TOYOTA HIGHLANDER · model year

2010 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

269 NHTSA complaints, 26 crash reports, and 10 active recalls for this specific cohort.

NHTSA overall rating

Not crash-tested

New Car Assessment Program

The 2010TOYOTAHIGHLANDER carries 269 consumer safety complaints in NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation database for this specific model-year cohort. Within that volume, owners reported 26 crashes, 5 fires, 12 injuries, and 0 fatalities. No NCAP 5-star crash-test rating is available for this model year in the federal database.

Component-level analysis is where model-year complaints become actionable: the top complaint category for the 2010 HIGHLANDER is electrical system with 49 filings, followed by visibility/wiper (31) and service brakes (25). Concentration in one or two component groups is the classic signature of a systemic defect; a flat distribution usually reflects normal aging, warranty complaints, or isolated build-plant variability. This model year has 10 active recall campaigns, which means the manufacturer is obligated to remedy the covered defect at no charge for the life of the vehicle, the full NHTSA campaign numbers are listed below.

NHTSA currently has 1 investigation file overlapping the 2010 HIGHLANDER. Owners comparing this cohort against neighboring years should pair the counters above with the complaint-by-year trend on the parent model page, a spike in a single year often tracks to a platform refresh, a new transmission supplier, or an updated ECU calibration. Use the related-complaint feed below to read raw owner narratives before deciding whether any pattern here affects your specific use case.

269
Complaints
26
Crashes
5
Fires
12
Injuries
0
Deaths

Total Complaints

269 filings

Crashes Reported

26 reports

Source

NHTSA ODI

Federal complaints database

Complaints vs. fleet median (215)

Above median complaint volume, review patterns below.

Complaints by Component

ComponentCount
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM49
VISIBILITY/WIPER31
SERVICE BRAKES25
STEERING21
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL17
UNKNOWN OR OTHER15
AIR BAGS14
ENGINE12
EXTERIOR LIGHTING10
STRUCTURE:BODY10
VISIBILITY8
POWER TRAIN6
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)5
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL4
WHEELS4

Recalls (10)

10V02300027/01/2010

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2010 HIGHLANDER, MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 COROLLA, VENZA AND MATRIX PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL CAN GET STUCK IN THE WIDE OPEN POSITION DUE TO ITS BEING TRAPPED BY AN UNSECURED OR INCOMPATIBLE DRIVER'S FLOOR MAT. THIS RECALL IS AN EXPANSION OF

15V68900022/10/2015

VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 Tundra, Sequoia, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and Scion xB, 2008-2011 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2007 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2006-2011 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, and 2009-2010 Scion xD and Pontiac Vib

10V01700021/01/2010

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 AVALON, MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 CAMRY, MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 COROLLA, COROLLA MATRIX, RAV4, MODEL YEAR 2010 HIGHLANDER, MODEL YEAR 2008-2010 SEQUOIA, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 TUNDRA VEHICLES. DUE TO THE MANNER IN WHICH THE FRICTION LEVER INTERACTS WITH T

14V74300019/11/2014

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER

Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4x2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4x2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4Runner. The affec

13V01400016/01/2013

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE

Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model y

14V16800009/04/2014

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, 2008-2010 Highlander, and 2009-2010 Tacoma, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and General Motors Pontiac Vibe vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the steering column assembly contains electrical connections to the driver's airbag module

13V12300009/04/2013

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Southeast Toyota is recalling certain model year 2008 and 2010-2013 Toyota Tundra, 2010-2012 Rav4, 2012 Toyota Sequoia, 2010-2011 Toyota Corolla, 2010-2011 Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser, 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser, 2010-20

10V03500003/02/2010

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPA

10V03600003/02/2010

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2011 PASSENGER VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.

16V39600002/06/2016

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER

Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Priu

Recent Complaints

20251223ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2010 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that the gear shifter had been stuck on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the fuses were replaced on several occasions; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the rearview mirror wiring had failed. The vehicle was repaired. The contact related the failure to an unknown recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

20250411ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR

The contact owns a 2010 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle lost automotive power and started to drift to the right side of the road. The brake pedal was depressed, and the vehicle was able to come to a complete stop. The contact mentioned she waited for AAA for roadside assistance. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed alternator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 185,420.

