Owners have filed 272 complaints
about the 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid with NHTSA between 2008 and 2025.
The largest single group is the brakes.
Across this model's run it ranks 2 of 9 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 36
7% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 34
20% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2008 compares with every other Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
52.0%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
135.2%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
239.2%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
166.4%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
208.0%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
208.0%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
10341.0%
150,000+ miles
5120.3%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid 4-DR. w/SAB
—
—
—
17.4% risk
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Apr 2008peak 20Aug 2025
NHTSA investigations into the 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
DP22005Opened 27 Jan 2023Closed 7 Aug 2023ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM
Pedestrian alert sounds
NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-speed vehicles. The standard became fully applicable to all such vehicles manufactured on or after Marc...
EA18006Opened 16 Nov 2018Closed 2 Apr 2024STEERING:COLUMN
Steering Column Separation
On November 16, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an Engineering Analysis (EA18-006) as an upgrade to a Preliminary Evaluation (PE18-005). The investigation focused on allegations of steering wheel separation from the lower steering column after using the tilt and/or telescoping mechanism. Given the separation occurring when operating the tilt and/or telescoping function and failure of both shear capsules to maintain the lower steering column mounting position, potential for shear capsule damage in the known failures due to collisions, the overall low rate of occurrence,...
PE18005Opened 4 May 2018Closed 20 Nov 2018STEERING:COLUMN
Upper Steering Column Separation
On May 4, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE18-005 to investigate three allegations of steering column separation for Model Year (MY) 2008 through 2013 Toyota Highlander vehicles. Two (2) of the 3 complaints were received by ODI in April 2018 and occurred while the vehicle was in motion. Since opening PE18-005, one (1) additional VOQ involving steering column separation has been received. This incident occurred while the vehicle was stationary.As part of PE18-005, ODI examined the field data, warranty data, and relevant technical information submit...
EA12006Opened 14 Jun 2012Closed 12 Feb 2013ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Power Window Master Switch Fire
On October 10, 2012, Toyota initiated a safety recall of approximately 2.5 million U.S. vehicles involving the following models and model years:2007-2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2009 Corolla and Corolla Matrix, 2008 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2007-2009 RAV4, 2008-2009 Scion xB and xD, 2008-2009 Sequoia, 2007-2008 Tundra, 2007-2008 Yaris, and 2009 Pontiac Vibe.See NHTSA recall number 12V-491 for more details, including the affected vehicle manufacture dates for each vehicle model.Note that only early-production 2009 model year vehicles are included in the recall.Toyota and GM dealers wil...
PE12002Opened 6 Feb 2012Closed 14 Jun 2012ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Power Window Master Switch Fire
ODI has identified certain Toyota vehicles experiencing a higher rate of fire and thermal event incidents among all Toyota vehicles that use the same power window master switch design.They include a total of approximately 1.4 million model year (MY) 2007 through 2009 Camry, Camry Hybrid, RAV4 and Yaris vehicles built from approximately September 2006 through August 2008, as well as all MY 2008 Highlander Hybrid vehicles.This Preliminary Evaluation has been upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA12-006) to further study the alleged defect and its consequences.The ODI reports cited above can be...
Recalls on the 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
15V689000
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 Tundra, Sequoia, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and Scion xB, 2008-2011 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2007 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2006-2011 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, and 2009-2010 Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. During the manufacturing of the Power Window Master Switch (PWMS), grease lubricant may have been inconsistently applied to the sliding electrical contacts.
Risk: If the sliding electrical contacts are not protected by lubricant, debris and moisture that get into the switch may cause a short circuit and the switch assembly may overheat and melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
13V396000
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM: INVERTER
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid vehicles manufactured February 16, 2005, through July 29, 2010; and model year 2006-2008 Lexus RX400h vehicles manufactured February 23, 2005, through December 2, 2008. The Intelligent Power Module (IPM) inside the inverter module may contain transistors that have higher operating temperatures than the solder can support and the transistors may be heat damaged by the solder. If this occurs, various warning lamps, including the malfunction indicator lamp, slip indicator light, brake system warning light, and master warning light, will be illuminated on the instrument panel.
Risk: The vehicle may enter a fail-safe/limp-home mode that limits the drivability of the vehicle. It is possible that the hybrid system will shut down while the vehicle is being driven, causing the vehicle to stall unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.
12V491000
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 Camry, Camry Hybrid, RAV4, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Tundra, Sequoia, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Yaris, Scion xB, Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. The power window master switch assemblies in some of these vehicles were built using a less precise process for lubricating the internal components of the switch assemblies. Irregularities in this lubrication process may cause the power window master switch assemblies to malfunction and overheat.
Risk: If the switch overheats, it may melt, possibly resulting in a fire.
11V245000
AIR BAGS
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 HIGHLANDER, HIGHLANDER HYBRID, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2008 RAV4 VEHICLES. IN THE CURTAIN SHIELD AIRBAG (CSA) SYSTEM, THERE ARE TWO SENSORS IN THE AIRBAG SENSOR ASSEMBLY WHICH ARE DESIGNED TO DETECT VEHICLE ROLL ANGLE. IF ONE OF THESE SENSORS MALFUNCTIONS, THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT (MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT: MIL) WILL ILLUMINATE AND THE ROLL DETECTION SYSTEM WILL BE SUSPENDED; HOWEVER, THE AIRBAG CSA REMAINS AVAILABLE IN THE EVENT OF A SIDE CRASH. IF BOTH SENSORS FAIL NEARLY SIMULTANEOUSLY AFTER INITIAL AIRBAG SYSTEM CHECK, THE CSA AND THE SEAT BELT PRETENSIONER COULD BE INADVERTENTLY ACTIVATED.
