Home › Toyota › Highlander › Used 2021
Buying a used 2021 Toyota Highlander? Check these 4 recalls first
The 2021 Highlander has 4 recalls in this group, addressing an airbag sensor that may prevent deployment, underrated accessory tires, a second-row seat back that may not lock, and possible front bumper-cover detachment. Tire specifications and seat locking provide concrete inspection points alongside recall records. NHTSA records 511 owner complaints, which are unverified reports: 218 power train, 66 service brakes, and 51 structure. Drivetrain and brake repair histories therefore warrant attention beyond the listed recall work.
Before you buy
- Get the 17-character VIN from the seller and run it at nhtsa.gov/recalls. It shows which recalls are still unrepaired on that exact car.
- Confirm applicable airbag-sensor recall completion and accessory tire ratings.
- Verify second-row seat-back locking and recall repair documentation.
- Review bumper-cover, drivetrain, and brake repair records.
- Open recalls are repaired free at any Toyota dealer, whoever owns the car — an open recall is a to-do item, not a bill.
Recalls covering the 2021 Toyota Highlander
| Recall | Area | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota, Lexus airbag sensor may block deployment | AIR Bags | high |
| Toyota Highlander Accessory Tires Rated Too Low | Tires | high |
| Toyota Highlander second-row seat back may not lock | Seats | high |
| Toyota Highlander Front Bumper Cover May Detach | Structure | medium |
What owners have reported to NHTSA
511 complaints filed for this model year, including 16 mentioning a crash, 4 a fire and 18 injuries. Complaints are unverified owner reports, and popular models collect more of them simply because more are on the road.
| Problem area | Complaints | Recall in this area? |
|---|---|---|
| Power Train | 218 | None found |
| Brakes | 66 | None found |
| Structure | 51 | Yes |
| Engine | 44 | None found |
| AIR Bags | 42 | Yes |
| Fuel System | 31 | None found |