2023 Toyota Highlander

On Highlander AWD-i models, the high-voltage cable that delivers electrical power from the front hybrid inverter to the rear axle motor exposes its connector terminal housing to wheel spray, road salt, and dirt under the vehicle. Over British winters, galvanic corrosion degrades the braided shielding and terminal seal, resulting in AM radio static, hybrid system fault warnings, and loss of rear electric all-wheel drive.

Symptoms: Hybrid System Malfunction warning light displayed on instrument cluster, Buzzing or static interference on AM radio frequencies during acceleration...

Est. repair cost: £0 (Manufacturer warranty campaign / £2,500–£4,200 out of warranty)

On certain Highlander models built between 2021 and 2023, the internal return spring within the second-row seatback recliners was improperly manufactured. The locking teeth may not engage completely when adjusting the seat position, creating a risk that the seatback unlatches and collapses forward or backward under heavy braking or during a collision, leading to an official DVSA safety recall.

Symptoms: Second-row seatback fails to click solidly into locked upright position, Seatback shifts or rocks back and forth when pushed by hand...

Est. repair cost: £0 (Safety recall / £350–£750 out of warranty)

The 12.3-inch central multimedia touchscreen display can suffer from operating system software lockups, sluggish touch response, and random disconnection of wired or wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In some instances, the system takes up to 20 seconds to boot on vehicle start, delaying reverse camera and parking sensor graphics.

Symptoms: Central 12.3-inch screen freezes or remains on Toyota logo upon startup, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto drops connection mid-navigation...

Est. repair cost: £0–£180