Risk: INADVERTENT ACTIVATION OF THE CSA AND/OR THE SEAT BELT PRETENSIONER CAN CAUSE INJURY TO A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.
09V223000
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
TOYOTA IS RECALLING 27,080 MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2010 PASSENGER CARS BUILT FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 TO MAY 4, 2009. THESE VEHICLES WERE NOT EQUIPPED WITH LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS."
Risk: INCORRECT LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS COULD RESULT IN THE VEHICLE BEING OVERLOADED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
09E028000
EQUIPMENT
SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING 3,499 STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST TIPS SOLD BY SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AS AN OPTIONAL ACCESSORY FOR USE ON MY 2008 HIGHLANDER AND HIGHLANDER HYBIRD VEHICLES. DUE TO IMPROPER HEAT TREATMENT DURING THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS, THE ORIGINAL CLAMP USED TO SECURE THE STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST TIP TO THE EXHAUST PIPE MAY DEVELOP MICROSCOPIC CRACKS. EVENTUALLY THE CRACK MAY EXPAND CAUSING THE CLAMP TO BREAK.
Risk: THE ORIGINAL CLAMP AND THE TOYOTA STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST TIP MAY FALL OFF THE VEHICLE'S EXHAUST PIPE AND BECOME A ROAD HAZARD WHICH WOULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
09E022000
EQUIPMENT
TOYOTA IS RECALLING 39,100 STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST TIPS SOLD BY TOYOTA AS AN OPTIONAL ACCESSORY FOR USE ON MY 2008 HIGHLANDER AND HIGHLANDER HYBRID VEHICLES. DUE TO IMPROPER HEAT TREATMENT DURING THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS, THE ORIGINAL CLAMP USED TO SECURE THE TOYOTA STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST TIP TO THE EXHAUST PIPE MAY DEVELOP MICROSCOPIC CRACKS. EVENTUALLY THE CRACK MAY EXPAND CAUSING THE CLAMP TO BREAK.
Risk: THE ORIGINAL CLAMP AND THE TOYOTA STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST TIP MAY FALL OFF THE VEHICLE'S EXHAUST PIPE AND BECOME A ROAD HAZARD WHICH WOULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
08V181000
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
TOYOTA IS RECALLING 90,189 MY 2008 HIGHLANDER AND HIGHLANDER HYBRID PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A THIRD ROW SEAT. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." THE NON-DRIVER DESIGNATED SEATING POSITIONS (DSP) ON THESE VEHICLES IS EQUIPPED WITH SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES THAT HAVE A FEATURE THAT CONVERTS THE RETRACTOR FROM AN EMERGENCY LOCKING RETRACTOR (ELR) TO AN AUTOMATIC LOCKING RETRACTOR (ALR). THE BELTS CONVERT TO THE ALR MODE AFTER THE WEBBING HAS BEEN FULLY WITHDRAWN FROM THE RETRACTOR. THE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED SO THAT AS THE BELT IS RELEASED INTO THE RETRACTOR, THE SYSTEM REMAINS IN THE ALR MODE SO THAT A CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM (CRS) CAN BE TIGHTLY SECURED.
Risk: HOWEVER, FOR THE TWO THIRD ROW DSP'S ON THESE VEHICLES, THE ALR MODE DEACTIVATES BEFORE THE WEBBING IS FULLY RETRACTED, SO THAT IT WILL NOT LOCK WHEN CERTAIN REAR-FACING CRS'S THAT HAVE A SHORT SEAT BELT ROUTING PATH ARE INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE. THIS CAN ALLOW THE SEAT BELT WEBBING TO SPOOL OUT DURING NORMAL DRIVING MANEUVERS, WHICH COULD AFFECT THE STABILITY OF A CHILD RESTRAINT INSTALLED AT THOSE SEATING POSITIONS. AS SUCH, THIS COULD DISCOURAGE THE USE OF A CHILD RESTRAINT AND IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE CHILD MAY NOT BE ADEQUATELY PROTECTED POSSIBLY RESULTING IN INJURY.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2015493315,091 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, inconsistent application of grease during the manufacturing process could cause the driver's side power window master switch to stick or become inoperative due to electrical contact point wear. This could cause debris to accumulate between the contact points, potentially resulting in an electrical short circuit. If a short circuit occurs, the switch assembly may overheat, produce smoke, melt and/or potentially lead to a fire causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will inspect the driver's power window master switch and apply a specialized grease that inhibits heat build-up, or replace the power window master switch circuit board, as necessary. Note: This is an expansion of recall 2012-338.