Mileage: 185,420

20241212EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Headlamps become cloudy and burn out new, expensive bulbs in months. Internet search says Toyota is aware of problem, but prior to my search my dealership wanted to charge me hundreds of dollars to 'evaluate electrical system'

20240724SERVICE BRAKES

We received this from Toyota. Customer Support Program Bulletin Date: Page: POL19-06 6/6/2019 1 of 3 REVISED 8/28/19 CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM BULLETIN (ZKC): REPAIR COVERAGE FOR BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY AND BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP ASSEMBLY ON CERTAIN 2008-2010 MY HIGHLANDER HYBRID VEHICLE. When we received this bulletin, we asked our Toyota Dealer Service Department (Stevenson Toyota East, Denver, CO) to address this issue multiple times when bringing in our vehicle for service in 2019 and 2020 and were told repeatedly they would not fix this issue since the ABS light was not on. Now that this bulletin is expired the ABS light is on. We took our Highlander to the Toyota Dealership in Melbourne, Florida and were told that this repair will now cost us $2473.89. Our 2010 Highlander is barely worth that, and now we have to repair this on our own even though Toyota knew the brake actuator assembly and brake booster pump would eventually fail at some point in time. Despite this, Toyota refused

20240724FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING

We received this from Toyota. Customer Support Program Bulletin Date: Page: POL19-06 6/6/2019 1 of 3 REVISED 8/28/19 CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM BULLETIN (ZKC): REPAIR COVERAGE FOR BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY AND BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP ASSEMBLY ON CERTAIN 2008-2010 MY HIGHLANDER HYBRID VEHICLE. When we received this bulletin, we asked our Toyota Dealer Service Department (Stevenson Toyota East, Denver, CO) to address this issue multiple times when bringing in our vehicle for service in 2019 and 2020 and were told repeatedly they would not fix this issue since the ABS light was not on. Now that this bulletin is expired the ABS light is on. We took our Highlander to the Toyota Dealership in Melbourne, Florida and were told that this repair will now cost us $2473.89. Our 2010 Highlander is barely worth that, and now we have to repair this on our own even though Toyota knew the brake actuator assembly and brake booster pump would eventually fail at some point in time. Despite this, Toyota refused

20240131ENGINE

The engine failed and locked up. Maintenance is completed every 3-4 months on schedule. There was no oil or water. Car was towed to a mechanic.

20240117CrashSERVICE BRAKES

When traveling a slow speeds (less than 15 mph) and needing to stop, the brakes are pressed but do not respond. This has happened on several occasions and has caused two separate accidents where the Highlander has failed to stop and it runs into the car in front. After the first accident, we looked for recalls (2015) and there were none for any model Toyota for brakes or brake systems. We brought the car in to the mechanic and had all the brakes and pads replaced, although they said nothing was wrong with the shoes nor pads. Now, years later, another accident in the exact same way. Luckily, due to the slow speed, no one was hurt but this is definitely a problem with the car. There have never been any warning lights, or sounds that would indicate an issue.

20240105SERVICE BRAKES

Affected by the faulty Brake Actuator & Accumulator on 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Brake malfunction and ABS disabled lights popped up on my Multi-Information Display. This issue disables ABS & VSC systems, which therefore makes this a safety hazard. Upon doing research, I have concluded that many complaints about this specific "Brake actuator & accumulator" have been issued. In the past, Toyota has provided a "Customer Support Program" which expired in 2020, but this does not help current owners like myself, who are stuck with this problem.

20231024SERVICE BRAKES

On approx. October 19, 2023 my vehicle started showing 4 error messages on the display: Brake Malfunction, Check ABS, Check VSC System, and Check Brake System. At the same time, these 5 warning lamps became illuminated: Brake System Warning Light and Warning Buzzer (Red), Brake System Warning Light (Yellow), Master Warning Light (Yellow), ABS Warning Light (Yellow), and SLIP Indicator (Yellow). A car repair technician obtained the following error codes from the vehicle in a diagnosis: C1391 (Abnormal Leak in Accumulator). I was informed that the VSC (vehicle stability control) safety feature of the vehicle is disabled while the error codes and messages are present. Toyota previously issued a customer support bulletin (No. POL19-06) on June 6, 2019, titled "Customer Support Program ZKC: Certain 2008-2010 Model Year Highlander Hybrid Vehicles Coverage for Brake Actuator Assembly and Brake Booster Pump Assembly". In the bulletin, Toyota acknowledged that its 2008-2010 Highlander Hybrid

20230821SERVICE BRAKES

1. When braking vehicle accelerates for 1 to 2 seconds. 2. I believe safety is at risk for driver, passengers or people close to accelerating car. 3. This has not been confirmed with dealer. 4. Multiple inspections but not for this problem. 5. No warning has ever appeared on any visible car system. Problem has existed for over one year. 2010 Toyota Highlander Platinum Hybrid 4WD

20230503SERVICE BRAKES

The brake actuator (4405048320) and brake booster pump (4707048020) malfunctioned. The ABS warning came on the display, as well as a warning saying “Brake Malfunction: pull over car immediately.” The traction control light, ABS light, warning light, and parking brake light also came on. The computer code was C1391. This controls the brakes and anti-lock brake system. This is a serious and known safety issue. It is well-documented online, and in 2019 Toyota acknowledged this widespread issue with a Customer Support Program ZKC. However, this program only applied for a limited time, and since then more vehicles have had this same issue with faulty parts. Even vehicles under 150,000 miles no longer qualify for free replacement despite this being a known and widespread issue.

