Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2019 Toyota Highlander
The 2019 Toyota Highlander is relatively reliable but has seen complaints mostly related to the powertrain and fuel system. With only three recalls, the issues seem to be moderately addressed. However, weaknesses in the power train and recurring fuel pump problems are notable. Given the mixed feedback from owners, check these areas thoroughly during inspection.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2019 Toyota Highlander has 3 NHTSA recall campaigns and 509 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #20V682000 Fuel Pump May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V012000 Fuel Pump May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V244000 Non-Permanent Text on Load Capacity Label NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 215 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 89 complaints
- Unknown or Other 83 complaints
- Engine 71 complaints
- Electrical System 56 complaints
- Fuel System, Gasoline 19 complaints
Of the 509 complaints on file, 22 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 509 complaints, owners report 18 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Fuel pump failures
How to check: Listen for stalling or sputtering during acceleration
Power train malfunctions
How to check: Check for delayed or rough shifting
Electrical system issues
How to check: Test all electrical components for failure
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises
Red flag: Knocking or hissing sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check dashboard for warning lights
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
Low-speed acceleration
What to check: Feel for smooth gear changes
Red flag: Jerky or harsh shifts
- 04
Constant speed
What to check: Monitor for engine sputtering
Red flag: Stalling or jerking
- 05
Braking
What to check: Ensure smooth and effective stopping
Red flag: Spongy or ineffective brakes
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for hesitation or power loss
Red flag: Lag or delay in response
- 07
Sharp turns
What to check: Observe steering responsiveness
Red flag: Stiff or unresponsive steering
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have there been any engine repairs?
- Has the fuel pump been replaced?
- Are there any powertrain issues?
- Have all recalls been addressed?
- Is there a history of electrical faults?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service history
- Recall repair records
- Fuel pump replacement proof
- Accident history report
- Previous owner's contact information
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2019 Toyota Highlander at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2019 Toyota Highlander? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.