Recall 20132967,621 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles, a control board for the Intelligent Power Module (IPM), part of the hybrid system inverter assembly, could fail while the vehicle is underway. This could cause various warning lamps, including the malfunction indicator lamp, slip indicator lamp, brake system warning lamp, and master warning lamp, to illuminate on the instrument panel. If this occurred, in most cases, the vehicle would enter fail-safe driving mode, resulting in reduced motive power in which the vehicle could still be driven for short distances. In some instances, the fuse of the power supply circuit could blow, causing the hybrid system to stop functioning. The resultant loss of vehicle propulsion, in conjunction with traffic and road conditions, and the driver's reactions, could increase the risk of a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the Intelligent Power Module.
Recall 2012338239,459 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, due to improperly applied grease, the driver's side power window master switch could stick or become inoperative. If attempts are made to lubricate the switch, the switch assembly could overheat and melt. A melting switch may produce smoke and potentially lead to a fire causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will inspect the driver's power window master switch and apply a specialized grease that inhibits heat build-up, or replace the power window master switch circuit board, as necessary.
Recall 201116825,000 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, the roll angle sensors in the airbag sensor assembly could fail. If one of the roll angle sensors malfunctions, the airbag warning lamp will illuminate, the roll detection system will be suspended, and the curtain shield airbag will not deploy during a roll-over crash (where deployment is warranted), thereby increasing the risk of personal injuries to the seat occupant. The airbag system, however, will continue to detect frontal and lateral impacts and, in those instances, will function as designed. If both roll angle sensors fail nearly simultaneously after starting the vehicle, the curtain shield airbag and the seatbelt pretensioner could inadvertently deploy. Inadvertent curtain shield airbag deployment in a non-impact situation may cause damage to the surrounding vehicle environment and create expensive vehicle repair, including replacement of the curtain shield airbag module and the airbag electronic control unit. In some instances, inadvertent deployment could cause minor injuries to vehicle occupants. Correction: Dealers will replace the airbag sensor assembly.
Recall 201012446,923 units in Canada
Accessories
On certain vehicles, if the Toyota optional accessory "tray-type" floor mat is not secured by the retaining hooks, or if it is placed on top of an existing floor mat, the "tray-type" floor mat could move forward and interfere with the accelerator pedal. This could result in a crash causing property damage, personal injury or death. Correction: The manufacturer will notify owners to remove the "tray-type" floor mat and provide instructions on how to obtain a reimbursement.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 134,400 milesBrightwood, ORCrash
SERVICE BRAKES
BRAKING POWER ASSIST FAILURE CAUSED FENDER BENDER IN PARKING LOT, LEAKING BRAKE FLUID FOUND AT BRAKE PUMP. DASH WARNING LIGHTS APPEARED THE NEXT DAY.
NHTSA complaint #11120965 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 179,000 milesColumbia, SCCrash
SERVICE BRAKES
LIGHTS APPEARED ON DASH "BRAKE MALFUNCTION", "CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM", "CHECK VSC SYSTEM". TOOK MY 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID TO MY LOCAL TOYOTA DEALERSHIP. THEY SAID THAT IT WAS THE ABS BRAKE SYSTEM AND IT WOULD COST $6000 TO REPAIR. I HAD THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM IN MY 2007 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID. IN THAT CASE, TOYOTA ISSUED A WARRANTY EXTENSION AND THE BRAKES WERE FIXED BY THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP. I HAD NOT YET DECIDED WHAT TO DO ABOUT MY CURRENT BRAKE PROBLEM. I HAD JUST GOTTEN ALL FOUR TIRES REPLACED AS THEY WERE GETTING BALD. I WAS ON A TRIP BACK FROM VA TO SC WITH MY FAMILY ON I-95 SOUTH. IT WAS RAINING. I WAS IN THE LEFT LANE AND THERE WAS HEAVY TRAFFIC. THERE WAS SUDDENLY A LARGE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT AHEAD OF ME AND CARS CAME TO AN ABRUPT STOP IN BOTH LANES. I HIT THE BRAKES AND BEGAN TO SKID. I DO NOT THINK THAT THERE WAS ENOUGH WATER ON THE ROAD THAT I WAS HYDROPLANING...I WAS SIMPLY SKIDDING ON THE WET PAVEMENT. I COULD NOT STOP IN TIME TO KEEP FROM HITTING THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME, SO I STEERED INTO THE EMERGENCY LANE, STILL SKIDDING. ANOTHER CAR SWERVED INTO THE EMERGENCY LANE SO I TURNED THE WHEEL AGAIN TO SKID INTO THE GRASS ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY. I WAS NOW SKIDDING SIDEWAYS DOWN A GRASSY EMBANKMENT TOWARDS TREES AT THE BOTTOM OF THE EMBANKMENT. LUCKILY THE CAR FINALLY SKIDDED TO A STOP AND CAME SLOWLY TO REST AGAINST A TREE. THERE WAS BODY DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE, BUT NOBODY WAS INJURED. I AM SURE THAT THE ABS BRAKES WERE NOT FUNCTIONING AND THIS IS WHY THE CAR LOCKED UP AND SKIDDED SO FAR. IT WAS SKIDDING AS IF WE WERE ON ICE.