Mileage: 146,000

20230417SERVICE BRAKES

My issue is not that I got a brake warning light (see attached image). My issue is that Toyota knows that this is an issue and will only fix it if you experience the issue before 12/30/2020 or at less than 150,000 miles. It is irresponsible of Toyota to know this is an issue, especially regarding the vehicle brakes (see screenshots of the letter from Toyota).

Mileage: 175,000

20230126STEERING

There is a clunk noise in the steering column On bumpy roads

20221130SERVICE BRAKES

Driving down the highway the abs srs air bag lights and the warning triangle all came on and then shortly after that a loud continuous beeping sound started and when my wife tried to pull over she realized she really had to cram on the brakes to get the car to stop... this scared the daylights out of my wife and thank god we didn't get in wreck!! But I dont understand why this is not a recall problem after all the other people I have read about with the same problem with the abs accumulator bleeding off pressure causing the pump motor to run abnormally long and in our case constantly to the point of no being burnt up and needing to replace.. my wife is the second owner of this car and we have had it since 2015... how is the window switch MORE OF AA CONCERN THAN FAULTY ABS ACCUMULATORS???

20221026EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:BULBS

I purchase The H4 LED’s from headlightexperts.com February 2022. There is a design flaw with their H4.bulb. The low beam have LED’s on both sides of the light bulb, however the halogen bulb has a shield so that light will only come out of one side of the bulb. The result of leds on both sides of the low beam is light hits the high beam reflector from the back side of the low beam led bulb, and blinds oncoming vehicles. When I contacted customer service via email, they kept saying I have the bulb at the wrong angle, and sent me links to 2videos for proper installation. I keep adjusting the bulb, at first with 45degree turns but then even less- still the light from the back side of the low beam bleeds onto the high beam reflector and blinds oncoming vehicles due to this design flaw. When I called the companies Phone number [XXX] it links to their sales department only. I attempted to explain the issue to their salesman who salesman who proceeded to dismiss the concern as my fa

20220620UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Front driver and front passenger arm rests cave in due to clip support design or construction.

20220616ENGINE

Driving with small child daughter in suv, after getting car wash and ice cream, got on highway then got off…never any oil or engine lights illuminating ever. Smoke coming from front and tire areas. Other people in cars staring and pointing at our suv! Very scary! Oil leaking from front passenger area all over ground trailing. Pulled over! Pulled dip stick it was bone dry. Still no oil light! No engine light! Conrad’s shop looked at it got estimate it is the Toyota oil cooler line that failed that soooo many ppl have had but there’s no recall yet from Toyota seriously dangerous and horrible! Suv only has 86000 miles on it!

20220509SERVICE BRAKES

Driving when multiple lights related to traction, ABS system illuminated. Warning message to pull over immediately. Power brakes gone. Had to push brake pedal hard and long to floor to get minimal manual brakes to take effect. High pitched alarm sound. Almost ran into other cars in parking lot.

20220312SERVICE BRAKES

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The actuator assembly, and brake booster pump assembly w/ accumulator have failed. Part # 04008-26448 and 04008-51148 How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? This controls the brakes and anti-lock brake system. Stopping distance and anti-lock performance has been very erratic. Brake pedal feel has been soft or overly-firm and could easily cause a collision or serious accident. This is a serious and known safety issue and should result in a vehicle recall. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? This problem was confirmed by Norm Reeves Toyota San Diego on 3/12/22, and has been acknowledged by Toyota in Bulletin POL 19-06. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the

20220127CrashAIR BAGS

Vehicle was involved in a collision where it struck a barrier head on. The front airbags did not deploy. The vehicle then became airborne and flipped. Only the side airbags deployed.

Compare 2010TOYOTAHIGHLANDER to Similar Vehicles

NHTSA Investigations

Frequently Asked Questions

How many complaints does the 2010 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER have?
The 2010 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER has 269 NHTSA complaints, 26 crashes, 5 fires, 12 injuries, and 0 deaths reported.
Are there any recalls for the 2010 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER?
Yes, the 2010 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER has 10 recall(s). The most common affected component is VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL. Recalls are issued by NHTSA and manufacturers must provide a free remedy.
What are the most common problems with the 2010 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER?
The most-complained component for the 2010 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER is ELECTRICAL SYSTEM with 49 complaints. Other frequently reported areas include VISIBILITY/WIPER and SERVICE BRAKES.
Is the 2010 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER safe to buy?
Review the complaint history, crash and fire reports, safety ratings, and recall status on this page to make an informed decision. No NHTSA crash test rating is available for this model year. Compare with other model years using the links above.
Where does this data come from?
All complaint, recall, and safety rating data is sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Complaints are filed by vehicle owners through NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation.

Vehicle Safety Guides

Data as of 2025. Sources: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) complaints database, NHTSA recall campaign API, NHTSA NCAP crash-test ratings, and NHTSA FARS for fatality cross-reference.