIDLY. THIS ISSUE COMES AND GOES. WHEN WE TAKE IT TO THE DEALER, THEY SAY THEY CANNOT RECREATE THE ISSUE AND SAY THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. *TR
Feb 10, 2010
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
2 complaints
TOYOTA SAFETY RECALL NOTICE. I RECEIVED A SAFETY RECALL NOTICE FROM TOYOTA ABOUT FLOOR MAT INTERFERENCE WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. WHILE THE PEDAL MAY GET STUCK ON THE FLOOR MAT, IT IS HIGHLY UNLIKELY THAT THIS WILL CAUSE A SUDDEN INCREASE IN ACCELERATION. COMMON SENSE TELLS YOU THAT IF THE PEDAL GETS STUCK, THE VEHICLE WILL REMAIN AT THE SPEED IN WHICH THE PROBLEM OCCURRED. THIS ALSO IS TRUE FOR THE ALLEGED STICKY ACCELERATOR PROBLEM. IT IS DISAPPOINTING THAT THE NTMVSA HAS NOT RECOGNIZED THIS PROBLEM AND IS ALLOWING TOYOTA TO CONTINUE DOWN THIS ROAD. *TR
Apr 10, 2010
WHILE I WAS DRIVING OUR 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER (WITH 21506 MILES) TO THE TOYOTA DEALER FOR A TIRE INSPECTION, THE VEHICLE SURGED TO APPROX 80 MPH WITHOUT ACCELERATOR PEDAL ENGAGEMENT. WHEN I APPLIED BOTH FEET TO THE BRAKE PEDAL, IT SLOWED THE VEHICLE TO APPROX 60 MPH, BUT THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO RACE OUT OF CONTROL. I PUT THE VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL, BUT THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO RACE. I PUT THE VEHICLE BACK INTO DRIVE AND TURNED OFF THE IGNITION. I EVENTUALLY GLIDED TO A SLOW, DIFFICULT STOP. NO OTHER VEHICLES WERE IN THE IMMEDIATE AREA. AFTER A 5 MINUTE REST IN PARK, I STARTED THE CAR AND THE ENGINE RACED. I IMMEDIATELY TURNED OFF THE IGNITION. AFTER ANOTHER 5 MINUTE DELAY, I STARTED THE VEHICLE AGAIN AND IT APPEARED NORMAL. I DROVE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND EXPLAINED WHAT HAD OCCURRED. THE DEALER COULD NOT RECREATE THE EVENT AND DID NOT SEE ANY READOUTS INDICATING WHAT HAD OCCURRED. THEY EXPLAINED IT AS A ECT TRANSMISSION THAT IS COMMON WHEN THE AIR CONDITIONING IS ON. GIVEN RECENT EVENTS, MY FEAR IT THAT THE EXPLANATION GIVEN TO ME IS NOT ACCURATE. I CALLED THE DEALER SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE PAST 2 MONTHS TO DETERMINE WHAT MY OPTIONS ARE FOR RECALL AND REPAIR. THEY CONTINUE TO TELL ME TO WAIT FOR A FLOOR MAT RECALL NOTICE FROM TOYOTA, AND PRIOR TO RECEIVING THAT NOTICE, THEY CANNOT ASSIST. I CALLED THE NATIONAL TOYOTA SERVICE CENTER 1-800-331-4331 TO FILE AN INCIDENT REPORT. I EXPLAINED THE SITUATION ABOVE, THEY GAVE ME A CASE NUMBER . THEY INDICATED THAT OUR VEHICLE WAS MADE IN JAPAN AND SHOULD NOT BE PART OF THE PEDAL RECALL. THEY ALSO INDICATED THAT WE SHOULD BE PART OF THE FLOOR MAT RECALL WHICH WILL INCLUDE A COMPUTER CHIP ADJUSTMENT THAT WILL INSTALL A BRAKE OVERRIDE TO ENSURE THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WILL OVERRIDE THE ACCELERATOR. GIVE THE RECENT EVENTS OVER THE PAST 2 DAYS, IT APPEARS THAT MAY NOT BE WORKING PROPERLY ON OTHER VEHICLES. SINCE AUGUST 2009, THIS SITUATION HAS NOT OCCURRED AGAIN. MY FEAR IS THAT IT WILL. *TR
Mar 10, 2010
SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
The ECU requires a reflash or replacement. The hybrid batteries over heat and regen braking randomly shuts off during braking or before/after due to overheating becuswe the cooling fans do not engage past level 1 or 2. The fans in fact never go full speed unless commanded by a Toyota service tech via the software during fan testing. Upon testing I noticed they not once went high enough to be audible and thus overheated. Manu forms indicate this is a common issue and requires 180-$300 for a reflash and/or replacement of the compu) ECU to alleviate this issue. Second issue I've found is the 3rd row seat belts just like some other MY Highlanders have their restraints cut at the shackle holding them to the body of the vehicle. I have seen several sheered this way including my own vehicle.
Mar 14, 2024
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
I was in a car accident yesterday two cars hit me from behind my daughter was in the third row and my other kids in the second row. The air bags didn't deploy and my daughters seatbelt in the third row didn't lock when the cars impacted my vehicle her seat belt kept going forward with her. Also my seat belt unlocked and came off upon impact of car
Jan 12, 2024
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
My 2008 toyota highlander gas pedal must be lose.because I barley push the gas and it takes on fast.i was driving home on the highway and the truck just died .the battery dies I couldn't turn my wheel I could not press the break
Mar 31, 2023
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2008 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS and stabili-trak warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The mechanic retrieved DTC: C1391, indicating that the brake actuator assembly was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the Extended Program had expired, and the contact was advised to call the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
Feb 21, 2023
WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
No nothing has been inspected I didn’t even know it had a recall all my lights on my truck are on now
Jul 24, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
This vehicle has had ongoing issues with the O2 sensors not working, I have researched online for years and have read that there are several online forums of 2008 Highlander owners complaining of the same issue. The problem that I (we all) face with this, is that it constantly fails, never being able to know if there is an actual issue becuase of the faulty sensors or wiring causing the sensors to go out. I am always frightened that something is wrong with the car and spent hundreds and continue to spend having my car checked. I am a single mom who lost my job at the beginning of the pandemic, I have two school aged kids. Having them in a car that I can not be sure we are safe in, is scary. The cost to replace the sensors as there are 3 that have been a constant pain of not working correctly is insane! It is going to be in upwards of $600 to repair! I absolutely can't afford that, being an unemployed single mother of two. Even when I was employed, living paycheck to paycheck to have to pay out almost a thousand dollars when from what I've read from others that replacing will still result in it failing again. So I have to drive around in a car that has all the sensor lights on, something really bad could happen to the car and since all the sensor lights remain on, I'll never know if something is wrong with the car- something bad could happen to me and my children while we are driving in the car. How can someone replace the sensors only for them to keep going out. This is a serious problem, I've dealt with this for years, only today did I learn that I could report this after receiving a recall letter from Toyota today regarding the paint on my car.