NHTSA complaint #11114408 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 102,000 milesBonita Springs, FLCrash
SERVICE BRAKES
I WAS DRIVING TO WORK WHEN SUDDENLY MY DASHBOARD DISPLAYED THE ABS VSC WARNING LIGHTS. I BROUGHT MY CAR TO TOYOTA DEALERSHIP FOR THEM TO RUN THE DIAGNOSTICS ON IT, WHICH COST ME $ 100. AFTER WHICH I WAS INFORMED THAT THE ABS ACTUATOR NEEDS TO BE REPLACED FOR ABOUT $4500. SO I ASKED IF THE CAR WAS DRIVABLE AND IF THE BREAKS ARE STILL OK AND WORKING, THEY SAID IT WAS FINE TO DRIVE BUT TO REPLACE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. I WAS ABOUT TO GO ON A VACATION SO DIDNT HAVE (THE TIME )OR MONEY TO SPEND ON A PART THAT IN MY MIND SHOULD HAVE BEEN RECALLED BY THE MANUFACTURER. I THEN ATTEMPTED TO CALL TOYOTA TO CHECK FOR ANY RECALLS ON MY MODEL...THEY HAD NONE. AS I WAS COMING BACK FROM MY VACATION, DOING ABOUT 60MPH A LADY PULLED OUT IN FRONT OF MY CAR CAUSING ME TO REAREND HER VEHICLE. MY BREAKS LOCKED UP AND THANKFULLY NO ONE GOT HURT. I AM INTERESTED IN CONTACTING A LAWYER TO SEE WHAT CAN BE DONE.
NHTSA complaint #11062795 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 137,000 milesFPO, AEFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30K / HR ON SEPTEMBER 22, AROUND 6PM. LITTLE TRAFFIC AS THE ROAD LEADS DEEP TO THE COUNTRY. NO RAIN, GREAT VISIBILITY. WE'D JUST STOPPED TO FOLLOW SOMEONE TO A REMOTE LOCATION AND HAD NOT GOTTEN OUT OF THE CAR AT THAT TIME AS THE FRIEND CAME TO THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR. A FEW MINUTES LATER, AN ALARM SOUNDED AND THE INDICATOR DISPLAYED "BRAKE MALFUNCTION". THE BRAKES WERE NOT WORKING AND AT THE SAME MOMENT, SMOKE BEGAN FILLING THE VEHICLE FROM THE FRONT VENTS. AT THIS TIME YOU COULD ALSO SEE SMALL FLAMES FROM THE FRONT HOOD OF THE VEHICLE. WE IMMEDIATELY EXITED THE CAR ONCE IT CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP (FORCED TO PARK POSITION). FLAMES COULD BE SEEN FALLING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT END. MY HUSBAND SHUT OFF THE VEHICLE. WE RAN AROUND A NED IN THE ROAD TO GET TO SAFETY. WITHIN MINUTES (5-7 MAX) THE CAR WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE GENTLEMAN WE WERE FOLLOWING TURNED AROUND TO SEE WHERE WE WERE WHEN HE REALIZED THAT THE CAR WAS IN FLAMES. TOYOTA CES HAS BEEN CONTACTED AS WE WERE HOPING FOR HELP WITH AN INVESTIGATION. WE ARE A MILITARY FAMILY, STATIONED OVERSEAS. THE VEHICLE WAS SHIPPED HERE 2.5 YEARS AGO AT GOVERNMENT EXPENSE ONCE WE RECEIVED NEW ORDERS. TOYOTA HAS BEEN LESS THAN ACCOMMODATING WITH PROVIDING ANY INFORMATION. THIS HAPPENED WITH LITTLE TIME TO GET TO SAFETY. MY HOPE IS INFORMATION CAN BE GATHERED FROM OTHER CONSUMERS THAT MAY HAVE EXPERIENCED SIMILAR SITUATIONS. LIVES COULD POTENTIALLY BE SAVED IF WE WORK TOGETHER TO GET FACTS DOCUMENTED. STATESIDE NUMBER PROVIDED. WE CAN BE REACHED AT +34 642 47 0598
NHTSA complaint #11030100 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 137,000 milesFPO, AEFire
STRUCTURE:BODY
DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30K / HR ON SEPTEMBER 22, AROUND 6PM. LITTLE TRAFFIC AS THE ROAD LEADS DEEP TO THE COUNTRY. NO RAIN, GREAT VISIBILITY. WE'D JUST STOPPED TO FOLLOW SOMEONE TO A REMOTE LOCATION AND HAD NOT GOTTEN OUT OF THE CAR AT THAT TIME AS THE FRIEND CAME TO THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR. A FEW MINUTES LATER, AN ALARM SOUNDED AND THE INDICATOR DISPLAYED "BRAKE MALFUNCTION". THE BRAKES WERE NOT WORKING AND AT THE SAME MOMENT, SMOKE BEGAN FILLING THE VEHICLE FROM THE FRONT VENTS. AT THIS TIME YOU COULD ALSO SEE SMALL FLAMES FROM THE FRONT HOOD OF THE VEHICLE. WE IMMEDIATELY EXITED THE CAR ONCE IT CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP (FORCED TO PARK POSITION). FLAMES COULD BE SEEN FALLING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT END. MY HUSBAND SHUT OFF THE VEHICLE. WE RAN AROUND A NED IN THE ROAD TO GET TO SAFETY. WITHIN MINUTES (5-7 MAX) THE CAR WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE GENTLEMAN WE WERE FOLLOWING TURNED AROUND TO SEE WHERE WE WERE WHEN HE REALIZED THAT THE CAR WAS IN FLAMES. TOYOTA CES HAS BEEN CONTACTED AS WE WERE HOPING FOR HELP WITH AN INVESTIGATION. WE ARE A MILITARY FAMILY, STATIONED OVERSEAS. THE VEHICLE WAS SHIPPED HERE 2.5 YEARS AGO AT GOVERNMENT EXPENSE ONCE WE RECEIVED NEW ORDERS. TOYOTA HAS BEEN LESS THAN ACCOMMODATING WITH PROVIDING ANY INFORMATION. THIS HAPPENED WITH LITTLE TIME TO GET TO SAFETY. MY HOPE IS INFORMATION CAN BE GATHERED FROM OTHER CONSUMERS THAT MAY HAVE EXPERIENCED SIMILAR SITUATIONS. LIVES COULD POTENTIALLY BE SAVED IF WE WORK TOGETHER TO GET FACTS DOCUMENTED. STATESIDE NUMBER PROVIDED. WE CAN BE REACHED AT +34 642 47 0598
