Vehicles · Insights

2018 Toyota Highlander

2018 Toyota Highlander: power train and brakes lead the complaints

Owners filed 253 complaints with NHTSA. Two areas tie for the most reports: the power train and the service brakes, each with 58 reports (23%). They look the same by volume, but not by outcome: the power train complaints involve no crashes or injuries, while the brakes are tied to 9 crashes and 4 injuries. After those come the engine (12%), electrical system (9%), and fuel/propulsion system (8%). No fires and no deaths are reported in any area.

Most reported areas

Power Train0 23%
Tied for the most complaints: 58 reports (23%), with no crashes, injuries, or fires. Owners describe rough shifting and banging noises from the rear, so check transmission smoothness on a test drive.
Service Brakes safety 23%
Also 58 reports (23%), but the most serious by outcome: 9 crashes and 4 injuries. Test the brakes thoroughly before buying.
Engine0 12%
31 reports (12%), with no crashes, injuries, or fires. Reports include oil or fluid leaks; check for leaks during an inspection.
Electrical System0 9%
24 reports (9%), with no crashes, injuries, or fires. A smaller but recurring complaint area.
Fuel/Propulsion System safety 8%
The fewest of the top five: 21 reports (8%), tied to 1 crash. Reports include fuel surging back out during refueling.

Source: NHTSA owner complaints · 253 complaints

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General information compiled from public NHTSA complaint data, for reference only, not professional advice and not reviewed by automotive experts. Verify before acting; Studio AM is not responsible for decisions made from it.