Jun 13, 2022
SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
THE BRAKES FEEL LIKE THE PULSATE WGEN YOU START TO PRESS ON THEM. THEN WHILE ENGAGING THE BRAKES IT WILL FEEL LIKES ITS GRABBING THEN IT RELEAES AND THE PEDAL FEELS LIKE IT HAS NO PRESSURE IN IT. THE CRUISE CONTROL STOPPED WORKING, ALL THE LIGHTS ARE ON FOR THE BRAKE SYSTEM, AND NOW IT HAS A LONG HIGH PITCH BEEP WHEN TURNING THE CAR ON OR APPLYING PRESSURE TO THE BREAK PEDAL.
Nov 12, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD WHEN THE TRACTION SENSOR CAME ON. FOLLOWED BY A WARNING OF CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM AND VCS SYSTEM. AND CAR SHUT COMPLETELY OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC.
Jul 07, 2020
STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY AND BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP ASSEMBLY (PROBLEM KNOWN TO TOYOTA FOR THIS AND OTHER MODELS,) FAILED, LEADING TO DASH MESSAGES: MASTER WARNING, ABS WARNING, BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING (BRAKE MALFUNCTION: STOP THE VEHICLE IN A SAFE PLACE IMMEDIATELY AND CONTACT A DEALER), SLIP INDICATOR. BRAKE PEDAL FUNCTION SEEMS LIMITED, AND DANGEROUS. ALL WARNINGS COME BACK UPON SHUTTING OFF AND RESTARTING VEHICLE.
Dec 28, 2019
STEERING,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
I HAVE A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE DRIVING A SIDE CITY STREET, ON A SLIGHT CURVE, THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED AND COULD NOT BE TURNED. AS A RESULT, MY DAUGHTER HIT A TREE. MY DAUGHTER WAS GOING APPROXIMATELY 25MPH AND THE IMPACT WAS IN THE CENTER OF THE VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.
May 23, 2018
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE WINDOW WOULD SOMETIMES NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY AND THERE WAS A BURNING ODOR WHEN UTILIZED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED BEFORE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO STEVE LANDERS TOYOTA (10825 COLONEL GLENN RD, LITTLE ROCK, AR 72204) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE POWER WINDOW MASTER SWITCH FAILED AND WAS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V689000 (VISIBILITY), BUT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000.
Feb 28, 2018
STEERING,AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
ENG LIGHTS AND SERVICE LIGHTS STAYS ON EVEN AFTER SERVICE HARD TO START BATTERY ALWAYS DOWN DEALERSHIP COULD'T FIX PROBLEM!!
Jul 18, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS
1 complaint
AT 5:00 PM ON MAY 16, 2017 I DROVE HOME FROM WORK (15 MINUTES OF IN-TOWN DRIVING) EVERYTHING WAS FINE. I PARKED IN THE GARAGE AND WENT INSIDE TO PREPARE TO LEAVE WITH MY FAMILY FOR MY SON'S SENIOR HONORS NIGHT. AT 5;45 PM WE GOT INTO THE CAR AND IMMEDIATELY MY MOM AND MY HUSBAND SAID, "WHAT'S BURNING?". IT SMELLED LIKE PAPER BURNING. BEFORE LEAVING THE HOUSE, MY HUSBAND POPPED THE HOOD TO MAKE SURE THERE WASN'T A WIRE OR SOMETHING ELSE BURNING UNDER THE HOOD OF THE CAR. WE DOVE 10 MINUTES TO TOWN TO EAT. WE STAYED IN RESTAURANT 30 MINUTES. WHEN WE RETURNED TO MY CAR, MY MOTHER GOT IN THE PASSENGER'S FRONT SEAT AND AND MY HUSBAND IN BACK AND WE ALL SMELLED A STRONG SMELL OF SOMETHING BURNING. I LOOKED AT MY MOM BEFORE STARTING THE CAR AND SAW THE BLACK, BURNT HEADREST. IT APPEARS THERE WAS AN ACTUAL FLAME AT SOME POINT. EVERYONE GOT OUT OF THE CAR, WE REMOVED THE HEADREST, BUT THE BACK LEFT SIDE OF THE PASSENGERS SEAT WAS STILL VERY HOT TO THE TOUCH. MY HUSBAND DROVE THE VEHICLE TO THE FIRE STATION NEARBY, SINCE THE TOYOTA DEALER WAS ALREADY CLOSED. THE FIREFIGHTERS UNPLUGGED THE WIRES FROM THE SEAT. THE SEAT COOLED BACK DOWN.
May 16, 2017
STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
VIBRATION
Oct 21, 2015
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,WHEELS
1 complaint
2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER INVOLVED IN A REAR/SIDE CRASH SITTING STILL; HIT BY OTHER VEHICLE AT 60 MPH; 3 OCCUPANTS INSIDE VEHICLE ALL INJURED; NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED IN VEHICLE AT TIME OF CRASH; IF AIRBAGS ONLY ARE TO DEPLOY ON A FRONTAL IMPACT CRASH WHAT GOOD R THEY IN OTHER CRASHES TO HELP THE OCCUPANTS OF THE VEHICLE?
