2022 Toyota Highlander: common problems and reliability

The 2022 Toyota Highlander has 223 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 6 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and structure. Owners most often flag 8-speed automatic transmission failures (whining, complete failure) — primarily affects non-hybrid (gas) models from approximately 2017-2022. repair costs are reported to be around $7,000+. frequency: very frequent.

Safety record for the 2022 model year

223
Owner complaints
6
Recalls
12
Crash reports
1
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2022 Toyota Highlander vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

power train
43
structure
40
service brakes
37
air bags
21
electrical system
18

Recalls affecting the 2022 Highlander

equipment:other:labels

Campaign 22V310000

Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain 2022 4Runner, Tacoma, Highlander, and Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The load carrying capacity modification labels may not be permanent and can fade, becoming illegible.

structure:body:bumpers

Campaign 23V720000

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Highlander & Highlander Hybrid vehicles. During normal vehicle operation, minor impact to the front lower bumper cover may result in the co

tires

Campaign 24V419000

Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain 2022-2024 model year Highlander L and Highlander LE vehicles equipped with the Blackout Package that includes 20" black alloy wheels and tires. The installed tires have

tires

Campaign 24V452000

Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Highlander vehicles. The 20-inch accessory tires with an insufficient load rating for the vehicle's Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) were installed.

What owners say across generations

Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on model year and powertrain. The Highlander is widely recognized as a reliable, practical, and comfortable family SUV, praised for its solid build quality, good ride comfort, and strong resale value. Long-term owners o

  • 8-speed automatic transmission failures (whining, complete failure) — Primarily affects non-hybrid (gas) models from approximately 2017-2022. Repair costs are reported to be around $7,000+. Frequency: very frequent.
  • Transmission problems in gas models — General reports of issues, clunkiness, and unreliability with the 8-speed automatic in model years 2017-2022, and isolated mentions for 2023. Frequency: very frequent.
  • Engine transition concerns — Apprehension about the long-term reliability of the newer turbocharged 2.4L 4-cylinder engine compared to the older, proven 3.5L V6. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Interior quality and design — Described by some as "frumpy," "cheap feeling" in lower trims, or having a "station wagon" aesthetic compared to competitors. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Android Auto/Apple CarPlay connectivity issues — Reported as a known issue in some models, including the Highlander Hybrid. Frequency: isolated.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Highlander.

Typical used price

Used Highlander listings typically run $18,655–$29,616 across 2002 to 2024 model years.

Other Highlander model years