Is the 2017 Toyota Highlander a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
B+8.5/10
Balancing its excellent fuel efficiency with ample space, this Highlander is a solid choice for families who want to save on gas without compromising on utility.
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Pros
- Excellent fuel economy for an SUV
- Comfortable ride
- Ample interior space
Cons
- Higher purchase price than non-hybrids
- Limited third-row accessibility
- Somewhat outdated infotainment
Ownership at a glance
Fuel economy
29 mpg
Maintenance cost
$1,200/yr
Expected lifespan
250,000 miles
Common problems to watch for
- Electronic power system recalls
- Occasional infotainment glitches
- Sunroof leaks
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls (4)
The 2017 Toyota Highlander has 4 NHTSA recalls on record. Most recent: Fuel System, Gasoline — Delivery — Fuel Pump (campaign 20V682000). All recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.
- 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 …
- Equipment — Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain 2017 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles equipped with accessory roof rail cross bars. The fasteners for the roof rails may not be torqued properly.…
- Tires — Temporary/Emergency Spare Tire — Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (Gulf States) is recalling certain 2017 4Runner , 86, Avalon, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Corolla, Corolla iM, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius C, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Sienna and Yaris vehicle…
- Fuel System, Gasoline — Delivery — Fuel Pump — Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 T…
Recall data: NHTSA. Owner costs & MPG: anonymized aggregates from CarsJudge users who track this vehicle. Updated 2026-07-05.
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This AI-generated assessment is general guidance only, not a substitute for a professional inspection. Always inspect a used vehicle before purchase.