Sep 22, 2015
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE DRIVING AT 5 MPH AND PARKING THE VEHICLE IN THE GARAGE AT HOME, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BEING DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE CRASHED THROUGH THE INTERIOR WALL OF THE GARAGE, ONLY COMING TO A STOP AFTER DAMAGING THE OUTER BRICK FACADE OF THE BUILDING. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WAS NO POLICE REPORT FILED AND NO INJURIES SUSTAINED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,000. UPDATED 10/07/15*LJ UPDATED 12/11/2017*CN
Jul 27, 2015
VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
I HAVE THE SUN VISOR ON MY TOYOTA HIGHLANDER THAT HAS FALLEN DOWN AND IT DOESN'T STAY UP AT ALL ANYMORE. I AM A SINGLE MOTHER WITH THREE CHILDREN AND FIND THIS VERY UNSAFE BECAUSE IT OBSTRUCTS MY VISION ALSO WHEN I LOOK TO THE RIGHT OR LEFT I CONSTANTLY HIT MY FOREHEAD ON THE VISOR THAT IS CONSTANTLY ON THE WAY. IT IS A HAZARD TO ME AND MY 3 CHILDREN. *TR
May 03, 2015
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
THE SPIRAL CABLE IN THE STEERING WHEEL HAS CAUSED THE AIRBAG LIGHT TO COME ON, WHICH MEANS THE AIRBAGS WILL NOT OPERATE IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH. ALSO THE HORN AND CRUISE CONTROL WILL NOT OPERATE. THESE ITEMS ARE ALL ASSOCIATED WITH THE SPIRAL CABLE. TOYOTA CUSTOMER SERVICE SAID THEY KNOW OF THE SPIRAL CABLE PROBLEM BUT DO NOT HAVE A FIX FOR IT NOW. *TR
Sep 26, 2014
STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
ATTEMPTING TO PARK CAR IN A SHOPPING CENTER. SUDDENLY ENGINE ACCELERATED UNINTENTIONALLY. HIT CURB & TREE. DAMAGE TO CAR APPROXIMATELY $6000 TO REPAIR. *TR
Aug 26, 2014
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
MY 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER SPORT OIL COOLER LINE JUST GAVE OUT. DURING MY RESEARCH I FOUND THIS HAS BEEN A PROBLEM IN THE PAST. MY CAR HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP FOR OVER TWO WEEK. ACCORDING TO THE TOYOTA DEALER, THE RUBBER HOSE IS BEING REPLACED BY METAL. TOYOTA DOES NOT HAVE AN ETA FOR THE PART. THE DEALERSHIP IS NUMBER 90 ON THE LIST.. THEY WILL NOT PROVIDE A CAR. *TR
Jul 10, 2014
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING NORTH ON A DIVIDED ONE WAY STREET. A 2006 MINIVAN WAS TRAVELING SOUTH ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE DIVIDED STREET. HE MADE A LEFT HAND TURN, RAN THROUGH THE YIELD SIGN AND BROADSIDED ME ON THE DRIVER SIDE. I SAW HE WAS NOT GOING TO STOP AND TURNED THE WHEEL TO THE RIGHT, NOT IN TIME. TOOK OUT THE LEFT SIDE OF THE HIGHLANDER FROM THE FRONT WHEEL TO THE REAR PANEL. HIS FRONT AIRBAG DID DEPLOY. MY SIDE AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY AND I KNOW MY HEAD BOUNCED AGAINST THE SIDE WINDOW TWICE. I ASKED THE BODY SHOP TO LOOK AT THE AIRBAG AND THEY SAID THAT IT APPEARED OK AND APPARENTLY THE STRIKE DID NOT WARRANT AIRBAG INFLATION. THE HIGHLANDER IS 4 WHEEL DRIVE, 20" WHEELS. BOTH LEFT DOORS HAD TO BE REPLACED AND DAMAGE WAS LOW ON DOORS. WHEELS ALSO REPLACED. I THINK THE SIDE AIRBAG SHOULD HAVE DEPLOYED. *TR
Jun 17, 2014
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
WE WERE STARTING OFF TO GO ON VACATION WHEN WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON THE DASHBOARD AND INFORMATION PANEL WITH HYBRID SYSTEM WARNINGS AND BRAKE WARNINGS THEN THE CAR COMPLETELY STOPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD AND STEERING WAS LOST. WE WERE ABLE TO GET OFF TO THE SIDE ENOUGH TO PREVENT CAUSING AN ACCIDENT HOWEVER WE WERE ON A BUSY STREET. HAD IT TOWED TO THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER AND THE DIAGNOSIS WAS A FAILED COIL. THEY REPLACED ALL 3 COILS SAYING THAT IT WOULD BE PRUDENT AS THE ENGINE WAS ALREADY APART (I AGREE). THEY ALSO SAID THAT THIS IS A RELATIVELY COMMON OCCURRENCE WITH SOME OF THE HIGHLANDER HYBRIDS. I HAVE THE PART AND IT LOOKS LIKE THE TOP OF THE COIL BECAME OVER HEATED AND BLEW OUT THE TOP PLASTIC COMPOUND. I CONSIDER MYSELF VERY LUCKY THAT THIS DID NOT HAPPEN WHILE ON A HIGHWAY ON A RAINY DAY WHERE THE VEHICLE ABRUPTLY STOPPING WOULD CERTAINLY HAVE CAUSED ME TO BE IN AN ACCIDENT. THIS IS CERTAINLY A FLAW THAT TOYOTA SHOULD ADDRESS FOR SAFETY REASONS AND IT MAKES ME HESITANT TO WANT TO PURCHASE ANOTHER TOYOTA PRODUCT AGAIN. *TR
Jun 17, 2014
