2012 TOYOTA Highlander Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
VIN Decoder
190
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component
STEERING
43 complaints
Popping and clunking sound in steering or suspension. Can be produced at speeds and at stand still. Could it be this? https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2013/SB-10075792-2280.pdf https://www.carcomplaints.com/Toyota/Highlander/2013/steering/steering.shtml NHTSA Action Number: EA18006 https://www.consumerclasslawyersblog.com/snap-crackle-pop-intermediate-shaft-noise-coming-from-toyota-highlanders/
Jun 09, 2021
WHEN I DRIVE THE VEHICLE YOU CAN HEAR A CLUNKING SOUND IN THE STEERING COLUMN. IT HAPPENS AT LOW AND HIGH SPEEDS. WHEN MAKE A TURN RIGHT, OR LEFT YOU HEAR CLUNKING IS THE STEERING COLUMN. IT FEELS LIKE THE STEERING WANTS TO COME OFF, TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATE TO FIX IT WILL COST OVER 1000$. I HEAD THERE WAS A DEFECT IN THE STEERING COLUMN WHICH TOYOTA KNOWS ABOUT, BUT HAS NOT DONE ANYTHING TO RECALL AND FIX THE PROBLEM.
Mar 01, 2021
CRUNCH NOISE IN THE STEERING COLUMN WHEN MAKING TURNS.
Oct 18, 2020
IT MAKES A LOUD CLICKING NOISE WHEN YOU STEER AT ALL TIMES
Aug 08, 2020
STEERING SHAFT CLUNKING NOISE WHEN TURN LEFT OR RIGHT AT LOW SPEED. CONFIRMED STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT FAILURE BY IRA TOYOTA TECHNICIAN ON 7/31/2020 . THIS IS 3RD TIMES FAILURE. 1ST FAILURE WAS JAN/2012 AND 2ND TIME FAILURE WAS 11/2013.
Aug 04, 2020
+ 38 more complaints for this component
STRUCTURE
18 complaints
The paint is malfunction , and is available for inspection upon request.
Jul 26, 2025
Hello, to whom it may concern: My 2012 Toyota Highlander Color Pearl White vin [XXX] ) has a repaint recall before Nov 2024. I was told at the dealer that I have to contact the Toyota dealers until I get the opportunity to get it paint. I was told that I had to contact any Toyota dealer until I get a date of acceptance. Thinking that it was not fair to delegate the responsibility on myself I made a few calls until I did get an appointment to get my SUV painted. The recall period is almost over (Nov 2024) I was told and I will put a claim on Toyota Corporation for not making sure all the vehicles are completely painted. I will also put a lawyer to help me get across my claim if I am not informed from Toyota the date that they will work on my SUV with the repaint recall. Respectfully, [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Oct 20, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that he noticed that the front and rear driver’s side and rear passenger’s side carpet were soaked with water. The contact then stated that he also noticed the water had leaked from the sunroof. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that water had entered through the sunroof due to the drain tube being improperly designed. The contact stated that he was concerned because of two visible electrical connectors near the front driver’s side floorboard and possible mold, corrosion, and rust. An undisclosed dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that he would receive a call back but no response was received. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 128,000.
Jun 27, 2023
The contact owns a 2012 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the driver’s side sun visor detached and fell on the contact. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the driver side sun visor to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that in September 2022, the driver's and the passenger's side sun visors detached. The contact took the vehicle to the second local dealer, Capitol Toyota (6800 Automall Pkwy, Gilroy, CA 95020, (408) 335-0587) where the vehicle was diagnosed and determined that the driver’s and the passenger's side sun visors needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Jan 13, 2023
THE SEAL COATING ON THE ROOF PAINT CLEAR COAT IS UNDER CURRENT WARRANTEE AND THE DEALER WANTS NOT TO COVER IT. INSTEAD THEY WANT TO NOT USE THE POLICY ,BUT CHARGE ME $1000 FOR THEM TO PAINT IT.THIS I CONSUMER FRAUD.
May 11, 2019
+ 13 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
14 complaints
POWERLIFT GATE BAR CAME OFF FROM DOOR, MECHANIC SAYS I NEED A NEW TAILGATE.
Sep 02, 2020
MY 2012 HIGHLANDER CURRENTLY HAS 110,000 MILES ON THE VEHICLE. AT THIS TIME NONE OF THE POWER DOORS LOCKS WORK WHEN THE KEY FOB OR DOOR BUTTON IS DEPRESSED. IT HAS BEEN CONFIRMED BY MY LOCAL TOYOTA DEALERSHIP, THAT ALL FOUR LOCK ACTUATORS ARE FAULTY. THE ESTIMATE TO FIX THIS PROBLEM WAS PRESENTED TO ME AT $2,000.00. I HAVE OWNED MULTIPLE CARS PRIOR TO THIS INCIDENT, MOST OF THEM BEING TOYOTAS AND I HAVE NEVER HEARD OF ALL FOUR DOOR LOCKS BEING DEFICIENT AT THE SAME TIME. I, ALONG WITH MANY OTHERS FEEL AS THOUGH THIS TYPE OF FAILURE IS UNACCEPTABLE AND MAY BE GROUNDS FOR A MASS RECALL DUE TO ITS FREQUENCY RATE.
Jan 29, 2020
DRIVING IN A MAJOR CITY, WITH MY WIFE AND TWO SMALL BOYS IN THE BACK SEAT, CAME UP ON A STOP (POLICE CLOSED THE ROAD AND TRAFFIC WAS STOPPED. WE WAIT 10 MINUTES BEFORE I PLACE THE CAR INTO PARK AND DOORS UNLOCKED. ONCE TRAFFIC STARTED MOVING ONLY, WE HEARD LOCK THE LOCKS ENGAGE BUT THEY ACTUALLY DID NOT ENGAGE THUS LEAVING ALL DOORS UNLOCKED. AS TRAFFIC STARTED MOVING A HOMELESS MAN OPENED MY DOOR AND ASSAULTED ME BECAUSE MY DOORS WERE NOT LOCKED. I PUSHED BACK AND PULLED MY DOOR CLOSED AND MANUALLY SWITCHED THE LOCK TO ENGAGE. THEN I DID THE SAME TO MY BACK DOORS WHERE MY KIDS WERE. ONCE WE GOT HOME AND PUT THE CAR INTO PARK, THE DOORS DID NOT UNLOCK. I PULLED ON THE HANDLE, PUSHED THE LOCK OUT AND THE LOCK WOULD NOT DISENGAGE. IF THERE HAD BEEN AND EMERGENCY AND I HAD TO FLEE THE CAR I WOULD BE UNSUCCESSFUL AND WOULD BE INJURED.
Nov 29, 2019
THE DRIVER SEAT WINDOW IS GOING OFF TRACK. THE GLASS DOES NOT GO UP CORRECTLY AND HAS ALMOST LOOKED LIKE IT WAS GOING TO FALL OUT. THIS HAS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND WITH THE VEHICLE STATIONARY.
Jul 15, 2019
THE POWER DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR WENT OUT ON THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR IF MY 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. I ONLY NOTICED THE FAILURE BY CHANCE. AFTER MY SIX YEAR OLD SON GOT OUT OF THE CAR ONE DAY, I TRIED THE DOOR HANDLE AND NOTICED IT WAS UNLOCKED. I HIT THE KEY FOB LOCK BUTTON AGAIN, AND THE OTHER THREE DOORS LOCKED, BUT NOT THAT ONE. IT TURNS OUT, THE DOOR HAD NOT BEEN LOCKING FOR MONTHS. I PARK IN THE DRIVEWAY AT HOME, AND A REMOTE SURFACE LOT AT WORK, SO ESSENTIALLY THE CONTENTS OF MY VEHICLE HAVE BEEN WIDE OPEN TO THEFT FOR A LONG TIME. MORE SERIOUSLY, THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR WILL NOT UNLOCK WHEN THE TRANSMISSION IS PUT INTO PARK, OR THE UNLOCK BUTTON DEPRESSED. MY SON, WHO IS STILL IN A CAR SEAT WITH A FIVE-POINT SEATBELT, IS ESSENTIALLY TRAPPED IN THE VEHICLE. SOMEONE HAS TO OPEN THE FRONT PASSENGER DOOR, AND REACH PAST THE HEADREST TO MANUALLY UNLOCK THE REAR DOOR. IF YOU CONDUCT A LITTLE RESEARCH, YOU WILL SEE THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM ON TOYOTA VEHICLES. IT COSTS $500 PER DOOR TO FIX AT THE DEALERSHIP. WHILE AUTOMATIC LOCKING MAY BE ONLY A CONVENIENCE ISSUE FOR OWNERS, FAILURE TO UNLOCK DOORS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE.
May 29, 2019
+ 9 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
13 complaints
2012 Toyota Highlander Blizzard white paint peeling I need help!!! I noticed paint peeling on a side panel 2 months ago and then followed up the peeling to find the entire top of my car is totally peeled! Please, help!!! [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jan 09, 2025
No accident
Jun 17, 2024
In July 2018, I was rear ended and had to have the Toyota of Greenville repair and repaint the rear of my car. Prior to that I had had no issues with chipping paint anywhere on my car. After that I began to have small bubbles of chipping paint on the front end of my car. I questioned the process and what may have caused it. I got nowhere with the Toyota of Greenville repair shop. I returned to Toyota of Greenville because that is where I bought my Highlander which is a 2012 and felt that service would be superior. That was in 2018 and as of today March 2, 2022 the front end of my Highlander has more chips and dings of paint. The rear end also had to be redone two times because of poor quality if the paint shop did not use adequate materials and protect the rest of my car the change in the temperature etc. could have aggravated the paint and caused it to chip and bubble. I requested that Toyota consider this a recall issue or service repair issue and repaint my Highlander. I purchased the Highlander because I was assured that it would maintain its exterior for many years. I have noted several recalls on paint colors that are metallic and my car has a metallic gray which could be an issue.
