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Toyota Highlander: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2025 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2025 (93/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2025 93 · 2012 91 · 2016 90 · 2011 89

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202593/100
Buybest year

7 complaints · 3 recalls

202480/100
Buy

39 complaints · 7 recalls

202364/100
Caution

162 complaints · 9 recalls

202272/100
Buy

219 complaints · 5 recalls

202165/100
Caution

473 complaints · 4 recalls

202064/100
Caution

298 complaints · 4 recalls

201969/100
Buy

464 complaints · 3 recalls

201864/100
Caution

254 complaints · 5 recalls

201777/100
Buy

259 complaints · 4 recalls

201690/100
Buy

109 complaints · 3 recalls

201585/100
Buy

186 complaints · 2 recalls

201487/100
Buy

133 complaints · 5 recalls

201387/100
Buy

210 complaints · 3 recalls

201291/100
Buy

190 complaints · 2 recalls

201189/100
Buy

186 complaints · 5 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2025?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2025 Toyota Highlander’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2025 Toyota Highlander head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Toyota Highlander as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.