2011-2016 Toyota Highlander Feedback Requested

[Fl0und3rz]

We are  looking at these and would appreciate any feedback.

We are specifically looking at the AWD models. 

The 2011-2016 3.5 L V6 2GR-FE engine has been in the Highlander from 2007-2016, which I take to mean that any bugs are likely worked out and major maintenance issues resolved.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_GR_engine#2GR-FE



I will likely begin beating the bushes this weekend.

Beyond the obvious, are there any major things I should be looking out for with the AWD, engine major maintenance items, recalls, etc.?


Thanks.

[Woodchuck]

Pretty good outfit over all. A little bit known for leaking transfer case, which is a special treat. Also a little known for leaking steering rack.

[WAcoueshunter]

We have a 2013.  Bought it new, and now have about 80K miles on it.  Hasn't needed any repairs at all, nothing but regular maintenance. 

For that matter, I've had four Toyotas since 2001 (4Runner, Tundra, Highlander, Tacoma), and haven't had a repair on any of them (other than body damage).  I am knocking on wood right now. 

[Fl0und3rz]

Thanks.  You should knock wood.


The Highlanders also get pretty decent safety marks. 

The IIHS rates the Highlander "Good" overall in their frontal offset crash test, and good in all subcategories except for "Head/neck," which is rated as "Acceptable."[26] And "Good" overall in the side impact crash test, with "Good" rating in all nine measured categories.[27] The Highlander is also rated "Good" in the roof strength test, giving it a "top safety pick" rating.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Highlander#Safety_2


Good to know on the steering rack and transfer case.

[Zardoz]

Just FYI.     

[3boys]

Have a 2011 with 130k miles. Only issue has been the sunroof.

[DRobnsn]

My Mom has a 2015 awd, somewhere around 80k on it, bought new. Zero issues, just regular maintenance. She has 6 grand kids that she carts around with it daily during the school year. I've taken it on a couple of our day long family trips with 5 of us and really enjoyed driving it. Plenty of get up and go, good brakes, easy to get in and out both for kids and adults. I tried to convince my wife to try one out last year but she couldn't get past the 4runner she had her eye on. That's okay though, we love it too. 2018 with 11k on it so far and also zero issues.

 

[banishd]

Have a 2010 with same engine. I would recommend you replace the engine oil cooler after 100k. Mine ruptured at 150k. Replaced the drive belt at 150k and it still looked really good. Have not had any other problems with it. My mom and brother both have 2010 or newer with no issues at all yet.

[fowl smacker]

My parents have a 2007 with somewhere around 250k on it.  Dad does the oil changes and has the major regular maintenance done at Toyota, 0 issues.  We own a 2016 that now has 40k miles on it which isn't a huge sample size, but we love it.  No issues either with regular maintenance,  has enough room for our kids and a couple friends.  Rides smooth as silk, and my wife loves the heated/cooled seats.  It really is a comfortable ride.

[Buzz2401]

Wife has a 2012 Hybrid with 115k no issues and she really likes it.  Hybrid has more HP then non and it gets 26-29 mpg

[Fl0und3rz]

Thanks for all the feedback.

[Pathfinder101]

My wife has a 2014.  We love it.  No problems.  Just had a remote start installed in it for her birthday because we plan to keep it a while.   

[Fl0und3rz]

Yeah, after this winter, with my F350 having remote start, I don't think Momma would settle without.

[mountainman]

Had a 2008 Hybrid, 2006, and 2010 in our family. O issues on any of them. One of the most desired vehicles on our lot👍

[DRobnsn]

My wife has a 2014.  We love it.  No problems.  Just had a remote start installed in it for her birthday because we plan to keep it a while.   

Where did you get the remote start? And thank you in advance for the great gift idea!

[Fl0und3rz]

I was researching them, and it looks like remote start might be a factory option, at least for 2016, so it might be dealer installable.

[Fl0und3rz]

We ended up in a 2015 AWD Limited.  The remote start, the guy said dealer installable Toyota parts is about $850, with aftermarket about $450.  YMMV.  Thanks for all the feedback.

[DRobnsn]

Congrats on the great rig, I have no doubt you'll enjoy it. Thank you for the info on the remote start!

[Fl0und3rz]

No problem and thank you. 

It will make a great winter and road trip vehicle for four.  The 3.5 is pretty peppy for its size, and the road noise seems minimal.  Really roomy with standing, abeit haunched over, headroom in the back, with middle captain chairs making third row seat access a breeze.  With all seats down, the back cargo area is cavernous.

It's kind of like a minivan, without the compulsory vasectomy.

[mountainman]

Great rig! You will love it!

[Pnwrider]

Great choice, you will love it. My wife has a 2015 that we bought new. Zero regrets, been a great family car for us.