Mar 02, 2022
IN LEFT TURN LANE, ACCELERATING FROM RED LIGHT STOP, A LOUD BAND (AS FROM A ROCK), SUNROOF GLASS EXPLODED INTO THOUSANDS OF PIECES. NO INJURIES.
Oct 20, 2020
THE DOOR AJAR LIGHTS ON THE DASH AND "DINGER" COME ON AUG 4, 2019, WHEN I STARTED THE VEHICLE. I CHECKED ALL DOORS, NOTHING WAS OPEN. THIS HAS BEEN A CONTINUOUS PROBLEM EVER SINCE. THESE INDICATORS COME ON WHEN THE DOORS ARE NOT AJAR. THEY COME ON EVERY DAY, THE "DINGING" NOISE AS WELL AS THE LITTLE ICONS OF THE VARIOUS DOORS. I HAVE CHECKED THE DOORS REPEATEDLY AND THEY WERE NOT OPEN. AFTER RESEARCHING, I HAVE FOUND OUT THIS IS A TOYOTA PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE. THIS PROBLEM CAN OCCUR WHEN THE VEHICLE IS IN PARK AND STATIONARY AND ALSO WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE. IT IS ALMOST CONSTANT.AND IS ONGOING. IT HAS BEEN HAPPENING TO MY TOYOTA HIGHLANDER FOR 7 WEEKS NOW. THERE WAS NOTHING THAT HAPPENED TO CAUSE THIS PROBLEM. ONE DAY IT JUST STARTED DOING IT. I HOPE TOYOTA CAN RESOLVE THIS ISSUE AND SEND OUT A RECALL NOTICE SO OWNERS CAN GO AND GET THE PROBLEM FIXED. THIS IS AN IMPORTANT SAFETY FEATURE WHEN HAULING ITEMS AND WITH CHILDREN. DOORS COULD ACTUALLY BE AJAR. THE LITTLE ICON LIGHTS COME ON EACH DAY AND THE "DINGING" NOISE IS BOTHERSOME. I DON'T KNOW IF THE DOORS ARE REALLY AJAR OR NOT. THANK YOU.
Sep 26, 2019
+ 8 more complaints for this component
VISIBILITY/WIPER
12 complaints
THE REAR WIPER QUITS WORKING. INITIALLY THE DEALERSHIP TOOK IT APART, CLEANED IT AND IT WORKED TEMPORARILY. BUT THEN THE WIPER QUIT WORKING AGAIN. THERE APPEARS TO BE A PROBLEM WITH THE MECHANISM AND/OR REAR WINDOW ALLOWING IN MOISTURE FOR THIS TO CONTINUE OCCURRING, REQUIRING THE NEED TO KEEP GOING IN AND CLEANING IT OR HAVING TO REPLACE IT AS SOME HAVE REPORTED WHICH APPEARS TO BE THE POINT I AM AT THE LAST TIME I TOOK IT IN.
Sep 20, 2018
THE EYEGLASSES HOLDER IN OUR 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HAS A MALFUNCTION OF DROPPING DOWN IN FRONT OF THE REARVIEW MIRROR DUE TO THE LOSS OF A SMALL RETAINING PIN. THE ISSUE CAUSES A DISRUPTIVE AND VERY ANNOYING SAFETY HAZARD. ATTEMPTS TO GET THE PROBLEM REPAIRED HAVE MET WITH NEGATIVE CONSEQUENCES AS THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP MECHANICS AND ANOTHER DEALERSHIP IN SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI HAVE CAME TO THE SAME CONCLUSION, NOT REPAIRABLE. WE HAVE TRIED TO TAPE UP THE EYEGLASSES HOLDER, BUT THE TAPE WILL NOT STICK DUE TO THE NATURE OF THE MATERIEL. THE SITUATION BECOMES EMBARRASSING WHEN FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE IN THE VEHICLE AND TRY TO ASSIST IN KEEPING THE HOLDER UP WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION. HOWEVER, WITHOUT FAVORABLE RESULTS AND CONTINUED NAGGING OR COMPLAINING. WE ARE HOPING THAT THIS INCIDENT INFORMATION WILL BE SUFFICIENT IN FINDING A POSITIVE SOLUTION. THE TIMELINE IS APPROXIMATE AND COULD HAVE BEEN LONGER THAN MARKED BECAUSE OF BEING IN PLAUSIBLE DENIAL.
Mar 22, 2017
THE SUN VISORS ARE BOTH BROKEN AND ARE A SAFETY HAZARD. THE DRIVERS VISOR HAS BEEN DEFECTIVE FOR TIME. THE PASSENGER VISOR JUST BROKE RECENTLY. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD AND AM SURPRISED I HAVE NOT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE. I HAVE WORN OUT LOTS OF VEHICLES, BUT NEVER THE SUN VISORS. I WOULD APPRECIATE YOUR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION AS THE SITUATION IS WORSENING. SINCERELY [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Mar 15, 2017
DRIVING VISIBILITY IS AFFECTED AS THE PART HANGS DOWN OBSCURING THE ROAD.
Aug 19, 2015
THE SUN GLASS HOLDER DOES NOT STAY LATCHED. IT WILL FALL AND PARTIALLY OBSCURES THE REAR VIEW MIRROR
Aug 11, 2015
+ 7 more complaints for this component
ENGINE
7 complaints
Around 112,500 miles our vehicle's oil pressure light came on. My husband drove it home, and our mechanic told us to tow it to his shop for inspection. The next day I drove it to the shop, which was only a few miles away, and my mechanic informed us that there was "no oil left" inside the engine and that it was a miracle the engine didn't seize on the way. We left it at the shop, a certified Toyota mechanic, overnight for inspection. The next day our mechanic informed us that the piston rings in the engine have failed and oil was burning internally. Every service had been done on this vehicle by a Toyota dealership or a certified mechanic. We were shocked considering the mileage on the vehicle. We have since discovered that the V4 engine in this vehicle was also problematic with Camrys and other Toyotas, but that the recalls were only repaired prior to 60k miles and our vehicle was not apart of that service bulletin, even though it was the same problem and same engine. We could have been on the interstate with our 4 and 6 year old children in the vehicle if the engine seized. This is a tremendous engine issue and we understand that soon the engine will produce smoke that could blow into the vehicle. We have calculated that a quart of oil is being burned every 600 or so miles.
May 31, 2023
The contact owns a 2012 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle suddenly loss motive power while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact pulled over and attempted to restart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to restart. There were several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the timing chain fractured and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Feb 11, 2022
WELL BEFORE MY OIL CHANGES ARE DUE, MY VEHICLE NEEDS MORE OIL. THERE ARE NO APPARENT EXTERIOR LEAKS BUT THE OIL HAS TO BE LEAKING SOMEWHERE OR BURNING AWAY THROUGH THE EXHAUST.
Dec 30, 2020
WITH 1000 MILES LEFT ON AN OIL CHANGE OR SO OUR CAR WOULD RANDOMLY STALL WHEN YOU MAKE CERTAIN TURNS. OCCAISIOANLLY THE OIL LIGHT WOULD POP ONE WHEN IT WOULD STALL. I CHECKED THE DIPSTICK AND YOU COULD NOT SEE ANYTHING ON IT. I ADDED OIL AND TOOK IT INTO DEALER. THEY ARE DOING A CONSUMPTION TEST TO SEE HOW MUCH WE LOSE IN 1000 MILES. THIS VEHICLE ONLY HAS 86,000 MILES ON IT. WE HAVE NO LEAKS AND NO VISIBLE SMOKE COMING OUT OF EXHAUST. THIS HAS ME WORRIED OF SIMILIAR PROBLEMS THEY HAD WITH ONE OF THERE OTHER 4CYL ENGINES.
Apr 15, 2019
I WAS DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY I HEARD A NOISE AND SMOKE STARTED COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD I PULLED OVER AND LOOKED UNDER THE HOOD AND SAW SMOKR A TOW TRUCK DRIVER WHO HAPPENED TO BE PASSING BY PULLED OVER AND SURE FIRE UNDER THE HOOD HE PUT THE FIRE OUT WITH A FIRE EXTINGUISHER I CALLED NINE-ONE-ONE FOUR FIRE TRUCKS TO MAKE SURE THE FIRE WAS COMPLETELY EXTINGUISHED MY MECHANIC SAYS A ROD POPPED AND PUNCTURED THE OIL TANK WHICH CAUSED ALL THE OIL TO LEAK OUT ONTO THE SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY THE FIREMEN ACTUALLY SPREAD SAND OVER IT MY INSURANCE COMPANY HE'S REFUSING TO REPAIR THE CAR BECAUSE THEY SAY THERE WAS A MAINTENANCE ISSUE BECAUSE THERE WAS NO OIL IN THE CAR WHEN THEY LOOKED AT IT THERE WAS NO OIL IN THE CAR BECAUSE IT ALL LEAKED OUT ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD I HAD JUST PUT OIL IN THE CAR THE PREVIOUS DAY THIS HAPPENED ON NOVEMBER 26TH 20186
Dec 17, 2018
+ 2 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
7 complaints
On December 29, 2021, while backing up my 2012 Toyota Highlander accelerated at speed that I was unable to control. One car that was packed in the driveway was damaged beyond repair. An office building where I was working was damaged and has been accessed with a loss of over $100,000. I contacted Toyota after knowing that there was a recall regarding unintended acceleration in some Toyota cars. Toyota sent an inspection team to Geico Insurance company which had taken over possession of the car. The inspection team and the Toyota representative assured me a final report would be sent to me within a month after the inspection had been completed but even up to this moment Toyota has not responded to my email requesting for the report. You can reach out to Toyota and reference File # 220105001224. For the six years I owned the car, i have never been informed of any recall. My car was regularly serviced by Toyota Ourisman Chantilly and Ourisman Toyota Fairfax.