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER LEAVING THE KEY FOB IN THE IGNITION, SHE WALKED AROUND THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE AFTER SECURING A CHILD IN THE CHILD SAFETY SEAT WHEN THE DOORS LOCKED INDEPENDENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE KEY FOB HAD A LOW BATTERY AND CAUSED THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 100,700. UPDATED 3/25/14*CN *TR
Feb 18, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
MY WINDSHIELD WIPER DEFROSTER STARTED TO CRACKLE AND SMOKE. I TURNED IT OFF AND BACK ON AND IT STARTED TO DO IT AGAIN. *TR
Jan 31, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
1 complaint
I OWN A 2008 HIGHLANDER SPORT THAT HAS A MAJOR ISSUE WITH THE DOOR LOCKS. THE REMOTE KEY FOB NO LONGER WORKS, AND NOW EVEN THE BUTTON INSIDE THE CAR STOPPED WORKING. I HAVE DONE A LOT OF RESEARCH AND IT APPEARS THAT MANY PEOPLE WHO HAVE OWNED HIGHLANDERS HAVE HAD THIS ISSUE. MY CAR WAS RECALLED RECENTLY FOR THE POWER WINDOWS, AND NOW THE DOOR LOCKS NO LONGER WORK. I WOULD LIKE TO FILE THIS COMPLAINT WITH THE HOPE THAT ENOUGH PEOPLE COMPLAIN TO FORCE TOYOTA TO FIX THIS ISSUE. *TR
Sep 09, 2013
POWER TRAIN,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
AS WAS PULLING OUT PARKING SPACE, CAR STOPPED MOVING EVEN THOUGH ENGINE RUNNING. HAD TOWED TO DEALERSHIP, DIAGNOSED WITH FAILURE OF HYBRID INVERTER. *TR
Jul 20, 2013
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT MERGED TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD AND POWER OFF AND THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE INVERTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 124,000. UPDATED 3/13/13 *CN
Feb 08, 2013
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
MY STEERING LOCKS WHEN I WAS DRIVING. I REPORTED THIS ISSUE BEFORE TO THE DEALER, BUT THEY FIGURE OUT THAT THE COMPUTER HAS A PROBLEM AFTER THE BIG ISSUE. *TR
Dec 15, 2012
STEERING,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE PARKED THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR SIDE SEAT BELT WOULD NOT RELEASE AND AS A RESULT IT HAD TO BE CUT. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED HE HEARD A KNOCKING NOISE EMITTING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THE SEAT BELT AND THE LOWER STEERING SHAFT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 82,600 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 93,000. UPDATED 12/12/12 *CN
Nov 20, 2012
SUSPENSION,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HAD A NEW SET OF TIRES PUT ON IT 6 MONTHS AGO AND 9,000 MILES LATER THE REAR TIRES WERE BALD TO THE CORDS TO A POINT IT WAS NOT ABLE TO BE DRIVEN. THE CAR APPEARS TO HAVE A PROBLEM WITH ALIGNMENT OR STABILIZATION AS THE CAR, EVEN WITH NEW TIRES AND AN INSPECTION BY THE DEALERSHIP WAS UNDRIVABLE IN SNOW OR HEAVY RAIN EVEN AT LOW SPEEDS. THE REAR END IS VERY UNSTABLE IN THIS CAR. *TR
May 14, 2011
CHILD SEAT
1 complaint
I HAVE A SUNSHINE KIDS RADIAN 80SL. MODEL US18500. SERIAL 090900106 03565. MY LATCH STRAP DOES NOT REMAIN TIGHT. I CAN LOOSEN IT WITH ONE FINGER, WHICH MEANS MY DAUGHTER CLIMBING IN AND OUT CAN BUMP IT AND LOOSEN IT. IT ALSO HAS LOOSENED OVER TIME ON IT'S ON. WHEN I FIRST INSTALL IT, IT IS A COMPLETELY ROCK SOLID INSTALL, BUT IF YOU PULL BACK AND FORTH ON THE SEAT A FEW TIMES YOU CAN FEEL IT LOOSENING. I DO NOT FEEL LIKE MY DAUGHTER IS SAFE IN THIS SEAT IN A CRASH. (RELATED VEHICLE INFORMATION: MODEL YEAR=2008, MAKE=TOYOTA, MODEL=HIGHLANDER). *TR
May 08, 2011
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE TAILGATE LOCKING MECHANISM AND WHILE EXITING A PARKING LOT, THE TAILGATE INDEPENDENTLY UNLOCKED CAUSING ITEMS TO FALL OUT OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ELECTRICAL TAILGATE LOCKING MECHANISMS FAILED AND THE CONTACT WOULD HAVE TO MANUALLY LOCK THE TAILGATE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THE DEALER ADVISED THAT THE HINGES ON THE TAILGATE WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE DEALER REPLACED ALL OF THE HINGES AND LATCHES BUT THE FAILURE WAS NOT CORRECTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED THAT THERE WAS NOT A REPAIR THAT WOULD PERMANENTLY CORRECT THE ISSUE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY WOULD REPLACE THE HINGES AT THEIR EXPENSE FOR UP TO SEVEN YEARS OR 70,000 MILES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 11,000.
