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2018 Toyota Highlander problems

A 2018 Toyota Highlander is now 8 years old, so an average example has covered around 108,000 miles. A late-run car · the most reliable part of the generation, but higher-mileage wear items are usually the deciding factor. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2018 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.

Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

The 2018 Toyota Highlander is 8 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 108,000 miles. At that mileage 1 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first.

Faults a 2018 example has usually reached

Documented onset mileage is at or below the ~108k miles an average 2018 car has covered.

EngineLow

Minor oil consumption on some 3.5L engines.

Typically appears
80,000+ miles
What to inspect
Check oil level and top-up history.

Faults that appear at any mileage

Age, electronics and build-related issues that are not mileage-driven.

TransmissionLow

Occasional harsh shifts on early 8-speed (2017+).

Typically appears
Any
What to inspect
Test-drive through the gears for smooth engagement.
ElectricalLow

Entune infotainment glitches.

Typically appears
Any
What to inspect
Test the head unit and connectivity.
InteriorLow

Second-row/third-row rattles.

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Listen for rattles over bumps.

Inspecting a 2018 Toyota Highlander?

Generate a tickable pre-purchase checklist for this exact year, mileage and variant · add photos and notes as you inspect.

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Toyota Highlander · frequently asked questions

Is the Toyota Highlander reliable?

Very — it's among the most dependable three-row SUVs, with only minor issues to check.

Which engine is best?

The 3.5L V6 is strong and proven; the hybrid is also very reliable and efficient.

What should I check on a used Highlander?

Service history, oil level, and infotainment operation.

Other Highlander model years