2015 Toyota Highlander

The 2015 Toyota Highlander is a popular mid-size SUV known for its reliability, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. It was offered with three powertrain options: a 2.7L 4-cylinder engine (185 hp, 184 lb-ft of torque), a 3.5L V6 engine (270 hp, 248 lb-ft of torque), and a hybrid powertrain. The 2.7L engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.5L V6 was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid was paired with a CVT. Owners generally praise the Highlander for its dependability, smooth ride, and ample cargo space. Common complaints include the infotainment system’s complexity, and some find the styling to be somewhat bland.

Engine

2.7L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil light illuminating and the need to add oil more often than expected.
  • Solution: Monitor oil levels regularly. If consumption is excessive, a compression test and leak-down test may be necessary to determine the cause. Depending on the cause, the fix can range from replacing PCV valve to piston ring replacement or engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+ depending on the cause and repair needed
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Water pump leaks coolant. Symptoms include overheating, coolant loss, and visible coolant leaks near the water pump.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leak from Timing Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the timing cover, often gradual. Symptoms include visible oil on the engine and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Reseal the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Used with both 2.7L and 3.5L)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, especially between certain gears. Some owners have reported the transmission slipping or hesitating during acceleration.
  • Solution: Check the transmission fluid level and condition. A fluid flush may resolve the issue in some cases. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $4,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT (Hybrid Model Only)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report the rear suspension sagging, especially when carrying cargo or passengers. This can lead to a less comfortable ride and reduced handling performance.
  • Solution: Replace the rear springs or shocks. Upgrading to heavy-duty components may be necessary if the vehicle is frequently used for hauling.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Backup Camera Failure/Distorted Image
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera malfunctions, displaying a black screen or distorted image.
  • Solution: Check the camera connections and wiring. If the problem persists, the camera unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or it may make unusual noises during operation.
  • Solution: Check the liftgate struts, motor, and sensors. Replacement of any of these components may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation or infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,200+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty connecting to or maintaining a Bluetooth connection with mobile devices.
  • Solution: Try deleting and re-pairing the device. Ensure the infotainment system software is up to date. In some cases, the Bluetooth module may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update/re-pairing) - $300+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Toyota Highlander is a generally reliable vehicle, but owners have reported some common issues. The most concerning issues are related to the water pump and oil leaks on the 3.5L V6 engine, potential transmission problems on models with the 6-speed automatic, and electrical glitches in the infotainment system. The severity and cost of repairs can vary, but addressing these issues promptly can help prevent further damage and ensure the vehicle’s longevity.