May 05, 2022
WHILE ENTERING A PARKING SPOT WITH FOOT FIRMLY ON THE BRAKE THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN AND UNANTICIPATED ACCELERATION RESULTING IN THE CAR CRASHING INTO A CONCRETE WALL AND BEING TOTALED. WITNESS CORROBORATED THE SOUND OF A THE ENGINE AT HIGH RPM IMMEDIATELY BEFORE THE CRASH.
Dec 25, 2018
THE CAR STARTED TO ACCELERATE WHEN WE CAME TO A STOP. THIS IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM AND NO ONE SEEMS TO BE ABLE TO HELP. THE CAR HAS TO BE TURNED OFF BEFORE IT GETS OUT OF CONTROL. THE CONSUMER STATED THERE HAS BEEN NO RESOLUTION OR SOLUTION FOR THE ACCELERATION PROBLEM. UPDATED 02/25/14
Feb 22, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ENTERING THE DRIVEWAY, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND CRASHED INTO THE HOUSE. THE VEHICLE FUNCTIONED NORMALLY WHILE REVERSING BUT UPON SHIFTING BACK INTO DRIVE, THE VEHICLE AGAIN ACCELERATED AND CRASHED INTO THE HOUSE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN PLACED INTO REVERSE AND THEN CAME TO A STOP WHEN IT CRASHED INTO A CURB, CAUSING THE AXLE TO FRACTURE. THE DRIVER DID NOT SUFFER ANY INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY THE MANUFACTURER WHO STATED THAT THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF A DEFECT. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 8,900. UPDATED 2/21/13 *CN
Jan 29, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND WENT OVER THE CURB. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKE WITH BOTH FEET AND SHIFTED INTO PARK IN ORDER TO BRING THE VEHICLE TO A COMPLETE STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE WHO SENT AN ENGINEER TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 11,500.
Aug 16, 2012
+ 2 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
7 complaints
The front passenger side airbag light has been going off and on for a few months when someone is sitting in the seat now and now the sea is showing up
Apr 23, 2022
TAKATA RECALL - DRIVER AIR BAG DID NOT INFLATE FULLY DURING THE FRONTAL ACCIDENT ON 05/26/2018. PASSENGER AIR BAG DID NOT INFLATE AT ALL DURING THE FRONTAL ACCIDENT ON 05/26/2018. SIDE AIR BAGS DID NOT INFLATE AT ALL DURING THE FRONTAL ACCIDENT ON 05/26/2018. VEHICLE WAS MOVING ON HIGHWAY. VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED NEW FROM DEALER AND ON
Apr 24, 2019
THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT CAME ON WHILE DRIVING ON A CITY TOAD. THE DISPLAY ALSO NOTIFIED ME AND READ, PLEASE TAKE THIS TO A TOYOTA DEALER FOR SERVICE. THE HORN ON THE CAR ALSO STOPPED WORKING. THIS IS A MAJOR ISSUE NO HORN AND A DEFECTIVE AIR BAG. ARE THEY CONNECTED?
Oct 01, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE WAS LOST DUE TO THE ROAD BEING WET. THE VEHCILE BEGAN TO SPIN HITTING ANOTHER VEHICLE CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO LAND OFF THE ROAD INTO A DITCH. THE VEHICLE RECEIVED DAMAGE TO THE FRONT-END AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND TOTALED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT STATED THE DRIVER RECEIVED NECK INJURIES AND BOTH PASSENGERS THAT WERE SEATED IN THE REAR RECEIVED INJURIES TO THE HEAD AND RIGHT SIDE OF THE ABDOMIN. NO MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NEEDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 99,000.
Dec 02, 2016
RE: OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM, SRS, ZERO POINT CALIBRATION SAFETY ISSUE. OWNERS WILL BE RELUCTANT TO SPEND $130+ AT THE DEALER FOR CALIBRATION. LOCAL REPAIR SHOPS IS NOT EQUIPPED TO DO THE CALIBRATION. MUST BE A DEALER. I SPENT THE MONEY. I KNOW OF OTHERS WHO HAVE NOT. THIS VEHICLE HAS 49000 MILES ON IT. THE PASSENGER SEAT IS INFREQUENTLY USED. THE WARNING LIGHTS AND DISPLAY WENT OFF JUST AFTER SOMEONE SAT IN THE PASSENGER SEAT. SOMETHING IS NOT RIGHT WITH THIS SEAT SENSOR SYSTEM. LOTS OF PEOPLE COMPLAINING ONLINE ABOUT THE NEED TO RE-CALIBRATE.
Jan 25, 2016
+ 2 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES
4 complaints
All brake warning indicators lit up. Took it to a mechanic that specializes in hybrids and they diagnosed it as a brake assembly/actuator issue, with a diagnostic code of C1391, with a repair estimate of $4888. Found online that there was a Toyota Customer Support Program 21TE03 that addressed this issue, but my vehicle was outside of both the primary and secondary coverage periods. My issue is that if they knew this was a very serious safety defect for older hybrid vehicles, why would they only offer to address it during a very short period of time?? There are many people reporting online that the same thing happened to them (problem arose after coverage period expired). Toyota says they “care about the customers’ ownership experience,” but by neglecting to help those of us experiencing this issue, they are showing the exact opposite. Hope you will help the roughly 74,700 owners potentially impacted by this, by encouraging Toyota to be accountable for the safety of their owners. Thanks.
Aug 17, 2024
The Brake Hydro-Boost pump failed while driving on I-75. Subsequently almost all braking was lost on the vehicle. I have researched similar failures on the same model brake pump assemblies, and feel that this is a very unsafe failure condition for the vehicle. The repair cost for this failure is exorbitant given the rate of failure which seems to exist with this make/model. Luckily I was driving the vehicle at the time and had the presence of mind to allow the vehicle to roll to a stop using engine braking. This failure could have caused a multiple fatality accident in may opinion. Toyota is negligent in their care regarding theses failures.
Jun 15, 2022
BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP/ABS ACTUATOR C1391/C1256 WERE CODES GIVEN IN ATTACHED REPORT FROM TOYOTA. THIS IS APPARENTLY BEEN A PROBLEM WITH OTHER MODELS OF TOYOTAS AND ARE COVERED UNDER A WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT, HOWEVER THE 2012 IS NOT COVERED. NOTHING SEEMS WRONG WITH THE CAR AND THEY CANNOT REALLY TELL ME WHAT EXACTLY IS WRONG OR IF IT IS A BAD SENSOR, HOWEVER THEY WANT $4,200 TO REPLACE THE WHOLE UNIT. SEEMS LIKE THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE THAT THEY HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO FIX FROM PREVIOUS MODELS AND WOULD LIKE IT COVERED DUE TO POTENTIAL SAFETY RISK.
Nov 20, 2018
THE CAR WILL NOT HOLD WHEN PARKED ON A STEEP INCLINE. NOT EVEN IN MY DRIVEWAY AT HOME. ESPECIALLY IF THERE ARE PEOPLE IN THE CAR BECAUSE OF THE ADDED WEIGHT. THEY ADJUSTED IT THE FIRST TIME AND SAID IT WOULD BE FINE. THAT ONLY LASTED A MONTH. TOOK IT IN AGAIN AND THEY SAID NOTHING WAS WRONG BUT THEY ADJUSTED IT MORE. TECH SAID THEY MIGHT HAVE TO CHARGE ME BECAUSE IT IS GOING TO WEAR OUT THE PARKING BRAKE PADS. NEVER HAD SOME THING LIKE THIS HAPPEN IN ANY VEHICLE I HAVE OWNED. IT CURRENTLY IS NOT HOLDING SO I APPLY THE BRAKE TO THE FLOOR AND THEN PUT IT IN PARK. NOT A GOOD PRACTICE. *TR
May 17, 2012
POWER TRAIN
4 complaints
MY VEHICLE WAS FINE NO NOISE NOTHING ALL OF SUDDEN THE TRANSMISSION FAIL TO SHIFT GEARS
Jan 23, 2021
PLACED VEHICLE IN PARK IN GARAGE AND TOOK FOOT OFF BRAKE. I OPENED THE CAR DOOR TO MAKE SURE IN WAS PARKED STRAIGHT, AND THE CAR BEGAN ROLLING BACKWARDS. THEM CAR ROLLED ABOUT A FOOT, WITH THE DOOR STRIKING A GARAGE PILLAR BEFORE I COULD APPLY THE BRAKES. DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE WAS ONLY COSMETIC, BUT THE EVENT WAS UNNERVING AND POTENTIALLY VERY DANGEROUS.