NHTSA complaint #11030100 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 137,000 milesFPO, AEFire
SERVICE BRAKES
DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30K / HR ON SEPTEMBER 22, AROUND 6PM. LITTLE TRAFFIC AS THE ROAD LEADS DEEP TO THE COUNTRY. NO RAIN, GREAT VISIBILITY. WE'D JUST STOPPED TO FOLLOW SOMEONE TO A REMOTE LOCATION AND HAD NOT GOTTEN OUT OF THE CAR AT THAT TIME AS THE FRIEND CAME TO THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR. A FEW MINUTES LATER, AN ALARM SOUNDED AND THE INDICATOR DISPLAYED "BRAKE MALFUNCTION". THE BRAKES WERE NOT WORKING AND AT THE SAME MOMENT, SMOKE BEGAN FILLING THE VEHICLE FROM THE FRONT VENTS. AT THIS TIME YOU COULD ALSO SEE SMALL FLAMES FROM THE FRONT HOOD OF THE VEHICLE. WE IMMEDIATELY EXITED THE CAR ONCE IT CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP (FORCED TO PARK POSITION). FLAMES COULD BE SEEN FALLING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT END. MY HUSBAND SHUT OFF THE VEHICLE. WE RAN AROUND A NED IN THE ROAD TO GET TO SAFETY. WITHIN MINUTES (5-7 MAX) THE CAR WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE GENTLEMAN WE WERE FOLLOWING TURNED AROUND TO SEE WHERE WE WERE WHEN HE REALIZED THAT THE CAR WAS IN FLAMES. TOYOTA CES HAS BEEN CONTACTED AS WE WERE HOPING FOR HELP WITH AN INVESTIGATION. WE ARE A MILITARY FAMILY, STATIONED OVERSEAS. THE VEHICLE WAS SHIPPED HERE 2.5 YEARS AGO AT GOVERNMENT EXPENSE ONCE WE RECEIVED NEW ORDERS. TOYOTA HAS BEEN LESS THAN ACCOMMODATING WITH PROVIDING ANY INFORMATION. THIS HAPPENED WITH LITTLE TIME TO GET TO SAFETY. MY HOPE IS INFORMATION CAN BE GATHERED FROM OTHER CONSUMERS THAT MAY HAVE EXPERIENCED SIMILAR SITUATIONS. LIVES COULD POTENTIALLY BE SAVED IF WE WORK TOGETHER TO GET FACTS DOCUMENTED. STATESIDE NUMBER PROVIDED. WE CAN BE REACHED AT +34 642 47 0598
NHTSA complaint #11030100 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact stated that it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 92,000, and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 212,000.
NHTSA complaint #11680234 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 227,000 milesLeander, TX
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds, the master, brake system, ABS warning, and traction control warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the message "Brake System Malfunction - Stop in Safe Place Immediately”, check ABS/VSC system, and check braking system" messages were displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic several times, but was not diagnosed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 227,000.
NHTSA complaint #11654687 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 162,000 milesRichmond, VA
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the brake malfunction and ABS warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that when she started the vehicle, she was unable to depress the brake pedal to the floor and started to hear an abnormal noise. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that the brake booster pump assembly and brake actuator assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 162,000.
NHTSA complaint #11442260 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 162,000 milesRichmond, VA
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:ABS WARNING LIGHT
The contact owns a 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the brake malfunction and ABS warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that when she started the vehicle, she was unable to depress the brake pedal to the floor and started to hear an abnormal noise. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that the brake booster pump assembly and brake actuator assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 162,000.
NHTSA complaint #11442260 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 185,000 milesLandsdale, PA
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM: INVERTER
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V396000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM: INVERTER). WHILE IN A PARKING LOT, THE VEHICLE WENT INTO FAIL SAFE LIMP HOME MODE AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO NEWARK TOYOTA WORLD (230 E CLEVELAND AVE, NEWARK, DE 19711, (302) 368-6262) TO BE DIAGNOSED, BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. ADDITIONALLY, DIAGNOSTIC TESTING WOULD COST $600. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 185,000.
