2022 Toyota Highlander Safety Report
2022 Toyota Highlander: Strong crash ratings, but notable transmission and structural complaints, plus multiple recalls for seats, tires, and bumpers.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2022 Toyota Highlander
Reliability Score
The 2022 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 2022 Toyota Highlander
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2022 Toyota Highlander:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cvt Transmission Failure/Whining Numerous complaints describe premature transmission failure or a distinct whining noise, often leading to costly replacement, with some reports indicating a known manufacturing defect. |
High | Common | 30000-89000 miles |
| Rear Power Liftgate Malfunction The liftgate intermittently fails to open or close properly, sometimes stopping partially or making beeping sounds without full operation. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Srs/Airbag System Malfunctions The SRS airbag system malfunction light, along with other warning lights (e.g., pre-collision, LTA), illuminates, often after the vehicle has been parked in the sun, though sometimes resolves after a restart. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Second-Row Seat Back Failure To Lock Recall issued for second-row seat backs that may fail to lock into position, increasing injury risk in a crash. |
High | Rare | new miles |
| Front Lower Bumper Cover Detachment Recall issued for front lower bumper covers that can detach during minor impacts, becoming a road hazard. |
Medium | Rare | new miles |
| Insufficient Load Rating On Accessory Tires Multiple recalls for 20-inch accessory tires with insufficient load ratings, risking overload and tire failure, increasing crash risk. |
High | Rare | new miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2022 Toyota Highlander:
28 complaints, including issues with the front bumper cover detachment (subject to recall) and general structural integrity.
24 complaints, predominantly concerning premature transmission failure, whining noises, and issues with acceleration.
22 complaints, including intermittent lurching/surging during braking and issues with the transition between regenerative and hydraulic braking.
10 complaints, primarily related to SRS airbag system malfunction lights appearing, often linked to environmental factors like sun exposure.
8 complaints, including issues like moonroof glass spontaneously shattering.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2022 Toyota Highlander
Is the 2022 Toyota Highlander safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2022 Toyota Highlander has excellent crash test ratings (5-star Overall, 5-star Side, 4-star Frontal and Rollover). However, it has 187 total complaints, 8 reported injuries, and 1 reported death, along with 5 recalls addressing significant safety concerns like seat back locking, tire load ratings, and bumper detachment. While crashworthy, there are notable reliability concerns, particularly with the transmission and certain electrical systems.
What are common problems with the 2022 Toyota Highlander?
The most reported issues for the 2022 Toyota Highlander include power train problems (24 complaints), primarily premature transmission failure and whining noises, often occurring between 30,000-89,000 miles. Other common complaints involve structural issues (28 complaints), service brakes (22 complaints), and airbag system malfunctions (10 complaints), sometimes triggered by parking in the sun.
Are there any recalls for the 2022 Toyota Highlander?
Yes, the 2022 Toyota Highlander has 5 recalls. These include issues with second-row seat backs failing to lock, accessory tires having insufficient load ratings, front lower bumper covers detaching, and illegible load carrying capacity labels. These recalls address potential safety hazards that could increase the risk of injury or a crash.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2022 Toyota Highlander?
When considering a used 2022 Toyota Highlander, pay close attention to any signs of transmission issues, such as whining noises, rough shifting, or hesitation during acceleration, especially if the mileage is between 30,000 and 90,000 miles. Also, check the operation of the rear power liftgate and ensure all recall repairs have been completed. Inquire about any history of electrical malfunctions, particularly related to the SRS or infotainment system.
How reliable is the 2022 Toyota Highlander's transmission?
The reliability of the 2022 Toyota Highlander's transmission is a significant concern based on NHTSA complaints. The POWER TRAIN component has 24 complaints, with many specifically detailing premature transmission failure or a distinct whining noise, often requiring replacement at relatively low mileages (e.g., 40,000 to 89,000 miles). This suggests a potential weakness in this component.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2022 Toyota Highlander boasts excellent crash test ratings, be aware of recurring transmission issues and multiple safety recalls; thoroughly inspect the vehicle's service history and listen for any unusual noises, especially from the powertrain.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2022 Toyota Highlander
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2022 Toyota Highlander. The data includes 187 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 8 reported injuries, and 1 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2022 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.