Oct 03, 2015
WE WERE DRIVING IN A PARKING LOT WITH OUR 2 SMALL CHILDREN WHEN ALL OF THE SUDDEN THE CAR JERKED LIKE WE WERE REAR ENDED. I PUSHED THE GAS PEDAL AGAIN TO HAVE IT ONLY HAPPEN MULTIPLE TIMES. IT WAS VERY SCARY. IF WE WERE ON THE ROAD WE WOULD HAVE DEFINITELY BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT. WE CALLED ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE AND HAD TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE NEAREST TOYOTA DEALER WHICH WAS VERY FAR FROM OUR HOME. THE DEALER PUT IN A NEW TRANSMISSION AFTER FINDING METAL DEBRIS IN THE FLUID. AFTER A FEW DAYS THE CAR STARTED ACTING UP AGAIN AND WAS BROUGHT TO ANOTHER DEALER. THAT DEALER ORDERED YET ANOTHER TRANSMISSION AND PUT IN A SECOND ONE MAKING SURE IT WAS CALIBRATED. TOYOTA CORPORATE OUT OF CALIFORNIA WAS INVOLVED THE WHOLE TIME. THEY RESPONDED AND WAS ON TOP OF EVERYTHING THAT HAD OCCURRED WITH THE DEFECTIVE VEHICLE. *TR
Apr 09, 2014
THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN INTO DEALER FOR A FACTORY RECALL TO REPLACE THE REAR DRIVESHAFT ASSEMBLY. THE CAR WAS DRIVING COMPLETELY NORMALLY WHEN TAKEN IN FOR THIS SERVICE. BUT WHEN PICKED UP, THE CAR WAS UNSAFE. IT DROVE NORMALLY AT LOW SPEEDS LEAVING THE DEALERSHIP. BUT A COUPLE OF MILES LATER WHEN GETTING ONTO THE FREEWAY, AT ABOUT 50 MPH, THE REAR END STARTED TO FEEL LIKE IT WAS A DRAG ON FORWARD MOVEMENT, AND FELT LIKE IT WAS SWAYING FROM SIDE TO SIDE, MAKING THE VEHICLE VERY DIFFICULT TO CONTROL. NO UNUSUAL NOISES WERE HEARD. EMERGENCY FLASHERS WERE ACTIVATED AND SPEED REDUCED TO 25 MPH TO TRY TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE FIRST OFF RAMP WAS TAKEN, AND THE DEALER NOTIFIED. THE CAR WAS TOWED BACK TO THE DEALER, WHO KEPT IT FOR THE NEXT 36 HOURS. THE DEALER REPORTED NO PROBLEM COULD BE FOUND, AND NO REPAIR HAD BEEN DONE. THE VEHICLE HAS DRIVEN COMPLETELY NORMALLY AGAIN SINCE THEN. *TR
Jan 14, 2014
VISIBILITY
4 complaints
2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO FAULTY ELECTRIC WINDOW MOTOR WHICH RESULTED IN A VEHICLE FIRE. *LD *JS
Apr 26, 2017
2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE WINDSHIELD ISSUES. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED HE NOTICED THE START OF PITTING IN THE WINDSHIELD THAT GAVE OFF A DARK LOOK. THE CONDITION BECAME WORSE, SO HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER ON NOVEMBER 20, 2014. THE DEALER DID NOT SEEM INTERESTED IN THE CONSUMERS CONCERN. THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THE PITTING WAS THE RESULT OF DETERIORATION OF THE GLASS DUE TO EITHER INCLUSIONS OR CHEMICAL INTERACTION WITH NORMAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS. *JB
Sep 23, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE SUN ROOF SHATTERED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SUN ROOF NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 53,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Aug 18, 2015
2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. CONSUMER STATED THE SUNROOF SHATTERED WHILE DRIVING.
Dec 24, 2014
TIRES
3 complaints
The contact owns a 2012 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that the TPMS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a Tire Center, which was unable to determine the cause of the failure. Upon further investigation, the contact linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V452000 (Tires). The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 90,200.
Sep 25, 2025
2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. CONSUMER WRITES REGARDING A DEFECT WITH TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE TIRE PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED, BUT THE TIRES ARE ALL AT THE CORRECT PRESSURE LEVELS. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO HAVE THE TPMS DEACTIVATED UNTIL A FIX WAS AVAILABLE. *JS
Jan 29, 2021
MY HUSBAND AND I WERE DRIVING ALONG EL CAMINO REAL IN SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO CALIFORNIA WHEN WE HEARD A VERY LOUD BANG AND OUR CAR SWAYED TO THE RIGHT AND ALMOST HIT A BYSTANDER. THE REAR PASSENGER RIGHT TIRE BLEW OUT AT NO APPARENT REASONS. THERE WAS A BIG CRACK OF 3 TO 4 INCHES ON THE SIDE (INSIDE PART) OF THIS TIRE. WE BROUGHT OUR CAR TO MELODY TOYOTA TELLING THEM THAT IT WAS A DEFECTIVE TIRE BECAUSE THERE WAS NO SIGNS OF NAILS OR ANY OTHER OBJECTS THAT WILL CAUSE THE TIRE TO BLOW OUT. FORTUNATELY, WE DECIDED NOT TO TAKE THE FREEWAY THIS TIME OR ELSE WE WILL BE IN A BIG ACCIDENT. MELODY TOYOTA TOLD US THAT IT WAS DUE TO OUTSIDE INFLUENCE BUT THEY ARE NOT SURE ABOUT IT BECAUSE YOU CAN SEE THE SURFACE WAS SO SMOOTH AND NO MARKS OF ANY OBJECTS HITTING IT. IT LOOKED THAT IT CAME FROM THE INSIDE OF THE TIRE. THEY DECIDED TO SEND THE TIRE TO THE MANUFACTURER (TOYO BRAND) TO INVESTIGATE. OUR WORRY THE TIRE MANUFACTURER WILL TRY TO PROTECT THEMSELVES AND THEY WILL RULE THAT IT WAS DUE TO OUTSIDE INFLUENCE. GRANTING IT WAS DUE TO OUTSIDE INFLUENCE THE TIRE SHOULD DEFLATE SLOWLY AND NOT A SUDDEN LOUD BURST. WE ARE REPORTING THIS BECAUSE WE WANT TO SAVE THOUSANDS OF LIVES WHO HAVE THIS BRAND OF TIRES. FORTUNATELY, NOTHING BAD HAPPENED TO US AND THE BYSTANDER. I WAS REQUESTING THE DEALER TO REPLACE ALL OUR TIRES BECAUSE WE HAVE NO PEACE OF MIND DRIVING WITH THESE TIRES. BY THE WAY, OUR CAR IS A BRAND NEW CARTOYOTA HIGHLANDER 2012 THAT WE BOUGHT ONLY LAST JUNE OF 2012, IT WAS AN 8 MONTH-OLD CAR. WHAT REALLY UPSETS ME THE DEALER WAS SELLING ME A SPARE TIRE FOR $300. WHY SHOULD WE PAY $300 WHEN WE ALMOST GOT INTO ACCIDENT?SO, AT THIS TIME WE'RE STILL WAITING WHAT WILL BE THEIR FINDINGS. I HOPE THEY WILL BE HONEST ABOUT IT. I TOOK SEVERAL PICTURES OF THE DAMAGED TIRE FOR THE RECORD. *TR
Feb 05, 2013
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
3 complaints
When turning on the defrost button, the engine shuts off while driving.
Nov 05, 2022
CAR HAS OVER 117,000 MILES AND IS EXCESSIVELY CONSUMING OIL. THERE IS NO SIGN OF LEAKS ANYWHERE. I DO NOT GET ANY WARNING ANYWHERE ABOUT LOW OIL, ALL I SEE IS A SMALL MESSAGE THAT SOMETIMES BLINKS INDICATING 'OIL PRESSURE'. OIL IS NOT LASTING 1000 MILES. I THOUGHT MAYBE THE OIL WAS NOT PROPERLY FILLED BUT AFTER A SECOND OIL CHANGE, SAME HAPPENED, OIL EMPTY WITH LESS THAN 1000 MILES AFTER AN OIL CHANGE. CAR HAS BEEN ALWAYS KEPT WITH ALL RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE AND ALL OIL CHANGES HAVE BEEN DONE EVERY 5,000 AS RECOMMENDED BY TOYOTA. HAVE NEVER BEEN IN ANY ACCIDENT THAT COULD CAUSE ANY ENGINE PROBLEM, SEEMS THIS IS A FACTORY DEFECT. IN THE ELECTRICAL PART, POWER BACK DOOR DOES NOT CLOSE/OPEN, THERE IS A RECALL FOR THAT BUT NO DEALERS IN MY AREA WILL FIX IT BECAUSE ONE OF THE PARTS THAT IS INSIDE THAT MOTOR IS NOT LISTED IN THE RECALL SPECS AND DEALERS WILL NOT FIX UNLESS I PAY. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER ABOUT 2 YEARS AGO. THIS REFERS TO THE WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT LETTER ZG4.
Feb 06, 2020
WHILE PARKED AT A CURBSIDE, WITH ENGINE IDLING, I SPONTANEOUSLY DECIDED TO ADJUST MY TILT STEERING COLUMN (UP/DOWN) TO SEE IF THERE WAS A MORE COMFORTABLE POSITION TO DRIVE. WHEN I MOVED THE COLUMN DOWN FOR THE FIRST TIME (I HAD NEVER TRIED TO ADJUST THE POSITION PREVIOUSLY, SINCE I BOUGHT THE CAR ONE YEAR EARLIER), THE CAR'S ENGINE IMMEDIATELY SHUT OFF. I COULD NOT RE-START THE ENGINE AND ALL I KEPT THINKING WAS THANK-GOODNESS I WAS NOT DRIVING, AS I HAD LOST ENGINE, STEERING AND BRAKING POWER. THE RECENT HEADLINES ABOUT GM'S IGNITION SWITCH PROBLEMS AND DRIVERS SUDDENLY LOSING CONTROL WHILE DRIVING MADE ME REALIZE THAT I COULD HAVE EASILY BEEN IN A SIMILAR CATASTROPHIC LOSS OF CONTROL SITUATION, BECAUSE OF THE TILT-STEERING PROBLEM I ENCOUNTERED. I THANK THE STARS THAT I WAS NOT DRIVING OR ON A HIGHWAY WHEN THIS OCCURRED. MY CAR HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIR. APPARENTLY, AN IGNITION SWITCH WIRE SOMEHOW BECAME DETACHED OR BROKEN DUE TO MY SINGLE TILT ACTION. SCARY INDEED. *TR
Apr 02, 2014
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
3 complaints
I have had at least 6 occasions that in shifting from reverse and backing up that the bakes did not work, fortunately I was going slow and stopped with emergency brake. I have it also after backing safely, then shifting into drive that the brakes went to the floor and wouldn’t stop the vehicle again, between the emergency brake and park I avoided disaster. Our car has only 27000 miles and we are very concerned that something bad could easily happen. The multiple occurrences have taken place in the last 1 - 2 years most recent today 12/12/2021.