NHTSA complaint #11244155 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 121,000 milesLA Jolla, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
ALL WARNING LIGHTS ARE ON TO CHECK BRAKES, ABS. ABNORMAL LEAK IN ACUMULATOR - ABS BRAKE ACTUATOR NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. I WAS SENT A RECALL ON THIS PROBLEM WITH MY 2012 PRIUS (ALTHOUGH IT IS FINE) BUT THE HIGHLANDER HAS THE EXACT PROBLEM. WHEN GOOGLING THIS I FOUND MANY 2008 HIGHLANDERS WITH THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM. TOYOTA WANTS $3600 TO REPLACE THE ABS ACUMULATOR YET THEY WILL REPLACE THE SAME PART IN THE PRIUS AS A RECALL.
NHTSA complaint #11210604 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 158,000 milesCamarillo, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY ON MY 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID HAS BEEN FAILING. KNOW ISSUE. I'VE TAKEN EXCELLENT CARE OF THIS VEHICLE AND HAD IT SERVICED AT THE DEALERSHIP. THE MANUFACTURING IS REPLACE THE PREVIOUS YEARS, BUT NOT THE 2008 WHICH IS THE EXACT SAME COMPONENT. PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHY THIS IS HAPPENING. NOT JUST TO ME, BUT OTHERS TOO. PLEASE HELP US. THANKS
NHTSA complaint #11209225 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 158,000 milesCamarillo, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY ON MY 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID HAS BEEN FAILING. KNOW ISSUE. I'VE TAKEN EXCELLENT CARE OF THIS VEHICLE AND HAD IT SERVICED AT THE DEALERSHIP. THE MANUFACTURING IS REPLACE THE PREVIOUS YEARS, BUT NOT THE 2008 WHICH IS THE EXACT SAME COMPONENT. PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHY THIS IS HAPPENING. NOT JUST TO ME, BUT OTHERS TOO. PLEASE HELP US. THANKS
NHTSA complaint #11209225 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 158,000 milesCamarillo, CA
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY ON MY 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID HAS BEEN FAILING. KNOW ISSUE. I'VE TAKEN EXCELLENT CARE OF THIS VEHICLE AND HAD IT SERVICED AT THE DEALERSHIP. THE MANUFACTURING IS REPLACE THE PREVIOUS YEARS, BUT NOT THE 2008 WHICH IS THE EXACT SAME COMPONENT. PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHY THIS IS HAPPENING. NOT JUST TO ME, BUT OTHERS TOO. PLEASE HELP US. THANKS
NHTSA complaint #11209225 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 139,000 milesHomestead, FL
STEERING
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
NHTSA complaint #11205787 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 139,000 milesHomestead, FL
SERVICE BRAKES
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
NHTSA complaint #11205787 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 140,000 milesSalt Lake City, UT
SERVICE BRAKES
I AM TOLD I NEED TO REPLACE THE BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY ON MY 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID. MY RESEARCH INDICATES THAT THIS COMPONENT FAILURE WAS A KNOWN PROBLEM FOR YEARS AND WAS ACTUALLY COVERED IN A RECALL FOR 2006-7 MODELS. FOR REASONS UNKNOWN THE RECALL DOES NOT COVER 2008 EVEN THOUGH IT IS THE EXACT SAME COMPONENT. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE AND TOYOTA SEEMS TO BE PASSING THE COST OFF TO THE CONSUMER.
NHTSA complaint #11191596 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Long Beach, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
TAKATA RECALL .. MY CAR START GETTING AN ERROR LIGHT IN MY DASHBOARD.. IT SAYS BRAKE MALFUNCTION , VSC SYSTEM AND ABS SYSTEM .. MY CAR RUNS FINE BUT SOMETIME WHEN I PRESS THE PHRASE PEDAL CAR DOESN'T BREAK RIGHT AWAY AND MAKING NOISE.
NHTSA complaint #11187344 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Long Beach, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
TAKATA RECALL .. MY CAR START GETTING AN ERROR LIGHT IN MY DASHBOARD.. IT SAYS BRAKE MALFUNCTION , VSC SYSTEM AND ABS SYSTEM .. MY CAR RUNS FINE BUT SOMETIME WHEN I PRESS THE PHRASE PEDAL CAR DOESN'T BREAK RIGHT AWAY AND MAKING NOISE.
NHTSA complaint #11187344 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 78,000 milesWest Jordan, UT
SERVICE BRAKES
VSC, ABS, TRACTION CONTROL ERROR LIGHT. MY MECHANIC IDENTIFIED THIS AS A FAILER ACCUMULATOR (ABS MODULE), HE SAID THERE IS A TSB FROM TOYOTA. I KNOW THERE WAS A RECALL ON THIS ISSUE ON THIS VEHICLE THROUGH YEAR 2007. CONCERNED ABOUT POSSIBILITY OF TOTAL BRAKE FAILURE.
NHTSA complaint #11183916 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 78,000 milesWest Jordan, UT
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
VSC, ABS, TRACTION CONTROL ERROR LIGHT. MY MECHANIC IDENTIFIED THIS AS A FAILER ACCUMULATOR (ABS MODULE), HE SAID THERE IS A TSB FROM TOYOTA. I KNOW THERE WAS A RECALL ON THIS ISSUE ON THIS VEHICLE THROUGH YEAR 2007. CONCERNED ABOUT POSSIBILITY OF TOTAL BRAKE FAILURE.
