2021 Toyota Highlander structure problems
48 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the structure on the 2021 Toyota Highlander — 10% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The back hatch of the car has issues closing regularly. Nearly half of the time you push the button to shut the back hatch when it is open it will not close and has to be shut manually. Typically, it shuts an inch or two and then beeps at you and when you push the button again nothing happens but…”
filed Jul 1, 2026
“The front lower bumper detached while driving on the PA turnpike. The vehicle was traveling in the left lane approximately 75 MPH and was bumping on the road until we were able to pull over all the way to the right lane for approximately 1-2 miles. This hanging bumper dragging on the floor causing…”
filed Jun 17, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related recalls
- During normal vehicle operation, minor impact to the front lower bumper cover may result…Campaign 23V720000 · Oct 26, 2023
Related service bulletins
Some 2020 – 2026 model year Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles may exhibit a water leak from the roof rack attachment clips. This may be caused by the sealant in the roof channel obstructing the proper seating…
T-SB-0040-24 Rev1 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Jun 25, 2026Some 2020 – 2023 model year Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles may exhibit a condition in which the Power Back Door (PBD) will not open or close and/or stops moving while opening or closing. A modified PBD unit…
T-SB-0086-25 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Nov 18, 2025
Structure problems in other Highlander years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Highlander | 4 | 10% |
| 2023 Highlander | 31 | 18% |
| 2022 Highlander | 42 | 18% |
| 2020 Highlander | 29 | 10% |
| 2019 Highlander | 12 | 3% |
| 2018 Highlander | 12 | 5% |
| 2017 Highlander | 8 | 3% |
| 2016 Highlander | 4 | 4% |
| 2015 Highlander | 30 | 16% |
| 2014 Highlander | 32 | 24% |
| 2013 Highlander | 18 | 9% |
| 2012 Highlander | 20 | 11% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2021 Toyota Highlander
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.