Head-to-head reliability
Toyota Highlander vs Toyota 4runner
How the Toyota Highlander and Toyota 4runner compare on NHTSA complaints, recalls and crash reports — and which is the lower-risk used buy.
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint & recall records
Toyota Highlander vs Toyota 4runner: The Highlander has 2223 complaints over 10 years, with powertrain issues like transmission failure, while the 4Runner has only 360 complaints, mostly about steering shake and brake vibration. The 4Runner is more reliable but less refined. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Toyota Highlander or Toyota 4runner more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander, over the past decade, has accumulated a substantial number of complaints, averaging over 222 per year, with the powertrain being the most frequently cited trouble spot. Owners report issues like transmission failures and stalling, which can be alarming for a family SUV. Brake problems, including a loss of braking power, add to the concerns, making it a vehicle that may require more attention to reliability than some buyers expect.
Toyota 4runner
The Toyota 4Runner, in contrast, has far fewer complaints, averaging just 36 per year, suggesting a more reliable ownership experience. The issues that do arise are often related to ride comfort and handling, such as steering wheel shakes and brake vibrations, rather than major mechanical failures. This makes the 4Runner a more predictable choice for those prioritizing durability and lower maintenance worries.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Toyota Highlander | Toyota 4runner |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 2,223 | 360 Better |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 44 | 23 Better |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 122 | 36 Better |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 222.3 | 36.0 Better |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 129 | 26 Better |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 1 | 0 Better |
Source: NHTSA owner complaints & recall records.
What actually goes wrong
The problems owners report
The most-complained-about systems on each vehicle — what fails, and what owners say in their own words.
Toyota Highlander
- 01POWER TRAIN702
- 02UNKNOWN OR OTHER352
- 03SERVICE BRAKES266
- 04ENGINE247
- 05FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM213
Owners report the 8-speed automatic transmission (UA80-series) failing internally, causing stalling, inability to shift, and a recurring cold-start shudder. This can lead to dangerous situations on the highway and expensive repairs.
Brake issues include a loss of brake pressure, especially on downhill grades, and a soft pedal that sometimes goes to the floor before engaging. This can significantly increase stopping distances and risk of collision.
Some owners notice an abnormal odor entering the cabin, and the engine idle can increase when the AC is on, causing the vehicle to creep forward unexpectedly. These issues can be distracting and potentially hazardous in traffic.
“Detailed Description of the Incident: I am reporting a recurring powertrain safety issue regarding the 8-speed automatic transmission (UA80-series) in my vehicle. [Symptoms] During cold-start conditions (outside temperatures below 30°F), the vehicle consisten…”
“The vehicle started stalling out randomly on the highway even with it being automatic, after getting home and parking it , it would not back up or drive . Took it to Toyota dealership and they said it’s an internal failure of the transmission which is a UA80…”
Toyota 4runner
- 01UNKNOWN OR OTHER75
- 02SERVICE BRAKES62
- 03STEERING48
- 04SUSPENSION34
- 05AIR BAGS32
A common complaint is a steering wheel shake at highway speeds (around 55-65 mph), which can be severe enough to vibrate the whole vehicle. Despite multiple balancing and rotation attempts, the problem often persists, indicating a deeper issue.
Brake problems include a pedal that goes to the floor after sitting overnight, requiring pumping to restore pressure, and severe brake vibration during stops. These issues compromise braking confidence and safety.
The X-REAS suspension system on Limited models has been reported to fail at around 45,000 miles, leading to a rough ride and potential handling instability. This is a costly component to replace.
“**Vehicle:** 2026 Toyota 4Runner SR5- -700Miles I am reporting a persistent vibration issue that appears to come from the engine bay and is transmitted through the driver's side floorboard into the driver's left foot and leg. The vibration is most noticeable…”
“Took the vehicle in 3/19/2021 @ 6076 Mileage for a steering wheel shake, the dealer has tried numerous times to fix it by trying to balance the tire and rotate the tires, it only masks the problem and the steering wheel shake comes back. The shake can happen…”
Official recalls
Safety recalls on record
Federal recall campaigns — the defect, the risk, and the fix. Confirm any open recall was completed before you buy.
Toyota Highlander — 44 recalls
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Toyota Venza, 2023-2025 RAV4 Prime, RAV4, Highlander, GR Corolla, Crown, 2024-2025 Lexus TX, LS, Toyota Tacoma, Grand Highlander, and 2025 Lexus RX, Toyota Crown Signia, Camry, RAV 4 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), and 4 Runner…
The risk: An instrument panel display that does not show critical information can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
The fix: Dealers will update the instrument panel software over-the-air (OTA) for non-PHEV vehicles, free of charge. For PHEV vehicles, dealers will inspect the instrument panel assembly, and either replace it, or update the software, free of charg…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may cause the rearview camera to freeze or d…
The risk: A rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will update the parking assist software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed January 2, 2026. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 25TB13 and 25LB06. Subaru's nu…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The third row center seat belt roof anchor may have been installed at an incorrect angle, preventing the seat belt from properly restraining the occupant.