NHTSA complaint #11183916 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 163,500 milesSaratoga Springs, UT
SERVICE BRAKES
WE WERE DRIVING THE CAR NORMALLY ON CITY STREETS, NOT EVEN BRAKING AT THE TIME WHEN SUDDENLY THE ABS LIGHT AND A COUPLE OTHERS LIT UP ON THE DASHBOARD ALONG WITH A WARNING MESSAGE ON THE SCREEN ABOUT THE ABS AND VCS SYSTEMS. BRAKING STILL WORKED AS DID EVERYTHING ELSE (LESS THE ABS I ASSUME).
NHTSA complaint #11182645 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 163,500 milesSaratoga Springs, UT
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
WE WERE DRIVING THE CAR NORMALLY ON CITY STREETS, NOT EVEN BRAKING AT THE TIME WHEN SUDDENLY THE ABS LIGHT AND A COUPLE OTHERS LIT UP ON THE DASHBOARD ALONG WITH A WARNING MESSAGE ON THE SCREEN ABOUT THE ABS AND VCS SYSTEMS. BRAKING STILL WORKED AS DID EVERYTHING ELSE (LESS THE ABS I ASSUME).
NHTSA complaint #11182645 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 148,000 milesPoint Blank, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
THE BRAKE MALFUNCTION LIGHT CAME ON WHILE DRIVING. TOYOTA SAYS ITS THE BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY AND IT WILL COST ME $4700 TO REPLACE THE PART. THEY RECALLED TOYOTA HIGHLANDER 06-07, PRIUS 04-09 AND LEXUS WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. THE RESULT CAN BE TOTAL BRAKE FAILURE. SINCE TOYOTA KNOWS THIS IS AN ISSUE WITH THE DEFECTIVE PARTS , ALL AUTOS WITH THAT PART NEEDS TO BE RECALLED/REPAIRED WITH TOYOTA'S ASSISTANCE.
NHTSA complaint #11181119 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesSpring Hill, FL
SERVICE BRAKES
THE BRAKES STARTED MAKING A WEIRD "BURPING / BARKING" NOISE AND THEN THE DREADED C1391 CODE POPPED UP. THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THE ABS ACTUATORS ON THE 2005-7 YEARS BUT YET HERE WE ARE WITH PEOPLE REPORTING THIS FAILURE ON THE 2008-11 YEARS IN DROVES. CLEARLY THERE IS THE SAME MANUFACTURING ISSUE. IRONICALLY I HAD MY HIGHLANDER INTO A TOYOTA DEALERSHIP FOR WEIRD BRAKE NOISES A YEAR PREVIOUSLY AND THEY TOLD ME THEY WERE NORMAL.
NHTSA complaint #11180164 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Yardley, PA
SERVICE BRAKES
I RECENTLY HAD A NUMBER OF SERVICE LIGHTS APPEAR ON THE DASHBOARD OF MY 2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID, INCLUDING THE BRAKE,VSC, AND ABS. THERE WAS A MESSAGE STATING THAT I SHOULD TAKE IT TO A DEALER FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY. WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP, THEY DETERMINED IT WAS AN OPEN CIRCUIT IN THE BRAKE ACTUATOR (ABS). TO MY SURPRISE THIS IS A $3,000 PLUS FIX AND WHEN I RESEARCHED THE PROBLEM ONLINE O FOUND OUT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THE SAME PART FOR THE 2008 TOYOTA CAMERY HYBRID AND MANY COMPLAINT POSTERS SUGGESTING THAT I VOICE MY CONCERN HERE.
NHTSA complaint #11164076 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,000 milesPeoria, AZ
SERVICE BRAKES
I WAS DRIVING SLOWLY IN TRAFFIC WHEN SEVERAL DASHBOARD LIGHTS CAME ON AND ERROR MESSAGE BEGAN ROTATING THROUGH THE CENTER SCREEN. "BRAKE MALFUNCTION - STOP THE VEHICLE IN A SAFE PLACE IMMEDIATELY, AND CONTACT A DEALER,' "CHECK ABS - HAVE YOUR VEHICLE CHECKED BY A DEALER," AND "CHECK VSC SYSTEM - HAVE YOUR VEHICLE CHECKED BY A DEALER." AFTER RESEARCHING THIS ISSUE AND HAVING THE CAR SCANNED BY A MECHANIC, THE PROBLEM APPEARS TO BE THE BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY, AND THIS APPEARS TO BE A WELL-DOCUMENTED PROBLEM FOR TOYOTA. THEY HAVE THIS EXACT ISSUE COVERED UNDER A WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM FOR THE 2006-2007 MODELS OF THIS CAR, BUT FOR SOME REASON HAVE FAILED TO INCLUDE THE 2008 MODEL DESPITE THE SAME ISSUE WITH THOSE. I HAVE FOUND SEVERAL EXAMPLES OF OTHERS WITH THE SAME VEHICLE AND SAME ISSUES ONLINE. CLEARLY TOYOTA KNOWS THIS IS A FAULTY PART AND YET THEY CONTINUE TO USE IT AND DREW AN ARBITRARY LINE IN THE SAND ON WHICH ONES THEY WOULD FIX. THIS PART IS NOT FUNCTIONING AS IT SHOULD, THEY KNOW IT IS BAD AND SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE TO FIX IT. I AM VERY CONCERNED BY THE SAFETY FACTORS THIS MALFUNCTION REPRESENTS.