Dec 12, 2021
WHILE STOPPED ON AN INCLINE WITH BRAKE BEING PRESSED VEHICLE STARTED ROLLING BACKWARDS AND SKID LIGHT CAME ON. PUT VEHICLE IN 'PARK' AND VEHICLE STOPPED. PLACED VEHICLE IN 'DRIVE', ACCELERATED AND DROVE AWAY WITHOUT FURTHER INCIDENT. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP FOR INSPECTION AND WAS TOLD NO PROBLEM IDENTIFIED.
Sep 04, 2018
1. MY CAR HAS ONLY 30000 MILES AND YESTERDAY BRAKE MALFUNCTION SHOWED UP. MY WIFE HAD HARD TIME STOPPING THIS VEHICLE. 2. SINCE I AM REPORTING BRAKE ISSUE. IT IS IMPORTANT TO SHARE OUR SPEED GAGE IS COUNTING 2 -3 MILES/HOUR HIGHER THAN ACTUAL SPEED. WE HAD A KIND OF SENSE FOR THIS. NOW I PURCHASED A VERY HIGH EFFICACY GPS. WHICH CONFIRMED. WHEN EVER WE ARE PASSING BY SPEED DETECTOR ON ANY GIVEN STREET. MY SPEED METER IS 2 -3 MILES HIGHER AS COMPARED SHOWS ON SPEEDING DETECTOR ON STREET . I DO NOT WANT TO PAY TO THE DEALER BUT I WANTED TO REPORT FOR SURE.
May 20, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER was locked & battery was dead. Could not unlock using either the key fob or the mechanical key in the fob. Was told even the mechanical key requires battery power.
Dec 01, 2023
THE FRONT DRIVER WINDOW WAS MAKING A CLICKING NOISE AS IF IT WERE COMING OFF THE TRACK. EVENTUALLY, THE ARM MOTOR STOPPED ALL TOGETHER AND I HAD TO REPLACE THE ARM. NOW THE FRONT PASSENGER WINDOW IS MAKING THE SAME NOISE AND I'M AFRAID TO OPEN IT. THE LEATHER INTERIOR IS CRACKING BADLY ON ALL SEATS. I RARELY HAVE PASSENGERS AND CONDITION THE LEATHER. I'VE HAD TO USE AN ADHESIVE TO PREVENT ADDITIONAL CRACKING
Dec 03, 2019
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
2 complaints
Toyota Piston and Ring defect. My 2012 Toyota Highlander engine has defective pistons and rings that have led to excessive oil consumption and the potential for a serious accidents as it causes the engine to lose compression and conk out, all of a sudden, in traffic, and costly repair for us customers with less than 150,000 miles. Piston/ring issue diagnosed by Toyota Dealer in Panama City, Florida. A class Action lawsuit needs to be initiated, immediately, for the 2012 Toyota Highlander. Toyota has already had a Class Action Lawsuit for this same problem in 2014 for their other Toyota models.
Aug 23, 2023
I WAS STOPPED AT AN INTERSECTION (RED LIGHT) AND WAS NEEDING TO MAKE A LEFT TURN. THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN BUT THIS INTERSECTION DOES NOT HAVE A GREEN ARROW SO YOU HAVE TO YIELD TO THE ONCOMING TRAFFIC. AS I PROCEEDED FORWARDED A LITTLE BIT INTO THE MIDDLE OF THE INTERSECTION SO I COULD MAKE MY LEFT TURN, I SLOWED DOWN TO ALMOST A STOP BECAUSE THERE WERE TOO MANY CARS AND I COULDN'T TURN AT THAT MOMENT. THEN THERE WAS A WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY FOR ME TO TURN SHORTLY AFTER I SLOWED DOWN ALMOST TO A STOP AND I STEPPED ON THE GAS TO GO, THEN NOTHING HAPPENED. THE VEHICLE JUST PAUSED FOR ABOUT 2 OR 3 SECONDS AND THEN SUDDENLY JUMPED FORWARD. MY WIFE WAS IN THE CAR AND SHE THOUGHT IT WAS ME MASHING ON THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BUT I DIDN'T, IT'S JUST THAT THE VEHICLE DIDN'T DO ANYTHING AND THEN SUDDENLY JUMPED FORWARD! LUCKILY WHEN THIS DELAY HAPPENED, I WASN'T IN THE ONCOMING TRAFFICS LANE, NOR WERE THERE ANY ONCOMING TRAFFIC CLOSE AT THAT MOMENT. AT THE TIME THIS HAPPENED, I EVEN THOUGHT MAYBE IT WAS ME NOT GIVING THE VEHICLE ENOUGH GAS, BUT IT HAPPENED AGAIN ABOUT A MONTH LATER. THIS IS WHEN I DID A GOOGLE SEARCH FOR DELAYED ACCELERATION AND I CAME UPON OTHER'S WHO HAVE MENTIONED THE EXACT SAME THING HAPPENING WITH THEIR TOYOTA VEHICLES AS WELL. PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS AS THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS. THIS VEHICLE IS LESS THAN TWO YEARS OLD AND I'VE READ THAT OTHERS HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM WITH THEIR OLDER TOYOTA VEHICLES. I'VE EVEN READ THAT TOYOTA KNOWS OF THE ISSUE ALREADY BUT THEY HAVE NO FIX????? *TR
Jul 05, 2013
WHEELS
2 complaints
Toyota and other vehicle brands use wheel lug nuts that become "swollen" over time. This happens because a cosmetic cap (with no mechanical purpose) made from a different metal is bonded over the metal of the lug nut. The cosmetic cap deforms or swells, because of its different properties compared to the lug nut itself. On 12 August 2021 I was unable to change a flat tire because the lug nut wrench that came with the vehicle no longer would fit over the lug nuts in order to loosen them. The lug nut wrench would not fit any of the 20 lug nuts on the vehicle. There is not one single mention in the 636-page owner's manual about swollen lug nuts, only an advisory to use genuine Toyota wheel nuts and wrenches, which easily become incompatible. The genuine Toyota wrench no longer fit, I had no other means of loosening the lug nuts, and became stranded. I was fortunate that a friendly motorist with a set of different sockets and a breaker bar came along and was able to assist me. Such fortune is not always the case. Being stranded puts the personal safety of the motorist in jeopardy, as can be confirmed in numerous reported incidences. On 13 August 2021 I went to the dealer to repair / replace the flat tire. The dealer acknowledged that the swollen lug nuts were a known mechanical defect with many Toyota vehicles, but refused to install lug nuts on my vehicle without this defect. The only recourse offered was for me to buy new lug nuts of the same style, which would not have improved the situation. Because of the personal safety issues involved, intentionally selling vehicles with know mechanical defects to unsuspecting buyers should come with serious consequences for a manufacturer. Refusing to repair such defects when pointed out to the dealers should also carry consequences.
Aug 13, 2021
LUG NUTS ARE 2-PIECE: STEEL NUTS WITH CHROMED COVERS CRIMPED ON. THE NUTS RUST INSIDE THE CHROME COVERS AND SWELL SO THAT THE LUG WRENCH THAT COMES WITH THE VEHICLE (NOR SOCKETS OR TYPICAL 4-WAY LUG WRENCHES) WILL NOT FIT THE NUT. ONE CAN BE STRANDED ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD UNABLE TO REMOVE A FLAT TIRE. BESIDES THE WHEEL LOCKS, ALL 16 OF THE REMAINING NUTS WERE AFFECTED. I HAVE ORDERED REPLACEMENT NUTS, ON ADVICE FROM MY LOCAL TIRE SHOP, THAT ARE CHROME PLATED AND NOT 2-PIECE. I INFORMED TOYOTA CUSTOMER SERVICE OF THE PROBLEM AND THEY ACKNOWLEDGED RECEIPT BUTOFFERED NO SOLUTION OR COMPENSATION. THE PROBLEM OCCURRED WHEN I NEEDED TO REMOVE A TIRE, BUT THANKFULLY IT WAS STILL DRIVEABLE. MY LOCAL TIRE SHOP WAS ABLE TO HAMMER-ON A SOCKET TO REMOVE THE SWOLLEN NUTS, AND I WILL HAVE TO RETURN TO THEM TO HAVE THEM INSTALL THE REPLACEMENT NUTS. I AM RETAINING THE ORIGINAL NUTS IN CASE THEY ARE NEEDED BY NHTSA OR TOYOTA FOR EXAMINATION. THERE ARE MANY REPORTS OF THIS ISSUE ONLINE, AS WELL AS MENTIONS IN PRODUCT QUESTIONS ABOUT REPLACEMENT NUTS ON AMAZON.COM (EG, ARE THESE NUTS ONE-PIECE OR NOT, AND REPORTS OF THIS EXACT PROBLEM WITH MANY VEHICLES). INTERESTINGLY, IT TURNS OUT THAT TOOL MANUFACTURER SNAP-ON MAKES AN 18.5MM AND 19.5MM OVERSIZED SOCKETS TO REMOVE THESE SWOLLEN NUTS. THE PROBLEM IS COMMON ENOUGH FOR SPECIALIZED TOOLS. PLEASE ACT ON THIS TO PREVENT SOME POOR INDIVIDUAL FROM BEING STRANDED!