The risk: A seat belt that does not properly restrain an occupant increases the risk of injury during a crash.
The fix: Dealers will reinstall the seat belt anchor with a new bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 27, 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 25TA16.
The defect: Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain 2022-2024 model year Highlander L and Highlander LE vehicles equipped with the Blackout Package that includes 20" black alloy wheels and tires. The installed tires have an insufficient load rating. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the r…
The risk: Tires with an insufficient load rating may be overloaded and fail, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: GST will inspect and replace the tires as necessary, and install a new tire information label as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 8, 2024. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. G…
Toyota 4runner — 23 recalls
The defect: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2020-2022 4Runner vehicles equipped with 20-inch Black Gunner Wheels. The load carrying capacity modification labels are incorrect. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard num…
The risk: An incorrect label may lead to unintentionally overloading the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: SET will mail replacement labels to owners, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 4, 2022. Owners may contact SET's customer service at 954-429-2000. SET's number for this recall is SET22A.
The defect: Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain Toyota 2023 GR Supra, 2024 4 Runner, Corolla, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Tacoma, Tacoma Hybrid, 2023-2024 BZ4X, Corolla Cross Hybrid, GR Corolla, GR86, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius Prime, Sequoia…
The risk: A vehicle with an incorrect maximum capacity weight value may be overloaded, which can increase the risk of a crash.
The fix: GST will mail new labels to owners, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2024. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 24R2.
The defect: Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain 2026 4Runner vehicles. The load carrying capacity modification label states the incorrect load carrying capacity. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and…
The risk: An incorrect load carrying capacity label may lead to improper loading of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: GST will mail a new modification label to owners, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2026. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 26R1.
The defect: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota 4Runner vehicles. The load carrying capacity modification label states the incorrect load carrying capacity, which can result in an overloaded vehicle. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal M…
The risk: An overloaded vehicle increases the risk of a crash.
The fix: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC will mail a new modified label, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 1, 2023. Owners may contact SET's customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET's number for this recall is SET23A.
Buyer analysis
Toyota Highlander or Toyota 4runner: which should you buy?
The Toyota 4Runner has significantly fewer complaints per year (36 vs. 222), indicating a more reliable track record. While the Highlander offers more space and comfort, its higher rate of powertrain and brake issues may lead to more frequent repairs and downtime.
Key differences
- The Highlander has a much higher complaint rate, especially for powertrain issues like transmission failure, while the 4Runner's complaints are more about ride comfort (steering shake, brake vibration).
- The Highlander's brake problems include a loss of pressure, which is a safety concern, whereas the 4Runner's brake issues are more about vibration and pedal feel.
- The 4Runner's suspension (X-REAS) can fail at relatively low mileage, but this is less common than the Highlander's transmission issues.
- The Highlander has more recalls (44 vs. 23), though many are for minor issues like labels and tires.
- Test the transmission carefully, especially during cold starts, for any shuddering or hesitation, and check for any signs of transmission fluid leaks.
- Inspect the brake system for a soft pedal or any warning lights, and have a mechanic check the brake booster and master cylinder.
- Take the 4Runner on a highway test drive to see if the steering wheel shakes between 55-65 mph, and check if the dealer has attempted fixes.
- Check the brake pedal for a soft or sinking feel after the car has been parked overnight, and look for any vibration during braking.
Before you buy
- Get a pre-purchase inspection from an independent mechanic familiar with these models.
- Check the vehicle's recall status and ensure all recalls have been addressed.
- For the Highlander, ask for service records related to transmission and brake repairs.
- For the 4Runner, ask about any suspension work, especially if it's a Limited with X-REAS.
- Take both vehicles for an extended test drive, including highway speeds and cold starts if possible.
Year by year
Which model years to avoid
Complaints per model year for both vehicles — lower is better. The spikes are the years to scrutinize.
| Year | Toyota Highlander | Toyota 4runner |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 1 | 6 |
| 2025 | 9 | 54 |
| 2024 | 39 | 8 |
| 2023 | 170 | 30 |
| 2022 | 229 | 39 |
| 2021 | 485 | 34 |
| 2020 | 302 | 31 |
| 2019 | 469 | 64 |
| 2018 | 258 | 58 |
| 2017 | 261 | 36 |
Check the actual car
Comparing models is smart. Checking the VIN is essential.
Brand averages tell you the trend. A VIN check tells you what's wrong with the specific Toyota Highlander or Toyota 4runner in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Toyota Highlander vs Toyota 4runner
- Toyota Highlander total complaints
- 2,223
- Toyota 4runner total complaints
- 360
- Toyota Highlander total recalls
- 44
- Toyota 4runner total recalls
- 23
- Toyota Highlander avg complaints/year
- 222.3
- Toyota 4runner avg complaints/year
- 36.0
- More reliable overall
- Toyota 4runner
- Toyota Highlander top complaint area
- POWER TRAIN
- Toyota 4runner top complaint area
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER