2016 Toyota Highlander Safety Report
2016 Toyota Highlander shows strong crash test performance but faces recurring complaints regarding brakes, electrical systems, and steering, alongside three safety recalls.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Toyota Highlander
Reliability Score
The 2016 Toyota Highlander receives a reliability score of 75 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
Known Issues for the 2016 Toyota Highlander
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Toyota Highlander:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brake System Malfunction Multiple complaints (13 for SERVICE BRAKES) describe brake pedal failure, reduced braking performance, and vehicles rolling into intersections. One recall specifically addresses a brake fluid level sensor issue. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Electrical System Failures Complaints (8 for ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) include engine shutting off while driving, instrument panel flickering, and steering wheel locking. One recall relates to aftermarket windshield wiring damaging the ECM, potentially causing engine stalls. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Steering System Wear/Failure Several complaints (5 for STEERING) mention premature steering column wear, loose steering, and loss of steering control, with one incident describing the steering wheel not responding during a U-turn. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
| Tire Defects And Premature Wear Complaints (5 for TIRES) detail sidewall bubbles, extreme uneven tread wear, blowouts, and issues with tires causing the vehicle to pull, even after multiple alignments. |
Medium | Occasional | 13000-variable miles |
| Sunroof/Moonroof Explosion Multiple reports of panoramic moonroofs or sunroofs exploding spontaneously while driving, described as sounding like a gunshot. |
Medium | Rare | variable miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Toyota Highlander:
A significant portion of complaints fall into a general 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' category, indicating various unspecified issues.
Frequent reports of brake pedal issues, reduced braking effectiveness, and complete brake failure.
Problems ranging from engine stalls, flickering electronics, to non-functional liftgates and starting issues.
Complaints include issues with side view mirror placement obstructing visibility and sun visor failures.
Reports of tail lights on the tailgate hatch leaking and filling with water, potentially causing malfunction.
Issues with loose steering, premature wear of steering components, and loss of steering control.
Concerns about tire defects, sidewall issues, rapid and uneven tread wear, and blowouts.
Reports of water pump disintegration and fuel pump running for extended periods after the engine is off.
General complaints related to airbags, though specific deployment issues are not detailed in the provided samples.
Instances of pre-collision warning and automatic braking being triggered inappropriately, such as by bridge expansion plates.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Toyota Highlander
Is the 2016 Toyota Highlander safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Toyota Highlander received excellent crash test ratings, including an Overall 5-star rating. However, it has 109 consumer complaints, with 10 reported injuries, and three recalls addressing potential safety defects in the electrical system, braking, and load capacity labeling. While structurally sound in crashes, specific component failures are a concern.
What are common problems with the 2016 Toyota Highlander?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Toyota Highlander include problems with 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' (16 complaints), 'SERVICE BRAKES' (13 complaints), and 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (8 complaints). Other notable problems involve steering, tires, exterior lighting (leaking tail lights), and spontaneous sunroof explosions.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Toyota Highlander?
Yes, the 2016 Toyota Highlander has three recalls. These include issues with aftermarket windshield wiring potentially damaging the ECM and causing engine stalls, a faulty brake fluid level sensor that could reduce braking performance, and incorrect load carrying capacity labels that could lead to vehicle overloading.
How does the 2016 Toyota Highlander perform in crash tests?
The 2016 Toyota Highlander performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning an Overall 5-star safety rating. It received 5 stars for Side impact, and 4 stars for both Frontal impact and Rollover resistance.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2016 Toyota Highlander?
When considering a used 2016 Toyota Highlander, pay close attention to the brake system's responsiveness, check for any electrical anomalies (e.g., flickering lights, unexpected engine behavior), and inspect the steering for any looseness or unusual noises. Also, verify that all three safety recalls have been addressed by a dealership.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2016 Toyota Highlander boasts strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of recurring complaints regarding brakes, electrical systems, and steering, and ensure all three safety recalls have been completed for peace of mind.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Toyota Highlander
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Toyota Highlander. The data includes 109 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 10 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Toyota Highlander an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.