NHTSA complaint #11162845 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
EL Paso, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
CAR HAS BEEN KEPT ON A GARAGE AND WELL TAKEN CARE OF. WE HAVE FOLLOWED THE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ON IT METICULOUSLY. HOWEVER, TODAY WE FOUND OUT THAT THE BRAKE ACTUATOR IS LEAKING AND COULD CAUSE CATASTROPHIC FAILURE. THIS SEEMS TO BE A PROBLEM ON MANY CARS FROM THIS YEAR, AND OBVIOUSLY FROM PREVIOUS YEARS SINCE A RECALL WAS ALREADY ORDERED FOR YEARS 2007 AND 2006. THIS SEEMS TO BE AN OBVIOUS PROBLEM WITH THIS COMPONENT.
NHTSA complaint #11155260 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 215,000 milesWaldron, AR
SERVICE BRAKES
MY 2008 HIGHLANDER ABS IS FAILED AND THAT PUT OUR FAMILY AND OTHERS IN DANGER BECAUSE OF THE ABS IS NOT WORKING PROPERLY. THE LIGHTS KEEP STAYING ON, DOESN'T MATTER WHAT YOU DO, RESET IT OR NOT. THE BRAKES STOPPED WORKING, THE SIREN INSIDE THE VEHICLE MAKING BUZZY NOISE WHEN OPENING THE DOOR OR ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE. I'VE DONE A LOT OF RESEARCH ONLINE REGARDING TO THE TOYOTA HYBRID MODELS AND FOUND MANY DISAPPOINTED CUSTOMER REVIEWS, THEY ALL POINT TO THE ABS PLATFORM DESIGN FLAWS BY TOYOTA JUST LIKE THE ABS ON CAMRY HYBRIDS & OTHER HYBRID MODELS THAT HAVE BEEN RECALLED. I TOOK MY VEHICLE TO A LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER AS SUGGEST BY TOYOTA REPRESENTATIVE, THE SAME TOYOTA DEALERSHIP WHERE I BOUGHT MY TWO CAMRYS FROM; PAID $125 TO HAVE THEM CHECKED OUT. MY HIGHLANDER ABS AND THE RESULTS TUNED OUT TO BE BOTH ABS ACTUATOR (47070-48010) AND ABS PUMP (44510-48080) ARE FAILED AND THE COSTS TO HAVE BOTH FIX IS $9000 WHILE THE VEHICLE IS ONLY WORTH BETWEEN $6000 (NOW $0) WHICH IS MORE THAN HALF OF THE VEHICLE'S VALUE, FOR JUST A FEW SMALL DEFECTIVE PARTS MADE BY TOYOTA. I DO BELIEVE THAT THE COST IS RIDICULOUSLY HIGH AND BECAUSE OF THE MANUFACTURE DESIGN FLAWS & NOT FROM END USERS FAULT. I'VE CALLED TOYOTA TWICE TO BRING IT TO THEIR ATTENTION BUT I GOT DISAPPOINTING RESULTS INSTEAD. WE, TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID OWNERS NEED TO UNITE AND CONTACT TOYOTA AND OR SMART ATTORNEYS TO CONNECT ALL THE DOTS AND SUE TOYOTA FOR THE ABOVE PROBLEMS. OUR LIFE AND OTHERS IS IN DANGER DUE TO TOYOTA'S DEFECTIVE PARTS.
NHTSA complaint #11153155 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 165,800 milesSLC, UT
SERVICE BRAKES
MY 2008 HIGHLANDER HYBRID HAS BEEN MAKING A 'BARKING' SOUND EACH TIME I DEPRESS OR RELEASE THE BRAKE. I TOOK IT INTO THE DEALERSHIP TO FIND OUT THAT IT'S NOT A RECALL ITEM. THE SAME BRAKE ACTUATOR PART IS COVERED BY A RECALL BY TOYOTA UP TO 2007 AND LEXUS UP TO 2012. I'VE BEEN TOLD THAT IT'S NOT A 'SAFETY' ISSUE SO NOT COVERED BY TOYOTA, HOWEVER I'VE READ PAGES OF COMPLAINTS ON THIS WEBSITE FOR THIS EXACT PROBLEM, AND I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING THIS CAR KNOWING THAT I MAY HAVE A PROBLEM THAT COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. TOYOTA SAYS IT'S NOT A SAFETY PROBLEM SO NOT COVERED BY A RECALL. THE CAR IS METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED, IN BEAUTIFUL CONDITION, AND IT IS CURRENT ON ALL OF THE RECALL NOTICES FROM TOYOTA. IT'S A FAIRLY EXPENSIVE REPAIR THAT I THINK TOYOTA SHOULD STEP UP TO MAKE, ESPECIALLY CONSIDERING HOW MANY CARS ARE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM AND WORSE.
NHTSA complaint #11150143 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.