2016 Toyota Highlander Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2016 Toyota Highlander
- Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the electrical system.
- Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2014 Toyota Highlander earns a 92.
- The system most likely to surface first: suspension & steering (moderate severity).
Should You Buy the 2016 Toyota Highlander?
The 2016 Toyota Highlander stands as a pillar of reliability in the mid-size SUV segment, offering exceptional long-term value and predictable ownership costs. While a few minor electrical and suspension quirks exist, this vehicle is one of the safest used SUV investments you can make, ready to serve families for hundreds of thousands of miles with proper care.
The 2016 Toyota Highlander is an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a dependable, family-friendly SUV. Its strong mechanicals, excellent safety record, and enduring reliability make it a smart investment that will provide years of trouble-free service. Don't hesitate to purchase this vehicle, especially with a so…
Best Model Years
2015-2019 (3rd Generation)
Years to Avoid
None stand out as problematic within this generation.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust V6 engine and transmission
- Excellent resale value and strong demand
- Low incidence of major catastrophic failures
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2016 Toyota Highlander, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Front lower control arm bushings and strut mounts can wear prematurely, leading to clunks, rattles, and uneven tire wear. Steering rack noise has also been reported by some owners.
The Entune infotainment system can experience freezes, reboots, or connectivity issues. Minor electrical gremlins like occasional sensor faults or parasitic battery drain are less common but possible.
Some owners report premature rotor warping, leading to pulsation during braking, often requiring rotor replacement sooner than expected.
2016 Toyota Highlander Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2016 Toyota Highlander most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the Highlander is still very new. The primary concern here is usually routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations, along with potential early brake rotor issues.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often involves a significant maintenance interval, including spark plugs (V6), transmission fluid check/change, and inspection of suspension components where wear may just be starting.
Elevated Risk Zone
Expect potential for increased component wear. Suspension components will likely need attention if not addressed earlier. Water pump leaks and minor engine seal seeps could begin to appear.
High Risk Zone
While the Highlander is known for high mileage, past this point, all major systems are candidates for eventual replacement due to age and wear. Expect to budget for more significant repairs if not already performed.
2016 Toyota Highlander Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2016 Toyota Highlander on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally
How Long Does the 2016 Toyota Highlander Last?
Given proper maintenance, the 2016 Highlander can comfortably exceed 200,000 miles. Don't shy away from higher mileage examples (100k+) if they come with comprehensive service records.
What 2016 Toyota Highlander Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional long-term reliability and low maintenance costs.
- Comfortable ride quality for long family trips.
- Spacious and versatile interior with good cargo capacity.
- Strong resale value makes it a smart financial choice.
Common Frustrations
- Third-row seat is cramped for adults and best for children.
- Infotainment system can be clunky and outdated compared to rivals.
- Not as engaging to drive as some sportier competitors.
- Road noise can be noticeable at highway speeds.
Who Should Buy the 2016 Toyota Highlander?
Best For
- Families needing a reliable and safe daily driver
- Commuters valuing comfort and predictable costs
- Buyers prioritizing long-term durability and resale value
Not Ideal For
- Enthusiasts seeking a sporty or engaging driving experience
- Individuals needing serious off-road capability
How the 2016 Toyota Highlander Compares to Rivals
The Highlander consistently ranks among the top for reliability in its class, often outperforming many competitors in terms of long-term durability and lower repair costs, though the Honda Pilot sometimes offers a comparable package.
More Reliable Than
- Ford Explorer (reliability pre-2020)
- Nissan Pathfinder
- Volkswagen Atlas
Comparable To
- Honda Pilot
- Subaru Ascent
NHTSA Recalls
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Fujian Wanda Automobile Glass Industry (Wanda) is recalling certain aftermarket Replacement Windshields sold for use in 2014-2018 Toyota Highlander vehicles. The windshields have an attached wire harness that water may leak into, possibly causing damage to the vehicle's Engine Control Module (ECM).
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2016 Highlander vehicles manufactured May 26, 2016, to September 16, 2016. The brake fluid level sensor may not be connected to the wire harness, preventing the sensor from detecting the brake fluid level. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
What breaks on the 2016 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.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2016 Toyota Highlander
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Frequently Asked Questions
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