Apr 05, 2017
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
WHEN FILLING THE HIGHLANDER WITH FUEL, IT LOOKS LIKE A WATERFALL OF FUEL LEAKING ONTO THE GROUND. IT DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE A GAS TANK ISSUE BUT A PROBLEM WITHIN THE LINES? ONCE YOU STOP FUELING WITH THE MAJOR LEAK AND GO TO ANOTHER AREA THERE IS NO FUEL DROP UNDERNEATH THE TANK.
Feb 24, 2021
ON (OR ABOUT) THE LAST WEEK OF MAY 2015, I HAD MY AUTO SERVICED AT THE DEALSHIP. I WAS ADVISED THAT THE 'THROTTLE BODY' NEEDED 'CLEANING' AND THIS WAS DONE BY THE DEALERSHIP AT THAT TIME. ON JUNE 4, 2015, I WAS BACKING INTO A PARKING SPOT ON A PARKING LOT, WIITH THE CAR 'COASTING' BACK AND MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE. ABOUT HALF WAY INTO THE 'SPOT' THE CAR ENGINE SUDDELY ACCELLERATED AND I HAD TO USE EXTREME PRESSURE ON THE BRAKE PEDAL TO OBTAIN A 'MINIMUM' OF SLOWING. THE CAR ONLY CAME TO A STOP WHEN THE REAR TIRES, MADE CONTACT WITH AN 'IN-PLACE' CEMENT PARKING BARRIER AND THE ENGINE ACCELERATION ONLY CEASED WHEN I PUT THE CAR IN 'PARK' GEAR. IT HAS NOT OCCURED SINCE, NOR HAS IT EVER OCCURED WHILE DRIVING FORWARD. I AM A RETIRED POLICE OFFICER WITH YEARS OF TRAINING IN DRIVING AND DRIVER SAFETY, AND AM CERTAIN OF THIS ACTION OCURRING AS I HAVE DESCRIBED.
Jun 09, 2015
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AT 75 MPH I HEARD A VERY LOUD POPPING NOISE IN THE ROOF OF THE VEHICLE. WHEN I PULLED OFF ON A SIDE ROAD AT 45 MPH, THE SUNROOF EXPLODED, SOUNDING LIKE A SHOTGUN WAS FIRED OVER MY HEAD. THE COVER TO THE SUNROOF WAS OPEN AND TINY SHARDS OF GLASS FELL INTO THE CAR AND I WAS PICKING THEM OUT OF MY HAIR ALL DAY. IT WAS VERY DISTRESSING AS I DIDN'T KNOW IF SOMEONE WAS SHOOTING AT ME SO I KEPT DRIVING UNTIL I WAS OUT OF THE AREA. WHEN I FELT SAFE, I STOPPED THE CAR TO INSPECT THE DAMAGE AND THAT'S WHEN I SAW THE SUNROOF GLASS PROTRUDING UPWARDS. THERE WERE NO OTHER CARS AROUND ME AND NOTHING OVERHEAD. IN THE ATTACHED PICTURE YOU CAN SEE THE GLASS OF THE SUNROOF PROTRUDING UPWARDS, WHICH COULD NOT BE THE RESULT OF AN IMPACT FROM OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. WHEN I TOOK THE CAR TO THE TOYOTA DEALER, THE SERVICE MANAGER SAID HE'D HEARD OF IT HAPPENING BEFORE AND ADMITTED IT WAS A STRUCTURAL DEFECT, YET TOYOTA WOULD NOT COVER IT. HE SUGGESTED I SUBMIT A CLAIM TO MY INSURANCE, WHICH I DID. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE THAT TOYOTA NEEDS TO RECTIFY.
Jun 18, 2019
ON MARCH 19, 2019 AROUND 9:30PM (DRY ROAD CONDITION ' NO RAIN), MY HUSBAND AND I HEARD A LOUD EXPLOSION OUTSIDE WHILE WE WERE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY (I-70) GOING APPROX. 70 MPH. IT SOUNDED LIKE A TIRE BLEW OUT OR A GUN SHOT. MY HUSBAND DIDN'T FEEL THE CAR WAS WOBBLY SO WE ASSUMED THE TIRES ON OUR CAR ARE OK. WE WERE DRIVING ON LEFT LANE AND THERE WAS A SEMI-TRUCK NEXT TO US BUT WE DIDN'T SEE ANYTHING HAPPENED TO THE TRUCK AND IT WAS MOVING NORMAL TOO. HOWEVER, AFTER THAT LOUD EXPLOSION, WE BOTH NOTICED THE NOISE COMING FROM THE TOP OF THE CAR (NOISE SIMILAR TO WHEN THE CAR WINDOW IS OPEN). I THEN OPENED THE COVER (SHADE) OF THE SUNROOF AND SAW THE SUNROOF WAS SHATTERED SO QUICKLY CLOSED THE COVER (SHADE) BACK UP. FORTUNATELY, THE COVER WAS CLOSED WHEN THE SUNROOF SHATTERED SO WE DIDN'T GET HURT FROM BROKEN GLASSES. WE HAVE NO IDEA HOW THAT HAPPENED AS WE DIDN'T SEE ANY OBJECTS WERE FLYING TOWARDS US.
Mar 29, 2019
SEATS
2 complaints
THE MID-ROW SEATS SHAKE AND RATTLE WHEN DRIVING AND NO ONE IS SITTING ON THEM.
Jun 12, 2019
AS I WAS DRIVING AT 30 MPH ON A SIDE STREET WITH MY HUSBAND SITTING IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT (WITH HIS SEATBELT ON) AND THE EMERGENCY LIGHT WENT ON AND A MESSAGE SAYING THE PASSENGER AIRBAG IS OFF CAME ON. IF WOULD NOT RESET AND TOLD US TO CALL OUR LOCAL DEALER TO FIX THIS IMMEDIATELY, WHERE WE HAD TO PAY FOR IT TO BE FIXED. THERE WAS NO REASON FOR WHAT HAPPENED!
Jan 23, 2018
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. WHILE STATIONARY, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED RAPIDLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A CABINET IN FRONT OF HER HOUSE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE CRASH. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 48,000.
Feb 15, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND CRASHED INTO A WALL. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE DRIVER DID NOT SUSTAIN ANY INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 14,000.
Jan 06, 2015
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
2 complaints
AT APPROXIMATELY 30,000 MILES THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR HAD TO BE REPLACED, WHICH WAS COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. SINCE THAT TIME, THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT DOOR FAILED AT APPROXIMATELY 40,000 MILES AND WAS REPLACED OUTSIDE OF WARRANTY AND NOW THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR DOOR HAS ALSO FAILED. THREE OF THE FOUR DOOR LOCK ACTUATORS HAVE FAILED BETWEEN 30,000 AND 42,000 MILES AND ONLY ONE WAS COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. *TR
Jan 12, 2015
RIGHT FRONT DOOR DOES NOT LOCK OR UNLOCK USING THE KEYLESS REMOTE HAVE TO MANUALLY LOCK AND UNLOCK THE DOOR. TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND HAD TO HAVE THE ACTUATOR REPLACED ON MARCH 17TH, 2014. NOW ON APRIL 8TH, 2014 DRIVER SIDE DOOR DOES NOT LOCK OR UNLOCK USING KEYLESS REMOTE AGAIN HAVING TO MANUALLY LOCK AND UNLOCK THE DOOR. TAKEN TO THE DEALER AGAIN AND HAS TO HAVE THE ACTUATOR REPLACED. TWO ACTUATORS NEEDING TO BE REPLACED IN LESS THAN 1 MONTH. SUV NEEDS TO BE RECALLED. *TR
Apr 08, 2014
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
2 complaints
ON FEBRUARY 4, 2013 THE HIGHLANDER ACCELERATED THREE CONSECUTIVE TIMES. TURNED OFF THE ENGINE EACH TIME AND ENGINE ACCELERATED WHEN COMING TO A STOP EACH TIME. ON JUNE 16, 2013 THE HIGHLANDER ENGINE ACCELERATED AS THE CAR WAS SLOWING DOWN BEFORE IT CAME TO A STOP. WE HAVE HAD ACCELERATION PROBLEMS WITH TWO HIGHLANDERS AND TWO CAMRYS AND NO ANSWERS FROM TOYOTA AS TO WHY ACCEPT FOR THEM TO TRY AND BLAME IT ON DRIVER ERROR. WHEN A CAR IS AT A STOP AND ACCELERATING ON ITS OWN THEN THERE IS NO DRIVER ERROR. PLEASE HELP US. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Jun 16, 2013
WHEN STOPPING THE AUTO ON 3 OCCASIONS THE ENGINE BEGAN RACING VERY STRONGLY....UPDATED 02/07/13 *BF *TR HOWEVER, WHILE THE HIGHLANDER WAS BEING CHECKED, THE CONSUMER AND HER HUSBAND EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ACCELERATION WHILE DRIVING A TOYOTA CAMRY LOANER, CAUSING A CRASH AND PERSONAL INJURY. UPDATD 02/11/13
Feb 04, 2013
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
LIGHT TURNED RED. I ATTEMPTED TO STOP. BRAKE PEDAL WAS ROCK HARD NO RESPONSE. TWO MORE ATTEMPTS USELESS. I JUST CONTINUED ACROSS THE INTERSECTION AND THERE WAS NO FURTHER EVENT. THIS WAS THE THIRD EVENT FOR THIS CAR. I REFUSE TO DRIVE IT AGAIN. I AM AWAITING A RESOLUTION FROM TOYOTA UNDER A CALIFORNIA LEMON LAW DISPUTE. *TR
Sep 03, 2012
WHILE PULLING INTO A PARKING STALL IN A PRIVATE PARKING LOT, MY HIGHLANDER SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND I HAD NO BRAKES AT ALL! MY HIGHLANDER WENT UP OVER THE CURB WHICH CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO SLOW. I HAD BRAKES AGAIN AND WAS ABLE TO APPLY THE BRAKE, COMING TO A SAFE STOP. NOT BEFORE SLASHING MY LEFT FRONT TIRE AND BENDING MY TIRE RIM. THANKFULLY NO ONE WAS INJURED. *JS
May 01, 2012
Other/I am not sure
1 complaint
The unmatched handle completely broke. So now the insert and the base are stuck together and I can not unlatch them to use this carseat properly to transport my son. I have to take the base and all out of the car as one piece
Jan 04, 2026
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2012 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that 5,000 miles after purchasing the vehicle, the contact noticed an oil leak. The contact performed the oil changes and had noticed that engine oil had leaked down onto the weather seal in the vehicle. The contact noticed several oil stains on the ground during rainy weather. The contact noticed that the new tires that the dealer installed at the time of the vehicle sale were worn out. The contact checked the tires and noticed that the plastic rubber on the front strut was severely damaged. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the timing cover had a leak, and that the timing cover area was smeared with an unknown silicone patch. The struts were replaced. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
Dec 29, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
I think there is odometer fraud by this company selling this car. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jul 05, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
This is the second Highlander Hybrid I've owned that has had the brake actuator and booster assembly fail affecting the functionality of the car's braking system. Replacing these two parts has an absurd price of over 3k at the dealership and other independent hybrid repair shops. My car only has 70k miles on it and I've read this issue applies to almost all other Toyota Hybrids. If most hybrid's brakes will fail eventually, putting at risk owners, why is there not a recall to fix this "not a matter of if, but when" possible life threatening issue?
