The Highlander has been Toyota’s go-to family hauler since its inception about 25 years ago. The 2020 through 2026 model years comprise its fourth generation, which now includes a standard gasoline and hybrid model. There are a few Toyota Highlander known problems. The SUV will enter a new, fifth generation for 2027.
With the popularity of the Highlander and Toyota’s reputation for dependability, one would assume (and rightly so) that the Highlander is a reliable vehicle. But that doesn’t mean it’s problem-free, just less likely to have problems than some of its contemporaries.
Major Recalls for the Toyota Highlander
There have been several recalls for this generation of the Highlander. Most were from models early in production.
Second Row Seats Fail to Lock (26V-1282020): Affecting 2021–2024 models, the second-row seat-back recliner assemblies may not fully lock into position after adjustment, increasing injury risk.
Deactivated Airbags (23V-610): In some models, the steering column spiral cable (driver’s airbag electrical connection) may be insufficiently welded, deactivating the airbag. This follows a 2020 recall for the same problem as a re-repair of previous spiral cable recalls.
Front Seat Airbag Sensor (23V-8652023): In some 2021 models, the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensors in the front passenger seat may short-circuit, preventing the airbag from deploying.
ECU Causing Stalls (20V-2972026): Engine Control Unit (ECU) programming error may cause a stall when using the stop/start feature.
Front Bumper Cover Detached (23V-720000): Certain 2020-2023 Highlanders can lose the lower front bumper cover after even a minor impact because the mounting tabs can break.
Model-Specific Recalls for Various Problems: Several small recalls affect limited numbers of units in different model/production series. These are for various specific electrical, steering, and restraint system recalls that apply to certain early-production units.
Highlander Technical Service Bulletins
A technical service bulletin (TSB) is a set of instructions to dealerships and technicians for a specific, known vehicle problem. Sometimes, a TSB is related to a recall. Other times, it’s a common warranty claim being codified to simplify repair. A TSB is not a recall.
Transmission Whine / Grinding: Applies to certain 2020-2022 gas V6 models with the UA80E/F 8-speed automatic. The TSB identifies an issue with the front carrier assembly pinion shafts and often requires a full transmission replacement if your VIN is within the specified range.
Owners also note:
- Hesitation from a stop
- Harsh 2-3 or 3-4 shifts
- Torque converter shudder
- Delayed engagement
Braking Feel and Transition: Applies to 2020-2022 Highlander Hybrids. Some drivers experience an abrupt feeling during the momentary switch from regenerative to hydraulic braking. The fix is an updated brake actuator control module software. [1, 2]
Hesitation and Acceleration Logic: Applies to various 2020-2024 models (particularly 2.4L Turbo and 8-speed configs). The TSB updates the Engine Control Module (ECM) logic to improve shifting harshness and throttle response
Toyota Highlander Known Problems
The following are Toyota Highlander known problems for the 2020-2026 model years. These are commonly-reported issues from owner forums, technicians, and social media that have not been addressed with a recall or TSB.
Phantom Fuel Tank Capacity: Highlander Hybrids are equipped with a 17.1-gallon tank, but many owners find they can only fill up 12 to 14 gallons, even when the “Distance to Empty” gauge indicates zero. This limits the expected driving range
Driver Assistance Glitches: Some owners have experienced sensitivity or calibration issues with the adaptive cruise control, lane departure, and lane-centering features.
Infotainment Woes: Occasional freezing, navigation routing bugs, and connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have been documented.
Harsh Shifting (Hybrid models): Some owners complain of harsh shifting patterns and occasional vehicle shudder during downshifts. Technicians cite the transition from e-assist to standard engine power as a likely culprit.
Engines and Transmissions in 2020-2026 Toyota Highlander
The 2020-2026 generation of the Toyota Highlander had any one of three engine and transmission combinations. In the sections above, it’s clear that these have presented few common known problems or issues.
3.5L V6 (2020–2022): The standard gas engine for the early part of this generation produced 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and was available in both Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD). This transmission has a TSB for a known whine/clunk problem.
2.4L Turbocharged Inline-4 (2023–2026): Replacing the V6, this standard gas engine produces 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a specially-tuned 8-speed automatic transmission. No known or common issues to report with this drivetrain.
2.5L 4-Cylinder Hybrid (2020–2026): The most fuel-efficient option, combining a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gas engine with electric motors to make a total of 243 horsepower. It is paired with an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT). A common complaint with this combination is occasional harsh shifting.
How To Check For Recalls On Your Toyota
The easiest way to check for current recalls that may affect your Highlander is to visit the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) Recalls page and enter your license plate or 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) to run a search. You can also do this at the Toyota Recalls Lookup page.
