By David Bledsoe 
Common Toyota Highlander Issues
Liftgate Problems
The Toyota Highlander has been noted for several issues relating to its liftgate. Over time, the liftgate hydraulic struts can dry out, get clogged with road dirt, or wear out, causing the liftgate to malfunction.
- Liftgate struts are crucial for the smooth operation of the liftgate. If these struts degrade, it can cause the liftgate to stop before fully opening. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating the ball-and-socket joints where the struts attach to the vehicle, can often remedy these issues (Fox 2 Detroit).
- It’s essential to take care when detaching the liftgate struts. Removing one end without proper support can cause the heavy liftgate to fall, leading to possible injury or damage. It’s recommended to prop the liftgate open or have someone hold it in place during maintenance procedures.
Here’s a table summarizing potential liftgate issues and solutions:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Liftgate not fully opening | Clean and lubricate hydraulic struts’ ball joints |
| Jerky or stiff liftgate motion | Apply WD-40 to remove dirt and grime |
| Falling liftgate | Ensure proper support during strut detachment |
For more on maintaining and addressing liftgate issues, refer to our section on Toyota Highlander Liftgate Problems.
Seat Heater Issues
Apart from liftgate issues, seat heater malfunctions are also common in Toyota Highlanders. These problems can usually be traced back to faulty heater elements or issues with the seat heater switch.
- The cost of replacing a Toyota Highlander Seat Heater Switch is between $636 and $647 (RepairPal).
- Symptoms of a seat heater issue include the seat heater not warming up or heating intermittently.
Here’s a quick overview of potential seat heater issues:
| Issue | Average Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Faulty seat heater switch | $636 – $647 |
| Non-functional seat heater | Check heater element |
For additional information on addressing seat heater issues, visit our related pages on Toyota Carplay Not Working and Toyota Camry Heater Not Working.
Understanding these common issues can help Toyota Highlander owners maintain their vehicles better and address problems promptly. For more comprehensive insights, explore our guide on DIY maintenance and safety tips.
Toyota Highlander Safety Recall
Addressing issues like the Toyota Highlander liftgate not working, safety recalls are essential to ensure the safety of vehicle owners and other road users. This section covers the recall details, the inspection process, and how Toyota notifies owners.
Recall Details
Toyota is conducting a safety recall in the United States for certain 2020-2023 model year Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles. Approximately 751,000 vehicles are involved in this recall. The issue arises when a minor impact to the lower front bumper cover assembly causes the mounting tabs to detach. This detachment may occur during normal vehicle operation, posing a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash or injury for other road users. For more detailed information, you can read the official announcement on the Toyota Newsroom.
| Year | Model | Number of Vehicles Affected |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Highlander | ~751,000 |
| 2021 | Highlander Hybrid | ~751,000 |
| 2022 | Highlander | ~751,000 |
| 2023 | Highlander Hybrid | ~751,000 |
Inspection Process
To address this issue, Toyota dealers will inspect the upper and lower front bumper cover mounting tabs and slots for damage on all involved vehicles. If any damage is detected, dealers will replace the upper and/or lower front bumper cover and install retention hardware with an improved design free of charge. You can find detailed steps in the Toyota Newsroom.
The inspection process includes:
- Inspecting mounting tabs and slots.
- Replacing affected bumper covers.
- Installing retention hardware.
Toyota aims to ensure that this issue is resolved efficiently and safely.
Notification to Owners
Toyota will notify affected owners about this recall by late December 2023. Owners of the involved Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid models will receive detailed notifications outlining the recall specifics and the necessary steps to address the liftgate issue. Regular updates will be provided to ensure owners stay informed. For more info on related concerns like toyota navigation app not installed or toyota key fob not working.
By following these steps, Toyota ensures vehicle owners are properly informed and that their vehicles are maintained for optimal safety and performance.
Addressing Liftgate Problems
Experiencing liftgate issues with your Toyota Highlander can be frustrating. Here we will delve into addressing these problems, particularly focusing on the hydraulic struts, and offer some helpful DIY maintenance tips.
