2019 Toyota Highlander problems: every known failure
All 6 documented failure points for this exact year — what goes wrong, when,
what it costs, and how to spot it on a test drive. Free, from Milo's research on this model.
6known failure points
472NHTSA owner complaints
3safety recalls
$6,500worst-case single repair
A dependable but not bulletproof family hauler — the V6/UA80 transmission whine is the elephant in the room, but the platform underneath is solid Toyota.
Every documented failure, earliest first
Ordered by the mileage the problem typically appears. VERY HIGH
confidence means it's tied to a documented NHTSA recall, and 2 of these are rated Critical.
0k–12k mi● CriticalvariesVERY HIGH
Fuel pump recall (low-pressure fuel pump impeller can crack, causing stalling)
How to catch it: Confirm the recall (fuel pump) was actually completed at a Toyota dealer — check the VIN on NHTSA.gov, don't just trust the seller's word.
Source: documented (NHTSA recall)
60k–100k mi● Critical$4,000–$6,500MODERATE
UA80 8-speed automatic transmission whining/shuddering, sometimes progressing to hard failure on V6 models
How to catch it: Have the transmission fluid and filter serviced every 30-40k miles (even though Toyota lists it as 'lifetime') and listen for a whine on light acceleration — get it scanned early rather than driving on it.
Source: multi-source pattern (AI synthesis)
70k–110k mi● Plan$600–$1,100MODERATE
Water pump weep/failure on the 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS), sometimes tied to coolant crossover leaks
How to catch it: Have coolant level and any sweet smell/puddles checked at every oil change; catching a weep early avoids overheating damage.
Source: multi-source pattern (AI synthesis)
80k–130k mi● Plan$300–$1,500MODERATE
Spark plug fouling / misfire on cylinder banks leading to white smoke and blinking check engine light (as reported in NHTSA complaints)
How to catch it: Don't ignore a rough idle or hesitant start — replace plugs on schedule (~60-100k) rather than waiting for a misfire code.
Source: owner-reported (14 NHTSA complaints)
90k–140k mi● Watch$400–$900MODERATE
Front suspension bushings/struts wear causing clunks over bumps
How to catch it: Get an alignment/suspension inspection at 90k; catching worn bushings early prevents uneven tire wear.
Source: multi-source pattern (AI synthesis)
100k–150k mi● Watch$250–$600HIGH
Power liftgate motor/actuator failure (won't open/close, grinds)
How to catch it: Lubricate the liftgate struts and avoid manually forcing the gate when it hesitates — that's what burns out the motor.
Source: owner-reported (159 NHTSA complaints)
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Findings blend documented NHTSA recalls and complaints with patterns
synthesized from owner communities. Confidence is labeled on every item; an inference is
never presented as documented fact. Always inspect the specific vehicle and verify open
recalls by VIN before buying.