Apr 18, 2011
STRUCTURE,TIRES
1 complaint
EVENTS LEADING UP TO FAILURE: I FIRST NOTICED THAT MY LOW TIRE PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT WAS ON WHEN I STARTED OUT THIS MORNING. I STOPPED AT A GAS STATION TO CHECK THE TIRES AND NOTICED A LARGE SCREW STUCK IN MY FRONT LEFT TIRE. MY TIRE PRESSURE GAUGE REGISTERED LESS THAN 5PSI. I FILLED THE TIRE TO AT LEAST 25PSI AND HEADED BACK HOME, FIGURING I COULD PUT THE SPARE ON IN MY GARAGE AND TAKE THE FLAT TO BE REPAIRED. I WAS GLAD TO GET BACK AS THE BIGGEST SNOWSTORM OF THE SEASON WAS AN HOUR AWAY. THE FAILURE: I WAS ABLE TO GET THE JACK AND OTHER EQUIPMENT OUT OF THE BACK AND SUCCESSFULLY LOWERED THE SPARE TIRE ONTO THE GROUND. MY PROBLEM IS THAT I CANNOT REMOVE THE SPARE TIRE FROM THE CARRIER CABLE. WE'VE HAD A LOT OF SALT SPRAYED ON THE ROADS RECENTLY AND ALL THE PARTS WERE WHITE. I SPRAYED WITH WD40, BUT NO LUCK. THE MANUAL IS NO HELP AS IT ONLY SHOWS A PICTURE OF THE SPARE AND A ROTATING ARROW. I CAME INSIDE TO LOOK ONLINE TO SEE IF THERE WAS A SOLUTION.. NONE. I THEN SAW A RECALL LISTED FOR THE 2008-2010 SIENNA (ID# 8250). BECAUSE OF A SAFETY ISSUE WITH SPARE TIRE CARRIER CABLE, IT COULD POSSIBLY BECOME CORRODED AND CAUSE THE SPARE TO FALL OFF FROM UNDER THE VEHICLE. THE RECALL SAYS TO SEE AN AMENDED RECALL FOR JULY 19, 2010. I CAN'T FIND IT. OWNERS WERE TO RECEIVE A LETTER "WHEN A PERMANENT REMEDY WAS AVAILABLE." REPAIRS WERE EXPECTED TO START IN OCTOBER 2010. I'M THANKFUL I WASN'T OUT TRYING TO UNSUCCESSFULLY REMOVE THE SPARE TIRE IN A SNOWSTORM, BUT A USELESS OWNERS MANUAL, A DEFECTIVE PIECE OF EQUIPMENT, AND ESPECIALLY A RECALL FOR THE SAME PIECE OF EQUIPMENT ON ANOTHER MODEL WITH NO AMENDED REPAIR INFORMATION IS UNACCEPTABLE TO ME. WHY WEREN'T HIGHLANDER OWNERS LIKE ME NOTIFIED AS WELL? HAVE SIENNA VEHICLES BEEN REPAIRED? NOW I HAVE TO DRIVE THE CAR WITH A FLAT FRONT TIRE TO A TOYOTA DEALERSHIP TO GET THE SPARE TIRE TAKEN OFF THE VEHICLE SO I CAN TAKE THE FLAT OFF AND GET IT REPAIRED. I CONSIDER THIS ANOTHER BALL DROPPED BY TOYOTA. *TR
Feb 20, 2011
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. CONSUMER STATES SQUEAKY NOISE WHEN VEHICLE TIRES GO OVER ANY BUMPS AS WELL AS WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED IN THE MORNING WHEN THE WEATHER IS COLD *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE NOISE WAS COMING FROM THE DASHBOARD ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO FIND A PROBLEM. ALSO, THE WATER PUMP WAS LEAKING. *JB
Feb 18, 2011
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
I WAS INVOLVED IN A CAR ACCIDENT ON 08/17/2010 WHILE DRIVING MY 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER THAT HAS 23000 MILES ON IT. THE ACCIDENT CAUSED ME TOTAL DAMAGE TO MY CAR AND PUT MY LIFE IN DANGER DUE TO FAILURE IN THE BREAK/ACCELERATION SYSTEM ON THE CAR. THE CAR DID NOT STOP BUT ACCELERATED EVEN THOUGH WHEN I WAS PRESSING THE BREAK WHICH CAUSED ME TO HIT A TRUCK THAT WAS PASSING IN FRONT OF ME. I EXPLAINED TO THE EMERGENCY CREW THAT THE ACCIDENT WAS BECAUSE OF FAILURE OF THE BREAK/AND ACCELERATION SYSTEM ON THE TOYOTA CAR AND I EXPLAINED THE SAME THING TO THE POLICE OFFICER WHO WAS PRESENTED ON THE SCENE. I LIKE TO MENTION HERE THAT THE TOYOTA DEALER SENT ME A NOTE OF DEFECTION ABOUT MY CAR PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT AND I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER SHOP AND SPENT 2 HOURS THERE TO HAVE IT FIXED. THE CAR NOW IS AT THE STATE FARM INSURANCE AND I CAN EMAIL/SEND YOU THE CAR PICTURES AFTER THE ACCIDENT.
Jan 29, 2011
SEAT BELTS,CHILD SEAT
1 complaint
DURING A RECENT ROAD TRIP VISITING FAMILY, MY SON WAS RIDING IN THE THIRD ROW SEAT IN OUR TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. SHORTLY BEFORE ARRIVING AT HIS GRANDPARENTS, HE TOLD ME THAT HE HAD BECOME TWISTED IN HIS SEATBELT. AS WE WERE WITHIN 10 MINUTES OF OUR DESTINATION, I TOLD HIM THAT I WOULD HANDLE THE SITUATION WHEN WE ARRIVED. A FEW MINUTES LATER HE SAID THAT THE BELT WAS GETTING TIGHTER AND I ASKED HIM IF I NEEDED TO STOP AND HE SAID THAT WOULD BE A GOOD IDEA. BEFORE I COULD GET STOPPED (LESS THAT A BLOCK), HE INDICATED THAT HE WAS HAVING TROUBLE BREATHING. WHEN I LOOKED BACK, I WAS STARTLED TO FIND THAT THE SEAT BELT HAD BECOME WRAPPED AROUND HIS NECK AND HAD