2023 Toyota Highlander Safety Report
2023 Toyota Highlander: Strong Crash Ratings, but Numerous Recalls and Emerging Electrical/Structural Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2023 Toyota Highlander
Reliability Score
The 2023 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 2023 Toyota Highlander
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2023 Toyota Highlander:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instrument Panel Display Failure The instrument panel display may be blank at startup, preventing the driver from seeing critical information like speed, fuel level, and warning lights. This is a known recall (25V595000). |
High | Occasional | new-20000 miles |
| Power Liftgate Malfunction The power liftgate may fail to open or close properly, make loud squealing noises, or stop mid-operation, requiring multiple attempts to close. |
Medium | Common | 20000-50000 miles |
| Front Lower Bumper Cover Detachment The front lower bumper cover assembly can detach during normal vehicle operation or minor impacts, becoming a road hazard. This is subject to recall (23TA12). |
Medium | Occasional | 10000-40000 miles |
| Delayed Acceleration/Jerking Vehicle experiences delayed acceleration, jerking, and shaking, particularly when shifting between gears or moving from a stop. |
Medium | Occasional | 5000-30000 miles |
| Spontaneous Glass Shattering (Sunroof/Rear Window) Sunroof or rear window can spontaneously shatter while driving, sending glass into and around the vehicle. |
High | Rare | 10000-40000 miles |
| Brake Lurching/Delayed Stopping When applying brakes, especially downhill, the car may lurch forward before stopping, requiring harder reapplication of brakes. |
High | Occasional | 5000-30000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2023 Toyota Highlander:
A significant portion of complaints fall into a general category, indicating various unspecified issues or problems not fitting other classifications.
Issues related to the vehicle's body and frame, including bumper detachment and spontaneous glass shattering.
Complaints about engine performance, including delayed acceleration, jerking, and whining noises.
Problems with braking performance, such as lurching or delayed stopping.
Malfunctions related to the electrical system, including instrument panel display failures and infotainment issues.
Concerns regarding airbag deployment, including instances where airbags did not deploy in a crash.
Issues with tires, including those related to incorrect load ratings addressed by recalls.
Problems with the transmission or drivetrain, such as transfer case failure.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2023 Toyota Highlander
Is the 2023 Toyota Highlander safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2023 Toyota Highlander received excellent crash test ratings, including an Overall 5-star rating. However, it has 139 total complaints and 9 recalls, indicating several safety-related issues that have led to 8 reported injuries. Key concerns include instrument panel failures, seat back locking issues, and airbag deployment problems, all addressed by recalls.
What are common problems with the 2023 Toyota Highlander?
The most reported issues for the 2023 Toyota Highlander include 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' (27 complaints), 'STRUCTURE' (24 complaints, often related to bumper detachment or glass shattering), and 'ENGINE' (8 complaints, describing delayed acceleration or jerking). Other notable problems involve the power liftgate, service brakes, and electrical system, particularly the instrument panel display.
Are there any recalls for the 2023 Toyota Highlander?
Yes, the 2023 Toyota Highlander has 9 recalls. These include critical safety recalls for second-row seat backs failing to lock, rearview camera display malfunctions, instrument panel display failures, deactivated driver's airbags due to steering column issues, and incorrect tire load ratings. There are also recalls for detached front bumper covers and incorrect capacity labels.
How does the 2023 Toyota Highlander perform in crash tests?
The 2023 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 2023 Toyota Highlander?
When considering a used 2023 Toyota Highlander, ensure all 9 open recalls have been addressed. Specifically, check for proper function of the instrument panel display, power liftgate, and any signs of previous bumper detachment. Pay attention to any hesitation or jerking during acceleration and test the brakes for any lurching behavior.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2023 Toyota Highlander boasts strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should prioritize verifying that all 9 open recalls have been completed and be aware of common complaints regarding electrical system issues, structural components, and powertrain performance.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2023 Toyota Highlander
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2023 Toyota Highlander. The data includes 139 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 9 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 8 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2023 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.