2018 Toyota Highlander Safety Report
2018 Toyota Highlander: Strong Crash Ratings, but Significant Transmission Failure Complaints and Multiple Recalls for Critical Components
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Toyota Highlander
Reliability Score
The 2018 Toyota Highlander receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2018 Toyota Highlander
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Toyota Highlander:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission Failure (Whining, Hard Shifting, Loss Of Power) Numerous complaints detail a whining noise from the transmission, rough or delayed shifting, and eventual complete failure, often leading to loss of motive power. Many reports mention this occurring around 60,000 to 150,000 miles, with some referencing Toyota TSBs related to 8-speed automatic transmission issues. |
High | Common | 60000-150000 miles |
| Fuel Pump Failure Two recalls (20V012000, 20V682000) address faulty fuel pumps that can cause the engine to stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Loss Of Braking Assist A recall (18V024000) indicates a potential for sudden loss of braking assist due to an improperly manufactured vacuum pump, increasing crash risk. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Shattering Sunroof At least one complaint describes the sunroof glass spontaneously shattering while driving or when attempting to close the trunk. |
Medium | Rare | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Toyota Highlander:
The most frequently reported issue, with 41 complaints, primarily involves the transmission, citing whining noises, hard shifting, and complete failure.
33 complaints related to braking, including a recall for loss of power assist, indicate potential issues with the braking system.
13 complaints, alongside two recalls for fuel pump failure, highlight concerns with the fuel delivery system that can lead to engine stalling.
13 complaints related to the engine, including rough idling and abnormal sounds, suggest some engine-related issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Toyota Highlander
Is the 2018 Toyota Highlander safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Toyota Highlander received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall safety rating. However, it has 242 total complaints, with 21 injuries, and 5 recalls, two of which address critical fuel pump failures and one for loss of braking assist. A significant number of complaints point to premature transmission failures, which can pose a safety risk.
What are common problems with the 2018 Toyota Highlander?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Toyota Highlander are related to the POWER TRAIN (41 complaints), primarily involving the transmission with symptoms like whining noises, hard shifting, and complete failure. Other common problems include SERVICE BRAKES (33 complaints) and FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (13 complaints), which is also linked to multiple recalls for fuel pump issues.
Are there any recalls for the 2018 Toyota Highlander?
Yes, the 2018 Toyota Highlander has 5 recalls. These include two recalls for fuel pump failure that can cause engine stalling, one for potential loss of braking assist, one for aftermarket windshields that could damage the ECM and cause stalling, and one for incorrect load information labels.
How does the 2018 Toyota Highlander perform in crash tests?
The 2018 Toyota Highlander performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
What should I know about the transmission in the 2018 Toyota Highlander?
Many owners have reported significant issues with the transmission in the 2018 Toyota Highlander, including whining noises, rough shifting, and premature failure, often occurring between 60,000 and 150,000 miles. These issues are a major concern among the 41 POWER TRAIN complaints and can lead to a loss of motive power.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2018 Toyota Highlander boasts strong crash test scores, potential buyers should be aware of the significant number of reported transmission failures and ensure any open recalls, especially for the fuel pump and brakes, have been addressed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Toyota Highlander
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Toyota Highlander. The data includes 242 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 21 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 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.