RATCHETED BACK IN, PINNING HIS NECK BACK AGAINST THE SIDE OF THE CAR. EVEN AFTER STOPPING, I WAS UNABLE TO PULLED THE SEAT BELT OUT TO GET IT OUT FROM AROUND MY SON'S NECK -- HE WAS STRANGLING IN FRONT OF MY EYES. FORTUNATELY, I WAS IN A CITY WITH RESIDENTS CLOSE BY, ONE OF WHICH HEARD ME SCREAMING AND RUNNING DOOR TO DOOR, WHO BROUGHT OUT A KITCHEN KNIFE TO CUT THE BELT AND RELEASE MY SON. I REALIZE THAT THESE RATCHET-TYPE SEAT BELTS ARE DESIGNED AS A SAFETY FEATURE IN THE THIRD ROW SEAT OF MANY MAKES AND MODELS, HOWEVER, FEEL THAT THIS DESIGN ALSO PRESENTS A STRANGULATION CONCERN. IN CASES SUCH AS MINE, THERE WAS NO WAY TO GET THE SEAT BELT RELEASED AND IF THIS HAD OCCUR WHILE ON RURAL ROADS OR THE INTERSTATE, THE AVAILABILITY OF A KNIFE WOULD HAVE BEEN MORE DIFFICULT TO COME BY. I FEEL THAT EITHER AN EMERGENCY RELEASE BUTTON SHOULD BE DESIGNED FOR THE RATCHET SEAT BELTS OR CONSUMERS NEED TO BE AWARE OF THE POTENTIAL FOR STRANGULATION AND ADVISED TO CARRY SCISSORS FOR THIS POSSIBILITY. I HAVE VOICED MY CONCERNS TO TOYOTA AND THEY ARE REPLACING THE SEAT BELT FREE OF CHARGE, HOWEVER, I FEEL THAT IT IS IMPORTANT THAT INDIVIDUALS BE AWARE OF THIS POSSIBILITY AND BE PREPARED. *TR
Jul 27, 2010
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
ON MAY 22, 2010 MY TOYOTA HIGHLANDER SUDDEN ACCELERATED. I WAS AT A FULL STOP (RED LIGHT) ON 14TH STREET AT THE INTERSECTION OF CASTRO HEADING WEST UPHILL. MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE WHEN MY TRUCK SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. THE TRUCK JERKED FORWARD EVEN THOUGH MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE. I REPORTED IT TO SAN FRANCISCO TOYOTA SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE WHEN I BROUGHT IN MY TRUCK FOR THE RECALL SERVICE ON MAY 29, 2010. THEY COMPLETED THE RECALL AS REQUIRED, BUT HE DISMISSED MY COMMENT ABOUT THE ABOVE INCIDENT. I BELIEVE THE REAL ISSUE IS THE ELECTRONIC OR SOFTWARE PROGRAMMING OF VEHICLE CONTROLS AND WISH TO HAVE THIS DOCUMENTED IF A MORE SERIOUS PROBLEM OCCURS. *TR
Jun 01, 2010
POWER TRAIN,TIRES
1 complaint
2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER PURCHASED USED TOYOTA CERTIFIED 9-3-09 FAILS TO SHIFT INTO GEAR. MOST OCCURRENCES AT LOW SPEED AFTER SLOWING TO 5MPH VEHICLE DOES NOT RESPOND TO GAS PEDAL - OR WILL NOT ENGAGE INTO GEAR AND MOVE FORWARD. THIS OCCURS OR IS MOST NOTICEABLE AT SLOW SPEEDS WHEN THE GAS PEDAL IS PUSHED AFTER HAVING SLOWED DOWN OR IN THE MIDST OF A TURN INTO A PARKING SPOT. WIFE HAS ALSO COMPLAINED ABOUT TRANSMISSION NOT ENGAGING INTO GEAR WHEN CAR IS FIRST STARTED UP ACTS LIKE YOU DIDN'T SHIFT IT INTO GEAR. WE HAVE ALSO NOTED TRANSMISSION DOESN'T ALWAYS SEEM TO DISENGAGE WHEN SLOWING FROM HIGHWAY SPEEDS 55 MPH. FEELS LIKE IT IS DRAGGING CAR TO STOP. THERE IS A NOTICEABLE WHINE BETWEEN 55 - 62 MPH. TALKED TO DEALER MECHANIC AND HE SAID THAT WAS NORMAL EVERYTHING IS CONTROLLED BY COMPUTERS. WE ARE GOING TO TAKE IT BACK IN THIS WEEK AND COMPLAIN ABOUT THE TRANSMISSION SLIPPAGE. WE HAVE ALSO HAD A ISSUE WITH THE TOYO TIRES. AT 28,345 THEY WERE DOWN TO 5/32 TO 4/32. THEY HAVE MAJOR PROBLEMS IN SNOW AND HEAVY RAIN WITH LOSS OF TRACTION. WHEN ESC KICKS ON IN THE SNOW ON A TURN DO TO SLIDING AT SLOW SPEED IT MAKES MATTERS WORSE BE BETTER OFF WITH IT TURNED OFF. *TR
May 03, 2010
TIRES,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
TOYOTA HIGHLANDER (2008) WITH TOYO A20 TIRES. EXTREMELY HIGH WEAR WITH LOW MILEAGE; CAR HYDROPLANES WITH MINIMAL WET ROAD SURFACE, POWER WHEELS LOSE TRACTION, EVEN WITH SLOW START. THE TOYO TIRE TREADS ARE ALMOST WORN OFF AT 23000 MILES; WHEN IN NORMAL DRIVING, ONE SHOULD EXPECT 45000 MILES. THIS IS A VERY POOR QUALITY OEM TIRE, AND SHOULD BE RECALLED. *TR
Apr 08, 2010
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
MY 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HAS HAD ONE INCIDENT WHERE THE ACCELERATOR GOT STUCK. I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO BERNARDI TOYOTA IN FRAMINGHAM, MA ON 3/2/2010 AND THEY ADVISED THAT MY VEHICLE IS NOT PART OF THE RECALL AND THEY ALSO CONDUCTED DIAGNOSTICS ON THE VEHICLE AND REPORTED THAT ALL SYSTEMS ARE NORMAL. I AM CONCERNED ABOUT ALL OF THE CONFUSING INFORMATION PERTAINING TO THIS PROBLEM OFFERED BY TOYOTA AND THE FACT IT HAPPENED ONCE TO MY VEHICLE, I AM WORRIED IT MIGHT HAPPEN AGAIN.
