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Toyota Highlander Hybrid: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2025 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2012 (91/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2012 91 · 2021 89 · 2011 89 · 2014 87

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.

202564/100
Unproven

7 complaints · 3 recalls

202480/100
Buy

39 complaints · 7 recalls

202364/100
Unproven

8 complaints · 6 recalls

202264/100
Unproven

6 complaints · 4 recalls

202189/100
Buy

15 complaints · 4 recalls

202064/100
Unproven

9 complaints · 4 recalls

201784/100
Buy

224 complaints · 2 recalls

201487/100
Buy

133 complaints · 5 recalls

201387/100
Buy

210 complaints · 3 recalls

201291/100
Buybest year

190 complaints · 2 recalls

201189/100
Buy

186 complaints · 5 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2012?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid’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 Hybrid head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Toyota Highlander Hybrid 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.