Is the 2019 Toyota Highlander a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
The 2019 Toyota Highlander offers a solid mix of dependability and family-friendly space. Although it doesn't excel in fuel efficiency, its reliability and practicality make it a great choice for families.
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Pros
- Spacious interior
- Strong reliability record
- Good resale value
Cons
- Mediocre fuel economy
- Third-row seating suited for children only
- Limited advanced tech features in base trim
Ownership at a glance
Common problems to watch for
- Brake pedal vibration
- Occasional reports of transmission hesitation
- Rear liftgate malfunction
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls (3)
The 2019 Toyota Highlander has 3 NHTSA recalls on record. Most recent: Equipment — Other — Labels (campaign 19V244000). All recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.
- 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…
- Fuel System, Gasoline — Delivery — Fuel Pump — Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) recalled certain 2018-2019 4Runner, Highlander, Camry, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, and Lexus RC 300, RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, IS 300, LC 500, LS 500,…
- Equipment — Other — Labels — Gulf States Toyota (GST) is recalling certain 2019 C-HR, 4Runner, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Prius, RAV4, Sequoia, Tacoma, Sienna, Tundra and Yaris vehicles. The text on the lo…
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.