Mar 25, 2010
VISIBILITY,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
WE HAVE A TOYOTA HIGHLANDER (2008) WHICH IS HAVING SAFETY ISSUES. THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT KEEPS GOING OFF. THERE IS NOTHING IN THE SEAT BUT THE BELL KEEPS GOING OFF. IT DOESN'T HAPPEN ALL THE TIME BUT IT DOES IT OFTEN ENOUGH THAT IT COULD BE A SAFETY ISSUE. MY SECOND COMPLAINT IS THE WINDOW. THE WINDSHIELD KEEPS CHIPPING WHEN ANYTHING HITS IT. THERE ARE SEVERAL TIMES WHEN I HAD TO REPLACE THIS WINDOW. THERE COULD BE NO OTHER CARS AROUND BUT IF SOMETHING HITS IT WILL SPIDER. MY THIRD ISSUE IS THERE IS A NOISE THAT HAPPENS WHEN WE START THE CAR. ITS IN THE ENGINE AND WE CANT FIND IT. I HAVE TAKEN THE CAR INTO TOYOTA BUT OF COURSE THEY CANT FIND ANYTHING. I HAVE HAD NOTHING BUT EXPENSIVE ISSUES WITH THIS UNSAFE CAR. I WANT TO KNOW IF THERE HAVE BEEN ANY RECALLS ON THESE ISSUES? [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Mar 18, 2010
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
NOTED RECENTLY ON MYCARSTATS.COM SIX COMPLAINTS REGISTERED WITH NHTSA REGARDING 2008 HIGHLANDER BRAKE PROBLEMS AND FIVE COMPLAINTS REGISTERED WITH NHTSA REGARDING 2008 HIGHLAND ELECTRIC PROBLEMS THAT INVOLVE BRAKES AND ELECTRONIC CONTROLS. I AM SUBMITTING THE FOLLOWING EXPERIENCES WITH MY 2008 HIGHLANDER BECAUSE THEY MIRROR MANY OF THE COMPLAINTS. THE BRAKES ON MY HIGHLANDER HAVE BEEN AN ISSUE FROM THE FIRST WEEKS OF OWNERSHIP. I HAVE TAKEN THE CAR TO A LOCAL TOYOTA DEALERSHIP AND COMPLAINED ABOUT THE BRAKES. THE DEALERSHIP DID ADJUST THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WHICH THEY INDICATED WAS OUT OF ADJUSTMENT BUT HAVE STATED THAT THE BRAKES ARE WORKING NORMALLY. MY SPECIFIC COMPLAINT IS BRAKE RESPONSE. THERE IS ROUGHLY AN INCH OF PEDAL TRAVEL BEFORE THE BRAKES BEGIN TO RESPOND. IF ONE MUST MAKE A HARD EMERGENCY STOP THE VSC CONTROL WILL ENGAGE. ON ONE OCCASION, WHILE DRIVING IN TOWN A CAR RAN THROUGH A TRAFFIC LIGHT IN FRONT OF ME. I HIT THE BRAKES HARD - THE VSC LIGHT CAME ON - AND THE CAR SLOWLY STOPPED. THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT BUT IT WAS EXTREMELY CLOSE. I HAVE FOUND THAT IF I ROUTINELY PRESS ON THE BRAKE PEDAL UNTIL THE VSC LIGHT COMES ON THAT THE PEDAL TRAVEL IS REDUCED. I TOOK THE HIGHLANDER TO AAA AUTO DIAGNOSTICS AND THEY CONFIRMED THE PEDAL/VSC. AAA WAS UNABLE TO READ THE HIGHLANDER COMPUTER BECAUSE THEY DID NOT HAVE THE PROPRIETARY TOYOTA COMPUTER INTERFACE. THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER HAS STATED THAT THE DEPRESSED PEDAL AND VSC LIGHT RESPONSE IS NORMAL. I ALSO NOTED COMPLAINTS OF SUDDEN ACCELERATION WHEN PUTTING THE CAR INTO GEAR. I HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED A SURGE TO THE DEGREE MENTIONED IN THE COMPLAINTS REFERENCED ABOVE, HOWEVER, WHILE PUTTING THE CAR INTO DRIVE WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE I HAVE HAD THE CAR SURGE FORWARD. I NOW ALWAYS HAVE THE EMERGENCY BRAKE ON WHILE PUTTING THE VEHICLE INTO DRIVE. THE DATE LISTED BELOW IS THAT OF MY FIRST COMPLAINT TO THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER. *TR
Mar 16, 2010
STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. ON FEBRUARY 10, 2008 WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WHEN SHE PUT HER FOOT ON THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SLOW DOWN. SHE LOST CONTROL AND SWERVED THE INTO THE LEFT LANE AND CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLES REAR BUMPER CAUSING THAT VEHICLE TO CRASH INTO THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF THEM. SHE SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HER RIBS. THE OTHER TWO DRIVERS ALSO SUSTAINED INJURIES. THE INSURANCE COMPANY WAS IN THE PROCESS OF INVESTIGATING THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 13,000. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. UPDATED 03/30/10. *LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THERE MAY HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE STEERING PROBLEMS AS WELL. ACCORDING TO THE POLICE REPORT, THE CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING TOO FAST FOR THE ROAD CONDITIONS. UPDATED 06/28/10*JB
Feb 23, 2010
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
WE HAVE A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER WITH INTERMITTENT FAILURE OF THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKES AND VEHICLE STABILITY CONTROL SYSTEM (ABS/VSC). FOR NO APPARENT REASON, THE ABS/VSC WILL MALFUNCTION AND BRAKES OPERATE INCORRECTLY. IT IS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM THAT COMES AN GOES. WE HAVE ALMOST HAD AN ACCIDENT IN THE SNOW IN OHIO. WE HAVE HAD THE CAR INTO THE DEALER 4X WITHOUT RESOLUTION SINCE NOBODY KNOWS WHAT IS WRONG. IT HAS BEEN AN ONGOING ISSUE SINCE IT STARTED JAN 2010. *TR
Feb 20, 2010
