Toyota Highlander Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs
The Toyota Highlander, also known in some markets as the Toyota Kluger, is a mid-size SUV designed for families and long-distance comfort. It combines Toyota’s well-known reliability with the option of hybrid power in newer versions. While it is more dependable than most rivals, it does have its share of common issues. Knowing these problems and the likely repair costs in pounds helps owners and buyers prepare for long-term running.
Common Toyota Highlander Problems and Repair Costs
1. Hybrid Battery Wear (Hybrid Models)
- Symptoms: Reduced electric range, warning lights, higher fuel consumption.
- Cause: Gradual loss of battery capacity with age and mileage.
- Repair: Replacement with a new or refurbished battery pack.
- Cost: £2,000 to £3,500.
2. Transmission Problems
- Symptoms: Jerky gear shifts, slipping, hesitation, or fluid leaks.
- Cause: Worn parts, low fluid quality, or torque converter faults.
- Repair: Fluid service for mild cases or full rebuild for major faults.
- Cost: £250 to £400 for service, £1,800 to £3,200 for rebuild or replacement.
3. Engine Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Oil drips under the car, burning smell, or low oil level.
- Cause: Ageing gaskets and seals, valve cover leaks, or oil pan issues.
- Repair: Replace gaskets or seals.
- Cost: £180 to £450 for valve cover gasket, £1,000+ for major leaks.
4. Suspension and Steering Wear
- Symptoms: Noisy ride over bumps, loose steering, uneven tyre wear.
- Cause: Worn shocks, struts, bushings, or ball joints.
- Repair: Replace worn parts and realign wheels.
- Cost: £250 to £600 for common jobs, up to £1,200 for a full overhaul.
5. Brake Rotor Warping and Caliper Seizing
- Symptoms: Steering wheel vibration under braking, pulling to one side, or overheating brakes.
- Cause: Heat stress on rotors or corrosion in calipers.
- Repair: Replace or machine rotors, replace calipers and pads if required.
- Cost: £250 to £500 per axle.
6. Electrical Issues
- Symptoms: Power window failures, faulty sensors, infotainment glitches.
- Cause: Wiring faults, worn sensors, or ECU errors.
- Repair: Diagnostics and part replacement.
- Cost: £120 to £400.
7. Air Conditioning Failure
- Symptoms: Weak cooling, strange noises, or no airflow.
- Cause: Low refrigerant, leaking pipes, or failed compressor.
- Repair: Re-gas for minor problems, compressor replacement for major failure.
- Cost: £120 to £200 for re-gas, £800 to £1,500 for compressor.
8. Exhaust Manifold Cracks
- Symptoms: Ticking sound on cold start, performance drop, MOT emissions failure.
- Cause: Heat cycles leading to cracking.
- Repair: Welding or replacement of the manifold.
- Cost: £400 to £900.
Typical Repair Costs Table (UK)
| Problem | Repair Cost Range (£) |
|---|---|
| Hybrid battery replacement | £2,000 to £3,500 |
| Transmission service | £250 to £400 |
| Transmission rebuild or replacement | £1,800 to £3,200 |
| Valve cover gasket replacement | £180 to £450 |
| Major oil leak repair | £1,000+ |
| Suspension repairs | £250 to £600 |
| Full suspension overhaul | Up to £1,200 |
| Brake repairs (rotors/pads/calipers) | £250 to £500 per axle |
| Electrical repairs | £120 to £400 |
| Air con re-gas | £120 to £200 |
| Air con compressor replacement | £800 to £1,500 |
| Exhaust manifold repair | £400 to £900 |
Long Term Ownership and Reliability
The Toyota Highlander is one of the more reliable family SUVs on the market. Many reach well over 150,000 miles with relatively few problems. Hybrids provide excellent fuel savings but the battery will eventually need attention. Annual running costs in the UK are usually between £500 and £700, but larger repairs such as transmission work or hybrid battery replacement can increase costs significantly.
Final Thoughts
The Toyota Highlander is a solid and practical SUV that generally beats its rivals for reliability. Key areas to watch are transmission health, oil leaks, suspension wear, and hybrid battery life.
Advice for buyers:
- Check the transmission shifts smoothly.
- Inspect for oil leaks under the engine.
- Test hybrid battery performance on older hybrids.
- Make sure the car has a complete service history.
Advice for owners:
- Service the transmission regularly.
- Deal with suspension noise quickly to avoid higher bills.
- Monitor hybrid battery health after 8 to 10 years.
- Keep on top of air conditioning checks.
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