Dec 10, 2022
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
I was driving and arrived home and suddenly lost my braking and almost hit my house if I didn't steer the wheel towards my lawn and put on my parking brake it would have been a disaster. I felt so unsafe that I had my vehicle towed for repair and had to replace the brake master cylinder. Two weeks later, we went on a family trip and parked my vehicle with my family and it was on a slight slope and went to put on the parking brake and it was still slightly moving forward only to put my vehicle in reverse QUICKLY in order in NOT DRIVE INTO A LAKE WITH MY FAMILY IN THE vehicle!!! I have just read the complaints and this is an ongoing problem since 2011 and I am quite SHOCKED that this is NOT ON RECALL!!! My wife has a Prius V 2013 and have not had any problems at all, BUT has a recall on a Brake Hydro-Boost pump fail for her vehicle, BUT nothing is wrong with her brakes, ONLY THE 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER!!! Please let me know what Toyota needs to do to get this this fixed!!! I know there are probably more that no one is reporting this and I guess there must be a fatality in order for Toyota to fix this problem!!!!
Aug 09, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEATS
1 complaint
Major issue with Airbags July 2021. A warning appeared shortly after Passenger Sensor malfunction, that stated “Check SRS Airbag System. Have your vehicle checked by dealer immediately.” Dealer did Diagnostic. Toyota Dealer has tried to fix airbags three times in three weeks but it fails within a day or so and warning comes back on. Toyota has issued a recall for 2012 Highlanders for seats and front airbag that describes the issue this vehicle has however Toyota Dealer said our Vin is not included. The recall is under Campaign no. 13V014000 Report Date Jan 16 2013 Component Seats.
Aug 08, 2021
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
1 complaint
ABS check light is on, says "have dealer check immediately". Took vehicle to dealer, dealer determined the main wire that runs under the carpet is defective and has to be fixed. The cost for the diagnostics is $750 without repairs. The cost to repair is $5100. I bought this vehicle brand new and have had all maintenance performed to manufacturers requirements. I don't believe I should be responsible for a defective wire that controls the air bags. At this point there are no recalls on my vehicle. I believe the manufacturer should paid the cost for this repair.
Jul 19, 2021
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT IN COLD WEATHER, WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS SHIFTED INTO DRIVE, THE AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCK WAS HEARD HOWEVER, AFTER SEVERAL MOMENTS OF DRIVING, THE DOOR AJAR WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED AND HE HEARD THE DOOR UNLOCKING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER MARINA DEL REY TOYOTA LOCATED AT 4636 LINCOLN BLVD, MARINA DEL REY, CA 90292, (310) 439-9894 HOWEVER, THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 135,000.
Oct 08, 2020
STEERING,SUSPENSION
1 complaint
FOR SEVERAL MONTHS NOW I HAVE BEEN HEARING A CLUCKING NOISE WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL LEFT OR RIGHT AND UPON BREAKING A THUD SOUND IN THE FRONT OF MY CAR. AFTER TAKING MY CAR IN TO THE DEALERSHIP THEY CAME BACK AND SAID THAT THE NOISE WAS COMING FROM THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT. I ASKED WELL HOW DO YOU DAMAGE A WHOLE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT? THEY SAID IT OCCURS OVER A PERIOD OF TIME. MY VEHICLE HAS 92,000 MILES ON IT BUT ITS BEEN MAINTAINED AND SERVICED AND NOT DRIVEN ROUGHLY BUT TO MAKE A LONG STORY SHORT THEY SAID IT WOULD COST ME ABOUT $615.00 TO HAVE THE VEHICLE REPAIRED PLUS AN ADDITIONAL $89.95 FOR THE ALIGNMENT. THIS APPEARS TO BE A MANUFACTURE ISSUE AND NEEDS TO HAVE A RECALL. I'M VERY DISAPPOINTED IN TOYOTA SINCE THEY PRIDE THEMSELVES AS BEING ONE OF THE LEADING AUTO MAKERS AROUND THE WORLD.
May 31, 2019
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
WHEN LOCKING THE DOORS, EVEN THOUGH THE BATTERIES HAVE BEEN CHANGED THE DOORS HAVE TO BE LOCKED MANUEL. THE TRUNK OPENS ON IT OWN. I CAN BE IN THE HOUSE AND WHEN I GO OUTSIDE THE TRUNK IS OPEN.
Jul 19, 2018
VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
REAR WINDSHIELD BLEW OUT ON THE INTERSTATE. THE CAR WAS WARMED PRIOR TO DRIVING AND FONT AND REAR WINDSHIELD WERE ON DEFROST PRIOR TO THE REAR WINDSHIELD EXPLODING.
May 25, 2018
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
THE SUNROOF EXPLODED AND SHUTTERED WITH A LOAD EXPLOSION NOISE WHILE I WAS DRIVING 55MPH ON A HIGHWAY 17 IN CALIFORNIA WITH MY CHILDREN.
Mar 01, 2018
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFT FAILURE AND HORN CABLE FAILURE. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL FOR THESE FAILURES AND TO BE REIMBURSED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. *JS
Feb 13, 2018
STEERING,SUSPENSION,SEATS
1 complaint
THIS VEHICLE PRESENTS A HIGH NOISE BUMP WHEN STEERING. THE SUSPENSION FRONT & BACK IS TERRIBLE, CAUSING INTERIOR RATTLES FRONT AND BACK.
Feb 01, 2018
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER AUTOMATIC DOOR ACTUATOR FAILED TO UNLOCK THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE RECURRED ON THREE OF THE FOUR DOORS. THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER REAR DOOR LOCK ACTUATORS WERE REPLACED. THE CONTACT WAS IN THE PROCESS OF REPLACING THE FRONT PASSENGER DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR. COLONIAL TOYOTA (2600 W PIKE RD, INDIANA, PA 15701, (724) 349-9100) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000.
Nov 20, 2017
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND EXITING A HIGHWAY, APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED UP, DASHBOARD FLICKERED, AND ENGINE DIED. THE RED STEERING WHEEL WARNING LIGHT CAME ON BRIEFLY, BUT THE WHEEL COULD NOT BE TURNED FOR SEVERAL SECONDS. THIS HAPPENED 3 TIMES IN THE PERIOD OF A FEW MINUTES. BATTERY & ALTERNATOR WERE TESTED - NO MALFUNCTION.
Mar 10, 2017
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER DOOR LOCKS FAILED WHEN ATTEMPTING TO LOCK THE DOORS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE DOOR LOCKS WERE REPLACED PER AN UNKNOWN NHTSA CAMPAIGN. THE FAILURE RECURRED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR WINDOW FAILED TO ALIGN WHEN ATTEMPTING TO ROLL IT UP OR DOWN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V689000 (VISIBILITY). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 58,109.
Feb 02, 2017
SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MALE SEAT BELT CONNECTOR FAILED TO CONNECT INTO THE FEMALE CONNECTOR. THE SEAT BELT INDICATOR WAS ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE FEMALE SEAT BELT CONNECTOR FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE SEAT BELT CONNECTOR WAS REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 70,000.
Nov 02, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
REAR TAILGATE NO LONGER WORKS.STARTED NOT CLOSING OFF AND ON IN JAN. 2015. FINALLY STOPPED WORKING ALL TOGETHER IN AUGUST 2015.TOOK TO MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP TO SEE WHY IT WAS NOT WORKING THEY DIAGNOSED IT AS A BROKEN MOTOR.I WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COST TO FIX IT.SINCE IT IS NOW OUT OF WARRANTY. CONTACTED THE TOYOTA CORPORATION THEY WENT OVER MY COMPLAINT AND SAID THEY WOULD NOT COVER IT UNDER WARRANTY EVEN THOUGH THERE IS A TOYOTA SERVICE BULLETIN ON IT IN 2012 AND MANY CLASS ACTION LAW SUITS FILED ON IT.
