2022 Toyota Highlander

The 2022 Toyota Highlander is a popular mid-size SUV known for its reliability, comfort, and spaciousness. The standard engine is a 3.5L V6 producing 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. A hybrid powertrain is also available, combining a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with electric motors. Owners generally appreciate the Highlander’s smooth ride, fuel efficiency (especially the hybrid), and comprehensive safety features. Common dislikes often revolve around the infotainment system’s interface, smaller third-row space compared to some competitors, and relatively bland styling.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Oil Leak from Timing Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the timing cover area, leading to oil consumption and potential engine damage if not addressed. Visible oil stains on the engine block and under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing cover gasket and resealing of the timing cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, and potential engine damage. Can occur at relatively low mileage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump and potentially other cooling system components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Hybrid (Engine Specific Issues)

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, and potentially engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head gasket and potentially machining of the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (3.5L V6)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Software update/reprogramming of the transmission control module (TCM). In some cases, valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for software update, $1,500 - $3,000+ for valve body replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT (2.5L Hybrid)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Front Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, bouncy ride, reduced handling performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system intermittently freezes, becomes unresponsive, or reboots itself.
  • Solution: Software update of the infotainment system. If the problem persists, replacement of the head unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update if available), $500 - $1500+ for head unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera displays a black screen or distorted image.
  • Solution: Check the camera wiring for damage. If the wiring is intact, replacement of the backup camera may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The AEB system activates unnecessarily or fails to activate when needed. Error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Recalibration of the AEB system sensors. If the problem persists, replacement of the sensors or control module may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for recalibration, $500 - $2000+ for sensor/module replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Rattling from Dashboard/Trim Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling noises emanating from the dashboard or trim panels, especially when driving on rough roads.
  • Solution: Tightening of loose fasteners or installation of sound-deadening material behind the panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2022 Toyota Highlander is generally a reliable vehicle, but some owners have reported issues. Engine problems, such as oil leaks and water pump failure on the V6 and head gasket failures on the hybrid, can be costly to repair. Electrical issues, particularly with the infotainment system and safety systems, are also present. While the severity and cost of these issues vary, potential buyers should be aware of them and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing a used 2022 Highlander.