2012 Toyota Highlander

The 2012 Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV known for its reliability, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. Engine options include a 2.7L 4-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. The 4-cylinder engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 engine is also paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. People generally like the Highlander for its dependability, smooth ride, and family-friendly features. Common dislikes include the somewhat bland styling and the lack of exciting performance.

Engine

2.7L 4-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report higher-than-normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes.
  • Solution: There is no official fix from Toyota. Some owners have had success with using a heavier weight oil, while others have had to replace the piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly. Piston ring replacement could cost $2,000 - $4,000+.

3.5L V6

• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the water pump area, overheating.
  • Solution: Water pump replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VVTi Oil Line Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the VVTi oil line that feeds to the valve train.
  • Solution: Replacement of the VVTi oil line with the updated version.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.7L 4-Cylinder)

No Issues Found

5-Speed Automatic (Paired with 3.5L V6)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between certain gears.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and fill can alleviate the issue. In others, valve body repair or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush $150 - $300, valve body repair/replacement $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded with passengers or cargo.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear springs or installation of air springs/helper springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Spring replacement $400 - $800, air springs/helper springs $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks fail to operate properly, either not locking/unlocking or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Radio Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezes, reboots, or display malfunctions.
  • Solution: Unit replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Repair $300 - $600, replacement $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear hatch will not stay open on its own or falls down quickly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear hatch struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Toyota Highlander is a generally reliable vehicle, but owners have reported some common issues. The 3.5L V6 engine has some common issues with the water pump and oil line. The 5-speed transmission can have rough shifting problems. Interior and exterior issues include dashboard cracking and rear hatch strut failure. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs, with estimated costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the problem.