Is the 2007 Toyota Highlander reliable?

Yes, the 2007 Highlander is generally considered reliable for a midsize crossover, especially when maintenance records show consistent oil changes and fluid services. Most issues are age- and mileage-related rather than chronic catastrophic failures.

What are the most common 2007 Toyota Highlander problems?

Common issues include oil leaks from gaskets/seals, V6 oil seepage around VVT-related components, worn suspension parts causing clunks, and occasional HVAC blower or interior electrical quirks.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2007 Highlander?

Costs are usually moderate for the class. Routine items like brakes, tires, fluids, and suspension wear parts are typical, and major expenses are often avoidable with preventative maintenance and early leak repairs.

What are the best years of Toyota Highlander to buy?

Many shoppers like the later first-gen models (2006–2007) for being well-sorted, and the 2008–2013 generation for updated design and features. The “best” year depends on budget, service history, and whether you prefer the simpler first-gen platform.

What should I check before buying a used 2007 Toyota Highlander?

Verify maintenance records, check for oil leaks, test for suspension clunks on a rough road, confirm smooth shifting, inspect tires for uneven wear, and ensure all HVAC settings and power accessories work properly. A pre-purchase inspection is strongly recommended. For deeper help comparing trims, engines, capacities, and service intervals, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs and maintenance schedules before you buy or service your 2007 Toyota Highlander.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2007 Toyota Highlander Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

88/ 100

KeepScore

LOW RISK

Grade: A

A supremely dependable and practical family SUV with minimal high-cost reliability issues.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2007 Toyota Highlander

Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the seats:front assembly:seat heater/cooler.
Scores 2 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2005 Toyota Highlander earns a 90.
The system most likely to surface first: engine oil cooler line (v6) (major severity).

Should You Buy the 2007 Toyota Highlander?

The 2007 Toyota Highlander stands as an exceptionally solid and dependable mid-size SUV, making it one of the most reliable family haulers available on the used market. Its robust engineering means major failures are rare, offering peace of mind to budget-conscious buyers seeking long-term ownership. This vehicle represents a smart and safe investment, provided you address a few minor, well-documented areas of concern.

Biggest Strengths

Legendary Toyota powertrain durability
Excellent resale value and low depreciation
Strong safety ratings for its era

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2007 Toyota Highlander. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Engine Oil Cooler Line (V6)major

Steering Rack Leaksmoderate

Dashboard Cracks/Warpingminor

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

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 affected vehicles may experience compression of the seat cushion which may damage the seat heater wiring.

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 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.

What breaks on the 2007 Toyota Highlander?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Toyota Highlander by Year

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Toyota Highlander. Click any year for its full report.

All Toyota Highlander years ranked →Toyota Highlander years to avoid →Toyota Highlander common problems →

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