Nov 09, 2015
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
NO PRIOR HISTORY OF HYBRID PROBLEMS DURING PREVIOUS 65,000 MILES. ON MONDAY MORNING, THE HIGHLANDER HYBRID STARTED UP FINE. AFTER WARMING UP FOR 5 MINUTES TO SCRAPE OFF SNOW, SHIFTED TO DRIVE AND BEGAN DRIVING. CAR SHUT DOWN AFTER ABOUT 12 FEET. CAR WOULD NOT RESTART. WARNING MESSAGE APPEARED ON DISPLAY, INDICATING HYBRID SYSTEM PROBLEM. AAA CAME, PUT ON FLATBED, AND TOOK TO NEAREST DEALERSHIP. DEALERSHIP WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE CAUSE OR FIX PROBLEM FOLLOWING 6+ HOURS OF TROUBLESHOOTING BY THEIR HYBRID EXPERT YESTERDAY. THEY INDICATED IT COULD BE SOMETHING IN THE INVERTER, BUT THAT IT MAY NOT BE COVERED BY EXISTING EXTENDED WARRANTY, AND THAT WE MAY WANT TO CONTACT OUR INSURANCE COMPANY. AWAITING CALL BACK. AFTER RESEARCHING ON SAFECAR.GOV, THIS SOUNDS SIMILAR TO RECALL 13V396000 FOR 2006-10 HIGHLANDERS, AND 14V053000 FOR 2010-14 PRIUS. WE HOPE TOYOTA DOES THE RIGHT THING FOR US, AND FOR OTHERS WITH THE SAME DESIGN OR MANUFACTURING ISSUE. *TR
Feb 17, 2015
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
1 complaint
TOOK THE VEHICLE IN FOR THE 15,000 MILES CHECK UP. THIS VEHICLE ISN'T EVEN A YEAR OLD. THEY TOLD US THE FUEL TANK CHARCOAL CANISTER WAS CRACKED, HOWEVER THE PLASTIC SHROWD WAS NOT. THE DEALER WANTED $1,100 DOLLARS TO FIX THIS. THIS SHOULD BE COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. HOW COULD THIS CAR LESS THAN 20,000 MILES AND LESS THAN A YEAR OLD HAVE A CRACKED CANISTER, WITHOUT THE SHROWD BEING CRACKED. DEALER SAID THIS WAS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. THIS IS A DEFECT THEN THAT SHOULD BE COVERED BY A RECALL. *TR
Mar 22, 2013
TIRES,WHEELS
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING ON I-35 AND HAS TO STOP AT THE SHOULDER FOR ABOUT 30 SECONDS TO FIX SOMETHING. THE SHOULDER IS SMOOTH AND NEWLY PAVED. THEN I WENT ON DRIVING AGAIN, MINUTES LATE, THE TIRE LOW AIR INDICATOR WAS ON AND A FEW MORE MINUTES LATER, THE LEFT FRONT TIRE WAS TOTALLY FLAT. THE TIRE HAS ONLY 7500 MILES ON IT AND WAS TOLD BY TOYOTA DEALER THAT I NEED TO PURCHASE A NEW ONE. AND THERE IS NO WARRANTY ON IT SINCE IT IS FROM A NEW CAR AND I DID NOT PURCHASE THEIR EXTENDED COVERAGE. I THINK IT IS QUALITY OF THE TIRE USED AND I SAW TONS OF SAME COMPLAINTS FROM OTHER TOYOTA HIGHLANDER OWNERS. *TR
Mar 13, 2013
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEAD LIGHTS WERE TOO DIM, MAKING IT DIFFICULT FOR NIGHT DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN VERIFIED THE FAILURE AND ADJUSTED THE LIGHTS HOWEVER, THE FAILURE WAS NOT REMEDIED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE BUT DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 4,000. ... UPDATED 02/27/13 *BF UPDATED 03/04/13
Jan 17, 2013
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH AND STEERING TO THE RIGHT, THE ENGINE SUDDENLY EMITTED AN ABNORMAL NOISE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS WOULD NOT SHUT OFF INTERMITTENTLY WHEN POWERING OFF THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THE DEFROSTER FOR THE REAR WINDOW WOULD NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY, CAUSING THE WINDOWS TO REMAIN FOGGY FOR A LONG PERIOD OF TIME. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING WHERE THE TECHNICIAN ADVISED THAT THERE WERE NO FAILURES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 3,300. UPDATED 1/29/13 *CN
Dec 18, 2012
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, SHE ATTEMPTED TO BRAKE BUT THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED RAPIDLY INSTEAD. SHE ATTEMPTED TO APPLY THE BRAKE HOWEVER THE BRAKE PEDAL HAD BECOME VERY STIFF. SHE HAD TO APPLY EXTREME PRESSURE TO THE BRAKE AND THE VEHICLE STOPPED 15 FEET LATER. SHE SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL AND TURNED THE VEHICLE OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS AN IDLE UP CLUTCH DEFECT, WHICH OCCURRED AT LOW SPEEDS AND WHEN THE AIR CONDITIONER WAS ACTIVATED. THE DEALER WOULD NOT REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 6,200 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 6,800. UPDATED 08/28/12*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO MOVE FORWARD AND THE ENGINE REACHED 1600 RPM EVEN THOUGH SHE WAS ONLY DRIVING 10 MPH. THE BRAKE PEDAL BECAME HARD AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP. SHE SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL AND APPLIED THE BRAKES AGAIN AND THE VEHICLE STOPPED. SHE THEN SHUT OFF THE IGNITION AND WAITED ABOUT 7-10 MINUTES.
Jul 27, 2012
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
AFTER PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE, THEN BRAKING, I BACKED UP TO REALIGN THE VEHICLE BETTER. WHEN I PULLED IN THIS TIME AND BRAKE, THE VEHICLE DID NOT STOP. I CONTINUED TO PUT MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE REPEATEDLY, BUT THE VEHICLE STILL DID NOT STOP. THE ENGINE THEN REVVED UP AND ACCELERATED. AT THIS SAME TIME THE GEAR SHIFT WENT INTO NEUTRAL AND THEN BACK INTO DRIVE. THE VEHICLE FINALLY CAME TO A STOP AS IT HIT THE BUILDING IN FRONT OF ME, CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE BUILDING, AND THE FRONT OF MY VEHICLE. I WAS ABLE TO BACK UP THE VEHICLE AND PARK IT IN THE PARKING SPACE, WITH NOT PROBLEM BRAKING IT TO STOP THIS TIME. *TR
Jul 18, 2012
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
MY HIGHLANDER WAS AT THE AIRPORT FOR THREE DAYS PARKED. WHEN I WAS LEAVING THE LOT I WAS DRIVING SLOW IN THE LOT TO PAY MY PARKING. WHEN I GOT OUT OF THE LOT TO MAIN STREAM TRAFFIC I TRIED TO ACCELERATE AND THE CAR WOULD ONLY GO SLOW AS I KEPT PUSHING THE THROTTLE. THERE WERE CARS ON BOTH SIDES OF ME WITH NO ONE IN FRONT AND THEN THE CAR JUST TOOK OFF. IT DID STARTLE ME BECAUSE I WAS NOT EXPECTING THIS. THANK GOD NO ONE WAS IN FRONT OF ME BECAUSE I AM SURE I WOULD NOT HAVE REACTED FAST ENOUGH TO STOP BECAUSE OF THE RAPID ACCELERATION. SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH THE THROTTLE IN THESE VEHICLES. I DID NOT TAKE IT IN BECAUSE I AM SURE THEY WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO REPRODUCE THE PROBLEM. THIS HAS ONLY HAPPEN ONCE AND I HOPE IT DOESN'T HAPPEN AGAIN. *TR
May 29, 2012
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
OCCASIONALLY, AFTER COMING TO A STOP, AND THEN TAKING OFF AND TURNING EITHER RIGHT OR LEFT, THE ENGINE WILL LOSE POWER FOR A FEW SECONDS. THE ENGINE DOES NOT SHUT OFF, IT JUST SLOWS DOWN TO JUST ABOVE IDLE SPEED FOR 3 OR 4 SECONDS AND THEN RESUMES NORMAL ACCELERATION OPERATION. *TR
Feb 18, 2012
Where to Find VIN for Problems Check
To check for problems and complaints on your 2012 TOYOTA Highlander, you'll need the VIN number. Find your VIN in one of these 4 common locations.
Understanding VIN Structure for Problem Reports
Each character in your 2012 TOYOTA Highlander 17-digit VIN helps identify specific complaints and problems affecting your vehicle model.
How to Check 2012 TOYOTA Highlander Problems in 3 Steps
1
Locate Your VIN
Find the 17-character VIN on your 2012 TOYOTA Highlander dashboard (visible through windshield), door jamb, engine bay, or vehicle documents.
2
Review by Component
Browse owner-reported complaints organized by vehicle component (engine, transmission, brakes, electrical) to identify common issues and problem patterns for this model year.
3
Check Safety Issues
Review crash and fire incidents for each component to assess safety concerns. Contact your TOYOTA dealer or report problems to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2012 TOYOTA Highlander have?
The 2012 TOYOTA Highlander currently has 190 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 2012 TOYOTA Highlander?
The most common problems reported for the 2012 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 2012 TOYOTA Highlander problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2012 TOYOTA Highlander comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
How do I report problems with my 2012 TOYOTA Highlander?
You can report safety problems with your 2012 TOYOTA Highlander directly to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov or call 1-888-327-4236. Your complaint helps identify patterns and may lead to recalls or investigations.
Where can I find my VIN to check problems?
Your 2012 TOYOTA Highlander VIN is located in 4 places: (1) Dashboard near windshield on driver's side, (2) Driver's door jamb sticker, (3) Engine bay, (4) Vehicle registration and insurance documents.
Is the 2012 TOYOTA Highlander reliable?
Reliability can be assessed by reviewing the number and severity of owner complaints for the 2012 TOYOTA Highlander. Check complaints by component, crash reports, and fire incidents above to evaluate potential issues and problem patterns.
Other Years - TOYOTA Highlander Problems
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