2021 Toyota Highlander Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Sell your car for what it's worth.
Every receipt, every service, one signed PDF you hand the buyer. OSC is the paperwork trail your resale price depends on.
- OSC Transfer PDF — every receipt
- Snap-a-receipt AI log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Shareable buyer view link
Quick Facts · 2021 Toyota Highlander
- Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the structure:body:bumpers.
- Scores 2 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2019 Toyota Highlander earns a 92.
- The system most likely to surface first: infotainment system (minor severity).
The 2021 Toyota Highlander at a glance
- Is the 2021 Toyota Highlander reliable?
- Autojunket rates the 2021 Toyota Highlander 90/100 (grade A-), categorized as low risk. A supremely reliable family SUV that masterfully balances practicality with enduring quality, offering peace of mind for years to come.
- Should I buy a used 2021 Toyota Highlander?
- Autojunket recommends reading the full reliability report before buying a 2021 Toyota Highlander. The 2021 Toyota Highlander is an outstanding choice for reliability, safety, and practicality. With its bulletproof powertrain and excellent build quality, it promises years of trouble-free ownership. This is a smart investment for anyone seeking a dependable family hauler with minimal fuss.
- Which Toyota Highlander years are the most reliable?
- Best model years to buy: 2020-Present (fourth generation). Years to avoid: None stand out as significantly problematic within this generation, but always verify recalls..
- What are the most common problems with the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
- The top failure points on the 2021 Toyota Highlander are Infotainment System (typically around 5,000-40,000 miles), Fuel Pump Recall (Fixed) (typically around 10,000-50,000 miles), Brake System Wear (typically around 30,000-60,000 miles). Autojunket's full report includes repair-cost ranges and inspection checklists for each.
- At what mileage do problems start on the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
- The first major mileage danger zone for the 2021 Toyota Highlander is around 30,000. Low Risk Zone — At this mileage, the Highlander is still very new. The primary concern is ensuring all manufacturer recalls (like the fuel pump) have been addressed. Expect mostly minor, software-related electrical gremlins, if any.
Every answer is generated from real repair, recall, and ownership data — full breakdown in the report.
Read the full free reportShould You Buy the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
The 2021 Toyota Highlander stands as an exceptional choice in the mid-size SUV segment, offering a rock-solid foundation of Toyota reliability and a comfortable family hauler experience. It's a pragmatic and smart purchase for those prioritizing longevity and low ownership costs, making it one of the safest used vehicle investments you can make today.
The 2021 Toyota Highlander is an outstanding choice for reliability, safety, and practicality. With its bulletproof powertrain and excellent build quality, it promises years of trouble-free ownership. This is a smart investment for anyone seeking a dependable family hauler with minimal fuss.
Best Model Years
2020-Present (fourth generation)
Years to Avoid
None stand out as significantly problematic within this generation, but always verify recalls.
Biggest Strengths
- Proven 3.5L V6 engine durability
- Robust 8-speed automatic transmission
- Strong resale value and widespread serviceability
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2021 Toyota Highlander, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Owners occasionally report the Entune/Toyota Audio Multimedia system freezing, lagging, or having intermittent Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity issues. This is often software-related and can sometimes be resolved with system resta…
Certain 2021 Highlanders were part of a widespread recall (20V682000) for a defective Denso low-pressure fuel pump which could fail, leading to engine stalling. Most vehicles have had this issue rectified by now, but it's a critical item…
While not a defect, the Highlander's weight and family-hauling duties can lead to accelerated wear of brake pads and rotors, especially if regularly driven aggressively or in stop-and-go traffic. Regular inspections are key to avoid exce…
2021 Toyota Highlander Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2021 Toyota Highlander most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the Highlander is still very new. The primary concern is ensuring all manufacturer recalls (like the fuel pump) have been addressed. Expect mostly minor, software-related electrical gremlins, if any.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often coincides with major service intervals (spark plugs, transmission fluid check/change depending on conditions). Brake components are likely candidates for replacement, and minor suspension noises might start to emerge.
