I’m thinking about getting a 2021 Highlander XSE, but I’ve seen posts about transmission problems and people needing replacements before hitting 100,000 miles. I want something that can last a long time with minimal repairs, like my old 2008 Honda CR-V that I drove to 200K miles with hardly any issues (just window motors and brakes twice). What years of the Highlander are known to be the most reliable? Are there any years I should avoid?
If you’re looking for reliability, the 2022 non-hybrid was the last year with the 2GR-FKS V6 engine. This model also avoids the earlier transmission issues due to the updates made after the TSB. If you’re considering a hybrid, go for it. Toyota’s hybrid systems are incredibly durable, with the current version being based on improvements made since the original Prius. Many hybrids have surpassed high mileage without major issues.
Just keep the hybrid battery cooling fan under the rear seat clear of obstructions, and it should last a very long time.
@Fern
Thank you! I hadn’t really thought about hybrids much before. Does getting a hybrid affect insurance costs? Is it true for any hybrid 2022 and newer?
Thanks again!
Darior said:
@Fern
Thank you! I hadn’t really thought about hybrids much before. Does getting a hybrid affect insurance costs? Is it true for any hybrid 2022 and newer?
Thanks again!
With a hybrid, you don’t have to worry about traditional transmission issues because the eCVT system is extremely reliable. They also save wear on the brakes because of regenerative braking, so they last longer too.
@Dior
I’ve been reading that hybrid batteries can cost $8000 to replace. If I want to drive the car past 250,000 miles, wouldn’t I end up replacing the battery multiple times? That would cost as much as a new car, wouldn’t it?
@Darior
Not quite. For one, hybrid batteries on 2020+ models are warrantied for 10 years or 150,000 miles. Many can last well beyond that. For example, my 10-year-old Lexus hybrid is still on its original battery at 140K miles.
Even if you needed a replacement, you wouldn’t necessarily pay $8K. Refurbished batteries can cost as little as $2,350, and aftermarket replacements with installation can be around $4,000. Most hybrids will reach 250K miles without needing a replacement at all.
@Dior
I’m at 285K miles on my 2021 Sienna hybrid, and the original battery is still working fine.
Nash said:
@Dior
I’m at 285K miles on my 2021 Sienna hybrid, and the original battery is still working fine.
Exactly. As long as you’re racking up miles quickly and maintaining the car, the battery is likely to last well beyond 250K.
Darior said:
@Fern
Thank you! I hadn’t really thought about hybrids much before. Does getting a hybrid affect insurance costs? Is it true for any hybrid 2022 and newer?
Thanks again!
My insurance actually gives a small discount for having a hybrid. It’s not much, but it’s something.
@Bao
Hey, even a small discount is better than nothing!
Darior said:
@Fern
Thank you! I hadn’t really thought about hybrids much before. Does getting a hybrid affect insurance costs? Is it true for any hybrid 2022 and newer?
Thanks again!
Sorry for the late reply! Insurance costs can vary, but in my case, it only went up a few bucks. Some states do charge more for hybrid registration fees, though, so check that.
Also, consider how much you’ll save on gas—it might offset any extra cost. If you’re looking at hybrids, stick with 2020 and newer models for better MPG and updated features like CarPlay and Android Auto.
Darior said:
@Fern
Thank you! I hadn’t really thought about hybrids much before. Does getting a hybrid affect insurance costs? Is it true for any hybrid 2022 and newer?
Thanks again!
I recommend getting a hybrid with a 100,000-mile factory warranty. For non-hybrids, I’d avoid anything older than 2018 with a V6 unless you confirm there are no timing chain leaks.
@Perry
Are timing chain leaks common in certain years? I’ve been looking at some 2019s.
The 2015–2019 models are solid choices for reliability.
Marcell said:
The 2015–2019 models are solid choices for reliability.
I’ve got a 2015 XLE that I bought new. It’s at almost 150,000 miles now, and other than routine maintenance like brakes and a valve cover gasket, it’s been a champ.
I have a 2021 XSE with 98K miles and no issues. Just remember that buying used can be tricky since you don’t always know how it was treated by the previous owner.
Check out the YouTube channel ‘Car Nut Guru.’ They have great videos on which Highlander years to buy and common issues to look out for.
Nev said:
Check out the YouTube channel ‘Car Nut Guru.’ They have great videos on which Highlander years to buy and common issues to look out for.
Thanks, I’ll check it out!
Still driving my 2007 hybrid Highlander hard, and it’s holding up great!
EmilyToyotaLover said:
Still driving my 2007 hybrid Highlander hard, and it’s holding up great!
Same here! Mine’s at 190K miles and still going strong.