Liftgate Hydraulic Struts
Liftgate hydraulic struts are crucial for the smooth operation of the liftgate. Over time, these struts can dry out, get clogged with road dirt, or wear out altogether, leading to malfunction (Source). Fortunately, they are relatively easy and affordable to service or replace.
Common signs that the hydraulic struts need attention include the liftgate stopping before fully opening or requiring extra force to lift or close. These issues might be resolved by simple maintenance tasks such as cleaning and lubricating the struts rather than an immediate replacement.
DIY Maintenance Tips
Maintaining liftgate hydraulic struts yourself can save time and money. Here are some tips to keep your liftgate in optimal condition:
Cleaning and Lubricating the Struts
Hydraulic struts can collect dirt and grime, affecting their performance. Cleaning and lubricating the ball-and-socket joints where the struts attach to the vehicle can often restore functionality.
Steps:
- Prop Open the Liftgate: Ensure the liftgate is securely propped open or have someone hold it to prevent it from falling.
- Clean the Joints: Use a damp cloth to wipe away dirt and debris from the ball-and-socket joints.
- Apply Lubricant: Spray a lubricant such as WD-40 onto the joints to ease movement.
- Work the Liftgate: Open and close the liftgate a few times to ensure the lubricant is evenly distributed and the joints move smoothly.
| Task | Tools Needed |
|---|---|
| Prop Open the Liftgate | Support stand or helper |
| Clean the Joints | Damp cloth |
| Apply Lubricant | WD-40 or equivalent |
Note: Regular maintenance can prolong the life of the hydraulic struts and ensure reliable liftgate operation.
Precautions to Take
When working on the liftgate struts, safety is paramount. Detaching one end of the strut without proper support can cause the heavy liftgate to fall. Always prop open the liftgate securely or have an assistant hold it to prevent accidents (Source).
Testing and Functionality
After performing maintenance, it’s crucial to test the liftgate to ensure it functions correctly. The liftgate should open and close smoothly, extending fully without sticking. If problems persist, replacing the struts might be necessary.
For more on maintaining and troubleshooting different aspects of your Toyota vehicle, consider checking related topics such as toyota highlander rear hatch not working and our guide on tips for straightening curly hair.
By following these DIY maintenance tips, you can address liftgate problems efficiently, ensuring the smooth operation of your Toyota Highlander.
DIY Maintenance Steps
Cleaning and Lubrication
Proper cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining the functionality of your Toyota Highlander’s liftgate. Over time, the liftgate’s hydraulic struts can collect dirt and grime, affecting performance. Cleaning and lubricating these parts can often restore smooth operation.
- Begin by cleaning the ball-and-socket joints where the struts attach to the vehicle. Use a damp cloth to remove any dirt and grime.
- Apply a lubricant like WD-40 to both the struts and the ball-and-socket joints.
- Work the liftgate up and down a few times to ensure the lubricant spreads evenly and reaches all moving parts.
- Reapply the lubricant if needed and continue testing until the liftgate moves smoothly.
Precautions to Take
When conducting maintenance on the liftgate, safety precautions are crucial.
- Ensure the liftgate is securely propped open or have someone hold it while you detach the struts.
- Be cautious, as the liftgate is heavy and can fall if not properly supported, potentially causing injury or damage.
- Use protective gloves and eye wear to prevent any accidents during the cleaning and lubrication process.
Testing and Functionality
After completing the cleaning and lubrication steps, it’s important to test the liftgate to confirm it functions correctly.
- Gently open and close the liftgate several times to check for smooth operation.
- Ensure the liftgate extends fully without any resistance or unusual noises.
- If the liftgate continues to malfunction, further inspection or replacement of the hydraulic struts may be necessary (Source).
For further guidance, visit our additional resources on related issues such as toyota highlander rear hatch not working and toyota rav4 power back door not working.
| Maintenance Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Cleaning and Lubrication | Remove dirt, apply WD-40, test operation |
| Safety Precautions | Prop liftgate, use gloves, have assistance |
| Testing Functionality | Open/close liftgate, check for smooth movement |