2019 Toyota Highlander

The 2019 Toyota Highlander is a popular three-row SUV known for its reliability, practicality, and comfortable ride. Engine options include a 2.5L inline-4 (FWD Only), a 3.5L V6 (FWD/AWD) producing 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L V6 Hybrid powertrain (AWD). The 2.5L is paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission while the V6 is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Highlander’s spacious interior, smooth driving experience, and strong resale value. Common complaints include somewhat uninspired styling, a smaller third-row seat compared to some competitors, and the infotainment system feeling dated.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, and a whining noise coming from the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level. Leaks can occur from various locations including the valve cover gaskets, timing cover, or oil pan.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the specific leak. This may involve replacing gaskets, seals, or the oil pan itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1500+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Inline-4

No Issues Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (U881E)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts, especially between certain gears. Hesitation or delay when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update can improve shift quality. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or a transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (software update) - $4000+ (transmission rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling sounds coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps. This is often related to worn sway bar bushings or end links.
  • Solution: Replace the worn sway bar bushings and/or end links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Backup Camera Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera display showing a blank screen, distorted image, or intermittent functionality.
  • Solution: Check the camera connections and wiring. If the connections are good, the camera unit itself may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Entune Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, crashing, or failing to connect to smartphones via Bluetooth or USB.
  • Solution: Try a system reset. Check for available software updates. In some cases, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset) - $1500+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Liftgate Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate failing to open or close automatically, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Check the liftgate struts, sensors, and motor. Replace any faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or splitting of the dashboard material, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard is the most common solution, however, this is very expensive. Some owners have had luck with dashboard covers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000+ (dashboard replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Various rattles coming from the dashboard, door panels, or rear cargo area.
  • Solution: Locate and address the source of the rattle. This may involve tightening loose trim pieces, adding padding, or replacing worn clips.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Toyota Highlander generally exhibits the strong reliability Toyota is known for, but certain issues do arise. Engine issues like water pump failures and oil leaks can be costly, as well as harsh shifting with the 8-speed transmission. Electrical problems with the infotainment system and backup camera can be frustrating. Interior rattles and dashboard cracking are also worth noting. While some repairs are relatively minor, others can be quite expensive, potentially impacting the overall ownership experience.