2015 Toyota Highlander

Introduction The 2015 Toyota Highlander is a popular midsize SUV known for its reliability, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. It comes with two engine options: a 3.5-liter V6 and a 3.5-liter hybrid V6. The V6 engine produces 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid V6 produces a combined 280 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque. Available transmission options include a 6-speed automatic for the V6 and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) for the hybrid V6. While owners praise the Highlander for its durability and functionality, some have reported issues with certain components.

Engine

3.5-liter V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating engine
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve cover gaskets leaking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from valve covers
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5-liter Hybrid V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

6-speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission slipping or shuddering:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, rough shifting
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush or replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque converter failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, grinding noise
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT Transmission

• CVT overheating:
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, transmission slipping or shuddering
  • Solution: Transmission cooler installation
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut mounts failing:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling sounds from suspension
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, electrical system malfunctions
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery drain without warning:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains prematurely, even when the vehicle is not running
  • Solution: Replace battery or remove parasitic drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rocker panel rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on rocker panels
  • Solution: Replace rocker panels or apply anti-rust treatment
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V556000

Interior

• Steering wheel peeling or fading:
  • Description/Symptoms: Steering wheel leather peeling or fading
  • Solution: Replace steering wheel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof leaking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into cabin through sunroof
  • Solution: Seal sunroof
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary Overall, the 2015 Toyota Highlander is a reliable and practical vehicle, but it is not without its issues. While some components, like the hybrid powertrain, have proven to be relatively problem-free, others, such as the V6 engine and transmission, have had more reported problems. The severity of these issues varies, with some being relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, while others can be more significant and costly. However, it is important to note that many of these issues are not widespread and only affect a small number of vehicles.