2016 Toyota Highlander
2016 Toyota Highlander
Overview
The 2016 Toyota Highlander is generally regarded as a reliable mid-size SUV, building on Toyota’s reputation for durability. It offers a comfortable ride, practical interior space, and a choice of capable powertrains. While most owners report a positive ownership experience with minimal unexpected repairs, like any vehicle, some specific areas have seen more attention than others. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for the 2016 model year across its various configurations.
Engine
2.7L 4-Cylinder (1AR-FE)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
3.5L V6 (2GR-FE)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (U660E/U660F)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Standard Independent Suspension
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Infotainment System
Intermittent Screen Freezing/Unresponsiveness
- Symptoms: Touchscreen may freeze, become unresponsive, or restart unexpectedly.
- Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
Battery Drain
Premature Battery Failure
- Symptoms: Battery may die unexpectedly, requiring jump-starts or replacement sooner than expected.
- Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw, replacement of battery, or faulty module.
- Cost: $200 - $600
Exterior
Body Panels & Paint
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Lighting
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Upholstery & Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
HVAC System
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2016 Toyota Highlander stands out as a dependable choice in the mid-size SUV segment. Its powertrain options, the 2.7L 4-cylinder and the 3.5L V6, along with the 6-speed automatic transmission, are robust and rarely present significant mechanical issues. Similarly, the suspension and exterior components generally hold up well. The primary areas where owners have reported concerns are within the electrical system, specifically the infotainment unit experiencing freezing or unresponsiveness, and occasional premature battery drain issues. These electrical gremlins, while not universal, are the most common non-routine repairs to be aware of. Overall, the 2016 Highlander offers strong reliability, with most potential issues being relatively minor and manageable.