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER FAILS TO SHIFT INTO GEAR. MOST OCCURRENCES AT LOW SPEED AFTER SLOWING TO 5MPH VEHICLE DOES NOT RESPOND TO GAS PEDAL - OR WILL NOT ENGAGE INTO GEAR AND MOVE FORWARD. THIS OCCURS OR IS MOST NOTICEABLE AT SLOW SPEEDS WHEN THE GAS PEDAL IS PUSHED AFTER HAVING SLOWED DOWN OR IN THE MIDST OF A SLOW DOWN (NOT A COMPLETE STOP) USUALLY TO WAIT FOR TRAFFIC TO CLEAR. OCCURRED WITH EVERY DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE (4). MOST NOTABLE (SCARY) WHILE MY DAUGHTER WAS TURNING AND TRYING TO GET OUT OF THE WAY OF TRAFFIC. CAR WOULD NOT ENGAGE IN GEAR, RPM INCREASE, CAR REVES UP, BUT WILL NOT MOVE FORWARD OUT OF THE WAY OF TRAFFIC. MY DAUGHTER SCREAMED. TAKEN TO DEALER AT LEAST TWICE. AND CONTINUE TO CALL AND COMPLAIN. DEALER STATES THEY HAD EXPERTS LOOK AT CAR, REBOOTED COMPUTER (BECAUSE CAR RESPONDS TO DRIVER THAT DRIVES THE MOST!). SAID NOTHING IS WRONG OR CAN BE DONE. DEALER HAS ADMITTED THAT ENGAGING IS SLOW, NOTICEABLE. FAILURE TO ENGAGE OCCURS DAILY. CONSEQUENCE - IN DANGER OF NOT BEING ABLE TO MOVE CAR OUT OF THE WAY OF ONCOMING TRAFFIC. NOTHING WAS DONE TO REPAIR. COMPUTER RE-SET. (THIS IS WHAT I WAS TOLD) VEHICLE ALSO HAS EXPERIENCED TROUBLE WHILE DRIVING UP HILL. RPM WENT TO 4000 + AND WOULD NOT CHANGE GEARS. ON FREEWAY AND SLOWING DOWN. HAD 6 HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS IN CAR. ALSO HAS "DROPPED" INTO GEAR HEAVILY. *TR
Feb 10, 2010
SUSPENSION
1 complaint
I OWN A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER ALL WHEEL DRIVE AND HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THE CAR'S ALIGNMENT. MY MECHANIC SAID IT IS A DEFECT THAT CANNOT BE FIXED AND IS A SAFETY DANGER. WHEN MY CAR HAD 3,000 MY MECHANIC SAID THE TIRES WERE SHREDDING. WHEN HE CHECKED MY ALIGNMENT HE SAID IT WAS OFF BUT WHENHE TRIED TO CORRECT IT HE SAID IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO FIX AND IT IS A DEFECT. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE TOYOTA DEALER AND WAS TOLD THEY WOULD FIX IT. WHEN I PICKED UP THE CAR THEY SAID IT WAS REALIGNED BUT COULD NOT GET IT TO THE RECOMMENDED ALIGNMENT BUT IT WAS NOT A SAFETY ISSUE. I TOOK THE CAR BACK AGAIN TO HAVE IT REALIGNED AND THE SAME RESULT THAT IT COULD NOT BE REALIGNED TO COMPANY SPECS BUT TOYOTA TOLD ME THE MISALIGNMENT IS NOT A SAFETY DANGER. MY MECHANIC SAID IT IS A DANGER SO I BROUGHT IT BACK TO TOYOTA TO COMPLAIN. TOYOTA SAID THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO SO I SHOULD JUST LIVE WITH IT. I AM FURIOUS AND AM CONCERNED ABOUT THE SAFETY OF MY CAR. WILL YOU PLEASE HELP ME. I AM AWARE OF OTHER OWNERS WITH ALIGNMENT PROBLEMS WITH THE ALL WHEEL DRIVE MODELS. THANK YOU. *TR
Feb 09, 2010
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
DRIVING MY NEW 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER LEASED DEC. 2008. ON 4-5 SEPARATE OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ON I ACCELERATED AND THE VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY WENT TO FULL RACE. PEDAL WAS NOT STUCK. COULD NOT TURN OFF THE CRUISE CONTROL. SHIFTING INTO NEUTRAL CAUSED UNCONTROLLED MAXIMUM RPMS. TURNING THE KEY OFF AND BACK ON NUMEROUS TIMES DID NOT FIX THE PROBLEM. EVENTUALLY AFTER ABOUT 20-30 SECONDS THE PROBLEM RESOLVED, ENGINE SLOWED WITH NO SIGN THERE HAD EVER BEEN A PROBLEM. THIS HAS NOT HAPPENED AGAIN SINCE SPRING 2009 BUT THAT SPRING THE 4-5 EPISODES HAPPENED WITHIN A FEW WEEKS.
Feb 08, 2010
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
I BOUGHT A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER IN DECEMBER 2007. I DID NOT TEST DRIVE THE VEHICLE AT NIGHT. AFTER A FEW WEEKS, I TRIED TO BACK UP AT NIGHT. THE LIGHTS ARE COMPLETELY INADEQUATE AND THEY ARE A SAFETY HAZARD. I HAVE TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE EVERY FEW FEET AND CHECK TO MAKE SURE THERE IS NOTHING/NO ONE IN MY PATH WHEN BACKING UP AT NIGHT. I ASKED THE DEALER TO CHECK/REPAIR THE LIGHTS. THEY SAID THIS IS A COMMON COMPLAINT BUT THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO TO FIX IT. IT IS NOT SAFE TO BACK UP THE VEHICLE AT NIGHT BECAUSE THE LIGHTS DO NOT ILLUMINATE ENOUGH TO SEE IF SOMEONE IS IN YOUR PATH. I HAVE ASKED THE MANUFACTURER FOR HELP FIXING THE PROBLEM BUT THEY SAID THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO. *TR
May 04, 2009
STRUCTURE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
TOYOTA HIGHLANDER 2008 LIMITED CAN BE PUT IN REVERSE WITH NO VISIBLE OR AUDIBLE WARNING THAT A DOOR IS OPEN. RESULTED IN BACKING OUT OF GARAGE AND CAUSING PROPERTY DAMAGE. *TR HIGHLANDER HAS LCD SCREEN TO DISPLAY WARNINGS AND OTHER MESSAGES TO THE DRIVER. SAME SCREEN IS USED TO SHOW REAR CAMERA IMAGE IN REVERSE. WHEN CAR IS IN REVERSE, REAR CAMERA IMAGE SUPERSEDES WARNING MESSAGE GIVING THE DRIVER THE IMPRESSION THAT ALL SYSTEMS ARE GO AND IT IS OK TO BACK-UP. TOYOTA NEEDS TO REPROGRAM ONBOARD COMPUTER SO THAT IF ANY DOOR IS OPEN, OR IF ANY OTHER WARNINGS (PERHAPS SEATBELTS) ARE ENGAGED THE REAR CAMERA VIEW DOES NOT SHOW ON THE LCD SCREEN SO THAT THE WARNINGS CAR BE DISPLAYED. GIVEN THE LCD SCREEN AND AFTER HAVING THE CAR FOR ONLY TWO MONTHS, IT IS CLEAR THAT DRIVERS WILL LOOK TO THAT SCREEN FOR INFORMATION AND NOT SO MUCH USE THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS.
Nov 27, 2007
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2008 TOYOTA Highlander have?
The 2008 TOYOTA Highlander currently has 402 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2008 TOYOTA Highlander?
The most common problems reported for the 2008 TOYOTA Highlander are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2008 TOYOTA Highlander problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2008 TOYOTA Highlander comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
Other Years - TOYOTA Highlander
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2016 Problems
2015 Problems
2014 Problems
2013 Problems
2012 Problems
2011 Problems
2010 Problems
2009 Problems
2007 Problems
2006 Problems
2005 Problems
2004 Problems
2003 Problems
2002 Problems
2001 Problems
2000 Problems
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