2025 Toyota Highlander Safety Report
2025 Toyota Highlander Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2025 Toyota Highlander
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2025 Toyota Highlander. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (3) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Low (5) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 0 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Unknown Or Other | Compare unknown or other issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2026 | Compare against the 2026 Toyota Highlander with 0 complaints and 0 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2021 | Check the 2021 Toyota Highlander before buying across this generation. |
Toyota Highlander Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Toyota Highlander years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Toyota Highlander | 0 | 0 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2024 Toyota Highlander | 29 | 7 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2023 Toyota Highlander | 139 | 9 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2022 Toyota Highlander | 187 | 5 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2021 Toyota Highlander | 406 | 4 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2020 Toyota Highlander | 266 | 4 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2025 Toyota Highlander Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2025 Toyota Highlander, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Unknown Or Other
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Toyota onlyEngine And Engine Cooling
1 owner complaint mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine And Engine Cooling issues Toyota onlyService Brakes
1 owner complaint mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Service Brakes issues Toyota onlySeat Belts
1 owner complaint mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Seat Belts issues Toyota onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2025 Toyota Highlander
Reliability Score
The 2025 Toyota Highlander receives a reliability score of 85 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.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2025 Toyota Highlander
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2025 Toyota Highlander
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2025 Toyota Highlander:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seat Belt Malfunction Passenger seat belts in some 2025 Highlanders may not extend properly, affecting occupant safety. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Engine And Cooling Issues Certain 2024-2025 Highlanders have reported engine and cooling system problems, which can affect vehicle performance and safety. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Service Brake Defect Service brake issues have been reported in some 2024-2025 Highlanders, potentially affecting braking performance. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Multifunction Turn Signal Switch A multifunction turn signal switch malfunction has been reported in a 2025 Highlander Hybrid Nightshade, affecting signaling safety. |
Low | Common | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2025 Toyota Highlander:
Issues with seat belts, including malfunctioning extenders, have been reported.
Engine and cooling system problems have been reported in some models.
Service brake issues have been reported in certain models.
A multifunction turn signal switch malfunction has been reported.
Recall Details for the 2025 Toyota Highlander
The following 3 recalls have been issued for the 2025 Toyota Highlander by NHTSA:
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The third row center seat belt roof anchor may have been installed at an incorrect angle, preventing the seat belt from properly restraining the occupant.
Consequence: A seat belt that does not properly restrain an occupant increases the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will reinstall the seat belt anchor with a new bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 27, 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 25TA16.
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may cause the rearview camera to freeze or display a blank screen when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence: A rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the parking assist software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 2, 2026. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 25TB13 and 25LB06. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE25.
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Toyota Venza, 2023-2025 RAV4 Prime, RAV4, Highlander, GR Corolla, Crown, 2024-2025 Lexus TX, LS, Toyota Tacoma, Grand Highlander, and 2025 Lexus RX, Toyota Crown Signia, Camry, RAV 4 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), and 4 Runner vehicles. Due to an error in the instrument panel software at vehicle startup, the instrument panel may fail to display vehicle speed, brake system, and tire pressure warning lights.
Consequence: An instrument panel display that does not show critical information can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will update the instrument panel software for non-PHEV vehicles, free of charge. For PHEV vehicles, dealers will inspect the instrument panel assembly, and either replace it, or update the software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed December 5, 2025. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 25TB08 and 25TA08. Lexus' number...
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2025 Toyota Highlander
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2025 Toyota Highlander with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The contact owns a 2025 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormally strong odor entering the cabin of the vehicle through the vents. The windows were rolled down due to the obnoxious odor. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the vehicle was tested for leaks in the exhaust; however, no leaks were found. The c...
I am reporting a safety defect in the 2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Nightshade involving the multifunction turn signal switch. The interior trim adhesive on the steering column has experienced a chemical breakdown (adhesive migration), causing the turn signal stalk to become stiff and bind. This obstruction makes it difficult to engage the turn signal and occasionally prevents the signal from "aut...
Black Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD 2025 ~15000 miles What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Without any warning, the braking action is delayed. It is a momentary loss and happens occasionally at light braking application, nowhere near hard enough to lock the wheels up The vehicle is available for inspection upon request How was your s...
While waiting for a traffic light to change, I pressed the pedal to accelerate, and the car would not move. Like my pedal was dead. I have experienced this issue three times. I have also experienced bucking or jerking issues.
Passenger seat belt won't extend half of the time. We have tried with engine on or off, put it in park and in gear, door open or closed and every other trick. We have pulled the belt straight up and down and every other angle. We have adjusted the height for tall or short riders. We took to the auto dealership, and they said it would not work for them at first then it started to work. We have...
Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the 2025 Toyota Highlander
TSBs are manufacturer-acknowledged issues with recommended fixes. Unlike recalls, TSB repairs are not always free.
Some 2005 – 2026 Toyota vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is to provide general guidelines and procedures...
