Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2021 Toyota Highlander
The 2021 Toyota Highlander is generally reliable but has issues with its powertrain and some safety recalls involving seat backs, tires, and airbags. Ensure these issues are addressed before purchasing.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2021 Toyota Highlander has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 535 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 #26V128000 Second-Row Seat Backs May Fail to Lock NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V452000 Tires with Insufficient Load Rating/FMVSS 110 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V865000 OCS Sensors May Short Circuit NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V720000 Front Bumper Assembly May Detach NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 229 complaints
- Service Brakes 67 complaints
- Unknown or Other 67 complaints
- Structure 52 complaints
- Engine 47 complaints
- Air Bags 42 complaints
Of the 535 complaints on file, 17 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 535 complaints, owners report 19 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Powertrain issues
How to check: Check for unusual noises or vibrations during drive.
Second-row seat lock failure
How to check: Test second-row seat adjustments in all positions.
Airbag sensor short circuit
How to check: Verify airbag recall status and sensor light functionality.
Incorrect tire load rating
How to check: Confirm tires match required load rating on door jamb.
Bumper cover detachment
How to check: Inspect bumper cover for loose fittings or damage.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Any warning lights on
- 03
Initial acceleration
What to check: Notice any jerking or hesitation.
Red flag: Jerking motion
- 04
City driving
What to check: Feel for consistent brake response.
Red flag: Spongy or weak brakes
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Listen for strange vibrations or sounds.
Red flag: Strong vibrations
- 06
Cruise control
What to check: Ensure smooth functioning and easy activation.
Red flag: Cruise control fails
- 07
Parking maneuver
What to check: Test reverse and parking for steering ease.
Red flag: Difficulty turning wheels
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the powertrain ever been serviced?
- Were the airbags or sensors replaced?
- Have the seatback locks been inspected?
- Are the tires the correct load rating?
- Has the front bumper been repaired?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle recall repair history
- Complete service records
- OEM tire specifications
- Accident history report
- Airbag replacement receipts
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2021 Toyota Highlander at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2021 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.