Elevated Risk Zone
While still very strong, at 90k, you'll want to inspect for typical wear and tear items. Belts, hoses, and more significant suspension components (struts, sway bar links) could be nearing the end of their service life.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, the Highlander remains a dependable vehicle if well-maintained. Expect to address more significant maintenance and wear items, but major engine/transmission failures are rare. Proactive maintenance is key to continu…
2021 Toyota Highlander Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2021 Toyota Highlander on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-650
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., brakes, suspension links)
How Long Does the 2021 Toyota Highlander Last?
A well-maintained 2021 Highlander can easily exceed 200,000 miles. Prioritize vehicles with comprehensive service records, as this is a strong indicator of future reliability.
What 2021 Toyota Highlander Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional long-term reliability and low maintenance costs.
- Comfortable ride and quiet cabin on highways for family trips.
- Standard suite of safety features (Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+).
- Strong resale value, holding its worth exceptionally well.
Common Frustrations
- Cramped third-row seating, unsuitable for adults on long journeys.
- Infotainment system can be clunky and occasionally buggy.
- V6 engine can be noisy when pushed hard for acceleration.
- Fuel economy, while decent for its class, isn't outstanding (non-hybrid).
Who Should Buy the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
Best For
- Families needing a reliable and safe vehicle for daily commutes and road trips.
- Buyers prioritizing low ownership costs and strong resale value.
- Individuals seeking a comfortable and practical SUV without excessive luxury.
Not Ideal For
- Large families who frequently use the third row for adults.
- Enthusiast drivers seeking a sporty or engaging driving experience.
How the 2021 Toyota Highlander Compares to Rivals
The 2021 Highlander is a class leader in proven long-term reliability, often outperforming direct competitors in key areas like powertrain durability and overall dependability, making it a benchmark for the segment.
More Reliable Than
- Honda Pilot (historically less robust transmissions, higher overall ownership costs)
- Ford Explorer (more frequent electrical issues, complex powertrain maintenance)
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (higher maintenance, lower reliability scores)
Comparable To
- Kia Telluride / Hyundai Palisade (strong value, good features, but long-term reliability still establishing)
NHTSA Recalls
4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Highlander & Highlander Hybrid vehicles. During normal vehicle operation, minor impact to the front lower bumper cover may result in the cover coming loose or detaching.
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
What breaks on the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
Autojunket OSC · OSC Transfer
Sell your 2021 Toyota Highlander for what it's actually worth.
Log every service. Sell with a signed PDF. Every receipt, mileage-verified, in the buyer's hands.
Toyota Highlander by Year
Compare AutoScores across nearby years of the Toyota Highlander. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by AutoScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2021 Toyota Highlander
Parts and accessories matched to your 2021 Toyota Highlander
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Where the 2021 Toyota Highlander report beats Carfax + CR
Carfax tells you if it crashed. Consumer Reports rates the whole nameplate. Autojunket tells you what will actually break on this specific year — and how to negotiate it.
Year-specific reliability score
Common problems + repair costs
Mileage danger zone map
AI negotiation script + walk-away price
Single report price
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
Sell your 2021 Toyota Highlander for what it's actually worth.
Log every service on your Toyota Highlander. When it's time to sell, hand the buyer a signed PDF — every receipt, mileage-verified, close the deal at your price.
- OSC Transfer PDF — every receipt
- Snap-a-receipt AI log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Shareable buyer view link
Recommended Reading for the Toyota Highlander
Toyota Camry Common Problems and Repair Costs
Buying a used Toyota Camry? Understand common problems like oil consumption, sticky dashes, and VVT-i rattles. Get repair costs & buying tips to save th…
Toyota Camry Years to Avoid (Worst to Best Ranked)
Toyota RAV4 Years to Avoid (Worst to Best Ranked)
Uncover the definitive Toyota RAV4 worst-to-best ranking to identify years to avoid and find the most reliable models for your next purchase.