A new head unit software update is available for 2022 – 2025 model year Tundra, and Tundra Hybrid; 2023 – 2025 model year Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Mirai, and Sequoia Hybrid vehicles equipped with Toyota Multimedia versions earlier than version 2230.
The air conditioning dye injection tool kit has been developed to aid in identifying the location of air conditioning refrigerant leaks. The procedures outlined in this Service Bulletin aid in locating, inspecting, and repairing refrigerant leaks.
To assist with the early detection and early resolution of audio related concerns you may be asked to recover MMR data from the head unit. The following steps are instructions on how to retrieve the data from the system and are only to be used when requested by FTS and/or FPE.
To assist with the early detection and early resolution of audio related concerns you may be asked to recover MMR data from the head unit. The following steps are instructions on how to retrieve the data from the system and are only to be used when requested by FTS and/or FPE.
Flash reprogramming allows the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) software to be updated without replacing the ECU. Flash calibration updates for specific vehicle models/ECUs are released as field-fix procedures described in individual Service Bulletins. This bulletin details the Global Techstream+ (GTS+...
The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master keys are lost. Once the system is reset, all previously registered keys will be erased and can never be reused. Another feature, Add/Remove Key, is also available. Once a key is removed, it can ...
Flash reprogramming allows the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) software to be updated without replacing the ECU. Flash calibration updates for specific vehicle models/ECUs are released as field-fix procedures described in individual Service Bulletins. This bulletin details the Global Techstream+ (GTS+...
The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master keys are lost. Once the system is reset, all previously registered keys will be erased and can never be reused. Another feature, Add/Remove Key, is also available. Once a key is removed, it can ...
Some 2021 – 2025 model year Toyota vehicles may require the download and installation of vehicle specific software or configuration software when the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) is replaced. GTS+ software has been modified to indicate when configuration software is required. A new Configure column...
When certain vehicle ECUs are replaced, the ECU Security Key must be written in order for that ECU to communicate on the vehicle network. The GTS+ Software Health Check Results screen has been enhanced to help identify if a replacement ECU requires an ECU Security Key.
During the manufacturing process, tires are mounted on the vehicle as matched sets to help reduce conditions such as pulling or drifting. If the wheels are replaced or refinished before vehicle delivery, it is important that the tires remain on the vehicle in the same location and in the same direct...
2025 model year Toyota vehicles are equipped with driver side floor mat retainers to secure the floor mat in the correct position. In addition, some models may also utilize retainers for passenger side and rear seat floor mats. During Pre-Delivery Service (PDS), follow the appropriate Installation P...
The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especially the horizonal areas of the hood, roof,...
To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. ...
Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfa...
Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Removal Procedure in this bulletin to remove the RapgardTM protective film wi...
Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be identified by the presence of small, red or brown particles on the paint surfa...
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2025 Toyota Highlander
Has the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER been recalled?
Yes, the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER has 3 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER have?
The 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER has 5 complaints filed with NHTSA. None of the complaints involved crashes. No injuries or deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER?
The 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER involve unknown or other (2 complaints), engine and engine cooling (1 complaints), service brakes (1 complaints). Other affected components include seat belts.
How many crash reports does the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER have?
There are no crash reports associated with the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER in the NHTSA database.
How many fire reports does the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER have?
There are no fire reports for the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER in the NHTSA database.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER.
How many injuries are reported for the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER?
No injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER.
Should I buy a 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER is generally recommended. It has 5 complaints, 3 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER?
The components with the most failures on the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER are: 1. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints), 2. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1 complaints), 3. SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints), 4. SEAT BELTS (1 complaints). UNKNOWN OR OTHER is the single most-reported problem area with 2 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER?
Consider the recall notices and inspect for any issues with seat belts, engine and cooling, service brakes, and multifunction turn signal switch. The 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER has 5 NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER?
The 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER receives a reliability score of 85/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 5 owner complaints, 3 recalls, and 0 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Seat Belt Malfunction and Engine and Cooling Issues.
What are the known issues with the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER?
Known issues with the 2025 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER include: Seat Belt Malfunction, Engine and Cooling Issues, Service Brake Defect, Multifunction Turn Signal Switch. These are based on patterns found across 5 NHTSA complaints. 3 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
Are there any recalls for the 2025 Toyota Highlander?
Yes, Toyota is recalling certain 2024-2025 Highlanders for issues with seat belts, engine and cooling, and service brakes.
What is the issue with the seat belts in the 2025 Highlander?
The passenger seat belts may not extend properly, affecting occupant safety.
Can the multifunction turn signal switch malfunction affect safety?
Yes, a malfunctioning multifunction turn signal switch can affect signaling safety.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Consider the recall notices and inspect for any issues with seat belts, engine and cooling, service brakes, and multifunction turn signal switch.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2025 Toyota Highlander
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2025 Toyota Highlander. The data includes 5 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2025 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.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16